Columns
Journalists are essential during the pandemic
When COVID-19 vaccines begin rolling out to states in the next couple of weeks, supplies will be limited. States will have to decide whom to protect first. Where journalists fall on the vaccination priority list will say a lot about how much states value an independent local free press.
A century of sunlight in the fight against government secrecy
Lights play an important role in most winter holidays. Celebrants burn yule logs, place stars atop trees and light candles to hold back the darkness during these longest nights. Perhaps, then, it was no coincidence that a century of shining sunlight on government was born at this time of year.
Put the brakes on the per-mile vehicle tax
America’s roads and bridges are crumbling. Historically, motorists have paid for roads with a gas tax, but it has not kept pace with inflation, nor with fuel-efficient hybrid and electric cars that use little to no gas. Some states therefore are considering charging per mile instead of per gallon.
Moments of peace after Virginia Tech tragedy
How does one respond? The magnitude of the horror defies rational reaction. One minute the worst thing on your mind is a tree that blew over in the previous night's wind storm. The next minute, Southwest Virginia is shattered.