Columns

Mother believed in exercise by reading and good food

My mother’s hope for a fabulous figure arrived monthly, dispensed in a small magazine called Prevention that offered tips on how to get the flatter belly, firmer buttocks and strong legs of a young woman.

Momisms

A friend mentioned how often I quote my mother, and it caused me to think about why. While I was closer to Dad, emotionally, Mom set the standards for most things having to do with household management, child rearing and finances.

Silence is not an optimal strategy

The sound of silence makes for a catchy lyric in a popular song, but it is an unpopular practice for elected officials. Voters expect their elected officials to make difficult decisions – and explain their rationale. Also to be vocal, not quiet like a mime. Too much silence has prevailed here.

A dark horse in luxury sports sedans

High-performance four-door sedans, along with SUVs, help establish the panache of a luxury brand. Badges that include AMG, M, RS, Type S and V-Series among others command both higher retail prices along with abundant editorial real estate.

Keeping automotive history alive

Most collectable vintage cars are acquired by enthusiasts who seek out the model they have a longing for. Then the search begins and, depending on how rare the vehicle of their dreams has become, they become the new, proud owner.

Florida abounds with options

There are many reasons people love living on our little island: the vibrant historic downtown area, the ability to go to our sandy beaches and natural green spaces on the greenway and our fabulous locally owned shops and restaurants.

Peace in troubling times

Recent events have given us much to consider. Stress and worries and a look at the future ahead with possible doubts are on our minds.

What happens when we have the courage to show inexplicable kindness?

In Deuteronomy 31:6-7, Moses tells Joshua, his successor, “Be strong and courageous.” The phrase is repeated in the book Joshua, in 1 Chronicles, and again 2 Chronicles. All told, these words are restated eight times in the Bible. Clearly, God wants us to notice.

A change will do you good

Many moons ago, (back when the year was a numeric trio) Greek philosopher, Socrates uttered an intriguing statement: “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” This assertion strikes me as optimistic and logical.

Honor, courage, commitment and respect

America’s naval service began during the American Revolution, when on Oct. 13, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized a few small ships, thus creating the Continental Navy. What began with 22 commissioned officers is now close to 350,000 personnel, comprising the U.S. Navy.