I grew up in the middle of a grove, steeped in the history of old Florida. I was fed family history at the knee of my paternal grandmother, and a favorite aunt. I was writing from the age of eight. I had a favorite elementary school teacher who allowed me to read my stories to the class. I've had no formal training as a writer, other than a burning desire. Plus I've read every available book that I could find on 'writing.' Approximately 15 years ago I read a timely article in the Orlando Sentinel, by Norman Rice, then the head of production for Universal Studios, Florida. Rice commented, that the great story about Florida had yet to be written. Something might be developed around the space program, or a citrus magnate's clan. "There is as much potential for plot in a citrus magnate's clan, as there is in J.R. Ewing's oil empire," said Rice. Suddenly I was inspired. I thought of my father's wonderful, tragic, humorous, crazy family, who, despite their feuds, took care of their own, and stood loyally by during times of grief. Credit you give yourself isn't worth much, but the attempt has been made to write that 'great story.' The reader is the final judge.

Former feature writer for the Daytona Beach News Journal. Published by Southern Exposure, and their syndicated column Facing South.