Rich: The family we became — part 2

Nashville suburb, the two superbly talented families came together and produced a night of such startling magic that I frequently held my breath. Guitars were pulled out and blood harmonies — a sound created only by people who share the same DNA — twinkled like crystal through Becky’s living room.

Yarbrough: Observations for three great-grandsons

Dear Henry, Noah, and Samuel Knox Wansley: It looks like it’s your turn to receive some unsolicited advice from an old man who has been dispensing it since your daddy and his cousins were about your age. That has been a long time.

Greene: Twenty-five years of bowling alone

In 2000, Robert Putnam observed something peculiar. More Americans than ever were bowling. But fewer people were bowling in group leagues. It was a simple observation. Our desire to go bowling alone is a metaphor for the postmodern decline of human connection.

Crane: So thankful, so blessed

As 2025 began, I marveled at — among other things — still being here.Due to a few of my life choices along the way, I wasn’t entirely expecting to live this long, thinking that a jealous husband or overzealous political supporter of any number of those I have opposed might take me out early.

Letter to the Editor: Public trust problem for PDA

Dear Editor,At the Dec. 9thPutnam Development Authority meeting I attended, the renewal of an expired Tytan contract was on the agenda. This agenda item was tabled until a request to Tytan is fulfilled, to come to the PDA to discuss details of what Tytan will do to fulfill this contract.

Rich: The family we became – part one

During the years of our lives, we will know extraordinary days sprinkled with laughter; ordinary days touched by a blessing or two, and, less happily, days that are filled with tribulation or just plain annoyance.But, the magical days?

Yarbrough: Inviting the president to address captains of industry

What a way to start my new year: a phone call from Skeeter Skates.

Yarbrough: Where 39,000 words went this year

As we end one year to begin a new one, it means it’s time for the annual report required of all card-carrying members of the National Association of Modest-Yet-Much-Beloved Columnists. Our motto?Sometimes in error, never in doubt.

Rich: What a year

A new year has begun, and I'm very happy. Good riddance to 2025.The Good Book instructs, “Pride goeth before destruction.” My pride almost killed me this year.All my life, I have enjoyed good health. Yet, I never appreciated it as it is meant to be appreciated. In fact, I bragged about it.

Yarbrough: I wish I had been in Bethlehem

These words are dedicated to the memory of my late friend, Otis Brumby, Jr., publisher of the Marietta Daily Journal. He encouraged me to run this column each Christmas season. It is also dedicated to those who believe.I wish I had been there.In Bethlehem.