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Local Commentaries

Always running just a little bit behind

We finished undressing the Christmas tree on Friday. Today, Monday, a kind friend helped us take it apart and bag it. Yes, I know. It’s March 10th as I write this. I hear this echo in my head, “You’re just getting your Christmas tree down? It’s Lent already!” I was annoyed when I ...

A staple for meals

Rice is not only a whole grain but it is easily digested. I remember my grandmother who had stomach issues choosing rice to eat. It is not only inexpensive, but it is nutritious and tasty. For those of you who are watching your food budget, you can mix rice with many things to enhance the ...

Rounding Third: Movies supply magic in everyday life

We watched the 97th Academy Awards show on Sunday. Well, let’s say that I watched it and Dear Richard tolerated it. We’ve only been married for 12 years, and he didn’t realize early on that he had joined a family of dedicated film buffs. Whether you call it film, movies, or cinema, we are ...

Lessons for the U.S. can be found in Sweden

About six years ago, Economist Johan Norberg produced a documentary about Sweden’s recent economic transformations entitled “Sweden: Lessons for America.” The program is very informative as well as entertaining, and will challenge what you thought you knew. You can still catch it on ...

Job reductions at ANF will take toll on county

The headline in the Feb. 22 edition of the Warren Times Observer reads “Forest Service layoffs may affect ANF.” How devastating would cuts to the ANF be to the Warren community? Let me give you the facts. As of January, the Allegheny National Forest employed 151 full-time people spread ...

View from Hickory Heights: A common invention

Do you know who Walter Hunt was? I am guessing you probably do not recognize the name, but he made a significant contribution that we all have used. In 1849 he invented the safety pin. He received his patent, but later sold it to satisfy a debt. He received $400 for his patent ending his ...