Columns

By CHARLES C. HAYNES

First Amendment Center

At a time when Americans are deeply divided over the meaning of “separation of church and state,” a recent ruling from the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals provides a much-needed case study in how the First Amendment’s establishment clause is supposed to work.

We see where state senator Jim Tracy has officially conceded defeat in the recent Republican primary election for the position of Republican nominee for Congress from the Fourth Congressional District of Tennessee.

Thus, unless further action is taken, Dr. Scott DesJarlais will be the duly designated Republican standard bearer for this highly important federal office. 

By MARK BANKER

Author’s note: The following three premises are essential to this column.

1) None of us see the past or present with absolute clarity.

2) Each of us has the capacity for glimpses of informed insight that draw from and reflect our personal values.

3) Cordial, forthright exchange of those insights enhances our mutual well being.

After a lively visit with some relatives on their way home from the Smokies Sunday, I grabbed a book and sat down out on my covered porch for some much-needed quiet time.

Storm alerts were being launched everywhere – severe thunderstorm warnings, flood warnings, tornado watches and warnings. The breeze felt nice while I read, and so I remained outdoors.

Bruised skies to the north made it clear the threats were real. The thunder was faint, but visceral, like the rumbling of a hungry stomach.