A SAMPLING OF YOUR RESPONSES:
He can spend his money at a strip club as well as at the churches he has been so generous with. I do feel some disappointment that he feels that he needs the company of strippers instead of the company of his wife...what does she think ???
Bobbie, sandyville
i felt jack whitaker was making a mockery of christians when he donated a portion of his winnings to the various churches and i feel that the churches are hypocritical in accepting winnings from gambling.
Susan, Hurricane
He deserved it...he was lucky enough to have obtained such a large sum of money and acted very irresponsibly. He's still got buckets of money...more than the majority of the population. He should just stop his crying and be smarter in his actions.
Jeremy, Parkersburg, WV
No because I know that the man has been going their all along at least since New Years Eve. He offered my friend money for sex only before closing the club down for a private show that night. I guess everyone is going to believe that he was drugged in the club and didn't know what he was doing. Would the Pastor still support him if he did not receive millions of dollars? The nerve of that Pastor saying that Jack Whittaker does not lie. Let's see how many other stories he can come up with on why he was there. Maybe aliens beamed him from Teays Valley and accidentially dropped him off at the PInk Pony!!
Leslie Gore, St. Albans
My opinion of Jack is still the same. When he won the powerball he was a nobody. He has tried to make himself appear much better than anyone else. He has put up this front of being a such a Christian person, however thats not the behavior of someone with moral values. He stated he was going to help his fellow West Virginians but he only gives money when he can get on the news. Well he made the news this time. Jack is still a nobody!!!!
Tammy and Bobby Harper, Hurricane
Just because this man won a bunch of money people have no right to judge him. He's not God but a man, and therefore weak. Get and life and leave him alone!
Reginia Bays, East Bank, WV
I think a persons private life should be just that
David Wilcox, Gordon
I am utterly amazed that you would even ask such a question. What ever happened to REPORTING the NEWS????? Personally I am totally frustrated with local so called news reporting. If I wanted tabloid news reporting, I would go out and buy the Star, National Enquirer, etc. etc. etc.
Arnett B Corley, Jr., Elkview
This changes my opinion of him because i wrote to his foundation and they refused me. They said they had donated alot already and could not help me. That was fine with me since that was their answer. I could not imagine how it is to have so much money that you don't know what to do with it but i am a full time student, a mother and i also work as much as i can. I had just asked for some money towards my home so i could finish school without alot of burdens. When i saw him on tv at the pink pony with that much money just laying around in his vehicle and he turned me down that really made me have bad feelings towards him.
Regina Fox, South Point, OH
I have never had a good opinion of Jake Whittaker. I do think it is great that he won the lottery, that's a privilege we would all like to have some day. What really bothers me I believe he gave all that money to the churches to try and buy his way in to Heaven. He has good intentions, but in he may want to think of what type of impression he is leaving on people. As far as the robbery at the Pink Pony. If someone is stupid enough to leave a vehicle full of cash outside a strip bar, they deserve what they get. That is one of the dumbest things I have heard. Who drives around at 2:30 in the morning with that kind of cash on them? A complete idiot does !!! He mentioned he was going to bulldoze the place down, I'm not sure what he anticipates will happen from that. He needs to leave his cash at home and stop flashing in front of people. I have seen him at the Pony tip those girls hundreds of dollars along with the bartenders and any on else he can get on his lap. When you flash money around that way and hang out with people that have low morals, what do you expect.
Melissa Miller, St Albans
I think if Jack Whittaker claims to be the christian man he claims to be he shouldn't have been in the Gentalmens club. He probaly wouldn't have got robbed if he wasn't in a place like that.
joyce hardy, sissonville
Mr Whittaker has had so much publicity over that jackpot,he should have known better than to frequent a place where only low life scum goes.Donating to Churches will not get him to Heaven,the pink pony will get him to hell.
Loretta Lucas, Tad WV
Mr. Whittaker has given a lot to West Virginia since winning the Power Ball. Whether we agree or disagree with his actions, it is wrong for us to judge him. Be appreciative of what he has done for West Virginia and be not judgemental.
Gary, Scott Depot
The whole thing is suspicious. What self-respecting robber would leave 245,000 in cash behind. Looks more like Jack was set up.
S. K. Mulford, Cheshire Ohio
Hell no when he said he was of the church i knew he was piece of crap liar. This just confirms what i already knew
Billie, Cool Ridge
I thought he was going to hell the first time i saw him if he doesn't change his ways.
John Doe, Richwood
It only reaffirms my opinion of Jack. He has been a shifty, wheeler-dealer type for years; just ask some of his former business associates about him. And for a man who frequents The Pink Pony as much as he does, it doesn't make any sense for him buy it and then tear it down. Do you suppose he'll do the same for Tri-State Greyhound Park, another frequent stopping place for Jack Whittaker? I don't think so!
Duane West, Cross Lanes
Jack Whittaker is a national disgrace! There are so many people in this state who are desperately, hopelessly poor, and he is running around at a strip club with a half-million dollars in cash. What a good Christian he is. Did this particular incedent change my opinion of him? Not really, because I thought he was an idiot redneck from the moment he showed up on national TV, toothless and unable to put together a coherant sentence. No wonder the rest of the nation has such high regard for the Mountain State.
Name Withheld, Cross Lanes, WV
I was already under the impression that he was a man of low morals and integrity. He claims to be a practicing christian but is continually seen around town in bars with a stripper hanging off each arm. Must be his good looks.
David, Charleston
Its his life. Hes old enough to do what he wants.
Terry Casto, DAWES
He is not what he claims to be.
Pat Paynter, Cyclone
If he's so much of a Christian man, Why was he at a bar, strip joint at that, and why was he cursing? I think he's nothing but a hipacrit that gives other religious people a bad name for themselves.
Tomorrow Frampton, Sissonville
Shouldn't have had that much money with him especially at a strip club.
Loren Withrow, Charleston
We all thought of Jack as a good Christian man. Just as I've always heard, money is the root of all evil.
J, Huntington
Now that he has gotten caught he is using all the things he used his money for to cover up for what he has done so his church doesn't think negative of him.
Stephanie, Charleston
Far be it from me to judge;I am just a sinner saved by grace.There are many more respectful places to go to pass the time.See why God expects us to honor and serve him if we consider ourselves Christians?Most people have better sense, but some individuals will doubt what God stands for when they see professed Christians living their lives in such a worldly manner.Be not of this world.Anytime you start with an alcoholic beverage....you will more than likely end up embarrassed or/and in trouble.Ask Mr. McGhee!You deserve what you get!
BJ Grey, Montgomery
Whoops! #1. He allowed his fondness for strip clubs make him a laughing stock for us all to see. #2. Who in their right mind would carry around that much cash. #3. It is also apparent that money does buy friends/supporters to defend you in public.
Brad Burke, Jackson, Ohio
Who are we to judge another human being? So what if Jack Whittaker went to the Pink Pony? He is a free man, and has every right to do as he pleases. Mr. Whittaker is a fine person who has donated a lot of his winnings to humanitarian causes - something which most of us don't care enough about. I'm from New York City and greatly admire his generosity to people and causes in his community and state - a very unselfish thing to do. Wake up, West Virginia. Drinking at strip clubs is nothing to get excited over, and certainly doesn't change my opinion of Whittaker. He should, however, be more careful with his car and definitely not keep it running if he comes back to NYC! He's lucky his car was even there.
Charlene, Brooklyn, New York
If you cant go threw the pearly gates,buy your way threw the backdoor!
Most Costly Lapdance, charleston
Who cares about my opinion? The only judge in this matter is Jack and the good Lord. We all aren't all that we should be but Mr Whitaker sure has been blessed and has done good things with his winnings. Its not up to the public to say one way or the other.
Terri Redden, Meadow Bridge
just very,very disapointed in him
Pete Hawkins, Charleston
No matter how much money you have to give to a church you can't buy your way into heaven.
K.E., Buffalo
Just because Mr. Whittaker won the lottey and has given money to churches and shared with others, it doesn't make him a saint. He is just a man and he will continue to do what is in his nature. If he drank and frequented places like the pink pony before he hit it big he will continue to do so.
Judy Sargent, Cutler, Ohio
I think he was just covering up for his dirty work.what a hypocrit.
Christy, Webster Springs
well if jack was a so called church goer why was he at the pink pony ?, and if he was why did he have 500,000.00 in his vehicle, and why would anybody have 250,000.00 in cash even if he is the richest man in west virginia i think it was a staged deal because why would somebody put 500,000.00 behind a dumpster and not take it ?
Michael Jarvis, Charleston
What a shame. Was this his way of life before winning? Whether it was or not, his reputation is forever ruined now. My church wouldn't want a penny of the devil's money.
LS Parsley, Lebanon
Jack can do what Jack wants he is over 21 and can go where he wants. But I fault him for carrying a large some of money around like that. He is blessed with riches that few of us will ever have. And as far as the snide remark made about Jacks Cowboy Hat being to big for him. Well that just goes to prove he does not have a swollen head. I admire Jack for what he is a man 1st and a hardworker to boot. I stand with his Church in saying this. We shall support Jack 100%. And I also think the public should quit pestering Jack about money. It is his not ours he earned and won it. PLEASE LEAVE THE MAN ALONE
Jim McCracken, Buckhannon
Jack Whittaker can do whatever he wants....and it shouldn't be anybody else's business. He's been very gracious with all of his winnings and if he wants to go to the Pink Pony and have a couple beers, its none of our damn business!
Case, Glenville
If Mr. Whittaker wants to pose as a christian man and generously give to christian orginizations he should set an example for all christians as well as all people and not partake in activities in such a place.
Anonoyms, Liberty
the man has his own life let him live it what he does is his business not ours
Crystal, Milton
OMG, can't you people find better news to report than this shit! Who gives a rats ass about this guy.
Jeremiah E Nelson, Charleston
Who are we to judge another man? Mr. Whittaker is only human. What a man does on his own time is his business and no one elses. Mr. Whittaker is helping those who need it.
Becky, Charleston
Though I have little respect for any current millionaire who would still play the lottery, not needing the money, I can't help but lose what respect I had for his philanthropy. Anyone who would give $1.4 million to a church, and then spend his evenings in a strip joint has some serious issues, and should spend more time in the church than said strip joint. Additionally, what exactly was he doing with half a million dollars in his car?? Either he really has no sense whatsoever, or he's a part of something that should be investigated as much as the theft itself.
James DeViese, Oak Hill, WV
I think more of him than of your station for posting such a question. Don't you have any decency? Did you ask a similar question when one of your news broadcasters was caught for drunk driving?
Mike Gambill, Ashland
I would like to know how such a smart business man GOT to BE such a smart business man when he is carrying around half a million dollars for spending money.
Marti, Dunbar
He gambles, so he has other vices?? Oh my!!!
Alma Dillon, Hurricane
I've seen Jack in public with his whores. I know personally what he has spent on Mimi. I hate to think that W.V. lets him represent us, for any reason. He is the root of EVIL!!!!!
Rodney Wilson, St. Albans
I have no opinion regarding Jack Whittaker. What business is it of the Kanawha Valley where he spends his time and his money? If people paid more attention to their own lives they wouldn't have time to gossip. HE only needs to answer to his family and to God.
Lynn, St. Albans
I feel different about him now. I am very disapointed that he has been protraying that he is a good christian. If he thinks he is then he needs to start with getting down on his knees and asking god to come into his heart, because he isn't. He needs to learn the 10 comandments. Also i feel that the bishop better do the samething with excepting the devils desires as being gods will. He is not representing gods will for christians!!!
A.R. Casto, Charleston
He gave money to churches and now this,however i am not the one to judge him.He has someone above to answer to someday.
Diana Carr, Elkview
it is sad that he makes such poor decisions. he claims to be a christian,he should pray. what kind of people does he expect to meet at the pony, they take offtheir clothes for money.
Lisa, Cross Lanes
The last time I checked, going to a strip club isn't against the law and I think it was wrong for the Police to make public that Mr. Whittaker frequented other gentlemen's clubs in the area. That had no bearing on the crime that was committed against Mr. Whittaker. After all, Mr. Whittaker is a human being, not God.
Michael Hart, Huntington
Mr. Whittaker has a heart of gold, and has done more good for this state than years of work by people who were supposed to look after their residents. This unfortunate incident is just that, an unfortunate incident.
Isabel Hundley, Charleston WV
He should have not been there he is lying about finding the money the pink pony is not that big where it could not be found sooner
Angie Hyden, St.Albans
My opinion of him to begin with was never a good one. Therefore it goes basically unchanged simply for the fact that he has been seen in other bars in and around the Charleston area with women that were not his wife, drinking booze and then driving off into the sunset. Sadly, he has been treated like a King around this great state. Finally, people are just now seeing his true colors. However, I guess as long as he gives another church a few thousand dollars he will be forgiven. Hopefully soon, he will be forgotten.
John, St. Albans
What is so wrong with our society that we have to single out this man out for his own personal actions? Mr. Whittaker is neither an elected official nor even a public figure. Let the man live his life to his standards instead of expecting others to live up to what you think is right. Just because someone is wealthy is no reason to dig up dirt or search for skeletons. Instead lets focus on making ourselves the best WE can beÖrather than forcing others to be the best we think they should be.
J. Crimmel, Hurricane
I think Mr. Whitaker is a hyprocrite. Does he think if he tithes, this will make him a better person? Also, if he changes the color of his hat from black to white, this will change his image? I cannot believe people like him are given this one big chance in life, winning the lottery, then decides to use his money to gamble his life away.
Lynn G, Hurricane
I never liked him in the first place. Jack Whittaker has always been like this and his exploits are at the expense of his family. It is shame to see people of the church support the Jack Whittaker idea of buying your way into heaven.
Mike, Huntington
I am appalled that this has even become a public issue. What right does the public, the media or anyone have to judge this man? He is a decent, honest and hard working person who has chosen to give back to his fellow West Virginians---to what end? To be judged by his peers? With typical media homicide, you are trying to blow an unimportant event into a media spectical. And you all should be ashamed of yourselves for even broaching such a question. I notice that you didn't mention anyone else by name who happened to be there. Why not? Because they aren't multi-milionaires? Because they aren't as media worthy as he? Because it is easier to judge someone than to be compassionate? Mr. Whittaker is an adult and it is of no one's concern why he was there or that he was there. (And no I am not related to Mr. Whittaker--the last name is just a coincidence.)
Mrs. Kate Whitteker, Amma
A true christian would not be in a place like that. What would he have done if god had said his time on this earth was over? His money would not have bought him a place in heaven. My thought are with his family. Instead of strip clubs, help feed some child that has no food on it's table
L Miller, Chapmanville, WV
The image that Mr. Whittaker attempted to convey after winning the largest Power Ball jackpot was one of being concerned about people and one of giving to churches and the disadvantaged. Recently, he has demonstrated another side that may not be as honorable. Maybe he needs to talk to some of the ministers of the churches that he contributed money about the conduct of his personal life and about living in the world of materialism, and his walk with God. He cannot do both and enjoy the benefits of a honorable person. I hope he gives this some thought and spends some time in prayer and meditation about his life here and his life her after. Mr. Whittaker has some much to give and would be rewarded accordingly.
H B Sweeney, St. Albans
How sad is it that we strive to see others fail or be publicly shamed. Like it or not, Mr.Whitaker has been a positive attribute for West Virginia, would anyone like to tally how much money he has donated, money that has remained in our much needed state? Everyone has faults, wheather past, etc. I frankly am tired of the hypocrites that that surround me, it has been said a million times but yet still underestimated- mind your own business. Speaking as a neighbor of Mr.Whitaker's, and might I add I have never met Mr.Whitaker, his home is quiet, neat and not what others would like to imagine, wild parties, etc.
The Chinn's, Ghent, WV
With the multiple concerns that we have in our local society and beyond it completely blows my mind that Mr. Whittaker could be the opening point of conversatiotn for our local community in our evening news. The fact is that Mr. Whittaker is a member of our local community who landed a lucky break with a record setting lottery ticket. My first question to the local media is, Why does Mr. Whittaker deserve this type of special treatment, that in my opinion is tainted with favortism and an absolute disregard for the facts? My second question is, How would a member of our local society be treated by the media if he portrayed different characteristics, such as race or honor. This man is putting himself in an establishment that is associated with this type of action. Yet, when the news is reported Mr. Whittaker acts as though he is victim of convicts or criminals. The last time I looked in the news it was not common practice for a man to carry in excess of a half-million dollars. If the truth is that Mr. Whittaker had plans to buy this establishment because of his high moral standard I would guess that he could afford to appoint an attourney to take care of this situation. The type of favortism and absolute liberal views that our local media holds makes me sick and wonder why I would waste my time to watch such an insult to the local community,
Rob Simmons, Huntington
The bible states that money is the root of all evil.
Charles Edward Pauley, Scott Depot
don't know the man not our place to judge him he was a victim the media should focus on catching the criminals.
j.d., clendenin
He is a fine person with the best intentions.
L Meadows, Milton
What Mr. Whittaker does with his personal life is his business and should not over shadow all the good he has done.
April Keenan, Mammoth
I think it is a poor excuse that Jack Whittaker was at the Pink Pony to begin with. I thought he was a Christian. If he had The Pink Pony demolished with a bull dozer, what about the other Girlie bars in town? He should take some of his money & purchase a set of dentures.
Linda Armstead, Hurricane
Honestly, I completely changed my views of jack whittaker. I think he is trying to cover up is real image.
Brandon Vovk, Hurricane
if he is such a big christian man why was he at a strip bar? i think him saying he was drugged is just a cover up for being there and being drunk. and was also cussing. I dont believe a true christian would act like that. it may be his personal life but if he didnt want caught he should have stayed away from a strip club.
JoAnn Tabor, Branchland
He is human just like anyone else. But he isn't as church going as he 1st acted like he was.
Stephanie, South Charleston
I don't know Mr. Whittaker, but if this is a legal establishment, why is it even an issue? He has a right to go where he pleases. No, I don't think this was a good choice, but it is his choice to make.
Debby Baker, Wellston
hay has helped the people so what he dose in his own time is his business
Roy, Charleston
He is only human he has the right to do what he wants to do. What does is between him and the lord.
George Murdock, Elkview
It disturbs me greatly to know that a self proclaimed Christain would spend his time at strip clubs. He is in the public spotlight, which makes him a role model to many. I am very upset and almost ashmed that he considers himself a follower of God, as do I.
Mr. Schumaker, Scott Depot, WV
No, he his only human. Everyone has made mistakes. His was pointed out because of his public standing. No one should look at Jack as someone who has done wrong. He has done good for a lot of people in this state. He should have your respect. He is doing for others that other Lottery winners wouldn't think of doing. Good Luck Jack
Harold Graley, Pineville
Mr Whittaker is nothing but a liar. He claims his faith but is known to be unfathful to his wife with Mimi, his girlfriend, at least one of them. He is constantly gambling here and traveling to Atlantic City or Indiana to only come back and brag about his escapades. He has paid women for sexual favors again to brag about it later. He has bought Mimi a Cadillac Escalade, a corvette, a Harley Davidson and paid off loans for her mother and other family members. A true christian does not do the things he has done since winning his money. If I'm not mistaken he is still married, so why have other women that you commit adultery with. A Christian cannot buy his way into heaven and that is how I see what he's doing with his donations to the churches. I am ashamed to say that I am no better than Mr. Whittaker but I am not in the spotlight as he is and attempting to portray something I am not.
Withheld for fear of reprisal from Mr Whittaker, Please either print this or read it on air
Most of West Virginia would not even know who Jack Whittaker is if he had not won the lottery. I think that it wouldnt even had made the news this issue is for his family and himself to determine what the outcome would be. I hope if he has a gambling problem he would seek help. He is just under the microscope because of his lottery winnings. At times I wish I would win the lottery to end the debt problems that we as a family experience until I hear things like this.
Millie Bailes, Summersville
Yes it does. It may be his life and his money. And what he is doing with it may be his business. But I dont think that he should say he is a christian and give all these churches, millions of dollars one day and then that same night. Go to strip clubs and blow millions of dollars. If I was a member of thoes churches I would suggest to give that money back. But that is just my opinion.
Bree Stewart, Nitro
It's his business where he goes and what he does with his time. He is an adult. He shouldn't be carrying that much money with him , but there again it's his right to do so. People should just let him live the way he wants to and stop judging him with every move he makes. We are all human and we all make mistakes.
Terri, Charleston
I am a christian and I am disappointed in his declaration of being a christian. With his morals or lack of morality, he must use a different Bible than I do. Mine is the King James version. we should pray for him.
Genevieve Dewese, Ikes Fork
Just because a man wins big money in the lottery and becomes well know as the biggest powerball winner and gives money to the church doesn't mean that he is a good man or bad man he is human and has faults like we all do. It is not our right to judge him. What he does in his life is for God to judge not us.
Donna, South Charleston
This guy is a known thief and con man. Had anyone in the media looked into his background at all they would have saw that he has filed bankruptcy numerous times and still owes people money. Also, he bought one of his girlfriends a new Gmc Envoy in Beckely. You should ask someone other than a Christian about what Jack has done. There are too many to name on this short form. But if you are interrested I can supply you with completely fact based incidents and can back everything I say with evidence. If you are interrested Email me.
Jack, Charleston
He may think his private life is his own but when he makes himself and his lifestyle very high profile, he becomes a very public person. i'm very disappointed in him.
Karen Forren, Rainellle
Jealousy is a ugly thing. The Sheriff's comments were ... ugly.
Cathy, Scott Depot
Jack Whittaker has the right to go to a strip bar if he wants. Just because he is a multimillionaire should hold him to a higher standard than any other man at the pink pony or to a higher standard than any woman working there. No matter how much or how little money he has he is still a human being. If he had only lost 50 dollars no one would be saying a thing. As far as the people who are saying he is a gambler..... isnt that how he won the money in the first place?
Maddy Pcholinsky, Dunbar
I was very happy that some one from my home town had won, when i saw he was helping others i thought that was great, i tried my luck, our home burnt in july, we tried getting help from the welfare the salvatoin army, no one would help me, why because we had no children my husband and i lived about 20 min from in,, are home was built back in 3 months we lived in a camper it burnt again in october we had a electrical problem , we both could have died that time, we were sleeping then i heard that jack were helping people my sister in law told me you need to ask him for help, my husband lost his job during all this , because we had to find a place to live i am sick and still not able to work, why would he not help someone in the ditch, in stead of all the people who have nothing , i no god is a forgiving god, but sometimes god will take from you so you can take time to look around at the poor people, i dont wish him bad luck, just look around to what youve lost.
Darlene Heaster, Rupert
My opinion stands firm! From the first time that I heard a Christian man was giving his earnings to churches, I knew it was not good. God does not expect us to waste the money He gives us on a chance to win a bunch of money. Any church that is willing to accept this money needs to reconsider. This IS an abomination! Although I am not God, I pray for this man because I truly wonder if he is a Christian or not. The word Christian means to be CHRIST-LIKE and I honestly don't think that Jesus Christ would have done what this man has done. I know that Christians still fail miserably and that we have to ask forgiveness. I trust Mr. Whittaker will honestly think twice before doing something like this again because God expects us to learn from our mistakes. Two wrongs does not make a right. Why was this man in a strip joint if he is a Christian..? This gives all Christians a bad name......but more importantly - it gives Jesus Christ a bad name. After all, Christians set the example of God in other peoples' hearts.
Priscilla F. Milam, Griffithsville
why should anyone be interested in how he spends his time. we should be more concerned about the crime and catching who did this, then where he was at and why.But Iam concerned as to why he would leave a breifcase and money in the car?He needs to thank God that no harm came to him and that his things where recoverd.
Theresa Coleman, Charleston
Mr.Whittaker has been frequenting every bar and strip club in the valley for months. His personal behavior is hypocritical and counterproductive to his charitable foundation. Labeling yourself as a religious family, and business man and then acting the way he does sets himself up for criticism.
Robert, Nitro
this changes my opinion of your news station!!! reporting NEWS is one thing, however taking an opinion poll on a local persons charector has brought your news reporting to an all time LOW!! It makes one wonder how news stations have become judge and jury instead of reporting NEWS!!!
Debbie Hanson, St Albans
Jack is a very close friend of mine as well as my family. Jack has been very good to my family and is a true friend. Jack is a very generous person with many friends. I wish him well forever. I am just glad he was not harmed. John Collins
John H. Collins, Charleston WV
Really didn't have much of an opinion about him to begin with but what he does is his business and he is the one who has to answer for his actions... on the other hand i watched your 11 oclock news show hoping to see some real news... there has been some sort of accident at the KY, WV state line and traffic has been backed up for miles for hours now....did you all know anything about this??? because i never seen a word about it on the news. Just something to think about.
Leigh Ann Finch, Kenova
I have never really cared about Jack in the first place...If he was such a christain man what was he doing at the club and why was he carring such a large amount of cash and checks in his vehicle to begin with...now he wants to buy the club and tear it down to cover his butt and make his self look good.....Doesnt look good to me.....He needs to take some of that money and really put it to good use to build something for the kids that have no place to go and to keep them off of the street like a comminty center and to help those programs that help the needy like loaves and fishes and the soup kitchen in summers co help those who really need it and let him quit thinking about how he can make his slef look good a richer!!!!!
Louiseia, Hinton
Jack doesn't have to account to anyone in West Virginia. He does good for many people and the State of WV.
J.H. Collins, Hurricane
What he does is his business. Just like they said if people can forgive Wise then why not Whittaker? Yea right! Only God will be the one for that. The media does report things like this but why do you have to keep bringing it up? Wittaker is only human but he has to answer to someone else besides God (which is the most important one) HIS WIFE! If he wants to ruin his life let him -- why do we have to listen to his life on the news?
Debbie, Boone County
Yes, I now feel sorry for him! nomatter how much good, a person does in their life-time, There are those who exist only to exployt and discredit them. Only then can they feel as equals!!! Journalism IS objective! Your news reporters just exist.
Mike, St. ALbans
I suppose the church donation helps offset the weakness of a sinner. I, for one, cannot afford indulging my weaknesses or the donation.
Rick Taylor, Reseda, CA
I dont believe it should be the publics business.. He is a normal guy.. A Normal guy with alot of money...There is alot of men and woman for that matter no matter age or race that go to strip clubs. In the newspaper it said Jack Whittacker liked to gamble. Well come on now, lets get real we all know this it doesnt take a rocket scientist to figure this out.. After all isnt that how he won the BIG JACKPOT! Leave the man alone and let him live his life... He is a human for goodness sakes.. If he wants to see woman or men degrade their bodies let him.. He aint hurting noone.. (except for maybe his wife) I wonder if she knew he went to those kind of places....LOL
M. Nunley, South Charleston
You know what they say, A fool and his money is soon parted.
Susan Reitman, Jackson, Ohio
To begin with, I am a Christian and I should not judge others b/c they are the ones who will have to answer to God one day. However, just b/c he had given so much of his money to the churches does not give him a free ticket to Heaven. He has a wife so why would he be out all hours of the night going to see other women strip. He is lusting after something that is not right. He is taking Satan's money and giving it to churches to make him look like a good, Christian man. I wouldn't take a dime of his money if he offered it to me, but he won't b/c I don't work at Pink Pony or any other strip joint. Judgement day will come one day for him. As long as I am doing what God wants me to do for him that is all I have to worry about. He needs to stop and think WWJD and I know he wouldn't be in Pink Pony all hours of the night.
Jerry, Cross Lanes
Just think how many people that might have been helped! They say money is the root of all evil now I wonder.Who is he really,Maybe we are seing the real Mr.Whittaker.Maybe he was trying to get the strippers to come to church and change their ways.Whoever got the money their lifestyle will really change.
Kelly Roberts, Stockport,Ohio
I wonder if he realizes it's not as easy to get through the door of heaven as it is to get through the door of the Pink Pony. He should go to one of those churches he gave a lot of money to and see if he can buy a prayer or two.
Kelly, formerly Charleston, now Columbus
Goes to show how much money changes people. Does leaving that amount of money make sense to the average person. Certainly not me?
Alex Kail, Pickerington, OH
I didn't have a good opinion of him in the first place. He seems to only give money to religious organizations to ease his conscience. He has always appeared to me as a man of loose morals.
Summersville, WV
My opinion has always been he was all hot air when it came to his moral standards. It is common knowledge here in the Teays Valley area that... he was having an affair with the woman who sold him the lottery ticket AND he & his wife are separated - he bought himself a new home. What a shame that he isn't what he says he is.
Renee, Gibson
The biggest powerball winner that is the question and answer had not Mr. Whittaker been this it would not be news, amyway what he does with his money is his business he was going to thoses places before he had that money. Mr Whittaker is a good man even though I have never met him to give his money to people that need it how many other rich West Virginians are doing the same giving to the people and not corporations to look good did the Clay family give to the people that wanted to do better how about the Haddads, giving to the people is what he is doing so running the story in the ground like your news station do won't change the minds of people that respect Mr. Whittaker and what he has done for a lot of West Virginians and I know that the churches and the people that go to them that he gave money to ought not to judge or comment on what he does in private. Therefore he is a grown man what your tv station need to do is put the positive things he has done run that follow up on thoses things instead of putting him out there like that it's not illegal to attend a strip club if so why do we have them.
Jason M. Coles, Charleston
Can't buy me love! (Paul McCartney)
Kim Bingaman, South Charleston
I've never had/and do not have an opinion of this man. It is not for us to judge him or even give an opinion. This will be taken care of on Judgement Day!! PS - Money is not the root of all evil - the Love of money is the root of all evil!!!
B. Fran, Gallipolis
How much has his life changed,he can't even answer his own telephone anymore.I think he may be having personal problems and this should be between him and his family,not the public. There are people that still supports him!
Michael Skaggs, Logan,W.V.
NO it does not change my opinion of him at all,I could always tell he was a dirty old man who is trying to lessen his guilt by giving money to churches,and charities.
Carly, Jackson County
The man seems to have more money than commonsense. He was asking to be robbed carrying that much cash and checks with him. They say God looks after Drunks and Fools and in this case he got 2 for 1.
Carolyn UnRue, Buckhannon, WV
The money that Jack Whittaker won was the collective contribution of many, many people, most of which fall into the catagory of the working class poor. It's pitiful to think that the money that would have meant so much to someone else, is just being thrown around like so much trash. And that is just excactly what Mr. Whittaker has turned out to be. Trash.
Darla Mitchell, Cross Lanes
good grief, what the man does is his business, not everyone elses.
Kathy Ream, Twilight
To begin with, he was gambling when he bought the lottery ticket, which wasn't a Christian thing to do. If I were the churches who accepted his money, I would return it to him, as the money (in my opinion) is tainted. He was completely out of bounds when he entered a strip club. I think he is a phony.
Laureda Collier, Logan
doesn't change mine. already knew he was a pervert because he grabbed my daughter by the hair and put her head in his crotch while she was filling the hopper he was playing on at the dog track.
barbara myers, south charleston
He was already a millionaire before he won the lottery. One minute he is giving money to the church and the next he is giving it to the skanky strippers. He will get what he deserves no matter how much money he gives to god.
Melissa Mccaulley, Scott Depot
I had heard these things before this happened. He sounds like a sick pervert, offering girls money for sex. I bet his wife is so embarrassed. I feel sorry for her, but not him.
Susan, Dunbar
I was from charleston wv. I have lived in south carolina for 23 years.I met a dancer in a topless bar in charlotte nc.We got together. She quit dancing and we got married and had twin boys.The marriage lasted for 10 years.I make good money and gave her everything.Even a lincon town car.When i saw him on the news and his truck being towed off i new how he felt.I lost everything i owned and ever had.Since then i have got custudy of my twin boys.The lord works in mysterist ways.I hope and pray he will find out that we all slip on the road of life .As long as we ask for forgiveness and have faith all bad things will pass.My prayers be with him. Look at the good things people do and not judge them.For we have no right to judge.The lord does
Chris Clendenin, CHESTER SC 29706
You have to wonder with as many people that are living in poverty in west virginia that the missing money would have been long gone. It looks to me that maybe he staged this himself to be in the limelight again. I am currently living outside the state and I was horrified to see this on of all places the national news. Thank you Mr. Jack Whittaker for making MY West Virginia look as backwoods and trashy as most of America thinks it is!
K. Seabolt, Hampton VA
When he won it was nice to see a lotto winner really stress giving the money away to churches and such when he was asked about what he wanted to do with the money, even nicer when he gave it away, but the love of money might have gotten the best of him. I think he needs our prayers and he needs to re-examine his life, strip clubs do not need donations. A fool and his money.....
H, Dunbar
For someone that was professing to be Christian, his afterhours choice of recreation is questionable. He can't buy himself into Heaven, it's his actions and deeds will speak for themselves. I feel sorry for his family that has to be embarrassed over him drinking at a strip club...esp. since it was broadcasted all over the National news.
Janet, Pt. Pleasant
I didn't think much of him before this!
Dottie, Charleston
He has the right just like anyone else, to be any where he wants, if he wants to go to a strip club, that is his business. No one elses.
Anita, Hurricane
I don't believe in gambiling because the bible tells us it is wrong.And although I don't aprove of the way he received the money, I thought he was at least going to use the money to do some good in our community.But the bible also says that money is the root of all evil and Jack Whittaker has proven that.
Donna, South Charleston
I think it is interesting why he would need to go back into the club when we see him sitting at the curb twidding a cell phone and we know a busy man like him would have a cell with him. I also think it is interesting why he who is so loudly christian and devout and such a family man would be going to gentlemen clubs and gambling. I am really curious as to why he had so much cash and the three cashiers checks with him that time of night(even though he would have started earlier in the evening to party), he wouldn't need THAT much money with him for the club. And of course he is going to buy the club and doze it down now;nowt because he is against that sort of thing but spite and meanness. I question the drug thing and I question the stuff in the bushes to come back to later. No more than it was take or stuff it in your car, there are no house near there so someone had to have driven there. Was Jack bragging in the club and was that why he was robbed, or did someone threaten to make a stink on seeing him there and he cooked up the whole thing. IT really should be looked into and not hushed up just because he is so rich. I am disappointed in him as I believed what he said about himself, granted I have no problem with the clubs but just admit to it upfront and don't be so high and mighty.
Jayne L. Humphreys, Fraziers Bottom
I can also see that he was probably a sleazeball before he won the money, and this gives him more of an opportunity to splurge on whores, drugs, booze, and gambling.
DM, Huntington
Leave the man alone!!!, its his life, his money, and he can do what he wants with them
Rick, Marmet
I still think he is scum!
Scott Twigg, Charleston
The man should enjoy his winnings. The fact that he has donated lots of money to others , willingly, is something to be commended. His personal preferences or habits are HIS business.
sal godinez, welch
Mr. Whittaker has been made into a hero by the media because he donates money to churches. However, I can't understand any true Bible believing church accepting money from this man knowing the way he received it himself. A true church should separate from gambling whether it be buying lotery tickets, betting at the dog track or accepting money from one who does so. Sin is sin and while it may be a normal part of the unsaved person's life, the church has no business supporting sin in any way, therefor accepting money from one who gets it through gambling is wrong and a sin in God's eyes.
W. David Ferrell, Poca
I thought he was better than that!
M. K. Forwood, Clendenin
He's only human. Jesus was the only perfect one. Goes to show you...money does not make you happy.
Bob, Sissonville
As a Christain, he should not go to strip clubs.
Helen J Miller, Charleston,wv 25306
In his acceptance speech Mr. Whitaker answered a question about donating money to churches saying that he has always donated money to the churches. Many people were led to believe by this answer that he was a good, Christain man, however now we see what kind of man Jack Whitaker really is!
Mike, Ashland
He must be a smarter man than to carry that much money around in his car. Certainly he needs someone to advise him. Tell him to call me.
Earl T. Hanson, Scott Depot
I didn't think much about the situation from the start,someone claiming to be a christian and gambling.I also do not think that the church should have accepted gambling money.I think what has happened just proves You Reap What You Sow.Your sins WILL find you out!
Wilma Cook, Fort Gay
First of all i want to no why he was in the Pink Pony that long if he was just there for family drug reasons. so yes why should i not think different of him?
Andrea Null, Hurricane
You can judge someone by the fruit he bears. If he goes to strip clubs and over drinks, he is in the wrong. Do not make excuse for sin.
Rev. Charles Swanson, II, Kenova, WV
I think that people should keep their noses out of the personal life of others. If Jack chooses to frequent strip clubs, that's fine. At least he's not hurting anyone. If this were some other man on the street, no one would turn their heads. But since it's a millionaire, it makes a difference... even though it shouldn't. As long as he's not hurting anyone, and actually improving WV... I don't see the harm. Amen for men like Jack!
Lynn H., Ironton
It disgust me that a man would give money to the church and turn around, gamble and be seen in strip clubs..Disgusting!
DH
I think hes a bum!
Kelsey, Charlston
Even a total illiterate like Whittaker should know you can't buy your way into heaven. Someone should put a saddle on that 'Jack'ass and ride him out of West Virginia. What a disgrace to humanity, and shame on the churches for taking his immoral money....
Ed Layman, Kenova WV
Mr whittaker is a hypocrite. The very month he won his money, he gave $100,000 each to 2 different girls at the pink pony. It's not like he hasn't been at this place many times before. The major problem i have with him, is not that he frequents these places, but that he acts like he is a very religious christian man, when in fact, he is a whore monger.
Rod Mccomas, Dunbar
This does not change my opinion at all, Jack Whittaker is just some guy that got luckey by gambling. He should be scorned for gambling more then he should for going to a gentelmans club
Larry Wilson, Ironton Ohio
Jack is his own person but the revelation that he gambles and frequents strip bars makes me to believe he needs to change his focus . He is no doubt overcome by the wealth that has befallen him him and his true person will come out now that he has been embarresed by this incident
Mecum, St. Albans
I have seen Jack in action at a local night club. He was intoxicated and with a woman who was not his wife. This story does not surprise me at all.
Robin, Elkview
Everyone makes mistakes. The man neeeds forgivness, and perhaps help.
Mike Sheets, Huntington, WV
As he said - his life is his own. And it doesn't change my opinion of the news media, either. I still think the media gets carried away and treats the victim of a crime as if they had committed a crime.
Judith L. Moore, South Charleston
so what!!!
Ed, Saint Albans
its funny that the whole story is never told...lets not forget he was drunk and his ego was shot when the girls turned him down..everyone knows he is a dirty old pervert...people like whittaker is what gives religion a bad name...whittaker needs to spend his money on things that will make a difference in the community with the kids..he has a grand daughter and he knows there is nothing for teens in the valley he needs to step up to the plate and spend his money wisely not on gambling and strippers and who ever said (exotic dancers)have no class or pride.well they proved him wrong i guess money cant buy you everything...people like him is what gets us on jerry springer way to go jack....only in west by god virginia...so jack you can tell your story but we all know the truth but then we all know that money can shut alot of people up and makes people forget the real facts....
Kristi, Nitro
Three words for ' Black Jack ': Twelve Step Program Three more: Walk the Walk
Phil Brooks, Charleston
It is written; let himn among you who is without sin cast the first stone. None of us is perfect. Let the man alone, he needs to work this out himself. His actions have no place in the public he is not a public official and this should end now.
Jim Owens, Red House
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