Columnists

Jack McCall: Many surprises can bring lots of smiles


Life is full of surprises. I don’t know why we should be surprised. I was in the delivery room when our first son was born. He came into the world red and wrinkly and icky and not very happy with the situation. Caught up in the wonder of human birth, I was not prepared when the attending nurse suddenly turned […]

Cheryl Lewis: Throw this huggable dog a battery instead of a bone


My resistance is weak and I admit that I kinda want one. Everyone knows I’m not a cat person, mind you. I’m not even a little-dog person; I love big ol’ fluffy, lovable pups, the older the better. They are kind and affectionate. They’re cozy and will curl up and watch a movie together, popcorn notwithstanding, or hike for miles […]

Susan Steen: Put a ‘change freeze’ spot on daily calendar


“Change is not always progress, and progress is not always change.” – Douglas Adams “We’re in a change freeze, so our meeting might be cancelled.” Between my projects and responsibilities and his job that pays the bills, it has been difficult for my son and I to find time to eat lunch together. My work is much different than his, […]

Dr. Mark Kestner: Tips for relieving joint pain during cold weather


Oh, the weather outside is frightful, But my knees feel so delightful… And since we’ve no place to go, Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow… Anyone with any history of joint pain, especially chronic knee pain, knows the modified lyrics above are not typical for most people when the weather turns cold. Ask anyone with chronic knee […]

William Bevins: Three tax-efficient accounts to reach retirement goals


As individuals approach retirement, strategic financial planning becomes crucial. Tax-efficient accounts are instrumental in maximizing retirement savings. Here are three types of accounts that can help individuals meet their retirement goals. Each of these accounts offers unique benefits that can cater to different financial situations and retirement strategies. It is essential to consider individual circumstances and consult with a financial […]

Jack McCall: Thankful for my health and flannel shirts that keep me that way


Well, it’s that time of year again. Time to pause and offer thanks. I think it important, from time to time, to enumerate the things for which one is thankful, especially at Thanksgiving. In the past I have suggested to my friends and readers to make a list of 25 or more. This year I have made my list several […]

Cheryl Lewis: Thankful for family, tradition, love … and hash browns


Eli Holbrook of Lebanon isn’t the kind of guy who likes attention; he definitely doesn’t seek it. Truth be told, he’d prefer to blend into the woods, decked out in camo, inhaling peace and quiet while patiently waiting for deer to stroll by. Sure, he hunts and enjoys the sport, but mostly it’s the serenity, camaraderie, and sense of tradition […]

Susan Steen: Hold people’s hands to open their hearts


“What happens when people open their hearts? They get better.” – Haruki Murakami “Hello there, my name is Juanita. I am here for you.” So began a 15-minute text chat with a volunteer with the Crisis Text Hotline. (Text HELLO to 741741) Sharing my reason for texting (wanting to see how it works, so I could share here), I became […]

Dr. Mark Kestner: Here are surprising links between saltshaker and health risks


Recent medical studies have revealed some interesting associations between the use of a saltshaker and the risk of Type 2 diabetes. This news adds to a growing list of chronic health conditions that are associated with the habit of adding salt to foods at the table. Table salt, otherwise known as its chemical name sodium chloride (NaCl), is one of […]

Jack McCall: All God’s creatures have a place in our lives


I suppose I’ve always been a livestock man. I grew up with hogs, cattle, chickens, sheep, horses, mules, cats and dogs. Cattle and hogs were a feature on the farm where I spent my formative years. My grandfather had a small flock of sheep in the Brim hollow. Lest I forget, he also had a herd of goats. These were […]


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