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)
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)
Foolish Mistakes
Few aviators complete their careers without escaping dangerous incidents, usually when they have little flying experience. Local columnist Jimmy Reed relates the stories of his two big escapes, one when attempting a foolish maneuver and the other when he almost hit another aircraft. (April 26, 2011, Page 4)
Pierced Hands
Hands are the key to the most wonderful story ever told. Local columnist Jimmy Reed explains as he takes a look at James Weldon Johnson’s “The Creation” along with the story of Christ’s birth, death and resurrection as we continue through Holy Week. (April 19, 2011, Page 4A)
The road to Jericho
Most know the story of the Good Samaritan, but how many of us practice charity with any regularity? Local columnist T.J. Ray takes a closer look at a handout he got the other day that explores the Indian Creed. Two principles he mentions involve not being greedy when others are in need and being in service to others. (April 15, 2011, Page 4A)
