News Hits is huddled in the corner weeping over the last interview we had with Greg Bowens, former press secretary to former Detroit Mayor Dennis Archer. We called Bowens last week to give him a final chance to rip on us for ripping on him and his former boss the past several years. But the good fellow walked tall instead.
Asked if he will miss News Hits, Bowens surprised us by saying, “I will. It is the only medium that actually watches the media and tries to hold journalists accountable and responsible for what they do.”
News Hits blushed for a minute. Then we considered that the professional spin doctor may be snowing us. We asked Bowens what he dislikes about News Hits.
“There isn’t much not to like about it,” he said. “Everyone gets a fair chance to respond.”
News Hits was stunned. After all, when we called Bowens through the years, he sometimes asked, “Is this interview for a Metro Times’ news story or News Hits?” The one time we foolishly told him it was for News Hits, he laughed and said, “No comment.”
Bowens ended our final interview with a request: “It is my sincerest wish that you guys treat the new administration with the same kind, gentle touch and deference you showed Dennis Archer,” he said, giggling.
We are happy to oblige him. As to what is in store next for Bowens, he says he is considering three job possibilities in Detroit. The former newspaper reporter considered returning to journalism, but decided against it.
If you change your mind, Greg, give News Hits a call.
Ann Mullen contributed to News Hits, which is edited by Curt Guyette. He can be reached at 313-202-8004 or [email protected]
