Herb Paine

2 weeks ago | azcapitoltimes.com | Herb Paine

What do an archaeological dig in La Quemada, Day of the Dead history lessons and a school librarian in Yavapai County have in common? They all tell the story of how federal investment in the humanities and libraries enriches life in Arizona — and what we stand to lose if that investment is taken away.

1 month ago | bizjournals.com | Herb Paine

In this guest column, an Arizona consultant and former nonprofit executive urges the state's business community to be aware of the potentially detrimental effects to the business sector from the Trump administration's moves to freeze grant spending and potentially strip funds from other social programs. Arizona’s economy thrives on a strong workforce, accessible health care, and a high quality of life. But a disturbing trend is emerging that threatens these foundations.

Nov 14, 2024 | herbpaine.substack.com | Herb Paine

What trends will shape the future of international affairs and global stability? It’s a question that I’ve pondered with the advent of each new administration since my days specializing in American foreign policy and Soviet studies in graduate school. Today, the urgency of this question resonates even more as we navigate the uncertainties of the current political environment and contemplate what kind of world will be left for future generations.

Oct 25, 2024 | herbpaine.substack.com | Herb Paine

When I launched IN THE CENTER LANE in July of last year, my aim was to bring to light and promote critical thinking about issues and developments in the worlds of politics, the arts, and science that ought to be top-of-mind but are too often overlooked by the media. In my exploration of such topics, I recently discovered ethnomicrobiology. The field is a blend of microbiology, anthropology, and related scientific disciplines.

Oct 18, 2024 | herbpaine.substack.com | Herb Paine

As someone who has had the great fortune of living and working in some of the world's most renowned urban landscapes, I’ve often pondered the question:What makes a city great? Having spent the better part of my life in the bay areas of Boston and San Francisco ~ I’m what you might call, bi-coastal! ~ I’ve absorbed the energy of the East Coast’s historical gravity and the West Coast’s innovative spirit.