Chris Johnson

New economic theory proposed by a supposed cheapskate

When you think about people likely to come up with a revolutionary new economic theory, I might not be the first person who comes to mind. After all, my experience in economics is generally confined to decided which numbers sound lucky for the lottery. A lot of folks might even think statements like “I’m feeling good about 22 today” falls somewhat short of economic brilliance.

Need a lift in your small town? Give Guber a holler

Taxi companies are not very thrilled with the emergence of services like Uber and Lyft, which provide an easy way for folks who need ride from the airport, a safe transport home from the bar or a way to avoid the hassle of driving around a big city, particularly one they might not be familiar with.

Differences are black and white at the end of the road

I would like to generalize for a moment about one of the major differences between white folks and black folks.

I watched a movie in the theater and actually didn’t regret it

If I had a nickel for every time somebody said of a film, “Well, if the critics hate it, that means I’ll like it,” I’d have at least $27.65.

The privileged need their own space — preferably away from me

I’ve gotten to the point in my life where staying home is usually more appealing than traveling.

There’s just something about the feel of a book in your hand

I’ve never been a fan of anniversary stories, particularly when they are the 7th, 23rd or 36th anniversary of some event. I mean, geez, every day is the anniversary of an awful lot of stuff. However, I can sometimes tolerate looking back 10, 20 and 50 years later.

A little learning between the bottle rockets and firecrackers

Happy Independence Day! Or Happy Fourth of July! Or Happy Sidewalk Egg Frying Day! Yes, that’s an actual thing! Whatever makes you happy! Like exclamation points!

Who decides what is cussin’ and what is acceptable language?

I have mixed feelings about cussin’. Some of you might know it better as cursing, swearing or using foul language, but down South we refer to it as cussin’ — if you do it right, anyway.

At what point does enough become too much?

I’d like to wish me a happy birthday today. Yeah, it’s a little narcissistic to wish yourself happy birthday, but narcissism today is as American as baseball, apple pie and unaffordable health care. Besides, it’s not every day you turn 25.

Summer’s not officially here, but it’s bugging me already

Over the years I’ve heard an awful lot of folks — usually women — complain about baseball players, football players and curling stars always adjusting their, um, personal equipment and scratching in places you just shouldn’t scratch in public or in front of 80,000 fans or 23 million watching on television.

Driverless cars can’t get here soon enough

I'm still extremely wary of driverless cars. I don't want my Toyota deciding to slam on brakes if a rabbit runs in front of the truck. There are just some decisions that require a little bit of human reasoning. Although, when you look around at the world today, cars might not just be smarter drivers — they could probably do a better job of governing the world.

Don’t be too quick to dismiss the new trend of sologamy

I know what everyone is thinking whenever they see my wife and me walking together:

Only the sounds I want to hear? OK, I’m listening

I know that by the time I hit old age, there are a few things I'll hate to admit I need but most definitely will require — like bifocals, cholesterol-lowering tequila and a brain transplant. Oh, and probably hearing aids.

Georgia college students will be gunning for better grades

As you may know, Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal — who was supported in his 2014 bid for re-election by more than $600,000 in campaign ads by the National Rifle Association — last week signed the so-called Campus Carry Bill into law.

Without the GPS, could Americans find their way?

I’ve been to the state of Louisiana all of four times in my life, the latest being last week for a conference and to help some folks still dealing with flood damage suffered way back in August of last year.

It’s no fun learning the meaning of ‘Montezuma’s Revenge’ while on a cruise

As I’ve explained more than once, there are folks out there who believe I’m cheap. I prefer the terms “frugal” or “spending-challenged,” but the fact is I prefer to spend my money on experiences and memories more than stuff.

An ode to the smartphone and the power to change its accent

Every now and then, I discover some interesting new feature about my smartphone. Did you know that you can use it to call and talk to people? I know, right! That would come in so handy if I ever wanted to talk to another human being on the phone. You never know — that day could possibly come.

Organization is a great thing … to a point

There are times when I’m happy that my wife is the most organized human on the planet.

Possibility of neighbors gives you a lot to think about

They say that fences make for good neighbors. However, I’ve found over the past few months that empty lots make even better neighbors.

I’m willing to make a memorial for my wife, but not a bed

My wife and I were sitting on the swing in the side yard on Sunday afternoon toasting the sunset.

Videos

Attorney says autopsy shows Redwine shot 11 times by Columbus police officer after high-speed chase

Aug 18, 2017

Michael Garner, defense attorney representing Hannah Wuenshel, gives an accounting of the officer-involved shooting where Christian Redwine was shot and killed by a Columbus Police officer after a high-speed chase that ended in Phenix City, Alabama. Garner says Wuenshel was shot once and the other occupant of the car, Hunter Tills, was apparently shot twice.

Mike Haskey Ledger-Enquirer

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