"I was a newspaper editor and writer for about 30 years and before that a college English instructor for four years. I have an M.A. from Ohio University and taught at Mississippi State University and East Tennessee State University. I was the city editor at a City Press. I have written two books and several freelance articles. I have recently done some work assisting other writers with book and article projects.

I enjoy helping people express themselves more effectively. Good theme or essay writing requires catchy openings that define the topic, paragraphs that cover an appropriate amount of information, and transitions that lead the reader to the conclusion. Good grammar is essential, but so is the choice of vocabulary and style. Is a formal style or a simpler style appropriate for your reader?

In the classroom and the newsroom I found that the best way to teach writing is to look at what the student (or reporter) has written and suggest ways it can be improved. Often this involves supplying more detail. Instead of "--- is a nice town," why not "---is a city of handsome brick buildings, slow-moving traffic, and quiet parks." Try to make the reader see what you've seen.

I would be glad to hear from anyone with a writing project or a need to improve writing skills." less...