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Speaking truth to power is one of the finest features of American democracy, and on Wednesday it was astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson who did the honors. During a talk in Philadelphia that was supposed to focus on how Hollywood perverts science, Tyson decided to take a detour and tackle the presidential election as well. The scientist rightly criticized climate change skeptics like President-elect Donald Trump, and former presidential candidate Ben Carson, who has called the big bang theory of the universe’s creation “a fairy tale” and evolution a theory encouraged by the devil.

“Objective truth always remains true whether or not you believe in them,” he told the crowd.

It was a serious aside from a popular scientist that is more known for his intelligence and charm than sharp political critiques, but Tyson’s comments were timely and necessary.

Truth seems primed to become a made-to-order commodity in America. Tyson’s pointed reminder is that, no matter how hard the spin doctors try, objective facts ultimately won’t be denied.

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Pennsylvania Physician General Rachel Levine was absolutely correct on Thursday when she explained the concern shooting through the state’s LGBT community after Donald Trump’s electoral triumph last month.

“I think it is very important to continue to be staunch defenders of diversity, non-discrimination, equal rights and fairness ... ,” Levine said following the annual World Aids Day conference at the University of Pittsburgh.

Many people won’t know Levine, who is the highest-ranking openly transgender person in state government history, but they should take note now, if they haven’t before. LGBT individuals face challenges when it comes to employment, housing and public accommodations in communities across this state. These are not issues for “other people” to address. They are issues every community must confront publicly and privately. But state officials have a role as well. Fostering acceptance and inclusion is a job big enough for everyone.

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Congratulations to two Butler County youngsters — Danner Sweeney, 10, of Chicora and Jon Houtz, 14, of Butler — who inked their names in a long and proud tradition Monday. Both boys bagged their first whitetail bucks this week, while hunting with family members.

Hunters across this region will understand: There’s nothing quite like bagging your first buck. It’s a moment to celebrate, share and cherish.

There’s no doubt these young hunters, and many more just like them, will treasure and share their memories as they grow into adulthood and pass the tradition along to their own families. We wish them happy hunting and many years of safe sportsmanship (and memories) going forward.