Columns

Learn about things that scare you

On Aug. 27 the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office will host a Women’s Self-Defense Class. With this upcoming class on the horizon, it got me thinking of my experience attending the class in February 2025.

Never stop reading

An article in the current issue of the Atlantic, “The Age of Reading Is Over,” reports that “the share of Americans who read for pleasure declined by 43% between 2004 and 2023, and that less than half of Americans read books anymore.

What happened to the Waffle House?

A reader stopped by the News-Leader office this week with a question.“Whatever happened to the Waffle House? There was never any follow-up news on it.”Since I’ve only lived here for about six months, I had absolutely no idea what she was talking about.

A fitting final: La Roja triumph in New York

In the end, there was just Spain.I’m not going to lie and say that was the best World Cup final I’ve ever seen. That’s a toss-up between 2006 and 2022. I thought Argentina’s passion and chaos could overcome Spain’s rigidity and passing game.

Jeep’s new Cherokee updates affordable favorite

The once popular Jeep Cherokee, a competitor in the hard-fought small SUV segment, has returned after a three-year hiatus and is better positioned to win buyers in this popular category. The changes begin on the outside with upright bodywork on a longer wheelbase to bring needed room inside.

The World Cup Camaraderie

It’s no secret that the FIFA World Cup acts as a bridge between cultures, communities, and nations worldwide. As each venue beckons with cultural displays of pride, it’s nearly impossible to watch and not be infected with the lively energy that can undoubtedly be felt through the screen.

As you watch the World Cup, enjoy the beautiful game

As the ball sails 50 to 75 yards down the field, there’s little time to think about how you’re going to receive it. It’s all about instinct and timing.You are running at nearly a full sprint. You know your first touch will make or break the attack.

World Cup brings joy, agony

As a fan of the U.S. Men’s National Team with slight allegiances to England, the World Cup has not been a smooth ride. The 20th century has seen the U.S. overachieve, get flattened, have a couple of early knockout exits and fail to qualify altogether.

Little moments with mom matter most

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms and motherly figures. I hope your day includes plenty of treats, at least a little time to relax and maybe — just maybe — a moment where nobody asks you where something is that is directly in front of them.

Saving the world one garden at a time 

While living in the Netherlands I became aware of the concept of co-op gardening and the many ways it benefits the surrounding communities.