Opinion

The sounds of our world are changing. We’ve muffled the noises; changed rings to tones, buzzes to beeps, and bangs to cushioned clicks. Doors are closed and lives are insulated from unexpected or annoying cacophony. We’ve left behind some sounds that defined our childhoods, and I miss them. Remember the sound of a slamming screen…

We’ve been hearing the term “plausible deniability” a lot lately, haven’t we?   It refers to a governmental entity or an individual within a governmental entity who, rather than telling the truth about an event, lies about it by suggesting a potentially believable alternative set of facts.   The term originated in a CIA directive…

Even though it’s only July, the deer hunters are getting prepared for another season. While it may be several weeks until the season opens, there is much to do to be ready for opening day – especially if you hunt with bow and arrow. Right now, I’m checking trail cameras, hanging tree stands and trying…

I have a friend who invited himself over. He snuck into my bedroom one day when I was busy, and now he won’t leave. I don’t want to be rude, but he’s not a great guest. He sure is making me miserable. My friend waits on my bed all day long, probably just lounging around…

For me, the most significant national event in my lifetime was the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.  I still remember where I was when I first heard that he had been shot.  Over the years, I have become an amateur historian about the assassination but despite my interest, I have never had closure about…

By Chris Enroth University of Illinois Extension, Horticulture Educator This past week, right around mid-June, I received my first question about Japanese beetles. Throughout a growing season, plants, insects, diseases, and many other natural processes emerge, develop, and complete their life cycles. How do we know when to expect Japanese beetles to emerge? Or squash…

I grew up when magic was real. When wishes and luck were a part of every kid’s understanding of life. The wonder began as a toddler. I was sure that if I covered my eyes, no one could see me. It was a wonderful trick; I giggled behind my tiny fingers, sure Mom was looking…

I was cleaning out my hunting vehicle as I do every year after the deer and turkey seasons. This time, however, I did a more thorough cleaning. I found licenses from several years back and from different states. A long time ago, I thought I would keep a license from every state I’ve hunted in.…

Vera C. Rubin, PhD., (1928-2016) was a pioneer astronomer for several reasons.   First, she was one of the first female astronomers in a scientific field that until then was a male-dominated occupation.   Second, once she was “allowed” to study the stars with “the boys”, and to pick her own specific area of concentration,…