What was your first job as a journalist?
My present job as a columnist for the Shelburne Falls West County Independent.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes
How is social media changing news?
We all know that social media can be manipulated not only to sell things but to "sell" fake news.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Andy Borowitz
What does it mean to be a journalist?
After spending most of my career helping artists express their beliefs, writing now gives me the opportunity to have my say.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Climate Crisis Reporter
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop and a wide range of Internet web sites.
What's your favorite social network?
I avoid Facebook et al even though I have been a subscriber for a long time.
Who do you wish followed you?
Anyone who believes or denies that humankind has created our climate crisis.
Why did you become a journalist?
In 2010 when I began my column in our local Independent bi-weekly and work as freelance writer for the Greenfield Recorder.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
An air quality essay entitled "Our Planetary Garage" which has been picked up by a number of local newspapers.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
For op ed writers - write from your belief of right and wrong and thorough research.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime during the day.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
John, I’ve just read this year’s ode to a small and private and VERY appreciative audience here in the U.K. All think you should circulate this more broadly...NYT? New Yorker?
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
The visceral hatred within the left is a corrosion that is damaging the country. It’s unfortunate that you are adding to it."
What's your favorite drink?
Pierce Brothers "Fogbuster" coffee.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
At one of 3 men's group gatherings, working with our local Better Angels chapter , climate change gatherings, at the Y, and reading.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
The Nation magazine, The Week magazine, Washington Post, NY Times and various on-line publications.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Some readers believe that climate change is a liberal strategy to kill the fossil fuel industry.
