Commentary

Comment: Talks must intensify to release remaining hostages

My 4-year-old grand-niece was freed in November; that offers hope the remaining 107 can also be released.

Comment: Ukrainians will keep fighting, with or without our aid

But abandoning Ukraine will embolden Russia, and in the end will cost far more than the help provided.

Comment: As reporters die in Gaza, view into war grows dim

Nearly 70 reporters have been killed in the fighting; Israel’s promises for their safety ring hollow.

Comment: Republicans shouldn’t overestimate appeal to Latinos

While not monolithic, Latinos aren’t defecting to the GOP. Yet, Democrats still have work to do.

Comment: Two bills will continue work regarding police conduct

The legislation would limit traffic stops to serious offenses and address alleged mocking actions by police.

Brenda Stonecipher

Comment: Everett council veteran voices concerns as she exits

Brenda Stonecipher, after 20 years on the council, calls for civility and shared purpose from all.

Brenda Stonecipher

Comment: New year’s resolution: Embrace the ‘awkward silence’

Just a few seconds before responding in conversation allows time to listen and time to consider.

Head made of jigsaw puzzle on textured abstract blue wall background

Comment: Stick with what you know or learn from what you don’t?

Intellectual humility encourages us to be open to new information and be willing to change our minds.

Head made of jigsaw puzzle on textured abstract blue wall background

Comment: School choice programs actually help public education

Though an added cost to taxpayers, most state schools keep funding even after losing enrollment.

Comment: Third party may be best shot to stop second Trump term

Even if a bipartisan moderate ticket didn’t win, it could pull more votes from Trump than Biden.

Comment: American Colonists broke law to save the rule of it

The Founders sought to apply the laws fairly and equitably, an ‘impartial justice’ that is again threatened.

Comment: Chickadees are climate crisis’ canary in coal mine

Wild winter swings in the Sierra Nevada are affecting the survival of a normally resilient bird.

Comment: Why courts may rule against Trump’s claims of immunity

Past decisions, including by the Supreme Court, appear to refute his claim he was performing presidential duties.

Comment: Teens got message to avoid controversy; to their loss

At a crucial moment, they are being discouraged from engaging with and weighing different ideas.

Comment: Will Founders’ ‘American Experiment’ ever be proved?

Sometimes fears over an ‘end to democracy’ are hyperbole; other times they represent real challenges.

Comment: Each of us celebrates Christmas in our own way

Whether on the job or off, in northern or southern climes, sacred or secular, it’s our happy place.

Comment: Holiday gift-giving aftermath: pile of wrapping trash

During the holidays we use and throw out about a quarter of our trash. Here’s how to cut back.

Comment: Use holidays to benefit by connecting in-person

As the covid-19 shutdowns taught us, online relationships are not stand-ins for in-person interactions.

The Three Wise Men follow the Star of Bethlehem on their journey to the birth of Christ

Comment: Just what do we get out of giving?

An anthropologist says our drive to give gifts goes deep in human history, touching on social bonds.

The Three Wise Men follow the Star of Bethlehem on their journey to the birth of Christ