Molly Ivins

Molly Ivins was charming. She was humourous and a gifted writer. Upon first impression, you might have thought she was like your favorite aunt. And like a favorite aunt, her advice to the journalism class was clear and simple - check the facts and write the truth. She reminded us that we were the first hand witnesses to history.

I am saddened to see this story on the news services:

“AUSTIN, Texas - Best-selling author and columnist Molly Ivins, the sharp-witted liberal who skewered the political establishment and referred to President Bush as “Shrub,” died Wednesday after a long battle with breast cancer. She was 62.”

link: Syndicated columnist Molly Ivins dies at 62

She was a national treasure.

Catherine