Mike Connell worked for daily newspapers in Michigan, Georgia, Florida, and his native West Virginia during a 45-year career as a reporter and editor. He also is the co-author, with Dr. Frank Jenio, of a self-help book, Don’t Retire, Reinvent Yourself. Connell lives in eastern Michigan on a 17-acre farm planted in wildflowers and native grasses as habitat for monarch butterflies and pheasants. He and his wife, Carol, have three sons and four granddaughters.