Cartoon of the Week: Unhappy Ending

The News-Herald, December 13

I'm saddened to see the legislative career of John Conyers end as it has. I won't address the allegations of sexual harassment that led to his abrupt retirement; others will sort all that out. My reflection in today's cartoon comment focuses on the 53 years he served in Congress and the important voice he gave to those who elected him, and the contributions he made to our republic over more than five decades. Goodbye, Mr. Conyers. I'm sorry you had to take this exit.
That's the Point!

Cartoon of the Week: Santa's Filling His ... Truck?!

The News-Herald, December 6

Christmas cheer isn't delivered only by sleigh. Sometimes the answers to Christmas wishes are delivered by truck - like the one The News-Herald is filling for the Downriver Salvation Army. A truckload of toys and food will mean a happy holiday for many people Downriver who otherwise would be forgotten. News-Herald readers and staff members are joining to "Fill the Truck" all week at News-Herald headquarters (One Heritage Place, Southgate) and on Saturday morning, December 9, we'll all be there collecting last minute donations and filling the truck, so it's ready to spread Christmas joy. Join us if you can - 'tis the season!
That's the Point!

Cartoon of the Week: It's Cyber Monday - Wish Big!

Crain's Detroit Business - November 27

It's Cyber Monday and many people are seeking to fulfill holiday wish lists online - including metro Detroit. This Cyber Monday, why not wish big?!
That's the Point!

Cartoon of the Week: '... Plenty to be Thankful For'

The News-Herald, November 22

Just as Irving Berlin wrote, and Bing Crosby sang, in 1942; "I've got plenty to be thankful for." Each year at this time, I draw a cartoon for The News-Herald highlighting some of the topics that inspired me throughout the year. It's always a challenge, because I can't fit every topic into the few column-inches I'm given to fill. The exercise, however, is always reflective for me. I have the chance to remember all the readers who've offered feedback, as well as the interactions I've had with all the Downriver newsmakers. January 2018 will be the start of my 33rd year as the editorial cartoonist for The News-Herald - I've been doing this, and loving it, for literally half my life. THAT'S plenty to be thankful for!
That's the Point!

Cartoon of the Week: It's Not Guesswork!

The News-Herald - November 1

It's not guesswork! The process, done correctly, involves research and thoughtful consideration. It demands a careful examination of records and it takes a little bit of faith. Preparation for Election Day next week? If only. Sadly, people prepare more carefully for their Fantasy Football lineups than they do for elections - especially local elections, like those coming next week. Don't leave the direction of your community over the next two to four years to chance. Do some research and cast an informed vote. The people you elect are the lineup that will have a greater and more lasting impact on you and your family than who you play at QB or wide receiver next week.
That's the Point!

The Cartoon Vault: (Parking) Peace in Our Time

The Daily Tribune - October 2, 1994

The Royal Oak Historical Society has honored me by adding a feature to the ROHS quarterly member newsletter titled "The Cartoon Vault." The Vault runs selected editorial cartoons of mine from The Daily Tribune dating back 25-30 years. I thought this one (from "only" 23 years ago) was particularly timely, with former President Carter's recent offer to travel to North Korea to begin a rational dialogue rather than escalate the Twitter War.

A reminder, just in case you don't remember this local issue from 1994: Former President Jimmy Carter had firmly established his post-presidency legacy as a global mediator and peace maker. In this cartoon, I wondered if his expertise might have been able to bring peace to the dispute over parking in downtown Royal Oak – the cost, limited availability and strict (some would say over the top) enforcement. Well, Mr. Carter never came to Royal Oak, and 23 years later, the debate continues.

I want to thank the ROHS for opening the Vault and sharing these cartoon memories with its members. Additionally, I want to thank State Representative Jim Ellison and Jodie Ellison for making the winning bid on this original during the silent auction at the ROHS Annual Dinner Gala on October 20. The ROHS appreciates your support, and I'm flattered that you wanted it!

And, while I'm thanking people, I want to thank all my colleagues from those wonderful years at The Daily Tribune - the reporters, whose stories inspired me and the editors who helped me refine my work. I love you all, and I loved that time together.
That's the Point!

Cartoon of the Day: If It Ain't Broke, It's Still Responsible to Fix It

The News-Herald - October 8

Responsible pet ownership, of course, means making sure that every pet is wanted and that the community doesn't face the problem of countless unwanted - and often homeless - dogs and cats. Downriver's PAWS Clinic does wonderful work, and thanks to a recent grant from the Petco Foundation, is able to do even more. That said, I couldn't resist a tongue-in-cheek comment from a feline patient. Here's a new twist to the old saying, "if it ain't broke, it's still responsible to fix it!"
That's the Point!

Cartoon of the Day: Insurance "Policy" in Detroit

Crain's Detroit Business - October 2

Auto insurance "policy" within Detroit seems to be pricing coverage beyond the means of most people to pay. With Detroit rebounding, led by the growth of good jobs and affordable housing, the cost of auto insurance is becoming a prohibitive expense.
That's the Point!

Off the Drawing Board: In addition to the idea that was refined and finished, I considered a direction that was based on a parody of a popular and long-running series of auto insurance TV commercials.

Cartoon of the Week: Every Day Should be Earth Day

The News-Herald - April 23

And that's the problem! Most of us don't take the theme of Earth Day seriously, and of those who do, many make it only a once-a-year observance. We should be celebrating our stewardship of the planet Earth every day - every day is Earth Day!
That's the Point!

Cartoon of the Week: Weather or Not

The News-Herald - January 18

I drew this for my Downriver readers, but it's true throughout the metro Detroit area. From day-to-day, we're not sure "weather" it's winter, spring or fall. Sometimes, it's all three!
That's the Point!