September 15, 2009 is the publication date of "Murder Past, Murder Present," an anthology of short stories written by members of ACWL, the American Crime Writers League, published by Twilight Times Books.

I wrote one of the stories:  Dead on the 4th of July.

This came about when someone (I've unfortunately forgotten who) said to me that Dead on the 4th of July would be a good title for me to use.  Obviously, I agreed.  I just wish I could remember who made the suggestion, so I could thank him or her.

Naturally, my first thought for the story was that it would have to feature fireworks.  And it surely does.  The main character is a Licensed Pyrotechnist!

Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine www.the mysteryplace.com is one of my favorite magazines, always full of great mystery short stories.  One of which, in the June 2009 issue, is one of mine.  "The Trombone Player" grew from something a friend of mine said.  Short stories often happen that way.  In this case, a friend who plays trombone with a group--sometimes--explained to me that he came along after the group was formed, so he can only play with them if a trombone player is sick, or goes on a trip.  Won't you ever be a full time member? I asked.  Not unless somebody dies! he said.  And there was the story.  All I had to do was write it!