When President-elect Barack Obama takes office in January, the expectations and challenges will be massive. They are so huge, in fact, that Americans need to let reality set in or they are in for a major disappointment. No president past or present could make our problems go away in a short period of time. There's too much to repair that were years in the making. Still, there are a couple of things that must be done, even if the payoff is down the road a ways. ...more

November 30, 2008

It's the kind of water cooler theory that has just enough credibility to sound plausible. ...more

November 23, 2008

Experts say multiple factors at play ...more

November 23, 2008

At the beginning of every recession, there are people who see the downturn as an occasion for moral revival: Americans will learn to live without material extravagances. They will simplify their lives. They will rediscover what really matters: home, friends and family. ...more

November 22, 2008

For those of us who didn't live through The Great Depression, these days are as scary as they come when it comes to our country's economic situation. It seems as if every day there's a new angle to our woes, and most folks feel helpless to do anything about it. ...more

November 21, 2008

Crossword puzzle writer Merl Reagle will earn his place in animated pop culture history with a guest appearance on "The Simpsons" at 8 p.m. Sunday on Fox. ...more

November 13, 2008

Crossword puzzle writer Merl Reagle will earn his place in animated pop culture history with a guest appearance on "The Simpsons" at 8 p.m. Sunday on Fox. ...more

November 12, 2008

Disney is offering visitors discount hotel stays and other deals in the wake of worse than expected financial results. ...more

November 7, 2008

Airlines have been seeking new sources fuel to cut costs for some time, but leave it to fun-loving Southwest Airlines to test the power of pixie dust. ...more

November 1, 2008

Sarah Palin drew a crowd in downtown Tampa on Sunday that didn't look or act as if its side was the underdog in the presidential race, and she assured them Sen. John McCain can still win. ...more

October 27, 2008