Jerry Bellune

Jerry Bellune is a writing coach and author of “The Art of Compelling Writing, Volume 1.” For a personally autographed copy, send your check to him at PO Box 1500, Lexington SC 29071-1500.

Unwitting media promote protesters’ propaganda

More than 7,000 students stayed in their seats as Seinfeld, a supporter of Israel in its war with Hamas, advised the students to maintain their sense of humor because they will need it in life.

Don't be guilty of intellectual theft

I used to assign rookie reporters to interview mayors and police chiefs and others who might be newsworthy. Before they left, we discussed issues that might make a news story and their questions that needed ...

Write your stories in your head

I’ve spent much of my life writing about people caught up in perilous and life-threatening situations.

Can newspapers’ golden age be revived?

I spent the first 25 years of my career in daily newsrooms, surrounded by fellow ink-stained wretches. It was educational as well as exciting. And what to do when they won't talk with you.

Local newspapers rank higher than national mainstream media, Gallup poll finds

Gallup found that local newspapers — many of them weekly or semi-weekly papers — plus local radio and TV are more reliable than what they read or see on national news outlets, including CNN ...

Touch readers with sensory words

Visual words for sight allow you to paint vibrant or gloomy pictures. What are you seeing? What’s the size? What’s the light like? What are the colors?

Could the Kansas police raid happen in your town?

The short answer, says attorney and journalism professor Eric Robinson, is unfortunately yes.

Writing life stories

But for all of the death around us, there is a dimension we can bring to readers.

Yes, we need white space

In a black and white movie, you want shadow and light. In a color movie, you want vibrant colors. Without these, they would be unwatchable movies.

Respectful reporting

Some investigative-style TV producers and newspaper reporters abuse their First Amendment freedom. ... They give reporters a bad name. Respectful reporting will get you better results.

BONUS: Who taught Hemingway to write?

I found his writing heavy going. His novel’s opening sentence contained 69 words, six commas and one period.

How to attract readers

It was a great marketing device for newspaper publishers and the two writers.

Have fun with your readers

Do you have fun in writing for your readers? You should. It’s near the top of my list of fun things to do with your clothes on. I’ll bet you might not know that conservative daily, The Wall ...

Closing your stories

Professional writers conclude stories with a bang, a laugh or telling quote.

Is it good enough?

You wrote with both sides of your brain. The right artistic side helped you add touches of your personal perception. The left analytical side made sure you gave all the details your readers will need ...