Opinion

Hope in a hollow

When I was in grade school, I was an advanced reader — meaning I could read and comprehend books that were written for people older than I was. Although I could and did read “grown-up” books, that didn’t keep me from reading books for younger readers as well. In fact, I never stopped. I regularly re-read classic children’s literature and add “young” books as I encounter them.
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Guest view

A mere 45 words, penned by James Madison, lay the foundation for our representative democracy. “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” These words, which comprise the First Amendment, are essential to the health and well-being of this country.
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Swift Style

It’s not often the stars align for a column topic, but this week they certainly did. It is the 13th week of the year. For most, that is meaningless information. For me, it’s the stars pointing me to a column topic. The number 13 just so happens to be Taylor Swift’s favorite number.
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Guest view

The story of Michigan’s third grade reading retention law was destined to be a beach read - short, gritty and perhaps soon forgotten, as a bill for repeal heads to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk where it will likely be signed.
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Green beer and two t’s

My mother’s grandmother, my great-grandmother, emigrated from Ireland. My mother inherited her red hair, freckles and light Irish skin. I didn’t get the red hair, but definitely inherited the freckles and fair, easily sunburned skin.
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Guest view

It’s long been known that providing skilled nursing can be among the most demanding jobs. At the same time, it’s crucial to keep enough nurses working in the profession to meet public health care needs.
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A common story

Lately, it seems like I haven’t read anything besides newspaper copy. So, at the beginning of March, I was ready for Reading Month. One of my projects for March is to participate with Fairview Area Schools in One Book, One School. The idea is for everyone to be able to connect through the same book. Fairview is reading two books, actually.
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Keep gun bills focused, measured

Michigan lawmakers, driven by the recent mass shooting at Michigan State University, Thursday will begin considering stricter gun control measures. The debate should stay fact-based and focus on how the proposals will actually impact assaults such as the one that hit MSU.
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A growing family

Just this week, I added two new members to my small family. By family, I mean Venus, my adorable ball python, and I.
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