John Smart

Recent Articles

Park Falls looks to biofuels for alternative energy sources

Park Falls looks to biofuels for alternative energy sources

The Flambeau River Biofuels plant will convert pulp and forest waste from a neighboring paper mill, providing renewable green energy and job growth in the region.

The United Nations – and Wisconsin’s Role in the World

The United Nations – and Wisconsin’s Role in the World

Scott Walker ends the Wisconsin's Citizen Commission on the U.N. Will this limit our global understanding?

The Peace Corps at 50

The Peace Corps at 50

With new cuts proposed in the federal budget, will civil service organizations like the Peace Corps be able to survive?

Whither Education?

Whither Education?

Wisconsin's schools are in a state of flux. As the state's political seats change hands, we must demand that education be a top priority.

Hillary and me

Hillary and me

John Smart recalls First Lady Hillary Clinton's warmth and unfailing courtesy with his students in Uzbekistan; excellent characteristics in a Secretary of State.

World holiday traditions warm an American heart

World holiday traditions warm an American heart

John Smart shares his beloved Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions and picks up a few new ones while volunteering in Uzbekistan during the holidays.

A 21st Century United Nations? It’s about time

A 21st Century United Nations? It’s about time

In 1945, five nations that fought against Axis powers in WWII were permanently assigned to the UN Security Council. 50 years later, does it still make sense?

Election 2010: To the highest bidder?
Election 2010

To the highest bidder?

If nothing else, this election proved that we must do something about campaign finance reform, lest we lose our better selves to political weaknesses.

Get out the vote

Get out the vote

Less than 50 percent of eligible U.S. voters are likely to show up to the polls. Don't let attack ads and political shenanigans deter you - every vote counts.

Replacing Dave Obey?

Replacing Dave Obey?

Let's face it: nobody can "replace" Dave Obey. But we can elect a "work horse" instead of a "show horse" to our congressional seat.

The 21st Century – are we ready for it?

The 21st Century – are we ready for it?

Cuba, China, Egypt, Iran, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and the United States -- if you're gay, you're not welcome in the military. Change is coming.

Whose Chamber of Commerce is this anyway?

Whose Chamber of Commerce is this anyway?

Should the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, an organization supposedly dedicated to supporting small business, be so blatantly partisan?

Whither our schools?

Whither our schools?

It behooves us all to demand of our candidates that they research school issues and propose meaningful reforms for Wisconsin.

Obama in friendly territory

Obama in friendly territory

His speech - perhaps "performance" is a better description - on the UW campus was a true stemwinder, and the crowd responded with enthusiasm.

Working against intolerance

Working against intolerance

Between the ruckus over a community center and inane rants of a minister in Florida, anti-Islam sentiment is on the rise. Not only is it hateful, it's un-American.

Exchange students offer a connection to the global community

Exchange students offer a connection to the global community

When I say that these bright young students are changing my life, I mean it. This is how our nation can take part in "new globalism."