Gary Stout

In 1956, John F. Kennedy, then a U.S. senator from Massachusetts, published “Profiles in Courage,” a landmark book on the American political class that would win the Pulitzer Prize. The book profiled eight Americans who placed courage and integrity above winning votes or retaining popularity to remain in office.

There has long been disagreement among political scientists whether vice-presidential candidates make a difference in presidential elections. The much-repeated quote about the vice presidency from John Nance Garner, Franklin Roosevelt's first vice president, sums up the traditional view that voters pay little attention to the second person on a national ticket.

Those of us in retirement have adopted a slower pace with empty nests. No longer are we anchored to a punishing work schedule while nurturing a growing family. As seniors, we get to slow down and watch the frantic activities taking place in other unique nests. The action is year-round with a changing cast of characters.

On a recent Thursday night, I found myself watching a baseball game. The New York Yankees were battling the Cleveland Guardians to determine who would represent the American League in the World Series. I could not identify any of the players with the exception of a few well-known Yankees.

“Democracy is the worst form of government except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.” -Winston Churchill

On Nov. 1, a letter from Washington County Commissioner Nick Sherman was published in this newspaper criticizing Allegheny County for its home-rule system of government. Sherman also praised his efforts in being a conservative watchdog of taxpayer dollars.

The Oct. 21 issue of New York Magazine, in its usual sensationalistic style, did a deep-dive report titled “Can the media survive?”

Nonprofits are critical to the welfare of communities across America. They range from small organizations with a charitable purpose to religious institutions, hospitals, and universities. Most U.S. organizations granted nonprofit status by the IRS have one thing in common – they are generally exempt from paying taxes. Cities and towns lose billions in tax revenue, even though a nonprofit benefits from the same public-school systems and municipal services as the struggling individual or private business across the street.

Starting at $3.75 week.

Financial literacy is defined as “the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including personal financial management, budgeting and investing.” In recent years, personal finance has become more complex. It is now more important than ever to understand the economy and how to employ the newer credit and investment products offered to the public.