User:Bloopenguins

Allow me to introduce myself

Hello, Bloo here. I am an American user of Wikipedia and began low-key editing and corrections of pages as I am addicted to the printed word and love learning new things. The development and widespread use of the web has allowed me to learn about things that I would have to spend my life traveling to the world's libraries to acquire information on. Wikipedia has been invaluable in my quest for learning as I do not have enough money to spend on books and living in libraries. I prefer my laptop and a pint of good ale - and they haven't started serving beer at any of the libraries I've been to

I have taught English as a Second Language as well as Broadcast Journalism at University level, and my writing style leans toward conversational.... i.e. I write almost exactly as I speak. (This allows me to justify my run-on sentence structure!)

I love Wikipedia and very much enjoy helping to edit articles for accuracy. I am, but attempt to control my lack, very impatient with poor spelling - as I do realize that it is sometimes difficult to see your errors right away on a computer screen and I am guilty of these types of mistakes myself. Where I really get ticked off is misuse of homonyms. I try to remember that not everyone had the benefits of my unusual education and did not begin reading at age 3 as I did. I am largely self educated, with a little over half of a degree in criminal justice and forensics. I came from a family of teachers and blue collar workers that lit the fire on my desire to learn.

I have no patience for vandals or people who use Wikipedia to tout an entertainer they "just loooooove". Writing that someone had a "very special role" on a show when they had ONE guest appearance before anyone really cared who they....and they are still not that well-known...just annoys the hell out of me. However, I try to leave those pages alone unless they are too over the top.

Anyway, I am enjoying my time on Wikipedia. I will continue to report vandals, politely correct spelling and grammar errors, and keep a lid on my Irish temper when it comes to the manners and stupidity of others. (Note: my definition of stupidity is someone who is ignorant and refuses to learn. Simple naivete and lack of knowledge from people who DO want to learn more and are willing to attempt to improve their minds are no problem to me - and I gladly share my gifts with them.)

Thank you to those who have directed me and encouraged me. I truly appreciate your gracious and kind help.

All the best, Bloopenguins

Bloo (talk) 07:27, 17 September 2008 (UTC)