When I took the new job at the Minnesota Star Tribune, I wondered about the size of my yard. In my old column, I got to wander pretty far from the house, into the woods even. Nobody seemed to mind that much, perhaps because the stakes were low. But what would the new editors say about my shenanigans?
Today, I’m happy to say that I still have a pretty big yard, evidenced by the fact that they published this most recent column, which leads with a one-word sentence: “Butts.”
Believe me, I’m as surprised as you are.
These aren’t random butts. These butts are here to save lives. I recently had my first colonoscopy. For a columnist, this is one of those life events that prompt deep introspection for which no one asked. Doctors now recommend earlier screening for colorectal cancer symptoms starting at age 45 for people with normal risk levels. Early screening makes a huge difference in not only catching colon cancer, but in beating it.
So, yes, in this March 27, 2025 column, entitled “Elder millennials, brace for your colonoscopies,” (gift link) you will find butt puns. Butt jokes. Thinly veiled butt innuendo. But, you will also find reason to act for your own health and that of your loved ones.
Enjoy! It will likely be my last butt column for a long, long time.
Aaron Brown is a columnist and editorial board member for the Minnesota Star Tribune.
