"I am a retired Podiatrist whose current primary interest is writing both poetry and prose, with an emphasis on poetry. I have been published online by the Cuyahoga County Public Library, and have a site where my work being read and followed in more than fifty countries. I am also a long-time Scout Leader (over 35 years' experience), and, as such, have interacted with many youths, teaching them a variety of Scout and Life skills which they, in turn, have taken to heart. It is time for me to put those teaching skills acquired over the years to another use: helping students achieve their best through writing and speaking.

In my second career, as a poet and writer, I have interacted with and encouraged many young poets and writers, especially encouraging them to share their work through speaking at open mic venues, and participation in writing and poetry workshops. I have always encouraged the use of proper English, good grammar, and proper punctuation. I also encourage the creative use of language, along with the use of seldom-used words and phrases to increase the impact of writing. Though I have yet to have a book of my own in print, I have one in preparation.

While I have taken a couple of Creative Writing courses, much of my training is from my high school days, when proper use of English, proper spelling, proper grammar, and proper punctuation were all emphasized; which lessons I took to heart. I love reading and am in many ways, an omnivore. As the mood strikes, I may be reading everything from sci-fi to medical works, from ancient tomes to modern literature, often two or more books at any given time. I have had a variety of public speaking experiences. I have spoken to groups of Doctors on medical subjects, and groups of Scout Leaders on Scouting how-tos. I now speak frequently at open mic sessions and writing workshops, exposing my work to the light of day and the critiquing of others without fear.

I will do my best to encourage and guide my students as they progress up the educational ladder and" less...