Dennis Jamison

One early attempt at expressing myself through the written word appeared in print as an introduction to my high school yearbook. That first time in print left a lasting impression and may have gone to my head because I briefly considered a writing career and began college majoring in journalism. However, idealism (late 60's) pulled me elsewhere. After graduating from the University of Iowa with a double major in Sociology and Social Work, I volunteered fourteen years of my life away: offering sweat and tears (but little blood - unless you count Red Cross donations). It was all for good.

I grew strong roots in Iowa, and while it is definitely "A Place to Grow" (state motto), I discovered other fields in which to grow as I ripened with age. As Iowa roots receded, I traveled like a tumbleweed blown in the wind (looking for answers). This fit into a dream to truly experience the United States (not as just a tourist, but as a resident of each area). I feel fortunate having journeyed this land and having met many good people. I discovered many fertile places to grow near our northern and southern borders, near each coast, and in middle America as well.

However, one sobering reality I learned is that this is a capitalist society and in order to exist and thrive, tumbleweeds need to settle down and grow new roots; either that or perish. So, I now live in California (quite fertile) and currently work for a division of Johnson and Johnson. In a billion dollar company, I am one of five of a specialized team of business correspondents communicating daily with customers (business and healthcare professionals as well as consumers) via written correspondence. For eight years, I have answered questions, allayed concerns, and provided instructions regarding our medical devices and associated services (including our marketing Web sites).

With spare time, I have written news articles and human interest stories for the Almaden Times and the Blossom Valley Times, two neighborhood newspapers. Two of my short stories have been published in the Cup of Comfort anthologies. I also love to teach and currently tutor English to children of parents who speak little or no English. In addition, I'm currently an active member of our company's Toastmasters' club, having just completed a one year term as the club president. And, I am still growing...