Why is Patti Grumpy and why is she speaking out at public meetings? Check out my latest essay, below: At 62, I have finally – FINALLY – become a loudmouthed badass. And that’s Ms. Badass…

This is just a friendly reminder: Just because Pride Month is over, it doesn’t mean we stop celebrating our friends in the LGBTQIA+ community. A few years ago, I met a new business owner who…

“I bought a new pair of skates today,” Dad told me. “Good!” I was happy to hear that my then-60-something year old father was joyfully planning to continue playing ice hockey. “These will be the…

Robyn Limberg’s path to becoming a veterinarian started when she was a child and her family dog, Greta, got hit by a car. Luckily, Greta survived, but only thanks to the skill of a Marine…

When Sadie Russell walks into a classroom, she knows she is needed. For the past seven years, Russell has served as a volunteer through the Foster Grandparent Program administered by the Council on Aging, Serving…

I was in high school, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, in 1978 when a friend first came out as being gay to my circle of friends. He was open about his attraction to other…

“I think I want to see my name on the Stanley Legacy Wall someday.” So said the 14-year-old granddaughter of a community leader whose name already appears on the legacy wall that honors leaders in…

It appears my life has finally reached the third act of a three-act play. Okay, so, no, I’m not announcing anything here. You’re still stuck with Patti Samar for, well, as long as I continue…

Mothers Day, May 10, 2026 So, this might be the last time my mom remembers who I am on Mother’s Day. My relationship with my mom has always been, well, complicated. But now, as she…

As a young mother, at just 20 years old, Amy Bishop felt lost. No one had taught her about baby care or nutrition. The 1988 graduate of Armada High School felt like she was floundering…