Neither major party really gets it
Local columnist T.J. Ray received a form letter the other day asking for contributions and support for one of our major political parties. That sparked Ray to ponder both major parties and how neither one completely fills most folks wish lists. (June 13, 2011, Page 4)
Not A Bed Of Roses
Local columnist Jimmy Reed recently attended the wedding of his goddaughter, a wonderful event except for the 95 degree weather. He writes about the celebration and how the heat was a good omen for the new couple. (June 7, 2011, Page 4)
Counting – numbers have all kinds of meanings
Numbers count days, years, all kinds of things. Local columnist T.J. Ray takes a closer look at how many of us use numbers counting up and down. (June 2, 2011, Page 4A)
Living Forever
So you think you’d rather live forever? Local columnist Jimmy Reed takes a look at that view of life and aging and questions if we really want immortality. (May 31, 2011, Page 4)
The triangular negotiating table
Local columnist T.J. Ray takes a closer look at the ongoing negotiations and work on a Memorandum of Understanding for the new hospital to be built by Baptist, offering his take on different parts of the agreement and where he thinks things could be headed with local health care. (May 25, 2011, Page 4)
Sturm Und Drang
Americans are now experiencing tremendous storm and stress – or Sturm und Drang, as the Germans call it. Local columnist Jimmy Reed writes about the challenges we’ve faced through the years, and notes that we should use the upcoming Memorial Day holiday to honor those who gave on battlefields – but also those who fought and won economic and natural wars on the home front. (May 24, 2011, Page 4)
Mr. Anonymous and Old Fogies
Do you get bothered when people use the term “old fogies” about older citizens? Local columnist T.J. Ray does, too, and he was upset with a recent piece titled “Old Fogie Pride” that came his way – until he gave it a closer look. (May 20, 2011, Page 4A)
Die Prayin’
Have you ever thought about what you’d like to be doing when it comes your time to depart this earth? Local columnist Jimmy Reed recalls a conversation from years ago where the best answer was from the man who wanted to die prayin’. (May 17, 2011, Page 4)
You Are A Diamond
Sometimes teachers inspire students; sometimes, it’s the other way around. That’s the case for local columnist and college instructor Jimmy Reed, who writes about the heroic deeds of one of his students that he calls “a diamond.” (May 10, 2011, Page 4)
Our elephant involves help with mental illness
Local columnist T.J. Ray points out the elephant standing in the corner of our room – the lack of help for folks with mental problems – and wonders when we’ll acknowledge it and do something about it. (May 6, 2011, Page 4A)
