What was your first job as a journalist?
I went to work with Examiner.com I now also write for Textbroker.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Being that I am now 67 years young, yes. I took Typing in high school, and later, as an adult had my own IBM Selectric typewriter.
How is social media changing news?
With instant access to news of any kind, opinions get formed rather quickly, and sometimes cloud the facts.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
I really don't have a favorite journalist. My scope of interest is broad, and I try to keep my options open.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
A journalist is given the responsibility and honor of being a spokesman for the truth, which might otherwise be left unsaid.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Recently, while scanning the latest Google news stories, I ran across an about the snakiest road in Virginia. That wasn't the story.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I don't have a preference, and I do well with sometimes being given an idea and being allowed to run with it.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Microsoft Word, Open Office, Photoscape, my own reference books, Google, Yahoo, and Internet Explorer or Google Chrome.
What's your favorite social network?
As with many people, I like Facebook. I also like Linkedin. I belong to a couple writing groups with them.
Who do you wish followed you?
I would hope that senior citizens would follow my stories, as well as anyone interested in history, especially colonial history.
Why did you become a journalist?
I have always enjoyed writing, and when my disability became so bad I had to retire, I decided to try writing.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I did work on my H.S. newspaper, as a reporter. I also worked on the Pulaski County Hospital newspaper when I was a Laboratory Tech.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I have several stories that I deem my favorites. "Mr. Hawkins' sturgeon ride" is my best story.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
You've got to start someplace, and with practice and acquired experience, you will only improve. Keep at it and don't give up.
