Opinion
A significant anniversary for America – and for me
Often when something of historical significance happens, people will ask, “Where were you?”
I can tell you exactly where I was on th... Protect Marriage
A few nights ago we watched American Idol. I have to admit, watching the people that can sing, well, I think that's the boring part.
There's just something about watching so...
How Vinton area public servants live up to that name
Vinton-Shellsburg School Board member Megan Rickels sat next to the pool, her two young sons in her lap, getting splashed as she watched the Vinton-Shellsburg boys swimming meet...
Vinton's connection to ancient English literature
Imagine reading a book from a century and a half and an an ocean away, and seeing in that book a name that you see every day on your way to work.
&nb...
Have you seen my glasses?
Have you ever been looking for something and can't find it, then you find it in your pocket?
My favorite is when I'm looking for my glasses. I'm one of these people that when I get ...
Needles, blades, women of steel and the wisdom of societies
Thanks to the wonder of the Internet, my grandpa’s little farm – which has been in years gone by a place to raise corn, watermelon and even pigs – i...
Patriotism, satire and mosquitoes
One of my favorite humorous poems has always been an 120-year-old ditty called “The Mosquito Hunt.”
The poem, from a book of poet...
Some numbers to consider concerning health care \'reform\'
Most have seen or heard of the gold plate/diamonds in so called “Obamacare”, but where is the coal?
1. The bribes to Nebraska and Louisiana for their votes.
...
The old Iron Monster
The other night while driving into town, I came to the bridge and headed across. The routine trip across the bridge brought back memories of crossing the bridge so many times when I was a kid... Needed: An energy policy smarter than a fifth grader
First, a question:
If a fifth grader can use a $2 magnifying glass to bring a piece of paper to 451 degrees Fahrenheit and s...