Return to Ellis Island
Note to readers: With all the recent activity regarding immigration we decided to repeat the column we wrote following a visit to Ellis Island, New York in 2011. It is relevant today. Standing in the... Read More
My Spin by Tom Campbell
The case of the disappearing $50 million
Every Saturday night our family would gather round the black and white TV to watch the latest Perry Mason episode. Before the hour was over Raymond Burr would have solved the mystery, always titled... Read More
To what tribe do you belong?
How do you identify yourself? You might begin by stating whether you’re male or female, or the age group you are in. Or you might identify by race, sex, religion, where you live or your profession... Read More
Do we even need a legislature?
After hearing what is apparently taking place in our General Assembly we have to ask why we even need 170 members in the General Assembly? We could save millions of dollars, free up lots of office... Read More
Further down the slippery slope
When the phone rings at 2 a.m. it’s a pretty safe bet there isn’t good news, as Bill found out that December in 1960. The agent on the other end said, “Dr. Friday, I need to see you right away... Read More
The Rally in Raleigh
The legislature comes to Raleigh Wednesday for the “short session” and opening day promises to be far more exciting than most years. Lawmakers will be greeted by crowds of teachers and educators... Read More
In his new role Peter cannot be Hans Solo
The selection of Peter Hans to head our state’s Community College System was expected, especially after it became known that Governor Roy Cooper, House Speaker Tim Moore and Senate President Pro Tem... Read More
Reunion memories and epiphanies
Note to readers: 55 years after graduation, members of our high school class reunited to reminisce and renew friendships. I wrote this piece for our hometown newspaper and it got so much comment I... Read More
We aren't moving the education needle far enough or fast enough for far too many
What should we expect when we invest $150 million in reading programs for our elementary students?I’m not sure what the objectives were, but I am pretty certain the results weren’t what anyone... Read More
One change that would most help rural North Carolina
If you could wave a magic wand and make one change that would provide the greatest benefit to rural North Carolina what would it be? I’ve been intrigued by that question ever since it was first... Read More
