Being a preacher isn't easy

Many years ago, when I was a fresh-faced, full-of-spit-and-vinegar young reporter, I wrote a story indicating that a local church had hired a new minister.

Revisiting the raising of Pope Benedict XVI

You're no doubt aware that Pope Benedict XVI has announced his upcoming resignation, becoming the first pontiff to step down in 598 years.

No penny for your thoughts?

The United States is facing grave situations both home and abroad that threaten the very survival of our country as we know it.

Musial one of the greatest

I'm not much of a baseball fan, but I miss the days when I was -- a few decades ago, when the sport was indeed the national pastime and was the primary topic of conversation whenever boys of any age -- from 7 to 70 -- got together.

Stay away from Internet ‘soreheads’

A couple weeks ago we talked about the Internet and the opportunities it's opened for everyone around the globe.

Cornwell trial stranger than fiction

Few things are as juicy as a high-profile trial involving wealthy celebrities, millions of dollars and accusations of dastardly deeds.

Message board mania

It doesn't take a genius -- or even a dim-witted newspaper columnist -- to know that the practice of communicating in 2013 is nothing like it was a decade ago.

Some tidbits from the mailbag

Holiday tips for amazing home remedies:

A WWII Christmas story

Every six or eight years I relate to you a Christmas story first told to me by Max Ford. Here goes:

Will you keep my secret?

I'm going to let you in on a little secret, but you've got to promise not to tell anyone. Do I have your word you're going to keep this absolutely confidential?

Why do these things happen?

I'm 64 years old, and I'm no closer to figuring out life's why-things-happen-the-way-they-do mystery than I was when I was a teenage pup.

The holiday party

Christmas is upon us and with it the holiday party scene. A few of us guys were sitting around the other day talking about having a little get-together to celebrate the season.

What I’m thankful for

During this holiday season, I'm thankful for:

Sex is a powerful thing

Gen. David Petraeus, his buff girlfriend, that buxom woman from Tampa and the other general, whatever his name is, are proving once again the truth of a saying that's been around a long time:

Glad the elections are over

My friend Waylon Fortenberry of Chesterfield County is glad the elections are over.

Welcome to the good life

Were talking coffee and burgers today, folks.

The U.S. Open