Columns

Good Talk With An Old Friend

On a cold but sunny day, a chance meeting with local historian Margaret Brennan evolved into a rather deep discussion. Seated in a booth at the Warwood Subway, Margaret and I were simply happy to be out of our homes after several snow days. Sometimes it is the most unexpected turn of events that brings about the best results. I have known Margaret even before I joined the newspaper, but that's another story. Anyway, sometimes you just need to catch your breath and catch up with someone who has a great deal of knowledge to share. And Margaret always has. Whether it’s the study of a ...

Back To Basics

This past week, and the foreseeable future, both appear to be keeping us in the deep freeze. This is some of the coldest weather I have experienced in my 71 years. Sure, we had snow and cold when we were kids, but this seems different. Maybe it’s because the cold affects us differently as we get older. My orthopedic doctor assures me that aching bones are truly a side effect of the dropping temperatures. Making the best of these trying weather forecasts is much like when we were stuck inside during the pandemic. Hopefully, it won’t be as long as the COVID days. Like many of ...

Still Flapping in the Wind

Over the past 12 months, we have gone through three American flags. The winds around these parts have taken their toll on Old Glory. To try and save each flag from too much wear and tear, we have moved the flag pole down a few notches. The flag pole was one of the few must-haves when we moved into our home 12 years ago. It was something I always wanted as a way to show our patriotism and respect for all those in uniform who have and continue to serve this country. We purchased the pole at the Pittsburgh Home and Garden Show. It came complete with a solar light that allows us to keep ...

You Say Soda, I Say Pop

When I was growing up, the evening meal was at 6 p.m. sharp. No dallying in front of the t.v. even for scenes from next week’s Superman show. What many people called dinner, we referred to as supper. Then when I was introduced to my husband’s family, my father-in-law explained that Sunday dinner was served at noon. Need I ask what happened to noon being lunch time? I was a bit confused in all the references to the proper time of day to enjoy dinner, supper or lunch. All I know is that I didn’t want to be late for any of those meals offered up by my in-laws. The same goes in ...

Forgive And Forget

I know how he feels. I’m sure there are plenty of you who probably have felt it, too, at some point in your lives. When Baltimore Ravens kicker Tyler Loop failed to make a successful field goal during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers last week, there were cheers from the Pittsburgh crowd and pure disbelief from the Baltimore fans. While I am a Steelers’ fan, my heart dropped for young Tyler Loop. He was put in a position that his other teammates could not accomplish during four periods of the game. It was up to him to win the game with a 3-point kick. Instead, the ball he ...

Looking Forward, Not Backward

Four more days left in 2025, and I am ready to see it go. I’m poised to start 2026 with letting go of things that challenge my sanity, happiness and peace of mind. With that said, I have no idea really how to go about it. As many of my retired friends tell me, it is important to have a regular schedule. Routine is important for body, mind and soul. Let’s face it, when fully employed and attached to a 40-plus work week, there was little time to deviate from the routine. I learned that early on when I no longer went to the newsroom every day, I had to continue to put my thoughts, ...