NeSmith: Scientists discover hidden ‘gift’ in toxic coal ash

Ho, ho, ho!On the cusp of Christmas, scientists have played Santa.Well, sort of. Their “gift” wasn’t made sleigh-ready by St. Nick’s elves, but it was crafted through extensive studies.

Rich: Memories of mistletoe and more

I remember and cherish the Christmases of my childhood. They were simple and humble, with no fancy frills or garland.I often stood in the windows of the stores downtown, longingly dreaming of a Christmas tree with expensive decorations and huge bows made of red velvet ribbon.And the angel on top?

Benjamin-Smith: A season of thanks

I am wandering and wondering at the same time. I have tried to tell you before that I am a very confused but nosy person. Believe it.November has been a very busy, productive month, and I tried very hard to stay in the midst of it.

Yarbrough: Word of the year leads to ‘brain rot’

May I have a word with you, please? Actually, two words. Brain rot. You just never know what kind of surprise awaits you when you check out this space, do you? I have a feeling brain rot wasn’t on your radar.

Crane: Be wise and exercise

As fall-to-winter temperatures dip and the endemic, former COVID-19 pandemic and flu season again make their presence known, I am reminded of two life maxims for this time of pumpkin spice and the holidays: get your shots, and for even better, year-round advice wise an exercise.

Loran Smith: Christmas carols

As we approach Christmas, we keep hearing the traditional holiday songs we have heard over and over, year after year: Jingle Bells, White Christmas, The Christmas Song, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. How nice.

Farley: Short-lived Christmas joy

It was Christmas morning 1951, and 11-year-old Edge Farley was scampering around the dairy barn, helping his mother and uncle finish the morning chores of milking their 52 cows.Starting each morning at 4 a.m.

Rich: The flag

When my husband makes up his mind that he wants something, he is like young Ralphie in A Christmas Story. He does not give up. Remember when Ralphie wanted the Red Rider BB gun?He had all kinds of tricks up his sleeve to get what he wanted. And, just like Ralphie, Tink’s relentless.

Yarbrough: A gross deviation from common sense

It seems as though my mother was a criminal, and I am just now finding out. All this time, I thought she was a conscientious parent who was active in the PTA, fixed my school lunch, washed and ironed my clothes, and ensured I went to church. Little did I know.

Crane: Free advice for Elon

Instead of penning something for Santa this year, I thought I might instead try to leave a note for Elon Musk, Genius and Budget Cutter in Chief, for helping another jolly man with a big, round belly … though perhaps better known for keeping an enemy list than for checking things twice.