2018 Difference Makers

Ohio redistricting fight: Was favoring one party allowed?

COLUMBUS — Legal arguments for and against Ohio's new maps of state legislative districts centered Wednesday on whether it was okay for a powerful new redistricting commission to disregard constitutional language that required at least an attempt at avoiding partisan favoritism.

What to do during winter break in Northeast Ohio

Although not as long as summer vacation, winter break provides an opportunity for children to go out and explore different activities outside of school. With the cold and wintry weather, most outdoor activities are unavailable, narrowing the number of options.

West Bank disputes damage Israeli society

I’ve made no secret in my Columbus Jewish News columns of my concern about Israel’s occupation of the West Bank. The occupation is the result of Jordan being repulsed from the territory in 1967 after attacking Israel in the Six-Day War. I’m not suggesting the Israeli army unilaterally withdraw from the territory, but I remain hopeful that ultimately a negotiated withdrawal from most of it is possible, paving the way for an independent Palestinian state.