×

Opinion

What ‘A Christmas Carol’ taught me about Purgatory

Columnists

There is a doctrine in Catholicism that not all souls are prepared for heaven at death, and that some must undergo a spiritual purification in a state or location that the Catholic Church calls “Purgatory.” There are a number of biblical references that undergird the notion of Purgatory, ...

Save our forests, one roll at a time

Columnists

North America’s boreal forests are crucial for wildlife and the climate, but we’re literally trashing them to make pulp for toilet paper and other disposable paper products. Companies are clear-cutting a million acres a year, according to a new report from the Natural Resources Defense ...

Buddy

Columnists

Ginnie canceled her doctor’s appointment so she could go with me to Buddy’s vet appointment. Uh-oh. Buddy is 15 and has had a heart murmur for the last couple of years. Lately he’s had to wear the “cone-of-shame” to keep him from licking his paws until they bleed and become infected. ...

Ringing in America250

Columnists

As we wind down the year, America is winding up to celebrate an important milestone in our nation’s history. On July 4, 2026, the United States of America will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. When the clock strikes midnight on Dec. 31, America inches closer to ...

Trump plays Mr. New York Christmas only in the movies

Columnists

Fifth Avenue swarms with tourists grinning at the fabulous scene as retailers cash in on the cheer. Christmas in New York is a Rockettes kick line of store windows awash in fantasy and light spectaculars. But something is missing from the big show this year. That would be Donald Trump. In ...

Consumer Connection: Talk to your family about scams

Columnists

The holidays are among us, and while many Iowans will take time off to be with family and friends, scammers unfortunately will work through the holidays trying to separate you from your savings. The Iowa Insurance Division has received reports of Iowans being targeted with letters regarding ...