Taking hints from the infighting amongst the Republican elite, it's clear that there's an identity crisis in the party. Some seem to think that reclaiming the middle ground is the way to go, while others believe that moving further to the right is the best way to survive. There is no compromise here, as anyone that sat through the last election and wondered how ...

I'm going to take a break from my "ranting" this week and instead offer up some gift ideas that are suitable for any person on your Christmas list. It doesn't matter if the recipient has been bad or good this year, these presents are perfect for all because they celebrate the true holiday spirit of compassion and giving. This year, give a gift that ...

Thanksgiving 2008 marked the third year in a row that I have taken a Thanksgiving meal at Hollyhock Hill on North College here in Indianapolis. My last two gratitude-themed trips to the 'Hock have been enjoyable, but nothing will ever compare to that first miraculous evening in 2006. At the time, I didn't have much social structure in my life. Not only was my ...

Every year around this time, innovation in theater and art and literature is lost because of one little book by one little man (actually, the book is strictly average in length for a novella coming in at 29,000 words, and I have no idea how many inches or pounds Mr. Dickens had on him). That's right, A Christmas Carol. Your average theater company puts ...

A frenzy of whimsy, adventure, mystery, magic, corruption, drama, love, sex, tragedy and war mesmerized me while visiting the wonderful land of "Oz" the other night. That is, the land of Australia, created by director Baz Luhrmann. You didn't think I was referring to the Wizard of Oz, did you? Australia, starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, is a stunning epic set in Northern ...