Back Talk

Alan says: I am in favor of limiting the governor to two consecutive terms. But blacklisting someone after eight years altogether, regardless of how good or bad they did their job, can needlessly force an effective public official out of public service. Many state governors throughout history have served well over eight years without their constituents regretting it. I would point out that such a system is wholly unworkable in twenty-first century America: we live in the era of the permanent campaign and the 24-hour news cycle. A governor facing re-election every other year would essentially do nothing but fundraise (which is close to what most do anyway even with four-year terms). (November 19th, 2009 at 11:09pm)

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Prudence Mackintosh

Features

After thirty years, I still love Highland Park. (September 2003)

Why has it taken so long for my sons to get married? Is it the wet towels mildewing on their apartment floors? The pocket change accumulating on every flat surface? Or is it that I've given them a skewed idea of what women expect? (October 2002)

My father was a hard-hitting newspaperman, but he was also an old softy. That helps explain why until his death two years ago this month, he and I were members of a mutual admiration society. (June 2002)

“She taught us, she fed us, she entertained us, and best of all, she wrote down the how-to of Corbitt hospitality in five cookbooks, giving us confidence that the civilizing pleasures of the table were within our reach.” (December 1999)

Now that my son is behind the wheel, I can’t decide whether it’s better to ride shotgun or steer clear of him completely. (May 1990)

Reflections and recollections of life among the shadows of the Piney Woods. (October 1989)

What do the city of Lubbock, a defunct restaurant, and a submerged neighborhood have in common? They’re all places in somebody’s heart. (May 1989)

Indulgences include skydiving, puppet shows, hikes, massages, float trips, entertainment for kids, and blizzards. Blizzards? (June 1973)

Unhitch yourself from the grocery cart and shop around. (May 1973)

Columns | Miscellany

My adventures with Mr. Brown. (November 2007)

The effortless goodwill of my high school reunion weekend. (October 2007)

My grandsons aren’t Texans … yet. (September 2007)

You can travel with children. A whole world out there is waiting ... with a smirk. (May 1974)

Daddies can’t have babies, but they can sure help their wives. This is a guide to where and how. (April 1974)

Securing the Perfect Babysitter isn't always possible, but there are some alternatives. (February 1974)

Mothers and fathers in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston can explore an exciting concept with their children: the city as playground. (January 1974)

(January 1974)

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