For those of you who don't know me personally, allow me to give you some random, but insightful information about me.
Favorite Superhero?: Batman. Awesome cape, cool car, and he somehow fits everything into that utility belt of his.
Goals or Dreams?: I've already accomplished many of them, but I'd like to do more writing. I'd also like to record a jazz album with a band. I'm looking forward to fatherhood someday, too.
What Do You Do In Your Spare Time?: I spend time with our animals. We have a dog, a kitten, and three guinea pigs. I'm also a fan of heavyweight boxing. My favorite fighters to watch are David Tua, Lennox Lewis, Joe Frazier, Rocky Marciano and several others.
You named your dog Joe Frazier, right?:Yes, I did. Frazier was a warrior in that ring. A relentless brawler. My dog has the same amount of energy. He'll be smokin' right on you.
Who do you think was the best?: That's the million dollar question. Styles make fights. I don't think there was any heavyweight who would soundly beat all the others. But, I gotta admit that Mike Tyson was extra special in his prime. Fast hands, explosive power, good head movement and defense.
Favorite Singer?: The King of Pop. Great songwriter, great singer, great dancer. He could do it all.
Favorite TV Show?: It's a close three-way tie between Tales From The Crypt, Third Watch, and The Simpsons.
What do you like about Tales From The Crypt?: The show had many smart storylines. And they touched upon everything. Murder, vampires, ghosts, ghouls, zombies, werewolves, monsters, etc. I'm a horror fan, so the show has a special appeal to me. I have the whole show on DVD.
How did you break into journalism?: Good question. It was hard. I'm always updating my portfolio and writing for everyone I can. I have something to offer any publication. To sum it up, just keep fishing until you get a bite.
Have you ever been an editor?: In college, I turned down that opportunity because I was focused on sharpening my writing. I edit my own stories. As a result, my editors rarely make any changes. I've thought of going back to school later in life so that I can teach journalism.
Describe your first experience with The Tennessee Tribune: Well, they had read my work, but never seen me. I was communicating with Ms. Perry via email. We hadn't even talked on the phone. So I went to Nashville to meet her, and everyone kept staring at me. I mean, really gocking at me. I assumed it was because of my dreads. I figured maybe they didn't approve of my hair. It turns out they thought I was going to be a white guy.
Because of your polished writing style?: Yes, and because I wrote about so many diverse topics. We all had a big laugh about it.
Speaking of dreads, why do you wear them?: Spiritual and cultural reasons.
How long have you been growing them?: Four years
What was Joe Theismann like?: He's a good guy. Really friendly and approachable.
Any siblings?: I have a sister.
How'd you meet your finacee?: We went to college together.
In your opinion, why do so many people hate reporters?: Because a lot of them misquote people or write pieces that attack their subjects. I refrain from those things. There's no opinion or bias in any of my articles. I simply write the truth. That's what a good journalist is supposed to do. For example, if you observe the president wearing a blue tie, write that down. Don't say it was a green tie when it clearly wasn't.
What's the most frustrating thing about journalism?: When people call the publication begging to have a story done on them, and then they play hard to get when the reporter tries to reach them for an interview. It doesn't happen all the time, but it does happen. And, there are times when you have to get a lot done before a deadline. But that's the thrill of the job. I like the rush...sometimes.
You look just like your father, you know: I hear that a lot.
Any concluding remarks?: Be yourself. Who else is better qualified?