I have now lived long enough to be a fundamental part of two different centuries. I have witnessed multiple generations: my parents (the Greatest Generation), my own (Baby Boomers), my children (the tail end… Read More
The idea that we would act in a concerted fashion for the betterment of the entire area just makes sense. Or, does it? To the participants (government, businesses and individuals) cooperation is rational only… Read More
What is a lie? One meaning is, “a statement that creates a false or misleading impression.” By this definition it is fair to say that our government “lies” to us all of the time.… Read More
There is another fledgling push towards regionalism. I applaud the concept. It is too long in coming even if the forces of inertia mitigate against what is undoubtedly the tide of the future. It… Read More
Recently, I had a discussion with a colleague about the American landscape. In this I do not mean the “purple mountain’s majesty” and “amber waves of grain.” Rather, the political and policy environment and… Read More
I am about to dip my toe into some very murky water indeed. It is deeply influenced by the government and manipulated by major corporations. It is required by virtually every person (citizen or… Read More
The Russians are trying to influence American elections. What? No way! How dare they do such a dastardly thing. Apparently, the fact that one nation would try to influence the leadership and character of… Read More
For the most part, the immigration debate in America is predicated on different fundamental assumptions. Because the start-points are starkly different, coherent discussion seems impossible. One side, call them the pro-immigration group, appears to… Read More
I recently read with incredulity about the City of Kingsport’s potential purchase of the Regents Bank building in downtown Kingsport. To paraphrase Ronald Reagan, “Here they go again…” The city’s bureaucracy is on the… Read More
What is patriotism? It seems fairly simple and straightforward…”the love for or devotion to one’s country.” I think we often confuse patriotism with nationalism. That is, we implicitly align allegiance to country with loyalty… Read More
More
