On the fifth anniversary of President Bush’s ‘Mission Accomplished’ public declaration:

05/12/2008 12:00 AM
Excerpts from recent editorials in newspapers in the United States:

Key question is: Will Dems back Obama?

05/12/2008 12:00 AM
SAN DIEGO — In 2002, the Texas Democratic Party ran a “dream ticket” — a Latino for governor, an African-American for the U.S. Senate, and an Anglo for lieutenant governor. At one point during the campaign, a white political science professor expressed his concern that, with demographics changing, the Lone Star State might get to a point where the ranks of Democratic lawmakers would no longer include whites.

Letter: Keep toxins away from kids

05/12/2008 12:00 AM
One of the failings of humanity (or maybe just Americans?) is focusing on the short-term gain at the expense of what makes sense for the long haul.

Commentary: Send money in lieu of flowers to vets’ mothers

05/10/2008 12:00 AM
WASHINGTON — This year American consumers are expected to spend an average of $138.63 each on flowers, cards and gifts for Mother’s Day, for a grand total of $15.8 billion.

Editorial: California emission plan must be rejected

05/10/2008 12:00 AM
Minnesota has been on the forefront of embracing new alternatives in energy and environmental issues based upon the needs of Minnesotans. Now, the Legislature is considering adopting a state-imposed vehicle emissions law tougher than federal standards and determined by the California Air Resources Board.

Letter: Making city hall more open

05/10/2008 12:00 AM
I’ve been wondering why the Willmar city commissions aren’t using the facilities of the meeting room at the municipal utilities building. Especially the Planning Commission, which plays a very important part in the growth and planning of the city of Willmar. This should have been done long ago when the city made the facility able to tape or televise the proceedings. Not that all meetings are important, but some of the more important ones could be carried live on WRAC. However, no matter the importance, they should be taped for video availability on the city Web site.

Letter: Tackling the rise in food prices

05/10/2008 12:00 AM
In a world of finger-pointing, farmers have had to shoulder the blame for the increased costs of food, when in reality the facts point to other influences. I would like to share some statistics with you:

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Recent columns

Score one for consumers
Tribune Opinion
To anyone who has felt trapped in a circle of bad service: If you haven’t heard the story of Mona Shaw, pull up a chair. The 75-year-old Virginian had ordered a much-advertised package of services from Comcast, her cable company. The installers failed to show up at their appointed time. They came by two days later but didn’t finish the job. Comcast subsequently cut off all her service.

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