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Long retrieves

There must have been just the right number of pellets held tight enough in the yellow 20-gauge shell to connect with the late-flushing rooster in the group of more than a dozen tucked into the grass surrounded by the golden corn fields still waiting to be harvested. The bird fluttered and toppled a good distance away to my right as the remainder of the hens and roosters scattered to my left. I pegged a gray clump of grass a few yards in front of the crash-landing site and was just about to call my lab, Ole, over to begin the search after his switchbacking excitement of putting up the ...

Boo! Papa Who?

In our family, there is a mythical character who periodically appears. The character appears when the youngsters least expect it to, and soon the room is filled with sounds of screaming laughter because of all the tickling that’s happening. The characters name is Papa Gorilla. This ghoulish gorilla first arrived on the scene during a family celebration — maybe Halloween? — and is known for his secret and sudden appearances. The kiddos of the family always come to me and ask if Papa Gorilla will come to us. I respond that the character always arrives when least expected, but ...

Searching for book deal with agent anxiety

Some years ago, I got the idea of putting together a book of my collected works. A publisher is needed to embark upon such an adventure, and in order to get a publisher you need a literary agent. After a few timid excursions on the stormy Sea of Literacy, I came into contact with Mitch, a literary agent from New York. Mitch seemed like a nice guy and appeared to be knowledgeable regarding all things literary. Mitch explained that as a first-time author I was trapped in a Catch-22: an author generally can’t get published unless they have already been published. After languishing ...

Community faces important decision on future of our schools

As autumn settles in, the excitement across Marshall Public Schools is unmistakable. Playoff season is here, and the hallways, fields and performance spaces are filled with the energy of students striving to do their best — and a community that shows up to cheer them on. Recently, our marching band placed seventh at state competition — a testament to their dedication and teamwork. Volleyball is enjoying a remarkable season, and our girls tennis team made history by advancing to the semifinals for the first time. Tiger football continues to impress, carrying the pride of Marshall ...

Nothing more important than our kids

Voters in the Marshall School District have an important decision to make when they go to the polls on Nov. 4. We’ll decide whether or not to approve the proposed levy referendum put forth by school officials. It’s considered necessary to avoid cuts in teachers, elective classes and activities. I’ve heard from some who plan to vote yes and others who plan to vote no. It’s important to consider both the concerns that have been raised and the needs of our students. Among the concerns I’ve heard are that the levy will be indexed for inflation, that we funded a new grade ...

Important advice for the ‘Sandwich Generation’

If you’re between the ages of 35 and 60, you may be feeling a financial pinch from both your growing — or grown — children and your aging parents or in-laws.1 You may also find yourself juggling your work commitments and the expectations of family members for your time and support. As a member of what’s known as the sandwich generation, you’re not alone. Unlike previous generations where children left their homes earlier and more permanently, today children tend to live at home longer — or move out and return over time, sometimes with their own children in tow. And parents ...