With a recent series of public speeches and comments President Obama has again reminded America of the considerable power a president has not only in shaping public policy, but also in enriching the quality of our life and national character.It’s a change that’s been long overdue.

When different parties truly work toward the same goal a successful resolution is virtually guaranteed -- even in potentially hostile environments.

When I consider what Republican lawmakers and opponents of health-care reform have accomplished over the past few weeks in their drive to delay, pervert and possibly kill this important and desperately needed legislation, I can’t help but think of Ronald Reagan’s disrespectful crack at President Jimmy Carter during the 1980 election debates.

It's been said that we live in cynical times, and evidence of such is hard to dispute. This is especially true in politics, where every event — from the city council meeting to the presidential press conference — is staged and scripted.