Out and About Blog by Norm Stutesman

Covid-19 has now claimed the lives of over 80,000 in the United States. In Vietnam, we lost approximately 58,000 Americans. We are reminded of this every time we watch just about any newscast. This is a sad time we’re going through. Someday, there will hopefully be a cure for the Coronavirus. Scientists are working very hard to find a cure …

Finally, there have been some restrictions lifted by those in power. I’m so thankful that you can now visit the local tattoo parlor. This should definitely help the economy get back on its feet, arms, backs, chests and necks. I’m wondering if the act of shaking hands or giving hugs will return. Howie Mandel has refused to shake hands with …

Fourteen years ago this month, I had my first column published. An awful lot has happened over the past fourteen years. I am thankful for you readers who let me know that you appreciate my contribution. Last week I shared an opinion about how the “Seventh Inning Stretch” in baseball came to be. Here’s another opinion a bit more believable: …

Because of the virus going around, and the fact that we have all been advised to stay home and stay safe, those who can, are working from their home, rather than going to the office. I am doing just that. I stop by my office on occasion to pick something up, then I return home, where I have been advised …

Wednesday, April 15th, is not “Tax Day”. We have until July 15th to file our returns. This gives us plenty of extra time to get our affairs in order. This is not the time to procrastinate. A cowboy friend of mine reminded me of a column I had written several weeks ago. It dealt with making some sort of extra …

We all have a lifestyle, yet the word “Lifestyle” didn’t exist before 1929. The word entered the English language that year and is defined as “a set of attitudes, habits, or possessions associated with a particular person or group.” Here’s a helpful hint to consider before you mail in your tax return for this year. If you have already received …

Be very careful Wednesday as you venture out and about. It is, after all, April Fools Day, so you’ll want to double check the salt and pepper shakers to make sure someone hasn’t loosened their caps. Also, you shouldn’t believe all you hear to be true. My suggestion is to stay clear of Facebook. The year 1952 was quite a …

Thanks to author Randy Pausch, I’d like to share a few suggestions that might make your busy life a little less stressful: “Ask yourself: are you spending your time on the right things?” “Develop a good filing system.” “Rethink the telephone.” “Delegate.” “Take a time out.” Thanks to the never-ending changes in the weather here in “Pure Michigan”, it’s not …

It has taken me several weeks, but here are the final five suggestions that a man should share with his son when it comes to advice: In all things lead by example, not explanation. Vulnerability is okay and isn’t anything to be ashamed about. It’s not a sign of weakness to speak up. It’s okay for a man to cry. …

I have found that there is more advice fathers should share with their sons than I have room for in just one column, so here are five suggestions. The final five will be listed next week. Never turn down a breath mint. Give credit. Take the blame. Stand up to bullies. Protect those that are bullied. Take time to snuggle …