Flanagan’s interests vary, as do his strengths

After inheriting the Entertainment Coverage class from Grand Haven High School newspaper adviser C.E. Sikkenga, instructor Jamie Flanagan implemented some of his personal style and interests into the course. Integrating lessons on covering music, movies, food and other media outlets, Flanagan helps students explore the many facets of the entertainment business.

Flanagan’s involvement in various publications throughout his schooling career provided a natural progression into the world of scholastic journalism and, ultimately, MIPA.

“MIPA was the exact helping hand I needed to be well-versed in educational journalism,” Flanagan said.

Outside of his newspaper and yearbook advising roles at Fraser High School but still within the realm of modern day media, Flanagan hosts a weekend radio podcast on Detroit station 96.3 WDVD called “Animal Talk.” On this once nationwide talk show, he employs the knowledge of a veterinarian and various other animal experts to assist callers with their household pet woes.

Flanagan’s expertise, which extends well beyond the puppy training tips and bizarre cat behaviors he encounters on the show, is becoming increasingly applicable to today’s journalistic standard.

He said, “The convergence of news in print and online applications is something young journalists need to learn.”