13 Women Who Changed My Working Life

I grew up in old-school newsrooms full of irreverent, transgressive, colorful and off-color fun, and not a few caustic flaws. In recent years, though, I’ve been gobsmacked by stunning misogyny and “anti-woke” prejudice masquerading as managerial brio. 

We've Been Sold On Sexy For A Very Long Time

Me love you long time ... especially if you've got money to burn. While porn has gone mainstream and made sex part of virtually everything we buy and sell, this isn't entirely new.

Smoking Ban Fears Went Up In Smoke

We're a couple of years into Illinois' smoking ban, and it's amazing how clean the air is in every tavern where I've tipped a few. I used to argue that bars shouldn't be subject to the ban because drinking and smoking seemed so linked in the confines of your local watering hole. But the bars remain busy, and the air no longer stings your eyes.

Li'l Abner And Lessons From A Road Less Traveled

Remembering that one time I was a hillbilly hunk in Dogpatch!

Narcissism Among Children Abounds But Don't Despair

A researcher believes kids today are as self-centered as celebrities. She fears their inflated sense of self worth will damage society. 

The End Of Chief Illiniwek: Don't Shed A Tear For This Insult

Illini fans can't let go of their school mascot despite the cultural mockery the display entails.