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Take responsibility for your spiritual maturity

Local Columns

Peter Pandemonium (not an official diagnosis) is the term some psychologists use to describe adults who refuse to act like grownups. Like the fabled Peter Pan, they choose to remain children forever, at least in how they engage with the outer world. Also known as Peter Pan Syndrome, the term describes those who avoid responsibility, blame others for their problems and behavior, throw temper tantrums when disappointed and can’t commit in relationships. Someone quipped that these folks can be easily recognized because they buy SpongeBob SquarePants underwear to wear as adults. (Yep, ...

Drying perennial, annual herbs

Home and Garden

Hello Mid-Ohio Valley Farmers and Gardeners! Finally, a good dose of moisture hit the valley as we received some much-needed rain this week. Although we are late in the growing season, this will definitely help. This week I want to talk about herbs, specifically preserving through drying. Many backyard gardeners in the valley grow both perennial and annual herbs. Herbs are an enjoyable group of plants to cultivate with even a small space and minimal care. Herbs do require some attention throughout the growing season. Weed control and adequate moisture are two important necessities. ...

One path to kick-starting a healthier lifestyle: Start small

Home and Garden

NEW YORK (AP) — Wellness advice seems to be everywhere these days, but change can be hard. How do you start a journey toward better health that you can stick with, and not be overwhelmed? Among the experts’ advice: Start with a little and it can turn into something big. Be consistent. ...

Bald Eagles are a national symbol we can all enjoy

Local Columns

It used to be extremely rare to spot a bald eagle along the area rivers. That has changed. The majestic symbol of America, and our national bird, are now common along area waterways. When I rowed crew for Marietta High School in the late 1970s one of our favorite practice routes was up ...

An appeal to our better angels

Local Columns

Since the beginning of time, humans have had an inherent connection to the nature that surrounds them. Even modern humans hold innate primal instincts that connect us to the Earth in one way or another. Whether it be a child’s intuition to play with rocks and dirt or throw sticks like spears without instruction or a person’s joy in a hike through the woods, we are hardwired to connect with our world. And in just as many ways, we are bound to protect it. Much the same, modern humans have found a connection to faith to guide their lives in a way they deem moral and wholesome. ...