When I say “Naples,” the reaction I get is either one of cringing negativity over the Camorra, the Neapolitan arm of the Italian mafia, or delight at the thought of pizza. How does one account for these opposing reactions? The answer isn’t easy, because in Italy, even the simplest things are complicated by layers
I have recently learned something life-changing: I love marrying people! Between last October and this July, I married ten people. Oh, I guess that sounds bad. Clarification: I did not get married to ten people, I performed five weddings. Yes, I am a legal officiant. It all happened quite accidentally. I was reading an article
September hastens the end of summer vacations, brings on the first football tailgate weekends … and marks the start of the movie season at the Flint Institute of Arts. Which to choose, football or movies? Hmmm… Here’s my vote for movies: The museum launches the 2014-15 Friends of Modern Art film series on September 5-7
Yes, I’m a “lefty” — and proud of it! While left-handed people comprise only ten percent of the population, my family was mostly left-handers: me, my father and my two brothers. Some people, however, just don’t understand what it’s like living left-handed in a right-handed world. If you’re a “south paw” like me, you know
A tear rolled down my cheek and splashed the greeting card in my hands as I read, Your blood donation made a real difference. I felt so much better and stronger. I am in Heaven now, but your gift bought me precious time with my family that I might not have had otherwise. Love, Stretch
As Americans, we live in the most forward-thinking, rewarding country in the world. The smell of fireworks still lingers from our celebration of Independence Day as we reflect upon the sacrifices made to ensure our way of life. Our forefathers envisioned a land of prosperity, where hard work was rewarded and everyone was free to
When I reviewed movies for The Flint Journal, the summer season was my busiest time of year. But of late, as I’ve been overseeing the nine-months-a-year film program at the Flint Institute of Arts, the warm-weather season has become a hiatus of sorts from the flickers. Given the lack of diversity in Hollywood summer fare
I’m looking at a very old photo of myself on the beach. I was three – chubby arms, puffy belly and all smiles. I wasn’t wondering whether my “Coppertone Girl” bikini flattered my figure. I didn’t care much if anyone noticed me at all. I was on a beach with my toes in the sand
Father’s Day is upon us, and as a father, I am grateful for my two beautiful and talented daughters, aged 10 and 8. Jaren and Jade are the bright lights of my life, and my wife Sonya and I focus on providing for, instructing and instilling core values within our girls in order to
As I was getting ready for work one day, I watched a morning show that included a report about the top three U.S. summer travel destinations. One is Washington, D.C. – and Bishop International Airport is ready to help travelers get there with ease. Southwest Airlines out of BIA offers non-stop service from Flint to
Of the many foods Michigan is known for, the Coney is one of the most unique. Every Coney Island restaurant menu centers on the Coney Island hot dog, which is a natural casing hot dog in a steamed bun dressed with chili, diced onions and yellow mustard. This item is usually referred to simply as a “Coney,” but two distinct varieties
