It is with much gratitude to the editorial staff and publisher of the Call Newspapers that I’m happy to launch my inaugural column this week, “Mike’s Musings.”

I want to begin by acknowledging my successor, who occupied this space for many years, Carl Hendrickson. Carl was highly regarded by many people who read his column as well as those whom he represented in the Missouri House of Representatives for four terms between 1994 and 2002.

I didn’t know Carl personally, but had the chance to see him at several local political and community functions. He was regularly sought out as the MC at the annual South County Republican of the Year Banquet, mostly due to his funny, dry and sarcastic wit. I remember attending one of the dinners about ten years ago, where he began by introducing himself, far from a point of boastful pride, as an attorney. When he came to his political career, he related when he first ran for state office, the Republican Party was seeking young, good-looking candidates that could be groomed for future leadership. “Instead,” he went on, “they got me.” A friend whose father, the late Jim Murphy, served with Carl in the legislature, recalled him as kind, thoughtful, possessing an ability to carefully analyze legislation, and always ready to offer a word of encouragement. May his family be comforted in knowing that he was recognized by many as a good, honorable man.

As for myself, what I hope to bring to this space is some worthwhile reflection by someone who has lived in South St. Louis County for nearly three decades. Prior to that, I grew up and lived in St. Louis Hills in the City of St. Louis, where my father was a fire captain with the St. Louis Fire Department.

I met my wife, who also grew up in St. Louis Hills, while in graduate school. After we married, we took the big leap and moved to the county, briefly living in the Sappington area before moving to the south end of Crestwood, where we remained for twenty years and had our son. In 2021, seeking a future where we wouldn’t have to carry laundry from the basement to the second floor again, we moved into a ranch house (with a first-floor laundry!) just west of the city limits of Fenton. I worked in fundraising for schools and non-profits for many years. Now, I mainly consult and write, including working on a big book manuscript that my publisher is patiently awaiting.

I have no misgivings in saying I spent many years pursuing higher education – one bachelor’s degree, two master’s degrees, a doctorate, and a few professional certificates. However, as one learns over time, life’s practical challenges often require simple common sense rather than one more piece of paper to hang on a wall.

Longtime readers of this publication might recall my name from over ten years of public service in the community, first in an appointed position in Crestwood, then as a city alderman and President of the board. The latter occurred during the tumultuous period of trying to deal with the declining Crestwood Mall. This was followed by two terms on the Lindbergh School board, an enriching experience advocating for kids that came with its own set of challenges.

My time spent in public service was a great way to get to know our community. I spent years listening to people and their concerns, including plenty of suggestions on what they considered to be the best way forward to address issues and resolve problems. At times, I held a differing view from many of my colleagues, which was met with approval by some and questions or disapproval by others. I developed a very thick skin during these years. When I recently dined out at an area restaurant with an old college buddy and his mother, we sat next to a table with a former mayor of Crestwood. He told them, “Mike was always our most independent-minded board member.” He was right, and I’m proud to have that as a local legacy.

Being independent taught me to expect that there are always differing views and to expect conversation, so look for conversation starters in this column on a variety of issues, from community happenings to pop culture, emerging technologies, social trends, life changes and local history – a long-held passion of mine.

For the uninitiated, my last name is pronounced TISH-liss, a twist in pronunciation I’ve dealt with for over sixty years and for which I have to thank my grandfather after his arrival in St. Louis from Greece a hundred and twenty years ago. I’ve learned to roll with it.

Until next time, stay sharp and always have hope!