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Local columns

Protecting the lives of murderers, but not babies

WASHINGTON — As if his 1,500 pardons weren’t enough to cause outrage, President Biden has gone further. Near the expiration of his failed presidency, Biden has commuted the sentences of 37 of the 40 individuals on federal death row to life sentences without the possibility of parole, just ...

Almanac

By The Associated Press Today is Monday, Dec. 30, the 365th day of 2024. There is one day left in the year. Today’s Highlight in History: On Dec. 27, 1979, Soviet forces seized control of Afghanistan. President Hafizullah Amin (hah-FEE’-zoo-lah ah-MEEN’), who was overthrown and ...

Wishing for Santa-like efficiency in the USA

WASHINGTON — It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Santa is done checking his list and deciding who’s been naughty and nice. Of course, whenever he stops by the U.S. Capitol, he finds evidence of a lot of naughty fiscal irresponsibility that has given us a budget and government ...

Taking Christmas seriously

WASHINGTON — We all know that God works in mysterious ways. Last weekend, two friends and I were deeply moved when we saw a theatrical production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” This is the famous and popular tale of the transformation and redemption of Ebenezer Scrooge from ...

Give or take?

NEW YORK — ‘Tis the season for giving. For me, that mostly means supporting charities. One organization I donate to is SSP, Student Sponsor Partners, a nonprofit that gives scholarships to kids from low-income families. SSP helps children escape bad public schools by providing grants ...