Recent Columns

We have entered a time in national politics that if you listen to the media reports, we the American voters are the most divided that we’ve ever been. We’re so frustrated with the status quo that we’re mired so deeply in the middle on major issues that the elected representatives all have to vote for or against legislation. That there is an inherent bias with voters, be it to the left or right that prevents honest substantive debate and resolution at the legislative level ... to that I say it’s not us — it’s them.

It’s back. That feeling that only this time of the year can bring. When the sight of dirty, gravel-encrusted remains of snow on the ground elicits only one reaction ... disgust. And longing. Longing for the days when it isn’t necessary to bundle up for five minutes any time you need to exit a building, when the impending possibility of slipping on ice is no longer a worry, when boots turn from snow gear to rain gear. When new, fresh life appears on the earth once again.

Bureau Valley basketball fans didn’t know quite what to expect when their Storm basketball team first advanced to the state tournament at Carver Arena in Peoria 10 years ago this week.

When it comes to having good luck during your hunting season, some do well, others are not so fortunate.

St. Patrick’s Day is once again coming upon us on March 17. Thought it would be fun to have a good meal with the traditional corned beef and cabbage plus an all-green menu.

Last night’s Academy Awards ceremony got me thinking about sports movies. So without further ado, here’s a quick look at my nominees for best sports movie of all time.

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan galvanized the world when he referred to the Soviet Union as the “Evil Empire.”

Wow! What a busy time of the year! Spring break is right around the corner, and the end of the school year is within sight. March Madness is well underway, and the extra curricular activities are abundant. Before long, the caps and gowns will be ordered, and pomp and circumstance will be in the air.

So you call yourself a Princeton Tiger basketball fan? How well do you really know your home team? Here’s a chance to find out.

The other night I watched a show on the History Channel about George Washington Carver; I first learned about this gentleman in grade school. George Washington Carver did a lot of clever things with peanuts. He developed hundreds of uses for products made from the simple peanut, including the first commercially available fully edible ear plugs.