The furnishing of health care as a collateral benefit of one's employment is largely a matter of historical accident rather than logical choice. Early in the development of the organized labor movement in the U.S. medical insurance was advanced as a benefit for employees. Initially, management found this a less expensive alternative than an outright wage increase since it was a contingent rather than absolute expense and could be covered by an insurance plan. Over the years this concept became generally accepted in U.S. employment contracts. Our current economic difficulties, with large numbers of the work force losing their jobs and as a consequence their health insurance demonstrates the illogic of this arrangement. Also, the cost of the insurance makes U.S. companies less competitive in the world market and is a factor in moving business offshore. ...more

March 22, 2009

With yesterday's news that Chipper Jones is out of the World Baseball Classic with a strained muscle in his side, there's a good chance Evan Longoria could be called into service for Team USA for the final round of the tournament. ...more

March 16, 2009

The Outback Bowl probably won't make it official until Sunday, but a logical matchup has emerged for the Jan. 1 game at Raymond James Stadium. ...more

December 1, 2008

When the coach's whistle blasts, signaling the start of special teams drills during University of Florida football practice, it quickly becomes obvious that things are done a little differently here. ...more

September 5, 2008

The Rays made it clear they would have preferred to keep RHP Gary Glover around. They just didn't have anywhere to put him. ...more

July 29, 2008

Drum roll. Suspense. Who will it be? In this corner, we have Stormin' Mormon Mitt Romney. In the other, we have Brain-Buster Bobby Jindal. ...more

July 26, 2008

In Highlands Today this past week was an article covering the Sebring Parkway and plans to plant the median. ...more

June 12, 2008

Dan Short shines and sparkles everywhere he goes. He sports gold on his wrists, cuffs, fingers - even across his tie. ...more

May 26, 2008

Many family researchers are shocked out of their "today" socks to learn that official death certificates weren't required until the 20th century. ...more

February 17, 2008