Andy Vance

It’s not my intention to turn this blog into a political commentary, but as a wanna-be policy wonk and would-be political analyst I from time to time have observations you might find useful. Case in point, I wanted to share some thoughts on Paul Ryan, Governor Romney’s choice for Vice President. Especially in the early [...]

It goes without saying, but we face some significant challenges and challenging issues in this country. The state of the economy, U.S. competitiveness and military prowess, staggering national debt and ever-escalating federal deficits all threaten the long-term security and stability of the Republic. And yet, with fewer than 10 weeks until the election, nonsensical stories [...]

I’m on a mission: to locate the two tykes depicted in the iconic “You Been Farming Long” print popularized by Country Woman magazine and the Reiman Publications family of magazines. Chances are, especially if you grew up in rural America or anywhere near a farm or ranch, you’ve seen this poster. Growing up, this print [...]

It breaks my heart to realize that for the third time in fewer than 365 days, I am writing about the passing of someone I loved and respected well before their time should have come. Stewart Doan, one of the finest journalists I have ever known, died suddenly yesterday. He was 52. Others, including his [...]

If you think the issue of exotic animal ownership is going away any time soon, think again. With news Monday from the Ohio Department of Agriculture that five surviving animals from October’s bizarre tragedy at the Thompson farm near Zanesville will soon be returned to Marian Thompson, advocates on both sides of the issue lined up to [...]