Dog treats have changed my life

My husband, Peter, and I miss having a dog. I see a lot of dogs on the trail during my daily hike, and so Peter (who is always full of good ideas –usually about things I should do) suggested I carry dog treats. Dog treats have changed my life.

Fickle five hold key for Trump

It all comes down to the Fickle Five Percent. Donald Trump received only 46 percent of the vote in 2016, and now faces a big problem: In the average of all national polls, his share against Democrat Joe Biden remains stuck at 41 percent.

TODAY IN HISTORY

July 11, 2020 is the 193rd day of 2020 and the 22nd day of summer. TODAY'S HISTORY In 1798, the United States Marine Corps was reestablished, having been disbanded since April 1783.

Reader needs specific motivation to get in shape

DEAR HARRIETTE: I have a friend who posts on social media regularly. Over the past few months, he has lost about 40 pounds. He works out every day and looks amazing. I am inspired by him — but not enough to actually get up and do anything for myself.

TODAY IN HISTORY

TODAY'S HISTORY In 1850, President Zachary Taylor died in office of a stomach-related illness at the age of 65. In 1868, the 14th Amendment was ratified, guaranteeing full citizenship and equal protection to African Americans.

Understanding Pledge of Allegiance

As we watched the Red Skelton show on our black and white television more than 50 years ago, I can remember my father telling me to pay attention to Skelton as he explained the Pledge of Allegiance word by word.

Washington, D.C., may be the next state

The drive to make Washington, D.C., a state has been a favorite of some Democrats for years. Why wouldn't it be? If enacted, a new state, formed from deepest-blue D.C., would create two new Democratic senators and one new Democratic member of the House. For a Democrat, what's not to like?

There’s a whole lot going on in the life of birds

The raven nest was the big news this spring. Our neighbor, Joe, who belongs to every social organization in town, found himself with very little to do. So, every afternoon, Joe parked himself in his chair and watched the ravens – frequently with a cocktail.

Worried about where we are heading

“ Here is the truth ... From us there is nothing except ingratitude." Those words come from a sermon from Saint Junipero Serra, founder of the California missions. Statues of Serra are currently being expunged from the state.

Election laws contain too many ‘ifs’

When is the filing period for city council? When are city elections held? When do elected city officials take office? How long is two years? These are all legitimate questions that are being asked about the mayor and city council election process in Clinton.