It’s ironic that the question would be raised about a system that has brought economic freedom and prosperity to so many. But the public image of capitalism always suffers during economic downturns. This time, populist conservatives have teamed with traditional enemies to slap around capitalism pretty badly.

The Chandler Unified School District will open a traditional "school within a school" at Patterson Elementary School for the 2009-10 school year.

TUCSON - By trading John Patterson — who had been with the organization longer than any player — on Thursday, the Diamondbacks moved even closer to setting their pitching staff.

The first team that John Patterson faces this season will be the last squad he pitched against in 2002.

John Patterson may be pitching for a Diamondbacks roster spot today.

The Pew Center on the States, not known as a conservative thought leader, had some bad news for Arizona recently. Our state pension systems are seriously underwater and sinking fast.

The Pew Center on the States, not known as a conservative thought leader, had some bad news for Arizona recently. Our state pension systems are seriously underwater and sinking fast.

Arizona’s public universities recently stepped up to the plate to help improve our state’s sagging economy. No, they didn’t offer to defer or minimize spending since times are tough.

Patterson isn’t sure what he is. Ask him that question before he toes the rubber and he will tell you he is a pitcher — a pitcher with a minuscule earned run average.

TUCSON - By trading John Patterson — who had been with the organization longer than any player — on Thursday, the Diamondbacks moved even closer to setting their pitching staff.

It might have been late in coming thanks to a demotion to Class AAA, but John Patterson is back where he expected to be heading into the season: as part of the Diamondbacks’ starting rotation.

Republicans should get out front for once and lead the movement to legalize marijuana. It makes sense any way you look at it.

The pressure from the Obama administration for Arizona to expand our Medicaid program is enormous. Gov. Brewer is on board and even some legislative conservatives seem to be wavering. But legislators should take one more look before they make what could be a fateful leap.

Last December, 1.3 million Americans received SSI disability payments for “mood disorders.” Yes, that’s right, more Americans than the entire population of San Diego received a monthly check from Uncle Sam to compensate for their suffering from such psychic maladies as sleep disturbance, appetite disturbance, decreased energy and feelings of guilt or worthlessness.

Arizonans Disappointed With Election Results – an informal coalition which until now was not even named – are back on the ballot this November.