I am a freelance writer, commercial helicopter pilot, and Internet content creator.
Most of my writing centers around Macintosh and Windows how-to computer books. My book topics include business and productivity software such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and FileMaker Pro; Web publishing software such as WordPress, Adobe PageMill, and Claris Home Page (two of which are now defunct); financial software such as QuickBooks and Quicken; and operating system software such as Mac OS. I also write, narrate, and create video training materials and write electronic books. My current publishers include Peachpit Press (a division of Pearson Education), Quicken Press (an imprint of McGraw-Hill Professional), and macProVideo.
I have written numerous reviews and articles for computer magazines and professional journals, both in print and online, including Informit.com, FileMaker Pro Advisor, Mac Addict, Mac Design (formerly Mac Today), NetProfessional, Computer User, MacWEEK (now published online only), MacUser (now part of Macworld), and BBS (no longer published).
I have developed Web sites, Web pages, and blogs for small and medium sized organizations. My pet project, a “labor of love,” is wickenburg-az.com, a Web site that provides up-to-date information about my adopted home town of Wickenburg, AZ. I am also Webmaster for Flying M Air, LLC, KBSZ-AM, and N&W Associates.
In addition to my writing and Web development activities, I occasionally address computer users and professionals at conferences such as Macworld Expo, user group meetings, online chats, and book signings.
As a commercial helicopter pilot, I am the owner/operator of Flying M Air, LLC, which offers helicopter rides, tours, charters, air taxi services, and multi-day excursions throughout the southwest.
In the past, I also:
- Wrote software documentation.
- Created custom FileMaker Pro database solutions.
- Developed applications training material.
- Taught software applications and hardware troubleshooting in a classroom environment.
- Developed and taught software applications for online universities.
- Provided general consulting services.
- Produced the newsletter, Macintosh Tips & Tricks for Giles Road Press (now Flying M Productions).
- Conducted helicopter tours at the Grand Canyon for Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters.
- Held various full-time jobs as an auditor and financial analyst with Automatic Data Processing (ADP) and The New York City Office of the Comptroller.
My hobbies and interests keep me away from my computers as much as possible. I enjoy flying, horseback riding, motorcycling, camping, photography, reading, and gardening.
I received a BBA with highest honors in Accounting from Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY in May 1982.
