Opinion

Warming shelter

Letters to the Editor March 7, 2026

Did you know that the “warming shelter” at the Alpena Fairgrounds is only open for operations from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.? This means that, though people had a relatively warm place to sleep, that they must be out of the building by 8 a.m.? No matter what the weather is like? Sort of changes the meaning of “warming shelter” doesn’t it? I thought the issue was addressed at the last county commissioners meeting in January, but that was over a month ago, and nothing has changed. Did you know that the “warming shelter” is slated to close on March 31? So – people will be out in ...

Church 360 2.0

Editorials and columns March 7, 2026

My last column in this space was abruptly cut off halfway through and mid-sentence. Here’s the rest of that sentence: “growth thereafter.” Hope that helps. What was I talking about? Oh, yeah, maturity. The sentence should read, “But we must do the hard work of pursuing…”. I ...

Men are back

Editorials and columns March 7, 2026

One of the most pernicious and destructive cultural trends in the United States over the past 30 years or so has been the demonization of men and masculinity. This has taken many forms. Take, for example, the medicalization of boyish behavior in schools, which resulted in widespread ...

Response to recall

Letters to the Editor March 7, 2026

These views are my own and not necessarily those of the board or my colleagues. When it comes to Alpena Public Schools Board of Education, I vote with common sense and fiscal responsibility, and FULLY stand by the three votes that a small group is trying to recall me for. The decisions for the votes were made carefully, and I came to my conclusions by listening to the input of the community and fellow board members. This reflects my shared commitment to what’s best for our students and the taxpayers. I am hopeful media outlets will provide the opportunity to explain decisions fully ...

President Donald Trump and Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Editorials and columns March 7, 2026

At a time 14 months ago when other governors were lambasting President Donald Trump on a variety of issues, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer sat peacefully in the executive residence living room back in December of 2024 and revealed a secret that not only gave those other chief executives pause, it set ...

A dog’s death and archway cookies

Editorials and columns March 7, 2026

My grandson, Benjamin, has been selected to play the lead in his drama club’s production of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.” It was voted a best new play in 2013. Ben is 16. He lives in England with his father, my son, his mother, and his siblings. I don’t see him ...