Burying the Lede
Page 29
Of course, any ability I have to tell a story clearly is the result of the help I received long ago from editors in the newspaper world. To them I owe everything, and not just in my newspaper career. Helping to hone my writing skills made possible my management career as well, and certainly was important in writing this novel. The two most important were leaders at the Globe-Gazette in Mason City, Iowa, when I was there: Editor Bill Brissee and City Editor Dick Sullivan. Sadly, both have since passed away. I thought of them often when constructing the newspaper articles and newsroom scenes in the book.
I also want to thank the leaders at Mercy Health Network in Iowa. Their tolerance and support of extra-curricular activities made it possible to undertake and complete projects such as this.
Dr. Anthony Paustian and also the wonderful people at Bookpress Publishing have my sincere gratitude. It has been wonderful to work with people who are so knowledgeable and supportive. Their interest in this book and encouragement to write a sequel are greatly appreciated.
I want to conclude by thanking my family. Not only did my loved ones tolerate my hours at the keyboard, avoiding household chores and other responsibilities, but some also played an active role in helping with the book. Daughter Beth’s editing is especially appreciated, as she somehow found time to do it while studying journalism and business at Drake University and working two jobs.
There are others, of course. It’s hard to know where to draw the line. I only can hope that everyone who has helped me, from my earliest teachers to college professors to the law enforcement officials who let me watch them work to the members of my family, knows that I am forever grateful. Completing this book has long been a dream, and you made it possible. Thank you.