President-elect Barack Obama's environmental appointees could be a sign of aggressive policy-making on climate change, which likely would cost the American economy trillions of dollars.

 President-elect Barack Obama's appointments to environment-related positions promise aggressive policy-making on climate change, which could further wreck the American economy.

So long 100-watt incandescent light bulbs -- California is ordering them off store shelves starting Jan. 1 in an energy-saving move.

In American political culture, we prove we’re concerned about something by spending money on it. Americans are obviously concerned about protecting schools from more mass shootings after Newtown. But in this case, the best response may not be the most expensive.

Linda Turley-Hansen: TEA Parties, fireworks, picnics and sunscreen filled this Fourth of July weekend with a blend of uneasiness, yet respite. Among many, there's a sense that things aren't right, that freedoms are slipping, while celebration is familiar and comfortable.

Some people come to Sedona to hike the stunning rock formations. Others want to flex their spending muscle in uptown Sedona (dubbed the “Shopping Vortex” by locals) acquiring touristy knickknacks or bona fide works of art.

The chant is heard in every NBA arena. “Defense! Defense!”

I'll admit it. My heart sank when I read recently that unemployment fell to 8.3 percent. Yes, long-term unemployment and climbing poverty rates are devastating too many families. But we can't afford a cyclical uptick just now if it would mean that Barack Obama might be president for four more years.

I'll admit it. My heart sank when I read recently that unemployment fell to 8.3 percent. Yes, long-term unemployment and climbing poverty rates are devastating too many families. But we can't afford a cyclical uptick just now if it would mean that Barack Obama might be president for four more years.

Tom Patterson: More than 700 scientists now discredit the 2007 U.N. report on climate change, which is still used to justify policies at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Muffin top, aka love handles, is that spare tire of flabby fat that pushes out of the top of your pants, giving your middle the appearance of the poufy top of a muffin. It's often directed toward women, although many men, teens and even children have muffin tops.