Bill Ott

bill ott

Do we need to set higher standards? | Ott Observations

While dozens of states are raising identification standards for citizens to vote, I’ve been reading another book about our Founding Fathers.  I think most of us can agree that having…

The ‘what’s important’ age | Mark’s Remarks

You tend to do a lot of reflecting as you approach milestones. My age group is moving toward retirement, grandparenthood, and various stages of life that we are a bit…

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Elvis | Movie Review

By JEREMY HOUSEWRIGHT The King lives – at least for a couple hours in Baz Luhrmann’s new film “Elvis.”  This film is carried not by America’s favorite actor Tom Hanks, but…

A tale of two cities | Mark’s Remarks

I’m in a different place now and for whatever reason, I have noticed some differences I feel are important to note.   Why? I’m certainly not trying to be mean-spirited,…

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The March of Folly | Ott Observations

The title of this column is also the title of a book written by the historian Barbara Tuchman.  In her book, she compares four periods of human history, identifying the…

Forgiveness and reconciliation – not the same | Mark’s Remarks

I believe everything the Bible says, cover to cover.   That kind of talk can get a person into trouble from time to time, but I make no apologies for…

Graham A. Colditz, MD, Deputy Director, Institute for Public Health, is photographed at FLTC on March 15, 2022. MATT MILLER/WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

Enjoying summertime sun, safely | For Your Health

For the last few years, summertime has felt even more special to me than usual. With the long, warm days, we’re finally able to get outside more and enjoy walks,…

Reflections and takebacks | Mark’s Remarks

As I close out the end of my 32nd year of teaching, I’m amazed at what we’ve accomplished and survived in the past couple of years.   Mainly though, I…

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Top Gun: Maverick | Movie Review

By Jeremy Housewright It may have taken nearly two years longer due to COVID, but it was worth the wait as “Top Gun: Maverick” was everything fans of the original…

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Going back to transparency | Ott Observations

During my years as a management consultant, there was a universal truth we would share with all our clients.  “When people do not receive information about something important to them,…