R-T Columns
Profiles in Courage | Ott Observations
Last month was the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. For those of us old enough to remember, it was a time of shock, grief, despair…
Read MoreLoneliness | Mark’s Remarks
This time of the year is when we think of being surrounded by people. However, there are plenty of people who are alone and who feel alone. For various reasons,…
Read MoreElisha and the Bears | Mark’ Remarks
When I was little in Sunday school, we often looked at “story cards” when the teacher was telling a Bible story. Many of those images remain in my mind: Jesus…
Read MoreRevising the role of government | Ott Observations
It’s hard to imagine an issue or topic that isn’t divisive today. Supposedly different opinions are grounded in different ideologies, be they conservative, liberal, libertarian or socialistic. It feels more…
Read MoreBe quiet | Mark’s Remarks
I was reading in 2 Kings from the Bible this summer about Elijah and Elisha. Confusing names? People mispronounce them and often get them mixed up. But their story, their…
Read MoreA simple, healthy boost to winter comfort foods
By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center It’s the time of year when we’re drawn to comfort foods. As the days get shorter and hats and coats take center…
Read MoreAnnual Non-Thankful List | Mark’s Remarks
This is my third year of publishing my “non-thankful list.” Some folks are appalled that I publish such a thing, but I don’t care. It’s a good way to gripe…
Read MoreHorror and dread | Ott Observations
As I watched the first news reports of the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, I was of course horrified. There is no excuse whatsoever for the slaughter of civilians and…
Read MoreSquare dancing with Mrs. B | Mark’s Remarks
I went through a Charlie Brown phase when I was a kid. I tried sports, but wasn’t very good. Boy Scouts intrigued me, but I could never fish as well…
Read MoreParenting and teaching | Mark’s Remarks
I have often wondered, during my teaching career, how many parents simply want a break. I mean, how often did we wish we had an easy kid to take care…
Read MoreThe Age of Skepticism | Ott Observations
I was on a retreat recently and the issue of the decline of the institution of religion was part of the discussion. Less than half of Americans are members of…
Read MoreThe Horror | Mark’s Remarks
I have said for all of my married life that I could die a happy man if my wife ever told me she’d found the perfect swimsuit and was also…
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