Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: On Memorial Day, remember those who died for greater good

Marine Sgt. Wade Wilson and his kind should be in our thoughts and prayers this weekend.

W. Richard Turner, Trib Board of Contributors: Baylor faces steep climb as viable, tier-one research university

Many people would be astonished to discover just how far Baylor must go to reach this lofty and commendable goal.

John Kemp, Trib Board of Contributors: She's a Super Mom, married to a 3-Toed Sloth

I'm not sure there is any justice for my wife, the mother of my children. Let me explain.

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Ideas of intolerance, hate still prevalent in our world

Fading memories, dying survivors and young, history-deprived students may give the Holocause a final victory because we aren't remembering and aren't passing the lesson to future generations.

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Meetings with two most remarkable men

I reflected recently on the extraordinary legacies of two men, Denver Moore and Bernard Rapoport, who, despite huge differences in wealth, lived richly by giving of themselves to others.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Pulling on my son's boots

One Sunday two weeks ago I walked five miles. And it changed my life forever.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Gas, jobs and Election 2012

The recovery is still shaky, so this November's reuslt may well depend on the economic conditions at that time.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: A step in the right direction on Keystone XL deal

At a time when employment growth is slow and many Americans remain jobless, the pipeline offers a welcome source of hiring.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: NCAA probation was too harsh a punishment for Baylor

The NCAA seems to lack an understanding of proportion when handing out punishment for offending schools.

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: No way out of Iran military trouble

I don't think anybody understands how to stop this rapidly deteriorating situation.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Columnist's vow is to keep public debate alive

Baylor grad Tommy Denton continues his plea for a rational dialogue that has seemingly been lost in today's media culture.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: 1940 Census data demonstrates huge changes in our society

Our country, just 48 states then, is now more diverse, educated and far-flung than it was in the old days.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: My doctor is far better than your doctor

I truly believe we have a huge reservoir of competent and experienced doctors who are more than qualified than ever to serve our medical needs.

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Sundays at Mom's different now but no less moving

If we take the time, we may find before us an astonishing world of memories, laughs, tears and appreciation for parents who may have meant more to us than we ever imagined.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Last election was real 'Game Change' for nation

It's scary how unqualified candidates like Sarah Palin can be in service to our country.

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Ditch political posturing on Keystone XL pipeline

Both political parties have been treating this as an either/or issue. Neither actually looks at what is the right thing to do, or not to do.

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Voter ID controversy isn't about policy, it's about elections

For supporters of the Texas law, the new measure is merely due diligence. But here's the problem: No one can offer any evidence of voter fraud.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Help veterans with VFW's old-fashioned dance marathon

This St. Patrick's Day there will be a very special event going on at VFW Post 6008 in Hewitt.

Bill Weber, Trib Board of Contributors: Arab Spring, a year later

We have few viable options remaining in Syria's ongoing bloodbath.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Invest in state, national parks by actually visiting one

It's important to ensure that Texas budgets are adequate to protect our precious park resources.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Texas near top in its giving

Charitable donations are on the rise, thanks to recovering economy.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Districts might get blame for school closings, but real problem is in Austin

We are in deep, dangerous water when it comes to our state budget and critical services like education.

Kim Patterson, Trib Board of Contributors: There is no greater gift than to believe in someone

Life sometimes takes unexpected turns and along the way, the lives of haves and have-nots become intertwined. 

John Kemp, Trib Board of Contributors: XY chromosome seems to cause male pattern blindness

I'm not exactly sure when I became clueless, but it seemed to be around the time I got married.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Our state's chief challenges involve health care, education

Texas has problems, but few states can top us in the all-important category of getting a job.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Fast and furious over increasingly exaggerated car ad hype

We learned during the Super Bowl that the new Hyundai can outrun a jaguar, a Chevy truck can withstand the apocalypse and a Kia Optima was able to break through concrete barriers into another dimension. Who knew?

Jimmy Dorrell, Trib Board of Contributors: Mission Waco sharpens focus on global poverty, education

We celebrate the prayers and generosity of those who share the call for sevice to our community and world.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Cutting past the rhetoric on our nation's income inequality

Hard facts and real numbers reveal that it's not a simple case of "the rich getting richer while the poor get poorer."

John Pisciotta, Trib Board of Contributors: Pro-life optimism brimming on anniversary of court ruling

The pro-life movement is encouraged as we recognize this 39th anniversary today of the Roe v. Wade abortion rights decision.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Staring back at the old man in the mirror

I've never quite figured out why being reminded of those "you know you're getting old..." facts would make us feel better about our present place in life.

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Gaining something lasting while losing someone dear

My wonderful 94-year-old mother passed away just before Christmas this year. However, in loss, there is also some bittersweet, redemptive result, and I am just now beginning to come to terms with that.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Texas has a hard 2011, will see some improvement in 2012

I expect moderate growth for the U.S. and Texas economies this year, though I don't think the path will always be a smooth one.

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: What Iowa means to the GOP

It’s not at all certain the Iowa caucuses will predict the eventual Republican nominee, but we could know much more Wednesday regarding the nature and contours of the 2012 primary race before us.

Bryan Fonville and Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Heisman Trophy, bowl victory and terrific ambassadors leave Baylor Nation standing taller

We can all stand a little taller thanks to the good things going on at Baylor.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Central Texans clinched Christmas for our troops

Something very special happened in Central Texas those three days in early December.

John Kemp, Trib Board of Contributors: The Christmas the mice took over our tree

One of my favorite Christmas memories involves my sons and a small Charlie Brown-like Christmas tree.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Some nice guys finish first like Robert Griffin

The Baylor quarterback's Heisman Trophy win is a gift to the whole Baylor Nation.

Karen Bell, Trib Board of Contributors: A black and blue Black Friday

My shopping spree this year left me financially, emotionally and physically bruised.

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Can we shine the way the Romans once did?

We aren't ancient Rome. And we will never provide the light to future generations the way ancient Roman culture did without a renewed emphasis on and support of education, math, science and the arts.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Help us send Christmas cheer to our troops

Local VFW Post 6008 has served those in need for years. And now it finds itself humbled as well. It needs your help.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Markets still expect results from Washington

You're probably not surprised by the failure of the congressional "super committee." But cuts must happen if US is to avoid further credit downgrades.

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Citizens need to re-enlist in America

Tom Brokaw said in a recent "Today" show interview that Americans need to find a way to "re-enlist" in America. And he's right.

Jimmy Dorrell, Trib Board of Contributors: It s time society quit stereotyping the homeless

The homeless today are not transients panhandling through town but area residents who sadly have fallen through the cracks in one of the world's richest nations.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: For a generation of Baylor journalism, David McHam's tutelage never ended

My journalism professor at Baylor passed along many lessons to me and a flock of greenhorn wannabe journalists, both then and in succeeding decades.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Are we sunshine patriots?

My family did not expect the unified opposition of our Robinson neighbors to a veterans benefit.

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: A final word on Steve Jobs, American innovator

Ask yourself, where would we be without pioneers, change agents and innovators like Ben Franklin, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford?

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Prosecution of Clemens throws curve at taxpayers

In a time of national economic crisis, one wonders how their priorities could become so skewed as to aggressively pursue a fallen sports hero.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Real angels work to help our returning veterans

A couple of Saturdays ago I went to the Waco Veterans Affairs Medical Center to visit a friend for a picnic. I saw smiles and laughter and music.

John Pisciotta, Trib Board of Contributors: Bible clear on protecting unborn

I implore the managers, employees, board members and supporters of Planned Parenthood of Central Texas to step back, reconsider what you are doing - and then stop.

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: There's no reason to have another uncontrolled satellite crash

Why do we continue launching satellites that can crash uncontrolled?

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: If you don't remember me, then I haven't changed

Name tags may not be sufficient for identification purposes as my upcoming 50th high school reunion approaches next year in Houston.

Kim Patterson, Trib Board of Contributors: Inspirational physician Dr. Ben Carson to speak at MCC lecture

The opportunity to meet a modern-day hero does not come along every day.

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: We're older, more jaded, but can we get back sense of unity we had after 9/11?

After projecting American power across the globe in a way unprecedented in our history, and claiming great successes on many fronts, ironically, 10 years later, we are painfully aware of our limitations.

Wilton Lanning, Trib Board of Contributors: Smart engineering, foresight on Lake Waco has helped us survive drought

The hotter and drier it gets, the more thankful I am that I live in Waco. We remain in far better circumstances than those facing other cities across Texas.

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Remembering a beloved teacher from youth to the grave

Because of Miss Kattner's Richfield High School physics class, I realize just how important our teachers are in our lives and in the lives of our children.

Joe Carbajal, Trib Board of Contributors: Waco city leaders right to fear general election dynamics

I disagree with the assumption that, no matter what happens, the election changes are going to be an expensive nightmare.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Retiring our colors with respect

It's a real morale boost to see Old Glory flying high. But some flags flying in our community have become tattered and torn and should be respectfully retired.

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Will Texas learn from drought?

It's high time to think hard — very hard — about our state's future water needs.

Gary Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Rethinking space travel with a mission to Mars

Going beyond the moon requires fundamental changes in the way we approach spacecraft and mission design.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Fritz Kriegel touched co-workers, customers through his work

As restaurateurs we have had the joy and privilege of watching generations of young people develop their work ethic and people skills. One such employee was a kid named Fritz Kriegel.

Bill Weber, Trib Board of Contributors: From Libya to Iraq, 'Arab Spring' offers long, tough summer

Pent-up desire for political and social freedom cannot be contained.

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: The real crisis is politicians aren't offering us realistic solutions

Having fanned the flames of ignorance and popular passions, political leaders on both sides of the aisle now find themselves in a precarious predicament of their own making.

W. Richard Turner, Trib Board of Contributors: Common sense needed on tax hikes, revenue and layoffs

Clifton Robinson, a longtime businessman and owner of the Waco Tribune-Herald , last week offered his two cents on the debt limit crisis. Allow me to respectfully refute some of his points. * “Then, around 1962, the debt limit law began to fail in defending our nation from excessive ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Plenty of work remains to be done in Earth orbit

I believe a privately owned space station will be up in space, and very soon.

John Pisciotta, Trib Board of Contributors: Planned Parenthood shouldn't try to seek out future customers

As the world’s abortion leader, Planned Parenthood pursues the impossible dream of gaining broad acceptance for “choice.” The organization hopes that one day people from Waco to Warsaw will view abortion as just another consumer choice. Locally, when the pro-life Hope House ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Where shall readers go now without bookstores?

My local bookstore closed its doors last month. On Tuesday, Borders Bookstores announced it would shutter all of its 400 stores nationwide and liquidate its inventory. Borders Group Inc. attributed the closings to an increase in e-reader digital books and the flailing economy. This leaves ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Obama's woes alter dynamics of GOP race

President Barack Obama suddenly finds himself in a lonely and increasingly desperate place. With jarring summer jobs reports in which unemployment has edged over 9 percent, the temporary afterglow of “Geronimo KIA” has faded like a delicate spring bloom during a premature heat wave. ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Grand Bargain, a no-nonsense plan to save America

According to the Government Accountability Office, the Congressional Budget Office and every other honest broker in this debate, the United States is hurtling toward an unsustainable national debt debacle. Without exaggeration or embellishment, we face an existential crisis. With ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Robert Gates, a patriotic public servant who successfully navigated partisan extremes

When Secretary of Defense Robert Gates retired on Friday from his cabinet post, the occasion marked a rare unifying political moment this Fourth of July weekend for many Americans during a time of unparalleled party polarization. With skepticism toward each party’s agenda and distrust ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Can Texas Gov. Rick Perry cure what ails GOP?

Rick Perry waits in the wings of the 2012 presidential canvass. Will he take center stage? The son of a cotton farmer and Haskell County commissioner, Rick Perry won a seat in the Texas House of Representatives in 1984 as a Democrat. Over the course of three terms, he developed a reputation ...

W. Richard Turner, Trib Board of Contributors: Make noise for the 'Silent Generation' — Note accomplishments of those born from 1927 to 1945

As I approach my 75th birthday, I reflect more and more on my generation. Ours is not the greatest generation, nor are we baby boomers. I’m of that often-overlooked generation called the “silent generation,” born between 1927 and 1945. We range from 66 to 84 in age and our generation ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Baylor's Jim Truitt demonstrated value of higher education

I have become increasingly concerned the past few months as the basic foundations of our great universities and colleges in Texas have come under attack. We need the highest quality in education at all levels if we are to compete in the knowledge economy of the future, and we need to provide ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Weiner abuses, arrogance counted on public's growing indifference

Last Monday, the cyber-sex scandal wretchedly labeled “Weinergate” slouched to a bizarre but predictable culmination. In a frenzied press conference in a New York City hotel ballroom, Congressman Anthony Weiner admitted to transmitting myriad lewd photos and sexually explicit ...

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Long-forgotten image conjures up the faces of World War II

If today's anniversary of D-Day conjures up sentiments about World War II and the Americans who fought it, few have as memorable keepsakes as Waco civic leader Harry Harelik.

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Don t put off vision screenings and eye care

I was born seemingly cursed with the gift of excellent vision for most of my life. Allow me to explain the contradiction: Even at retirement age, I still wasn’t wearing eye glasses for reading purposes, nor were they necessary for distance vision. Most friends my age had been wearing ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Recent signs are positive for Texas tourism this summer

School’s out (or soon will be) and the summer travel season more or less began Memorial Day weekend. Many families will hit the road or the skies in the months to come — and millions of them will visit the Lone Star State. Early indications are that tourism will be up, welcome ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Texas' water woes are fast mounting

The Lone Star State is in the midst of the worst drought in half a century.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Duty, valor of the fallen need no embellishment by those beating the drums

Thursday at nearby Fort Hood, just before this busy Memorial Day weekend, soldiers, families and friends gathered for a 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment ceremony to honor five comrades killed this spring in Iraq. It is good to pause and remember their stories. No embellishments were necessary. ...

Jeanie Mercer, Trib Board of Contributors: Recalling times of war that united us as Americans

Memorial Day evokes priceless first-person reminiscences from aging World War II veterans that spark my memories and help me connect some of my dots. I was 8 when World War II started, 12 when it ended. All my childhood was colored by that war: * D-Day: I particularly remember D-Day, ...

Jimmy Dorrell, Trib Board of Contributors: Reconnect with your community this Memorial Day

Soon after the Civil War ended, visiting the cemeteries of loved ones — whether military veterans or not — evolved into what we now call Memorial Day. Through the years, the day has primarily become focused on veterans, with patriotic speeches honoring our country and those who have fought ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Fracking all about location, location, location

Tuesday’s Tribune-Herald editorial on the controversial practice of “fracking” (short for “hydraulic fracturing”) for natural gas in shale neatly laid out both sides of the public debate, focusing mainly on whether undesirable side effects loom. I find it interesting ...

Wilton Lanning, Trib Board of Contributors: Dr Pepper Museum hits 20-year mark with the best yet to come

It was on May 11, 1953 that an F-5 tornado tore through Waco. But May 11 is also etched in my mind as the re-opening of the Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute.

Jimmy Dorrell, Trib Board of Contributors: Do fashion excesses take away from our Christian values or help?

Some contend that clothes make a very important statement of one’s personality. Others denounce the absurdity of spending money on expensive clothing as both vain and shallow.

Nancy Goodnight, Trib Board of Contributors: A tough ride to help kids

Do you remember those essays entitled “How I Spent My Summer”? This one could be, “How I Spent My Mother’s Day Weekend,” because as most of you drink your morning coffee and read the paper, I am riding my bike somewhere between Austin and Waco on a 180-mile, two-day trek ...

Bill Weber, Trib Board of Contributors: Osama bin Laden death proves we'll get our man eventually

You can run, but you can’t hide: The world’s most wanted figure has become a footnote in history.

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: This news was well worth the wait!

The prayers of a grateful nation are lifted up for all those who wear a uniform and for all those at home who stand behind them.

Bill Weber, Trib Board of Contributors: Too often, it s easier to get into war than out of it

Having recently visited and studied the famed U.S. 7th Cavalry and Army Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer’s final battlefield at the Little Bighorn in southeast Montana, I was struck by several things, especially as we consider latter-day wars and battles. First, this battlefield is so ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Weddings for richer, for poorer

It’s easy to be cynical about the much-ballyhooed wedding in London this week. However, I have lately acquired an increased appreciation for weddings, an affection that struck me suddenly and powerfully a few years ago when I traveled with my family to Searcy, Ark., to witness and affirm the ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Political rhetoric fast endangering nation's credit

If a “shot across the bow” is a warning to someone to stop what they are doing or face potentially serious action, I would say Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services certainly fired one last week. Standard & Poor’s, the nation’s pre-eminent agency monitoring ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Looking for meals in all the wrong places

The author and satirist Fran Lebowitz once said that she would eat at home more often, “but there’s no food there.” In recent years, I’ve adopted Fran’s motto. I’ve been single perhaps way too long, and usually start preparation for the next meal only when ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Dissatisfied with elected officials? Did you vote for any of them?

An Associated Press article in Tuesday’s Tribune-Herald was headlined “Stalemate persists in budget debate.” I offer the following summary and comments: It was quite apparent that the two sides (Democrats and Republicans) still will not talk to each other in any meaningful ...

Bill Weber, Trib Board of Contributors: American infantrymen are key to some foreign policies

This time each year I reflect on Iraq and ponder where the United States is today vis-à-vis the Persian Gulf region versus 20 years ago when we attacked Iraq the first time during Desert Storm and eight years ago when we did it again. In both events, I was assigned to the main effort combat ...

Bryan Fonville, Trib Board of Contributors: Good sense and credit cards

We live in a plastic world. And by plastic, I’m not referring to plastic surgery. I’m talking about the 54 mm by 86 mm piece of plastic we carry with us at almost all times — our credit cards. According to a February 2010 Nilson Report, more than 576 million credit ...

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Get involved in philanthropy and leave our world a better place

I was privileged not only to attend the recent annual Feast of Caring dinner and fundraiser for Caritas of Waco but also to hear a keynote speech by Baylor University President Kenneth Starr. I have heard Starr speak several times and find his presentations offer vision, energy and depth. They are ...

W. Richard Turner, Trib Board of Contributors: Don't expect to live that long

As baby boomers age and their oldest reach 65 some time this year, much has been written about how the life expectancy of this generation has increased dramatically. The Associated Press recently reported life expectancy at birth is now 78 years and two months. Thus many baby boomers can ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Dreaming of space travel as the shuttle flies past us one last time

You just know an old missile and space guy would do this. I read that the space station and space shuttle would both be visible over Texas one Tuesday night this month — March 8 — so I naturally had to go out and watch them. And there they were, moving amidst a starry backdrop. My ...

Ray Perryman, Board of Contributors: Turmoil shakes oil markets, but recovery should continue

As the Mideast conflict continues to spread, economies around the world are beginning to feel the fallout. What began in Egypt and Tunisia with longtime rulers forced out of office has now rippled out into other areas. In Libya, protesters call for Moammar Gadhafi’s resignation. Moroccans ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Changes to student loan program do more harm than good

There’s an old saying about taking one step forward, two steps back. I have days like that where, despite my best efforts, my to-do list gets longer instead of shorter. Currently, the U.S. Department of Education is proposing rules that could definitely be two steps back for thousands ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: The expanding belt notch that shook my world

One recent morning as I was attempting to buckle my pants, I found myself once again wrestling with this seemingly simple chore as I inhaled deeply and fumbled to cinch the proper belt notch that would still allow me to breathe normally. Bluntly speaking: I was holding it in. There was a time ...

Joe Carbajal, Trib Board of Contributors: School superintendent's longevity may count on the rest of us helping out

You have to be impressed with the Waco Independent School District’s final superintendant candidate, Dr. Bonny Cain. For starters, she’s been superintendant of the Pearland Independent School District for 11 years. Meanwhile, the past 11 years or so we in Waco have played musical ...

Harry Harelik: Flowers from Dad and me for Valentine's Day

I always get Mom flowers for Valentine’s Day. It’s tradition. When I was very young, I made a card and drew flowers. But as the years have gone by, more than 60 of them now, I buy the flowers (and the card, too). My artistic ability never did evolve much. But the reason for remembering ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: A different sort of Baylor athletic legend

He never suited up for the Bears, but one La Vega graduate gained a following as a sports star on campus.

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Lincoln's accomplishments prove power of good role models, mentors

February is a month to reminisce. It’s a month to honor the achievements of black citizens throughout our American experience. It’s a month to honor all the U.S. presidents. But February also is the birthday of America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. In fact, it’s ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Rocket science not required to survive our icy roads

Worried about forecasts of more snow and ice starting as soon as this evening? Well, fear not when it comes to our roads, which actually tend to get beaten “clean” into ruts. My advice: Drive in those very ruts. You’ll find far better traction there. Just slow down till you ...

Nancy Goodnight, Trib Board of Contributors: Community service volunteers great help in nonprofit events

I often joke that if crimes against society cease to exist, so will my nonprofit events. Such was the case for the recent Miracle Match Marathon, held Jan. 29-30 in Waco, during which many of the volunteers were fulfilling community service hours. And yet they far exceeded any court requirements by ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Beware, state legislators: Don t eat your seed corn foolishly

The Texas Legislature is facing a substantial budget gap, with expected revenue less than spending if current expenditure patterns are maintained. As I have mentioned before, the $72.2 billion revenue estimate the comptroller recently released places that gap between $15 billion and $25 billion, depending ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Restoring my Facebook image a friend at a time

I’ve just spent my first full week on Facebook after much chiding from mostly younger friends who convinced me that I might as well go live in a cave somewhere if I wasn’t participating in the new social forum. Knowing that a modest-sized cave anywhere on the West side sells for the high ...

Greg White, Trib Board of Contributors: Protesters of our war dead test limits of the cherished First Amendment

“If there is any principle of the Constitution that more imperatively calls for attachment than any other it is the principle of free thought — not free thought for those who agree with us but freedom for the thought that we hate.” — Oliver Wendell Holmes The ...

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Will state legislators fail our students in preparing for 21st century jobs?

The legislative session is always an exciting time to teach, though not always for the right reasons. This year is no exception. With drastic state budget cuts threatening virtually all levels of public education, our students have an open book on how state leaders, including our own state ...

Gary Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Searching for real solutions in the wake of utter madness

I haven’t weighed in earlier on this event because I wanted to learn the facts. They are that a troubled young man descended into madness, got a gun, killed six people and wounded several others in Tucson before being subdued. The president in his speech in Tucson was correct. Americans ...

David Mosley, Trib Board of Contributors: Freedom rare as Israeli toilet seat

Some years ago, I spent five weeks as a volunteer in the Israeli Army. I am a Christian, but I went because my friend Larry Harelik was going and I wanted the adventure. One of the first things I noticed was that there were almost no toilet seats to be found. It seems that terrorists ...

Jimmy Dorrell, Trib Board of Contributors: Martin Luther King's dream should be remembered always

Growing up in a small East Texas community in the 1960s, racial prejudice was a way of life. Besides our segregated schools, blacks lived in a clearly defined, impoverished section of our community. They sat in the ...

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Good citizenship means respecting our leaders

“I want to be president of United States of America.” It’s a declaration many boys and girls make every year. As a child, there’s something alluring about the presidency. Perhaps it’s the power. Perhaps it’s the “cool” Secret Service who follow you around. ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: With luck and smarts, president could easily win second term

Based primarily on the advantage of incumbency, President Barack Obama remains a slight favorite to win a second term. Although he endured a celebrated “shellacking” in the November midterms, the stinging repudiation has already receded from the front pages. Economic and political cycles ...

Jimmy Dorrell, Trib Board of Contributors: This is the year to volunteer to help others

The ability to make personal change is a uniquely human gift. More than simply adapting to a changing environment, God’s gift of free will offers us — his highest creation — the real opportunity to make choices impacting every fiber of our lives. With certain limitations, we can ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Larry McMurtry -- writer, reader, Texan

This year marked the 25th anniversary of the publication of Larry McMurtry’s landmark novel “Lonesome Dove,” arguably the most famous book ever written by a Texas author. McMurtry surely has emerged as the Lone Star State writer of record and one of Texas’ most celebrated ...

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Despite the rancor of our times, we are nothing without hope

Hope. That’s one word not in our vocabulary. Whatever happened to hope? Do we still believe in hope? Is there any hope left for our divided democracy? Yes, hope is still alive — you must find it beneath all of the villainy, ugliness and uncivil tones marking our society. “Remember, ...

Mary Duty, Trib Board of Contributors: Packages give our troops a piece of Christmas on the homefront

Today in Iraq and Afghanistan, our servicemen and women are unpacking tuna, beef jerky, letters and cards and cookies from generous neighbors in Central Texas. The first of 178 boxes arrived last week. Why do we do this year after year? For one thing, many of us have family members who ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Tax cuts for everybody won't pay down trillions in debt

Kudos to President Barack Obama for striking a bargain on taxes with the Republicans. As former President Bill Clinton articulated, at this moment of extreme economic uncertainty, bipartisan agreement on something (anything) elicits a collective sigh of relief from the American people. And ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Time to declassify governmental stupidity

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on Thursday was released from prison in Britain on sexual misconduct charges, which he said were part of a “smear campaign.” Yet he hasn’t been arrested for anything related to the publication of thousands of classified U.S. government documents. ...

Jeanie Mercer, Trib Board of Contributors: Recalling Granny Towery and her teacakes

They say that the sense of smell evokes more memories than any of the other senses. That certainly is true for me. One of my most pleasant, most lingering memories is the warm, homey fragrance of Granny Towery’s delicious tea cakes. Granny Towery lived across the street from us in Holland ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Deficit commission's work was not for naught

For the past nine months, the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, created by President Barack Obama in February, worked to develop a plan to put the United States back on stable long-term fiscal footing. While the group failed to achieve the member votes needed to put its ...

Bryan Fonville, Trib Board of Contributors: Music is one gift that will yield joy for a lifetime

This year marks the 30th anniversaries for some notable moments in American pop culture — the release of Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi’s “The Blues Brothers,” the opening of the “Star Wars” sequel “The Empire Strikes Back” and the shooting of J.R. on ...

Bob Vickrey, Trib Board of Contributors: Christmas at the Waltons

After arriving in California more than three decades ago, I had the chance to become reacquainted with a former Texas high school classmate who had become a writer and producer of the hugely popular family drama “The ...

Kim Patterson, Trib Board of Contributors: Stop obesity with mere 'no'

As a mother and concerned parent, allow me to spout off about a recent nationwide study that informed us that fast food is to blame for childhood obesity. Really? The study by Yale University’s Rudd Center for Food Policy & Obesity focused on the nutritional content of fast-food ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Lawmakers should use caution when making cuts

Across America and, indeed, in numerous nations around the world, lawmakers appear to be between the proverbial rock and a hard place. Reason? Potential shortfalls in anticipated budgets. As a result, legislators are looking for ways to keep vital operations afloat while searching for programs ...

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: 5 generations of women to be thankful for

As we celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday, it is fitting that we slow down and give sincere thanks for the many blessings we individually and collectively have received. With rampant unemployment, political infighting, homelessness and economic decline, it would be easy for many of us to overlook our ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Will gridlock or cooperation reign at the Capitol?

Although all results of last week’s election have not been certified, it’s apparent the status quo has been disrupted once again and that changes in the direction of the nation’s business may be on the horizon. A tumultuous wave of discontent swept across the country Nov. 2, ...

Harry Harelik, guest columnist: The sweet sounds of election silence ring true

Great Caesar’s Ghost! What is that sound? Birds singing? The rustle of wind-blown leaves on a crisp fall day? It’s the deafening silence of no more political advertising! Oh, how I have longed for this day. Be still my heart. Those awful political ads were running too consistently, ...

David L. Mosley, Trib Board of Contributors: Dead statesmen may be our only hope this election

Scarcely anybody is too happy with Washington these days. Change is an idea that is popular with both the left and the right, but beyond that point, agreements tend to break down. After eating some potato salad, which had probably been in the refrigerator too long, some solutions to our country’s ...

Dr. Charles H. Stern, Trib Board of Contributors: U.S. trend in obesity, diseases challenges physician availability

About 80 percent of all office visits to U.S. physicians involve management of diseases that are directly related to adverse health effects caused by unhealthy lifestyle choices. This includes tobacco use, diets high in fat and calories, obesity, sedentary living and mental stress. Whether ...

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: The real value of the arts in our daily lives

I am one to often take things for granted, rarely thinking of the good fortune I have and more often belaboring how hard I work and how little money and personal time I have. I think that may just be the “American way.” However, every so often something beyond imagination occurs ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Tourism shows muscle in Texas

One of the leading export industries in the Lone Star State might surprise you: it’s tourism. Export-oriented industries are a cornerstone of economic growth because they bring dollars from elsewhere into the state, thereby enhancing overall prosperity. Sometimes called “basic” ...

Kim Patterson, Trib Board of Contributors: KWBU radio stories tell rich tales of Central Texas

I never really knew my grandfathers. One died long before I was born and the other was separated by thousands of miles and a cultural chasm that was difficult for my young mind to grasp. The one thing I do ...

Nancy Goodnight, Trib Board of Contributors: Mud races: The perfect Christmas card photos

I wish I had a dollar for every time a nonprofit organization has approached me to help with a 5-kilometer race. (Of course, I would donate it!) After two of those calls recently, I must point out that I have nothing against 5K’s, as the people hosting them are extremely well-meaning ...

Joe Carbajal, Trib Board of Contributors: Tolerance begins in the Bible

Last week I received an e-mail from U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards on the commemoration of the Sept. 11 tragedy. Edwards stated: “Those who sought to divide us failed. They united us. Those who sought to weaken us failed. They only strengthened us and our resolve to defeat them.” But after ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Why some scientists worry about the far, far right wing of politics

Over the past three decades, the extremist conservative movement has made our lives far worse by deregulating everything. This removed governmental controls that (at least sort of) functioned, which let the corporate giants take over everything. We are now economic slaves to superrich giants, ...

Jimmy Dorrell, Trib Board of Contributors: Helping Haitians help themselves

The powerful 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti in January did what daily statistics could not: It forced the rest of the world to see from their own living rooms beyond the devastation of 300,000 deaths and rubble of 105,000 destroyed homes to the horrific poverty that has gripped Haiti for years. Long ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Drop in home sales hardly at crisis point in Texas

As I was writing this column, media outlets were filled with stories about the fall in sales of previously owned homes in the United States to 15-year lows. As I sat down to edit it, the story broke of sales of new homes being at the lowest level since records started being kept in 1963. These stories ...

Bryan Fonville, Trib Board of Contributors: Changing our world, one torrid rooftop at a time

I used to be a world changer. Yes. I mean literally. For five years during my high school days, I blocked off a week of my summer vacation to participate in World Changers’ mission trips. For those who don’t know, World Changers is a missions program affiliated with Southern Baptist ...

Amanda Anderson, Trib Board of Contributors: Summer trip to the beach brings memories, tar ball souvenirs

SEASIDE, Fla. — Staring up at the bright blue sky and picturesque clouds, I listen to the sound of waves crashing. All other noises fade away as I stand knee-deep in the salty Gulf waters. This trendy beach town, on Florida’s Emerald Coast in the panhandle, has incredibly clear ...

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Drawing upon Waco experiences for the future

A plan. The fictional character Col. John “Hannibal” Smith from “The A-Team” loves a plan. After seeing the new movie, I too see the need for a plan in life. Through disguises and deception, Hannibal knows how to plan the grand scheme and be a mastermind. In ...

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: You're welcome very much!

There are times I really miss my dad. And that happens often when I need help in a retail store. “You’re welcome,” I recently said boldly to a young grocery store cashier. The look on her face told me she thought I was crazy, and that wouldn’t be the first time I got ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Texas 'wins' America's Top State for Business survey

The Lone Star State has just been named the winner of a national reality show — again! Although it was not the kind of prime-time preposterousness that creates cultural icons, it was an event in which 50 aspiring contestants were judged by the success they achieved in 10 different categories, ...

Barbara Hutson, Trib Board of Contributors: A little humor might help us through the dog days of summer

I spent the last few days sitting in front of a fan at my computer, cursing the summer. I know it’s time to get up and out and do something about this before I waste another day. But this heat is sapping my energy! Part of the problem is that my husband and I share a car, so if I ...

Barbara Hutson, Trib Board of Contributors: Put down the cell phones, folks

I am trying to speak to you. You know, have a conversation? Please. Or in texting lingo: “PTPD!” (Translation: Put. The. Phone. Down!) I know that I have previously ranted about how technology, specifically e-mail, has sapped some of the creativity and personal feeling ...

John Pisciotta, Trib Board of Contributors: HIV manual another reason to abstain from 'Nobody's Fool'

It’s July. Judging from dueling yard signs that dot our city, the attention of many in our community has turned to the Nobody’s Fool youth program delivered by Planned Parenthood Waco. In past years, Pro-Life Waco has challenged Nobody’s Fool based on the views of the Planned ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Dolph Briscoe believed in fiscal responsibility

During a professional career spanning more than three decades, I have been privileged to meet and work with hundreds of individuals who have made significant contributions to the life and economic vitality of Texas. One of the most remarkable was the astute, soft-spoken former Gov. Dolph Briscoe, ...

Greg White, Trib Board of Contributors: Figuring out just where Elena Kagan stands

The Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday begins considering President Obama’s second appointment nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court. This won’t be an easy task, given that nominee Elena Kagan has no experience as a judge. However, given her published views — advocating that ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: Both right, left must drop stereotypes if we hope to reform immigration

Our vital national interest demands a just and practical immigration policy in which we secure our border, accommodate businesses and consumers who benefit from immigrant labor, and provide a compassionate and sensible path for hard-working immigrants who want to make a new life in America. Successful ...

David L. Mosley, Trib Board of Contributors: Advice to all dads this Father's Day

My 16-year-old daughter started car dating recently and, around the same time, I started having anxiety attacks. I’ve tried to prepare her (and me) for this big step for, oh, about 16 years. But now that the time has arrived, I wish that I had spent more time preparing myself. I’ve ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Remember oil-eating microbes? How about serving up the Gulf oil slick?

Among all things being used to treat the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, I have not seen much about “bioremediation.” That’s the use of oil-eating microbes to convert it into something harmless. This ...

Kim Patterson, Trib Board of Contributors: I'm forever moved by the Talitha Koum center, building emotional connections with infants crippled by poverty

It’s not every day you hear something that changes your entire perspective. For me, that day came a few weeks ago and, as these things usually do, it blind-sided me. My longtime friend and mentor, Susan ...

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: Standardized tests failing to gauge what makes us human

I have watched with great interest recently as various school districts report their students’ TAKS scores. I’m fascinated in the means by which our students are judged on their academic achievements. I’m more fascinated, I think, by the things on which they aren’t judged. ...

Amanda Anderson, Trib Board of Contributors: Is competition healthy for teens or just stressful?

As I shift uncomfortably in the hard plastic chair while the principal announces yet another scholarship, my thoughts drift. This awards ceremony is definitely boring. I understand the importance of this event, but just because I appreciate it does not mean I have to enjoy the grueling two-and-a-half-hour ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Oil spill, subsequent failures show why bureaucratic wall must come down

Throw away the record books because it’s official. The April 20 Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion has led to the greatest environmental disaster this nation has suffered. Crude oil stretches almost halfway across the Gulf of Mexico. Predictions issued last week now have the slick traveling ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Spinning 'round in space and surviving the experience

Everyone has seen returning space travelers being carried from their spacecraft after a few months in space. Long exposure to weightlessness deteriorates muscle strength, heart health and bone strength. The Russians found a limit to weightless exposure during one Salyut space station mission. ...

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Mayor DuPuy's leadership is a model for us all

Everyone knows her in Waco — I mean everyone. She’s a loving mother and grandmother. She is a Baylor graduate. She is a passionate public official. She never stops achieving her goals, and she’s a leader who people gravitate to. She is my friend. She has been a caring ...

Karen Bell, Trib Board of Contributors: Finding strength in Dr. Frankenstein and other health care lessons

It is both timely and appropriate for me to write about health care in the United States. Last week I experienced first-hand the importance of quality health care as I underwent a five-hour surgery for thyroid cancer. My surgeon, Brad Holland, is the best. It was a very technical ...

Rima Bishara, Trib Board of Contributors: The sacrifices of one local mom are remembered

“Mrs. J” was a teacher. She and her husband, a successful businessman, worked hard and loved what they did. When Mrs. J became pregnant, they were excited and planned for a long and happy life with children. But “M” was born with a congenital problem that ...

Nancy Goodnight, Trib Board of Contributors: Running the race of your life

Officials of Baylor University’s well-respected and much-loved Bearathon race on March 20 made an almost unheard of decision in the running world: They canceled the race because of bad weather. After months of training for the marathon and half-marathon races, hundreds of dedicated runners ...

Gary W. Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: How to save energy, money in journey to space

Men have been launching things into orbit with expensive chemical rockets for 53 years. Obviously, we have to try something new. Basic physics says there are only three things we can do: * Increase the efficiency performance of the engine at high thrust. * Increase the portion that ...

Joe Carbajal, Trib Board of Contributors: Passing immigration law in Texas would be a mistake

All this debate about immigration reform reminds me of the last time Wacoans discussed this topic. It started when former Waco police Chief Alberto Melis was asked by the Trib if he would instruct his officers to arrest illegal immigrants while doing routine stops. He answered no. His ...

Allan Marshall, Trib Board of Contributors: Angela Tekell right choice to tackle ailing school system

One of my favorite movies is “The American President,” starring Michael Douglas as President Andrew Shepherd. At the end of the movie, Shepherd mounts a strong challenge — a bold call to accept the gravity of facing up to serious problems in America. “We’ve got ...

Bryan Fonville, Trib Board of Contributors: An alliance for our future, an investment in our fellow citizens

History and pop culture are full of interesting and dynamic partnerships — Batman and Robin, Lewis and Clark, Churchill and Roosevelt, Simon and Garfunkel. As these examples illustrate, partnerships can set us up for extraordinary achievement or abysmal failure. Sometimes the combination ...

David L. Mosley, Trib Board of Contributors: Spring cleaning more than just spiders and flies

It’s in the nature of a man to prize the beautiful, the rare, the unobtainable. I, personally, love a clean house. Really, I do. I recently woke up to an unusually pretty spring day. I looked around my ranch house and saw little that was springlike. (Green mold doesn’t count.) ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: The business of volcanoes shows Mother Nature is boss

Few, if any, could have imagined before last week that a volcano buried underneath a glacier with an almost unpronounceable name on the tiny island nation of Iceland would cause such consternation from the eastern shores of Canada westward to Russia. Even heads of state and rock stars have had ...

David L. Mosley, Trib Board of Contributors: Searching for a job is work but we can still laugh

About two years ago, I found myself divorced and in debt. A problem, yes, but in any given crowd of say 100 people, I’d guess this situation has come up about 240 times. I always had good credit. I owned a ranch full of breeding goats and a few rent houses. Like Noah’s neighbors, ...

Gary Johnson, Trib Board of Contributors: Space program should count on both government, enterprise

Those who know me know that I’ve been a fan of space exploration since boyhood. I literally grew up with rocket planes, Sputnik and the early space race. Long ago, I even worked professionally in the satellite launch business. I went on to become a defense engineer, focusing on missile work. I ...

Barbara Hutson, Trib Board of Contributors: 'I love you, but do you have to read every sign?'

Does your spouse or significant other have a behavior or idiosyncrasy that either makes you laugh or drives you nuts? Or both? Before we begin, let me say: This is all in good humor. My husband, Terry, reads aloud every sign we pass on the road. This occurs if we’re not having a conversation, ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Bailout crisis looking better and better

About 18 months ago, when the idea of the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) was being bantered about, anticipated aggregate costs to fix the flailing economy ranged as high as $5 trillion. That amount included practically every avenue of relief imagined by government officials. Last week, ...

Greg White, Trib Board of Contributors: U.S. Supreme Court justices' judicial activism tested

On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case where we will be able to see the personal and political preferences of the judges more clearly than in most cases. The case, Christian Legal Society Chapter v. Martinez, evolved from a dispute at the University of California Hastings ...

Karen Bell, Trib Board of Contributors: My own analysis on whether health care reform is popular

I’ll admit to being a skeptic. I’ll also admit to being a progressive liberal. But I’m not ready to admit that most Americans do not want health care reform. A Republican relative told me 75 percent of Americans don’t want health care reform. Really? ...

Nancy Goodnight, Trib Board of Contributors: Race for the Cure is much more than running and T-shirts

It has been 10 years since I served on the original steering committee for the inaugural Susan G. Komen Central Texas Race for the Cure. I was asked to serve not because of any personal connections to breast cancer but as a liaison to the running community. I was thrilled to see a race of such prestige ...

Ray Perryman, Trib Board of Contributors: Real small-town economics

Like the proverb “from an acorn a mighty oak grows,” what started shortly before the Civil War as a local trading center about 60 miles east of Dallas has gradually grown to become one of the largest flea markets in the world. Known today as the First Monday Trade Days in Canton, ...

Kim Patterson, Trib Board of Contributors: The endless possibilities that our newspapers offer

I love newspapers. One of my earliest memories from childhood was sitting on the couch with my dad on Sunday mornings, reading the “funny papers.” Truth be told, the cartoons weren’t all that funny, and it would be years before I understood they weren’t really written for children. ...

Ashley Cruseturner, Trib Board of Contributors: The all-American struggle between progressives, conservatives

We live in a moment of intense political polarization in which self-serving characterizations of the opposition are as ubiquitous as they are nugatory. Michael Barone, ordinarily an astute political observer, recently offered the following absurdity: “the Founders stood for the expansion ...

Jon E. Singletary, Trib Board of Contributors: Health care bill could enrich lives of generations

“When the church hears the cry of the oppressed it cannot but denounce the social structures that give rise to and perpetuate the misery from which the cry arises.” — Archbishop Oscar Romero The above quote ...

Kim Patterson, Trib Board of Contributors: MCC's grand (piano) endeavor

Of all the virtues my parents instilled in me as a child — thriftiness, honesty, not talking with my mouth full — the one they stressed the most was humility. Make straight As, but never boast about it. Get a gold star on a preschool drawing (as if there is any other color) and ...

Harry Harelik, Trib Board of Contributors: MCC Foundation launches fundraising drive for pianos

Can a two-year community college with 10,000 students — living in the shadow of three great Big 12 universities and plenty of avid sports enthusiasts — raise money for arts education? Can a small college foundation support the needs of current students and provide for the generations ...

Ray Perryman, Board of Contributors: Broadband has become a necessity, not a luxury

Antique stores are popular destinations for a lot of folks. Located in all parts of the country, some are large and others quite small, even quaint. What all of them have in common is that their inventories are reminders of the past or, as some people call it, the good ol’ days. Visit ...

Rima Bishara, Trib Board of Contributors: Reflecting on one of our hidden, everyday heroes

As a doctor, I’m so privileged to watch life happen daily and over time. I go to my office every day, do my work, and the most amazing people walk into my life. Some are loud, some quiet, some troubled, some want advice. Some are heroes. These heroes bring with them the example of a ...

The curtain rises on a newly revamped Trib Board of Contributors

The Trib today unveils a new Board of Contributors whose writings will be featured in the Opinion pages of our newspaper throughout the year. We’re excited to run fresh thoughts and new perspectives involving our community by many of the people who know it best. Hats ...

Carlos Sanchez: We're proud to reintroduce the Trib Board of Contributors

Throughout my tenure at the Trib, I have occasionally been told by members of the community, “I’m on the Board of Contributors.” They usually say this with a sense of pride and ownership in the Trib — which is precisely how the Board of Contributors should work. But ...

Bernard Rapoport, Board of Contributors: Partisan pot shots won't solve anything

My good friend Clifton Robinson recently wrote a column for his paper in which he said that even though “the world is mad,” there are still “reasons to feel hopeful.” His top reason for hopefulness is that voters in Massachusetts elected their first Republican senator ...

Jimmy Dorrell, Board of Contributors: Finding God and humility in hardscrabble Haiti

The voodoo drums echoed through the darkness that first night we arrived in Haiti in 1984. With no electricity, indoor plumbing or kitchen appliances, we knew that the next four months would be challenging as we worked to provide agricultural training to help residents farm this hardscrabble ...