Economically, the past 12 months have been tough; really tough.

With Independence Day just a few days away, Listener Commentator Gary Schindler finds himself reflecting on the meaning of liberty.

The coverage of Michael Jackson's untimely death last week was nearly non-stop on the cable news network. Listener-Commentator Mary Jo Jagord (JAY-gord) expressed relief that at least there was one station and network that was providing what she described as "real news."

We're all aware of the out-of-proportion salaries paid to athletes these days. But listener-commentator Joe Marren wonders if such athletic paydays could be transferred to his former profession -- the legacy media.

For whatever reason, privacy is no longer an issue for millions of Facebook users who are compelled to post information about all aspects of their lives. Listener-Commentator Reed Rankin suggests it might be time to close the curtains, just a little.

The blogosphere is filled with citizen journalists who are making their mark. Listener-Commentator Charles Pierson is one of them.

It has become a tradition for listener-commentator Marcia Gruber to recognize the contributions nurses make as they observe Nurses Week. This year, Marcia tells us the story of how one nurse recognizes the people she cares for.

There is much debate over the best way to pay for the economic stimulus package. Listener-Commentator Anthony Ogorek says simply raising taxes on the wealthy to pay for the stimulus is not the answer.

It's that time of year for the annual Orwell Awards, presented by our listener-commentator Gary Earl Ross.

The arrival of Spring often brings a return of thunder and lightning. Listener-Commentator Chris Mackowski says even as an adult, he's still awed by a thunderstorm.

The debate over evolution and creation theory can be contentious. Listener Commentator, Reverend Fred Jensen, says you can be a religious person and still believe in evolution.

On this St. Patrick's Day, our listener-commentator Amy Ludwig VanDerwater is remembering a man whose spirit lives on, especially on this holiday.

As this year's ski season draws to a close, listener-commentator Jim Nolan remembers his trips to an area ski resort while growing up, and the terrifying pieces of equipment he encountered.

It's comforting to know that when we need it, a community resource of the quality of the Roswell Park Cancer Institute is there -- ready to help. Listener-Commentator Dan Lenard says he experienced first hand just how good Roswell Park is.

As another Black History Month draws to a close, Listener-Commentator Joe Marren says this once good idea may no longer work. He says a recent trip down South left him feeling ashamed because there is so much we don't know about the history of civil rights.