THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury If my ancient Uncle Mort could somehow “saddle up” the University of Texas mascot, and then lean forward, he’d literally be close to the center of Bevo’s horns. As it is, this simple “what if” only figuratively describes his dilemma concerning the outcome of the upcoming Longhorn-Ohio State football game. Whichever team wins will

THE IDLE AMERICAN THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury They are a lovable couple–Dr. Chris Liebrum and his wife, Cindy–known for quickly triggered smiles, positive attitudes, deep faith and commitment to close-knit families. Married for 52 years, they have reached highest peaks and navigated life’s storms–shortening them when possible–confident of a safe arrival on the other side. They’re the kind of

THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury Here comes another “Mother Hubbard” column.That’s how preachers sometimes describe their sermons–comparable to “Mother Hubbard” dresses.They cover everything but touch nothing. Why are we not surprised? Researchers claim that many companies are taking advantage of the inflationary climate.Their deception is called “shrinkflation.”Some devious practices are “double-whammies,” with prices going up and product size going down. An

THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury Afterglows are wonderful, but are waning of late. Many folks forfeit times of warm reflection, too busy in endless pursuits of whatever comes next. Oh, afterglows are still around for important life events such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, promotions, holidays and such, but not like in yesteryear, when few roses went unsmelled. Uncle Mort and

THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury Family reunions are dwindling, going the way of the wild goose. Some, however, will hold annual gatherings soon. Littering nearby, though, are limbs of family trees that are no more. Most of us who have seen the snow of many winters remember reunion trivia from years long since gone from the calendar. Many recollections make

THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury In the growing-up years of long ago, close enough was usually good enough. Precision rules now, though, and “guestimates” that were acceptable then don’t pass muster now. We commonly helped befuddled motorists, suggesting they turn on the county road after crossing three cattle guards, right after spotting a big red barn, or upon seeing a

THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury With news of incivility, protests and disruption gobbling up radio and television air time and dominating front-page newspaper articles, many of us are in a state of perpetual tension. What will tomorrow bring? It’s tough to find even a sprig of a smile, but heaven knows my ancient Uncle Mort is trying his best to

THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury If the headline for this piece doesn’t elicit at least minimal interest of most readers, perhaps I should find the goose, select the spot with a paucity of plumage and stick my quill back in. My intent is far removed from the topic of human reproduction. I focus instead on this pair of topics