Did you know the condition and vibrancy of a downtown (or neighborhood) is a barometer of community health and attitude?
All in Columns
Father’s Day should inspire a sober look at the important role of Dads
Sentiment and emotion have their special place on Father’s Day, but more of us should take at least part of that day’s celebration to reflect on the important role fathers play in the life of their children.
Reece Gardner: The challenge with requiring mail-in absentee ballots
I want to talk mainly today about the effort underway to increase the use of traditional mail-in absentee ballots, but first let's recognize Father's Day, which is on this coming Sunday, June 21. President Johnson became the first president to officially honor fathers in 1966, and six years later, in 1972, President Nixon successfully established Father's Day as a national holiday.
Michael Spears: Is the risk of a second wave of infections rising?
Over the past week, we’ve had some good news in that there hasn’t been any sign of a national second wave of infections. In fact, the spread rate dipped below 1 percent for the first time on two days, and case growth seems to have stabilized to around 20,000 per day. From an economic perspective, the news is good, as the reopening is proceeding smoothly. Let’s take a look at the details.
Mike Parker: When Papa serves as a practice dummy, anything can happen
When my grandchildren come a-calling, I know what to expect. I stock the shelves and fridge. Sometimes I experience a brief moment of pity for the parents who must constantly feed these little critters.
John Hood: Police misconduct is everyone’s problem
The gruesome death of George Floyd, captured on video in vivid and revealing detail, will revolt and enrage anyone with a moral conscience. You witness one human being mistreating another with either actual malice or callous disregard. You witness the tragic result.
Leon Steele: Did you know? Part 1
Today we launch a series of shorties entitled Did You Know? focusing on the revitalization of downtown Kinston, NC and the work that Pride of Kinston undertakes to make our downtown and community better. We hope you enjoy them.
Reece Gardner: The Flag is speaking to us today
This coming Sunday, June 14, is Flag Day, the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777, when the Continental Congress sanctioned a flag for the brand-new United States of America. It was this flag, during the war of 1812, that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the Star-Spangled Banner, when our massive flag flew triumphantly atop Baltimore's Fort McHenry after U.S. soldiers withstood a 25-hour bombardment by British warships.
Justin Barnett: Come together
Our nation may be more divided right now along the lines of race that it has ever been before. Recent events have shaken our country. People of color are especially hurting, and many are angry. What our nation needs now is healing. In order to heal, we must come together. In order to come together, there must be understanding.
Mike Parker: Learning the language of married life
On Feb. 18, Sandra and I celebrated our 48th wedding anniversary – just two years shy of our Golden Anniversary. No couple can stay married for 48 years without learning a few lessons along the way.
Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Broccoli!
Fresh broccoli is starting to appear at our local Farmers Market, and you cannot beat fresh local broccoli!!
John Hood: Riots Destroy More Than Property
During a May 31 press conference, Gov. Roy Cooper spoke effectively to the issues of police misconduct and injustice raised by the death of George Floyd.
Reece Gardner: Discretion in taking advice
I want to talk today about giving and receiving advice. But first, a word of caution about the effort being made by some in this country to employ an all-mail national election in November. This is risky, to say the least.
Mike Parker: CSS Neuse II set to reopen on June 6
When the COVID-19 struck our nation and state, the board of directors for the CSS Neuse Foundation decided at its March 16 meeting to remain unopened during the period of “shelter at home” directive from Gov. Cooper.
Michael Spears: Tips for teaching your children about money
Like many of you, I have had the opportunity to raise two children. At some point, when withdrawing money from the ATM or swiping your credit card, you will have to explain to your children that money does not grow on trees. Below are some tips to help your children understand that they cannot buy whatever they want without ever paying for it. Also, to help them learn how to handle their own money.
Reece Gardner: Examples of recent government powergrabs
We need to be aware of the negatives which are being promoted by various governors and other "leaders" who see themselves as our judges and jurors. But we are not a nation run by dictators, we are a Republic, guaranteeing the right of free enterprise and the right to earn and possess private capital. Some brief examples of recent "powergrabs" by the zealots:
Mike Parker: Be sure to insulate yourself from Census scams
“The Census Bureau will never ask for your full Social Security number, bank account number or passwords.” I have already had one email communication claiming to be from the Census Bureau. Guess what the email wanted me to provide to ensure my identity for the purpose of the census?
Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Asparagus and Spring are here
Asparagus has gone from being a mystery vegetable to being a very popular one. Asparagus has also proven to serve as a detoxifier, as an anti-aging vegetable, and to reduce inflammation.
Mike Parker: Courtney confronts ‘adult-ing’ head-on
Sometimes things just work out. On May 18, my oldest granddaughter, Courtney, began her work as a nurse at UNC Lenoir Health Care. Her first week was orientation.
John Hood: Cooper Isn’t Addressing Urgent Needs
North Carolina is experiencing an economic disaster, one of the largest and fastest downturns in the history of our state. Our leaders should be responding to this crisis with great urgency. Gov. Roy Cooper is not.