A lot of conservatives don't like the New York Times, but I recently heard a good reason to read the Gray Lady: the obituaries.
Ann McElhinney is one of the creators of the film Mine Your Own Business, recommended the obits. Why? There you can find amazing stories of people who have taken advantage of their own talents and the opportunities offered by a relatively free economy.
By the way, check out the film. It's a great indictment of contemporary environmentalism.