Deane Erts, Neighbor

Email: erts@tc3net.com

Phone: 517.423.9001

Hometown: Tecumseh

Brief history: Like most reporters, my interest in journalism began at an early age. My dream job in elementary school was to write and photograph for National Geographic. As I matured, I learned that a job with that publication would mean a lot of time away from family, friends, and the communities that I have called home, so I narrowed my focus and have been covering the local scene for the last several decades—and loving it.

I have worked for several newspapers in Michigan, some now defunct, but not, thankfully, because of my association with them.

My first encounter with a newsroom was when I tried to join the staff of my college's student newspaper. I didn't make the cut. I like to think that it was because my hair was much too short—long, flowing hair being both an editorial and a fashion statement in those days.

After graduating with an English major, finding gainful employment was problematic, but I had my own camera, darkroom, and typewriter, and those proved to be my keys to local journalism.

I think the diversity of subjects that a newspaper covers is what has kept me in the profession. I know that people want to know about local government, schools, and their neighbors, but they do not have the time to go to the meetings or talk to the sources, so I am happy to do it for them and report back.

Religion: Episcopal. For those of you unfamiliar with this denomination, the important thing to know is that Episcopalians are pretty easy going with other denominations and religions. We play nice and hope everyone else will, too.

Home life: I live with my significant other and her son, who is an eighth grader. I have a son who is finishing college and two daughters who are grown and on their own.

Politics: I consider myself an independent. I am not affiliated with any party and I have voted for independents, Democrats, and Republicans.

Hot Button Issues: I think that the economy is at the top of everyone's list. Many of us are struggling or know someone who is struggling. I hope to be able to report on the ways that individual private citizens are coping with the recession. Yes, I know that it is officially over, as declared by the people who make the call, but for many of us, the uncertainty of the next paycheck is a constant worry. I hope to report on how individuals and communities are dealing with the new "normal" and tell the stories of those who are making it and those who are making it possible to survive for those who are not.