One of my most common disclaimers when I meet new folks is that one of my parents was raised Jewish and the other was raised Catholic, hence I am "half Jewish/half Catholic - which equals twice the guilt." And while I say this partially in jest, it is grounded in a clear understanding and appreciation of the [...]
Let me say at the outset that I do not draw conclusions about the actions of law enforcement officers from videos posted on social media. I learned long ago that it is prudent to wait to hear all the facts before coming to any conclusion about whether an officer's actions were lawful and justified. The split-second decisions [...]
I have watched the events after Michael Brown's shooting unfold. I have been purposeful in refraining from comment on social media sites and in groups, but I have been listening. I have heard two versions of the story surrounding Michael Brown's death. In one version, an unarmed black teenager was murdered by a white officer. [...]
Easter is a religious holiday, not unlike Christmas, that has become so much more about all the other stuff - cards, gifts, goodies, and family gatherings - than the religious significance. I am not necessarily complaining about it, merely recognizing it. All the kitsch and family tradition that goes along with Easter has dwarfed the [...]
I have heard that Pope Francis is down-to-earth, but I did not know that he owned a motorcycle. And not just any motorcycle - a hog - a Dyna Super Glide Harley-Davidson. That is one heavenly ride, just not the ride one would expect for Pope Francis. A papal motorcycle - can you imagine? I [...]
I have been watching from afar the whole Phil Robertson drama. His comments about homosexuality got him suspended from his show Duck Dynasty by A & E, but the backlash A & E received from followers of the show and those who hold like religious-based views caused A & E to capitulate and retract the [...]
Far be it for me to underestimate the challenges inherent in being a legislator. I understand that it is a cumbersome task that carries with it a tremendous mantle of responsibility. Legislators need to represent their constituents while also remaining true to the platform upon which they were elected. Legislators are constantly having to compromise [...]
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