Note from Andy: My pal Mary Jean, who is a former Michigan journalist and a ridiculously fine and funny writer, is attending the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament this weekend. This is her second visit. Last year she chronicled her first visit this way: By Mary Jean … [Read more...]
Guest column: Surprise, surprise, surprise, Brenda’s a mee-maw
By Brenda Brissette Mata Have you ever noticed when you are truly surprised you end up with a reaction that is never the way you would imagine you would react? Watching a TV program or a movie, you can usually tell when a shock or surprise is building. The music is usually … [Read more...]
Flint is a city dying to thrive
By Brenda Brissette Mata Some days, especially when you are proud to be from Flint, Michigan, you just feel like slamming your head against the wall. Growing poverty, skyrocketing joblessness and record-breaking murder rates all tangled up with declining property values and … [Read more...]
Guest column: Finding calm amid the noise, confusion of social media
By Brenda Brissette Mata There was a time (usually an intro that reflects on my advanced age) that I didn't necessarily know the political leanings of my friends. And I certainly never knew the political leanings of acquaintances. But these days I not only know the politics … [Read more...]
Guest column: Respect your elders? Yes, ma’am
By Brenda Brissette Mata I have always been a “Yes ma’am” and “No sir” kind of gal. Respecting your elders was drilled into me growing up and I did my best to make my children understand the importance of respect, too. But things got a little weird recently when I realized … [Read more...]
