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My Writing

My strength as a writer stems from an extensive research background and 10 years of teaching experience. I am confident in my ability to write about any topic after thorough research. In turn, having worked in education, I am accustomed to ensuring content suits a wide-readership. Today, my work can be found on Environment + Energy Leader, A-ZAnimals.com, DriveElectricTN.com, CourierNewsroom.com, WealthofGeeks.com, and TeslaTale.com to name a few. 

A-Z Animals

A-Z Animals •

The Top 6 Reasons Utah Has the Best Skiing in the Country

Utah is home to many gorgeous landscapes, and with that, there are a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities to take advantage of. You can take in the lovely sights all while experiencing an activity of your choosing. Utah boasts all sorts of recreational activities, but skiing is one of the most popular activities for residents and tourists to enjoy. With over 20 ski resorts to explore, Utah has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the best skiing destinations in the U.S. Book the t
A-Z Animals •

5 Largest Airports in Kentucky

The Bluegrass State is best known for the Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Derby. However, the state is also home to several major airports that play a pivotal role in connecting Kentuckians to the rest of the country—and the world. There are 59 airports in Kentucky. If you’re curious to know which one offers the best amenities, or if you’re trying to avoid the hustle and bustle of busy airports, this list is for you! Let’s explore the five largest airports in Kentucky.

The first airport on this
A-Z Animals •

10 Beaches with the Clearest Water in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, the heart and soul of the Caribbean, is a beautiful tropical island located near the Dominican Republic and north of South America. This tiny island offers history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of San Juan to the island’s gorgeous beaches, there’s no shortage of serenity and vibrancy. Puerto Rico offers a lovely blend of old-world charm and coastal allure. You can immerse yourself in the beats of salsa music, fall in love with the island’s delectable cuisin
A-Z Animals •

Discover 10 Cities That Start With Z

With all of the cities, states, and countries around the world, there are hundreds of unique names across the globe. Many of these names originated from historic figures, religious beliefs, or other cultural identifiers. When it comes to unusual city names that start with unique letters, ‘Z’ cities definitely top the charts! This article highlights the top 10 cities that start with Z, along with their specific culture and history.

The Romans settled Zurich nearly 2,000 years ago. It is the larg
A-Z Animals •

Snow in Big Bear: Peak Timing and Average Amounts

Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California. It’s known as a four-season resort area, offering its visitors the best parts of San Bernardino National Forest year-round. You might be wondering: does Big Bear get any snow? Yes, it snows in Big Bear, California! And if you’re an avid skier, snowboarder, or a lover of all things wintery, you might be curious to know the snowiest times to visit Big Bear Lake. If you’re eager to escape to the San Bernardino Mountain
A-Z Animals •

5 Dog Breeds Most Similar to Cane Corsos

The cane corso is known as a protector. In fact, the breed’s name, when translated from Latin, means ‘protector dog.’ The breed’s lineage can be traced to Roman times, but the cane corso wasn’t recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club until 2010. The cane corso is best known as being a protector dog or watchdog, but it does have other traits that can be further developed with good socialization and training.

Cane corsos often stand between 25-28 inches tall and typically weigh more tha
A-Z Animals •

Discover the 5 Most Remote Spots in West Virginia And How to Safely Get There

Wild and Wonderful West Virginia is home to hundreds of beautiful locations. Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia is the only state located within this mountain range. Because of this, the Mountain State is full of rugged landscapes and lush forests. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life or are eager to go on an adventure, West Virginia is a treasure trove of remote, secluded spots that offer solitude and gorgeous vistas. Let’s explore t
A-Z Animals •

10 Incredible Facts That Make Kentucky Like No Other Place in the World

The state of Kentucky is synonymous with bourbon and horses, and while these things are symbolic of the Bluegrass State, Kentucky is known for so many other fun and unique aspects. Kentucky offers a unique and interesting blend of history, culture, and cuisine. Even more, the state’s natural beauty makes it a well-known destination for hiking and adventure. If you call Kentucky home, you might already know many of these facts. However, if you’re unfamiliar with this Mid-west state, you might not
A-Z Animals •

10 Mind-Blowingly Fun Facts About China You Won't Believe

China features ancient history, stunning architecture, and glorious natural landscapes. This country is home to some of the most well-known and beloved architectural wonders, and it warrants much attention due to its rapid technological development. Between its unique, ancient traditions and its cutting-edge technology, China is an interesting and complex country. Whether you’re looking for tasty cuisine or historic art, you’ll be sure to discover what you desire in China. There are so many fun
A-Z Animals •

Discover the 5 Coldest Places in Kentucky

Kentucky is located in the Upland South portion of the southeastern region of the United States. Although Kentucky is one of the northernmost states in the South, it still maintains a humid subtropical climate. Kentucky rarely sees temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer, and in the winter, temperatures generally don’t dip below 0 degrees. In short, Kentucky welcomes hot, humid summers and cold, rainy winters, and the climate throughout the state itself varies by region. Let’
A-Z Animals •

Discover What the Bible Says About the Tigris River

The four countries of Iran, Iraq, Turkey, and Syria border the Tigris River, the second largest river in western Asia. Running alongside the Euphrates River, it is part of the Fertile Crescent, a river system that borders Mesopotamia. This river is so culturally relevant that is makes more than one appearance in the Bible. This all-important religious text offers particular insight into the Tigris River, providing symbolic meaning. Let’s dive in and discover what the Bible says about the Tigris
A-Z Animals •

New York’s Coldest December Ever Was Unbelievably Frigid

Cold temperatures are expected in New York during the month of December. New York’s climate is classified as humid subtropical, which means that winters are generally wet and cold, while summers are hot and humid. New York sees a substantial amount of rain year-round. Overall, the annual average temperatures have a pretty standard range. Winter months span the 30s and 40s, while summer months hover anywhere from the 60s to 70s. However, one winter stands out as the coldest in New York’s history.
A-Z Animals •

5 Secretly Amazing Places to Retire in North Carolina

If you’re looking to retire and unsure where you’d like to spend your freedom years, North Carolina might be a great place to look. North Carolina has the best of both worlds with mountains, beaches, and thriving metro regions. But when it comes to retirement, many are looking for off-the-beaten-path areas. Check out these five secretly amazing places to retire in North Carolina.

Why is North Carolina an Amazing Place to Retire?

North Carolina has a rich history, beautiful towns and urban area
A-Z Animals •

Does It Snow in North Carolina? See Snowiest Places, Timing, and Average Amount

Though North Carolina is often considered a southern state, it does receive snow. In fact, snowfall is quite common in North Carolina with an annual average of 5 inches. Since snowfall depends on elevation, the mountain region and state capital are often the areas that see the most snow. North Carolina is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the eastern side, and these coastal areas rarely see snow. At most, the coastal region might see around 2 inches of snow a year.

Typically, snowfall occurs du
A-Z Animals •

Mulching in the Winter: Should You Do It?

As the winter months descend upon us and the chilly air settles in for the season, the cold weather means it is time to take additional steps to protect your garden. Mulching is a common gardening practice, particularly because it offers numerous benefits when it comes to soil health. It also protects plants, ensuring that when the spring months arrive, your plants are healthy and ready to bloom. However, when it comes to mulching in the winter, one question remains: Should you do it? Mulching i
A-Z Animals •

Lincoln Park Zoo: Ideal Time to Go + 5 Amazing Animal Exhibits to See

The Lincoln Park Zoo is nestled in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, and it is dedicated to connecting people with nature. Admission to the zoo is completely free, and the zoo prioritizes caring for its animals, providing quality education, and emphasizing conservation efforts. Since 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo has provided the city of Chicago an immersive experience with an array of animals. Let’s dive into the ideal time to visit the Lincoln Park Zoo and the five amazing animals you must see.

Th
A-Z Animals •

The 10 Scariest Airports in the U.S. Will Make Your Hair Stand

People often claim that flying is safer than driving, and for the most part, that tends to be true. However, there are still many people who are terrified of flying. Some people are simply anxious about navigating security and busy airports with complex layouts. Others are more concerned with potentially life-threatening factors, like plane crashes. For instance, the altitude, runway design, or surrounding terrain and landscape contribute to making take-off and landing a scary experience for pil
A-Z Animals •

9 Sounds Dogs Make and What They Mean

Dogs, the pet best known as ‘man’s best friend,’ are intelligent, compassionate creatures. If you own a dog, you’ve probably wished that your dog could talk. While human vocalizations are unlikely, our furry companions actually can communicate with humans. Tail-wagging aside, dogs are able to communicate with their owners using different dog sounds, in addition to barking. Some breeds can even vocalize their needs in unique ways. Although certain dogs are more vocal than others, several noises a
A-Z Animals •

The Biggest Thanksgiving Tornado Outbreak to Ever Hit the American South

As families prepared to gather around the table for Thanksgiving on November 25, 1926, little did they know that their holiday would be cut short by devastation. A string of tornadoes tore through parts of central and eastern Arkansas, and a total of 64 people died as a result of the storms. The tornado outbreak caused at least $630,000 in damages, which is the equivalent of more than $10.8 million in 2023. As we prepare for this Thanksgiving, let’s take a look back in history at the biggest Tha

You can read more of my work from A-Z Animals here. 

Drive Electric Tennessee

Drive Electric TN •

10 Electric Vehicles with the Coolest Frunks

“Frunk” isn’t the most glamorous word, but when it comes to electric vehicles, having a frunk is pretty useful. There’s some controversy over who actually coined the term “frunk”—some say Tesla; Car and Driver say they first used it in 2012. But if you haven’t heard the portmanteau used in casual conversation, let’s start with the basics: a frunk is a “front trunk.” In other words, the space at the front of an electric vehicle is open without the need for a bulky engine. Although EVs have an eng
Drive Electric TN •

Top 5 Electric Vehicle Breakthroughs in 2023

In 2023, the electric vehicle industry experienced an exponential amount of growth. With the expansion of charging infrastructure and the hope of more widespread EV adoption, these advancements in technology and innovation continue to reshape the automotive industry as a whole. Let’s look back and explore the 5 electric vehicle breakthroughs of 2023.

One of the most noteworthy breakthroughs of the EV industry in 2023 was the growth of the global EV market. In the United States alone, more than
Drive Electric TN •

Tennessee 'Drive Electric' Specialty license plate now available

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., April 15, 2023–Drive Electric Tennessee is excited to announce the release of its uniquely designed Tennessee specialty license plate created to promote electric vehicles across the state. Our team, in collaboration with our stakeholders, has created a new specialty license plate that allows its registrants to show their support for EVs.

As of April 15, these specialty plates are currently available to the public. You can purchase one by visiting your local county clerk’s offi
Drive Electric TN •

Women trailblazers who are revolutionizing the EV industry

The electric vehicle industry, one that continues to transform mobility, can often feel exclusive as it primarily employs and serves men. However, there are pioneers from marginalized groups who have created space for other innovators to further develop and broaden the electric vehicle industry.

According to automotive and mobility analyst Lisa Whalen , as of May 2022, 47% of women are interested in owning an EV whereas 53% of men are interested. This number has increased significantly since th
Drive Electric TN •

How Union Transportation Company pioneered safe electric transportation in Tennessee

Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the achievements and contributions of the African American community. Since 1976, Black History Month has annually been celebrated in February. This time of celebration is meant to recognize the innovations and sacrifices Black people have made and how this has shaped the political, technological, and cultural development of America.

Drive Electric Tennessee would like to observe Black History Month by sharing a story about a group of Black i
Drive Electric TN •

Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency acquires first all-electric shuttle bus in Tennessee

The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) is the first organization to debut an all-electric shuttle bus in the state of Tennessee.

The project is hopeful to promote EV awareness in rural communities in order to reduce transportation costs and fossil fuel consumption.

The UCHRA offers a number of transportation services, and by acquiring an electric shuttle, not only will it decrease the number of fuel emissions, but electric vehicles offer noise reduction and comfort for passengers o
Drive Electric TN •

10 Exciting Electric Vehicle Breakthroughs in 2022

The electric vehicle industry continued to make strides in 2022. Whether it was the continued increase in electric vehicle adoption or a commitment to electrify fleet vehicles all over the world, 2022 proved to be another year of successful EV development.

Here are ten exciting electric vehicle breakthroughs from 2022.

It should come as no surprise that EV sales have continued to climb. During 2022, EV sales hit an all-time high. According to the global sales of EVs doubled in 2021 and represe

Environment + Energy Leader

Environment+Energy Leader •

Walmart Takes a Green Road Trip: Introducing First 15-liter CNG-Powered Truck

Walmart is accelerating its efforts toward a zero-emissions transportation fleet with the introduction of the first 15-liter CNG-powered truck. This groundbreaking new 15-liter vehicle is the first of its kind to be powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) in North America, and this milestone is made possible through a collaboration between Walmart, engine manufacturer Cummins, and energy company Chevron.

The CNG-powered truck embarked on its inaugural journey from Indiana to California to atten
Environment+Energy Leader •

Performance Food Group Pilots Electric Refrigerated Truck at ACT Expo

Performance Food Group (PFG) and Navistar, Great Dane, and Carrier Transicold, part of Carrier Global, have come together to develop an all-electric refrigerated truck. PFG, with its collaborators, launched a commercial evaluation program using all-electric refrigeration technology on a battery-electric truck. The truck offers sustainable, direct-emissions-free distribution of refrigerated and frozen food.

The technology was presented at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in May, and
Environment+Energy Leader •

Wendy's Shows Commitment to Sustainability in 2022 Report

Wendy’s recently released its 2022 Corporate Responsibility report, highlighting the significant progress it has made in its Good Done Right ESG strategy. The report showcases achievements across three key pillars: Food, People, and Footprint, demonstrating Wendy’s commitment to driving positive change.

Liliana Esposito, chief corporate affairs and sustainability officer at Wendy’s, expressed pride in the collective efforts of the team, stakeholders, and franchisees in delivering on the company
Environment+Energy Leader •

Shell Starship 3.0's Initiative for Cleaner Heavy Transport Revealed at ACT Expo

Shell, the global energy company, has been making efforts towards decarbonization since 2018 through its Shell Starship initiative. In its latest endeavor, the company has introduced the new Starship 3.0, revealed at ACT Expo in Anaheim, California. The Starship 3.0, powered by renewable natural gas (RNG), features the latest technologies available for heavy transport vehicles.

According to Dr. Selda Gunsel, president of Shell Global Solutions and vice president of Fuels and Lubricants Technolo

You can read more of my work from Environment + Energy Leader here.

TeslaTale

Tesla Tale •

New Study Shows Tesla Has the Most Projected Lifetime Recalls

While Tesla continues to be one of the most popular electric vehicle brands globally, the brand still has its fair share of flaws. In 2023, Tesla sold 888,879 vehicles, and the Tesla Model Y—one of the original models—is still a bestselling EV. How can a brand topping bestseller charts also top the list of the brands with the most projected lifetime recalls? The answers might be a little murky and complex, but iSeeCars has unveiled a study on what to watch out for when buying a Tesla.

The Struc
Tesla Tale •

Electric Cars: Are They Worth the Higher Upfront Cost?

The automotive industry, and the subsequent landscape of purchasing a vehicle, continues to shift with the rise and popularity of electric vehicles. With increased electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and tax incentives, there is a definite rise in EV ownership.

Of course, environmental and climate concerns also factor into the growing amount of EVs on the road. However, one of the many issues surrounding EV adoption is the price tag. Many people wonder if the higher upfront cost of EVs compare
Tesla Tale •

9 Lies People Believe About Used Cars

It can be easy to bypass the used car market and go straight for a new model. Used cars can seemingly appear troublesome, inefficient, or a waste of money. These aspects can potentially be true depending on the dealer or private seller you’re buying from. But in actuality, buying a used car can often be a smarter, more cost-effective solution when purchasing your next vehicle.

No matter if you’re buying used or new, there can always be possible downsides or disadvantages. However, if you approa
Tesla Tale •

The Dark Side of Car Financing: 13 Dealership Tricks Exposed

Financing a car can be a complicated process. For many people, a vehicle is a necessity, and with that, financing is a critical part of being able to purchase a car. Without financing, many car owners would not be able to own a vehicle.

The complex jargon and terms surrounding financing can feel overwhelming, vague, and sometimes, maybe even a little shady. Unsuspecting buyers can easily fall victim to some scrupulous tactics used by some dealerships if they’re not cautious.

While buying a bra
Tesla Tale •

Red Flags: 6 Signs of a Dishonest Car Salesman

Buying a car can be an exciting process for some; for others, it can be a nerve-wracking experience. If you’re going to spend upwards of $15,000—and often much more—on a vehicle, you want your questions and concerns to be addressed honestly. Unfortunately, that might not always be the case. Sometimes, you might encounter a car salesperson eager to get a sale, doing whatever is possible.

If you plan on heading out to dealerships and doing some car shopping, there are some red flags to watch out
Tesla Tale •

15 Cars You Can Still Afford When You're Broke

Buying a car isn’t cheap. Car shopping is a feat, filled with crunching numbers, negotiating down prices, and walking away from deals that are still too expensive. Car prices can fluctuate depending on your region and local dealerships, and finding a reliable and budget-friendly vehicle can be a challenging task.

However, several affordable options also offer fuel efficiency and practicality. If you’re in the market for a new car, there are still plenty of options out there that won’t wreck you
Tesla Tale •

13 Tips To Ensure You Don't Get Cheated on Your Car Trade-In

When upgrading your vehicle, the trade-in value of your current car is significant because it determines how much you have to spend on a new vehicle. A low trade-in number means you might not have enough to afford your next ride. To ensure you get the best deal possible, you do a few things to maximize your trade-in value. These tips will provide you with a better deal during the trade-in process.

To start, it’s a good idea to know how much your current car is worth. Understanding your car’s ma
Tesla Tale •

15 Electric Cars with Impressive Range

When buying an electric vehicle, driving range is one of the most important considerations. Many car buyers are hesitant to purchase an EV because of range anxiety. No matter if you’re afraid of running out of gas or your EV battery losing charge, one of a driver’s greatest fears is breaking down or being stranded in the middle of nowhere. However, EV charging is becoming more and more widely available, which is slowly easing the concerns of many car shoppers on the market for an electric vehicl
Tesla Tale •

Pontiac Firebird Over the Years: Good, Bad and Ugly

The Pontiac Firebird first came on the scene in 1967. This American-made vehicle was produced by Pontiac, and it was designed as a pony car. A pony car is an American vehicle that has a “sporty,” or performance-focused image. These cars are generally company and resemble a coupé, and more often than not, they’re convertibles.

The Pontiac Firebird was meant to compete with the Ford Mustang when it was first introduced in February 1967. The vehicle also ended up competing with the Mercury Cougar,
Tesla Tale •

13 Pre-War Cars That Define Beauty and Elegance

Despite the effects of The Great Depression, the automotive industry during the prewar era was at its peak. The 1930s ushered in a generation of wealthy individuals who were willing and eager to pay more for timeless beauty and elegance. Although the automobile was still a relatively new invention by this point in history, car buyers knew how to make a statement with this piece of transportation technology.

During the prewar period, individuals were eager to buy vehicles that emphasized the Ame

Education

Photo by Element5 Digital on Pexels
Dear English Major •

9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting a Ph.D. Program in Literature, Criticism, and Textual Studies — Dear English Major

For seven years I worked tirelessly through my undergraduate and graduate programs all in hopes of getting accepted into a fully-funded Ph.D. program. I have a BA in English and French, and an MA in English and Women’s and Gender Studies, and through each of these degrees, I networked, participated in departmental events, and tried to make a name for myself throughout the universities I was a student at. I jumped through every hoop during my bachelor's and master's; I worked up to five jobs at a
Dear English Major •

Marisa Stickel: Doctoral Student & Graduate Teaching Associate —

College & Majors/Minors: BA in English and French from Fairmont State University in WV; an MA in English and Women’s and Gender Studies from UNC-Wilmington in NC; and a(n) (in-progress) Ph.D. in English from the University of Tennessee in TN.

Where do you work and what is your current position?

As a full-time doctoral student with funding, I serve as a Graduate Teaching Associate, instructing Freshmen Composition for UT’s First-Year Composition program.

Tell us about how you found your first