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Social media in need of a learner’s permit

Young people entering the workplace need to learn how to navigate the muddy waters of social media. They need to learn how to use it for marketing and sharing crucial information. They need to know when to court interaction and when to act as background. They need to understand that literacy isn’t just about Jane Austen and that bullying can happen online as well as in the school cafeteria. That becomes a priority as Pennsylvania puts in place new require- ments for schools to teach about the mental, psychological and even physical effects of our digital world. The new laws, ...

The Socialists v. the Senate

Political parties tend to harshly reject the idea that they are a threat to the constitutional order, but the Democratic Socialists of America are making it part of their brand. The DSA has released a new program that, besides contemplating the advent of a classless society, calls for abolishing the Senate, the presidency and the Supreme Court. This is literally a revolutionary program to topple the American system as we have known it since 1789. It's the kind of thing you might expect after angry rebels mount the barricades in Washington, D.C., and overthrow the government. It ...

Ceremony provides chance to reflect on heroism

A man from the Jersey Shore area recently was honored for, as U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Howard, put it, his part in the “legacy of those who saved the world and a representation of the best and the brightest that our nation offers.” As reported in Tuesday’s edition of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, Thompson recently presented the family of the late Browning with nine medals — among them a bronze star — he earned during his service during the Second World War. “As we celebrate America’s 250, what a privilege to honor a member from the greatest generation that ...

3 reasons not to visit Europe this summer

For some reason, many Americans seem convinced they have to tour Europe this summer — despite the heat, oppressive crowds and high prices all descending on the continent. And if anyone needs a fourth reason, it's to recognize the growing resentment among many Europeans as the tourist hordes turn their town centers into trinket malls, eroding their way of life and, in the process, stripping what made those places worth visiting in the first place. The mystery remains why so many Americans insist on their grand tour when they, too, are made miserable by the big three discomforts. The ...

Time outdoors creates memories, develops appreciation

From whitetail deer to fishers to porcupines and opossum, from eagles and grouse to the common snapping turtle, the nature that surrounds us is fascinating. Species with distinct characteristics and distinct roles in the natural ecosystem — roles that better understanding fosters a greater appreciation for how our region’s environment works. We understand that people are busy. But time spent outdoors not only educates and informs families, it can provide cherished memories. With summer underway, we truly hope that families are enjoying the richness of this nature. Our region ...

Public trust begins with transparency

Generally, when good things are coming to a community, public officials and developers aren't shy about making announcements. Just weeks ago, a local developer announced plans to breathe new life into the former Wilson's Gift & Jewelry building downtown. As part of the project, the former Trolley Car building will come down. Not everyone was happy about that. But they also learned Square Cafe & Bakery would be expanding into the space. The developer explained the vision. Questions were answered. People knew what was coming. Walk into Square Cafe today and you'll hear customers ...