back to top

Columnists

Scott Dreyer: Remembering VE Day

A hundred times every day I remind myself that my inner and outer life are based on the labors of other men living and dead, and that I must...

FRED FIRST: Moms Live Forever

She would have celebrated her 100th birthday this September, the birthday month in our family. Had...

ROBERT L. MARONIC: Semi-Singular Praise Of Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA)

There are many aspects of California, which I strongly dislike: exorbitant state and local taxes,...

FRED FIRST: Nature Notes: Early May

Finally I am getting out a bit onto the trails before spring is fully gone...

BOB BROWN: “Teach Us to Number Our Days”

I was healthy and fit, a proponent of physical exercise, weighed myself daily with pleasing...

“Accidents of Fate” Seek Out Some More Than Others

Napoleon Bonaparte once said "There is no such thing as an accident, only fate misnamed." While I would like to agree with the...

The Lendy’s Hot Dog Incident

When I was growing up, Lendy’s on Franklin Road in Roanoke was definitely my favorite restaurant. I mean, how could it not be,...

If You Build It, Will They Come?

Field of Dreams, notwithstanding, the answer in Roanoke is “No.”  Twice we have been shown that.  First, under the stewardship of Bern Ewert...

Ill-Fitting Costume Wreaks Horror

Ever had a three foot tall princess chide you about your weight?  I have, and it happens almost every year. Halloween has become...

Wounded Warriors Last Battle

With Veterans Day this month, my thoughts turn to a presentation made recently at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Salem. A nurse...

Talking Turkey – Very Long Distance

One November day long ago, our older son Harry, called home from UVA with an unusual request—“Mom, can you tell me how to...