Islamism and democracy seen as a ‘war of the gods’

February 10, 2015 · 0 Comments

“I'd rather die standing, than live on my knees.” That 2012 statement by Stéphane Charbonnier, editor of the satirical French weekly Charlie Hebdo, was a compelling battle cry, and the tragic murder of him, his staffers, and two policemen in Paris on Jan. 7 guaranteed its place in the modern democratic liturgy. He was willing to die a martyr for the sacred principle of “free speech,” and he did.

Democracy in action at the local level

Taxpayers deserve accountability. And they deserve an open, frank explanation of where their money goes.

Fine-tuning a budget is never easy

Every year our esteemed local politicians and staff set about a laborious and delicate task of creating a multi-million-dollar game plan for this municipality. Regardless of the upper-level expertise, it’s never easy and the process is fraught with hurdles, pitfalls and ramifications.

Wordwide corruption is no conspiracy theory

People love a juicy conspiracy theory. From the assassination of JFK and the moon landings to Elvis, people cling to their beliefs.

Top environmental issues for the coming year

After gazing into my green crystal ball, and consulting with several legitimate scientific organizations (like the mythical anchor William Duncan McAvoy on The Newsroom, I protect my sources) I can pronounce with more certainty than a long-term Weather Channel forecast, the top environmental issues of 2015.

Parents no longer masters in our castles

We had thought that growing up, becoming adults and assuming the responsiblity of home ownership came with certain perks. As kids, we all wanted to be “king of the castle.”

Technology – our salvation or undoing?

Every new chapter of humanity requires some reflection, evaluation and goal setting.

Mounting debt a burden for us all

Mark Pavilons As we engage in our annual exercise in overspending and over-extending ourselves, at one point we take stock, usually when the rye runs ...

Environmental literacy for dummies

Black Friday. Black Thursday. Black Friday Week. Or just the weekend. The pre-religious holyday, pre-elf holiday sales always remind me how truly environmentally illiterate we are as a western society. It was headlined this week by a scene from a Walmart store where two customers battled over a $5 Barbie doll.

Helping to curb poverty begins at home

Mark Pavilons “Helping people boost themselves out of poverty is the best way to make a lasting positive difference in a person’s life.” Naveen Jain ...

« Previous Page — Next Page »