Gallup Sun

This column was originally published in Gallup City Limits in 2013

“He’s tried to make me go to rehab, I won’t go, go, go”—Amy Winehouse

In the science of psychology “enabling” is a form of positive reinforcement or rewarding of destructive behavior. For political conservatives this is merely common sense. Tough love and workfare are forms of negative reinforcement. Workfare requires able-bodied adults to work or train in order to receive welfare. It’s like Mother Teresa or Gandhi with big sticks. And it works!

In 1996 the Republican’s welfare reform brought a workfare system resulting in soaring employment rates and earnings among single mothers. Child poverty...

Colons are one of the most misunderstood punctuation marks. Many people think they are only used to introduce lists, but they can be used for much more. For example, colons can introduce quotations, explanations and even jokes.

By the way, this column has nothing to do with the colon body part, although we will discuss human anatomy in any sentence now. I wouldn’t want a colon to be the butt of any joke.

What better way to learn about colons than from vampires? After all, vampires are known for leaving two marks on their victims’ necks that resemble colons.

So, here are a few things that vampires can teach us about colons:

The colon is a versatile punctuation mark that can...

Safe money investing for a winning retirement strategy

Kicking off: The importance of safe money investing

Retirement planning is not unlike a high-stakes football game, where each decision you make leads you closer to, or further from, your end goal. Safe money investing is akin to those strategic plays that drive the team methodically down the field, prioritizing safety and consistency over flashy maneuvers. It focuses on protecting the principal while still generating income, much like a seasoned quarterback reading the defense and making a smart play.

Building a strong offensive line: Diversification and stability

Safe money investing requires a strong offense. In football, the...

Retirement, often painted as the serene, golden phase of life, is not without its challenges. Just as a hiker faces unexpected terrains, the journey into and through retirement can be fraught with unexpected obstacles. These challenges range from financial setbacks to emotional hurdles, and for many, the path to retirement bliss can seem strewn with pitfalls. Yet, with the right preparation and mindset, retirees can traverse this terrain with confidence and grace.

One of the primary concerns for retirees is the financial landscape. Even those who've meticulously planned their finances can face unexpected expenses. Be it unforeseen medical bills, helping a family member in need, or...