Opinion

I usually tune out criticisms of the modern mess of humanity that come with phrases such as “late-stage capitalism.” That’s a gussied-up way implying that everyone knows the game is over, the plutocrats are making a killing while they can, and when the rubble is cleared away, we’ll find ourselves in a gentle and just Age of Aquarius.

In the Hundred Acre Wood, during the season of spring, you will find Piglet spring cleaning, beating his rugs outside his tree house. Some say spring cleaning comes from Persian New Year (first day of Spring) or the Jewish anticipation of Passover. Others say it’s just the first time you can leave the windows open. Either way, it’s the time to streamline. But how?

Small towns are a place where values are important, they are practiced, and the people are authentic. One only has to look at the popularity of Hallmark movies, the Andy Griffith Show, Sweet Magnolias, Bedford Falls, and the Gilmore Girls’ town of Stars Hollow with themes around small town living to see that people embrace small towns and all they symbolize.

One thing you can take to the bank – or your bookie – is that the times will keep changing. Willie Mays, the best baseball player who ever lived, got in serious trouble years ago for taking a P.R.