Commentary/Opinion
You Decide: Is “Buy Now, Pay Later” A Good Deal?
By Mike Walden “Buy now, pay later” offers have been gaining popularity, especially among young people. They offer a quick and easy way to obtain what you want now. About…
Social Security Matters – Should I Claim Social Security Early Because It Is Going Bankrupt?
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor at the AMAC Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Association of Mature American Citizens Dear Rusty: My best friend is going to be 62 and…
Oldest Playground In Clayton To Get A Modern Update
CLAYTON – The Town of Clayton is moving forward with an exciting upgrade at Donald “Clyde” Sinclair Park at 400 East Front Street. The playground replacement follows a comprehensive review…
You Decide: Which Economic-Ism Is Best
By Mike Walden A renewed debate about the three -isms of socialism, communism and capitalism has been sparked by a proclaimed socialist candidate, who some claim is actually a communist,…
You Decide: Should You Be A Buyer Or Seller Of The Economy?
By Mike Walden As the major league baseball season reaches the midseason point and the trading deadline looms, teams must decide if they will be buyers or sellers. A buyer…
Social Security Matters – I’m Turning 70. When Should I Apply For Social Security?
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor at the AMAC Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Association of Mature American Citizens Dear Rusty: I have a very simple question: I will turn…
Opinion: Health Bill Shows All Is Not Lost
By John Hood RALEIGH — Are today’s elected leaders incapable of addressing public problems in a serious, respectful, bipartisan manner? If your answer is yes, I’ll concede that you have…
You Decide: Is The National Debt Still A Big Worry?
By Mike Walden When I recently reviewed my columns of past years, I was surprised I hadn’t written about “the debt” — meaning the national debt — in six years.…
You Decide: Is Social Security Secure?
By Mike Walden Recently, one of my relatives contacted me, and there was desperation in her voice. Immediately, I worried it was about a health issue for her or another…
Opinion: Carolina Congressmen Tell Off Constituents
By John Hood ALEIGH — Ever written your congressman? I have. I always get a prompt and cordial, if bland, reply. Back in 1988, I actually spent a few weeks…
You Decide: Will North Carolina Get An MLB Team?
By Mike Walden Although I have lived and worked in North Carolina for almost 50 years, I wasn’t born in this wonderful state. I was born and raised in Cincinnati,…
Opinion: Look Before Leaping To New System
By John Hood RALEIGH — In a recent column, I outlined three ways that North Carolina’s system of government differs from that of many other states, including our neighbors. First,…
