Guest Columns

I don’t know about you, readers, but after the tragedy and seriousness in the news lately, I’m ready for a laugh. Searching for something lighthearted...

It’s no secret that social media is changing nearly every aspect of our society. It’s created a seismic shift not only in how we communicate but also ...

Many people are actively worried about global warming. And it frustrates them that skeptics and “deniers” refuse to acknowledge the “science” of such ...

America’s energy sector has reached an interesting crossroads. After eight years of the Obama administration working to dismantle the nation’s coal fl...

Me too. The two words seem innocent. Yet what they represent is anything but. In case you aren’t on the internet much, allow me to explain. Actress Al...

Roald Dahl, the celebrated author, wrote a delightfully disgusting story for children about a wretched, extra-specially horrible couple named Mr. and ...

I have worked in newspapers almost my entire life. It’s the only profession I have known. Yes, I had a paper route when I was 12. It would make a cute...

There are only a handful of men beyond one’s own father that have a profound influence in one’s life. For me, men like Mr. Dick Smith, my high school ...

Earlier this week, Era Associate Editor Marcie Schellhammer questioned the stories journalists choose to cover, citing the hullabaloo some reporters m...

As I imagine many other journalists have done, I’ve watched the national attack on the news media with interest. What journalists decide to cover on a...

Thanks to last year’s state budget, you’re paying more to watch House of Cards. This year, The Walking Dead—and a host of other cable TV shows—could c...

It was a Sunday afternoon nearly 16 years ago, the last day I spoke to my father, Don Whiteman. I was headed to work, and dropped by daughter off at m...

The media continues to fixate on President Donald Trump’s imaginary “ties with Russia” — strangely enough, the Clintons’ very real “ties with everywhe...

The Turkish government is obviously familiar with the concept of "chutzpah," if not necessarily the word. Ankara summoned the American ambassador to p...

I remember my mom doubling over with laughter years ago when she shared the story of a door-to-door salesman who was in my childhood neighborhood year...

One might think the richest country in the history of the world would be willing and able to provide healthcare for its poorest, oldest and sickest pe...

WASHINGTON — For those lately bereft of leadership, the past few days have provided both a respite and a reason for hope. Make that two reasons — two ...

Every April, we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year, with rape in the headlines too frequently, we speak out with even greater urgency...

Over the years, it has been fascinating to watch a David-and-Goliath situation play out in tiny Highland Township over an oil company's plan to drill ...

Masking tape. It may sound strange, but, that’s what comes to mind when I pass the many small auto repair and auto body shops dotting Western Pennsylv...