I knew at an early age that I wanted to be a writer. Not unlike many others, my life took some twists and turns, but I eventually enrolled in a writing course through the Institute of Children's Literature. That led to my first published children's story: "Nature's Hiding Places" in Nature Friend magazine. I went on to earn a degree in Mass Communication and Journalism at which time I served as the Assistant Editor of the college newspaper. After graduating, I spent several years in nonprofit environmental print and mass media where my publications through the Environmental Fund of PA, Greenworks TV, and the PA Organization of Watersheds and Rivers have reached thousands of viewers. When the offer was extended for me to work closer to home and return to newspaper reporting in my small local community, I took the opportunity head on and reported full time for three weekly newspapers. Meeting people and bringing their stories to life will always bring me great enjoyment. Even though I don't work as a full-time reporter anymore these days, I still have my own weekly column showcasing local events and human interest pieces. A few years ago, after many hours of work and research, my dream of publishing a children's chapter book came true with the release of "Benjy and the Belsnickel," a book inspired by the wretched Belsnickel character and stories of my parent's childhood memories growing up around one-room schoolhouses in the 1930s. Since then, I've released the Study Guide for "Benjy and the Belsnickel," and the newest book in the "Benjy" series; "Benjy and the County Fair," Check out my Books page for more information and subscribe to my Newsletter for the latest updates on new projects and upcoming events!