I am Megan Giles Cooney, a Philadelphia-and Northern Michigan-based journalist. Meet me in the middle as I explore today’s events using curiosity, empathy, and fair-mindedness. My newspaper columns, syndicated in over 70 local newspapers, are factual, informative, and authentic opinion pieces. I cover everything from 2024: national issues, local issues, pop culture, emptying the nest, grief, and often asking how we can all get along better.
Focusing on our differences has yet to get us very far. In fact, divisions now threaten our very democracy. Perhaps the best way forward is to identify the human values, hopes, and dreams we all share and then build anew on this common ground.
Our flawed health care system

Most Americans are familiar with the inadequacies of health care insurance: it is expensive, not transparent, with costs and claim…
Megan Giles Cooney | Billions in opioid deal bear watching

Opioid abuse tells a tragic American story since avoidable deaths began in the 1990s. Nearly 700,000 people lost their lives…
When will school shootings get action?

Please, America. Where are we going with gun violence against children in what should be a designated safe place: school?…
Ads jar epic documentary

After Thanksgiving, I watched a documentary that ultimately set me at odds with December’s frenzied pace. For me, the month…
Red or blue, this impacts you

I am a journalist, so I don’t wear a red or blue shirt. I try to use my writing to…
In the wake of Helene and Milton, every little bit helps

ou may be reading this column safe and dry in your home or apartment, far from the twin disasters of…
Iconic ad theme also divides us

Fifty years ago, Burger King introduced a new concept to American consumers: “Have it your way.” What started as an…
It is 2024. Why do people still drink and drive?

A suspected drunken driver recently killed two bright stars in the hockey world — National Hockey League standout Johnny Gaudreau,…
Iconic ad theme also divides us

Fifty years ago, Burger King introduced a new concept to American consumers: “Have it your way.” What started as an…
A healing journey in memories of JFK Jr.

Grief shifts. One moment, it’s a happy memory; the next, it’s not. Whether it’s the death of a dear one,…
When comments go a step too far

Ouch! People make stupid comments all the time. Provocative language is a key element in current culture wars — efforts…
Why You Should Care About An Ethics Scandal Crisis at a National Newspaper

In case you haven’t heard, the Washington Post is going through an identity crisis, and what is happening there deserves…