Denise McNamee

By starting a writing career in Iowa at the age of 10, Denise McNamee was certain to reach international popularity. Anxiously awaiting that recognition, she recalls her first award-winning essay: "Why Libraries are Important to Me." Dressed in yellow chiffon with stiff netting scratching at her waist, she walked proudly through the audience to accept the honor from a presenter who had mistakenly called her "Dennis."

It was many years later before she had a poem published. And decades later before her byline would appear in a newspaper. At the time, she was thrilled to report such goings on as the Campbell's joining the Marshall's for a chicken and noodle dinner. In no time at all, her editor recognized that her talents were greater than her assignments so she was promoted to cover more serious matters. She eagerly reported on the convenience clerk's promotion and honed her photography skills by taking shots of oddly shaped squash.

By now, every publication near and far wanted her on its staff. She was eventually wooed to a business newspaper where she focused on interviewing government officials, community leaders and CEOs. A few of the latter made life more exciting when they abruptly resigned or embezzled company funds. She also snagged a few more writing awards, including a highly coveted investigative reporting award and two community service awards.

Denise also wrote her first novel, "Inherited" a few years back. The tragic tale of child abuse that follows a young boy into adulthood has yet to see a publishing house, but she remains optimistic. Her second novel, an intriguing tale of arson and deceit, is in the same position. An avid reader and freelance writer, her work can be seen in many national, regional and local publications.

Today, The Lake Magazine is her passion. She sells ads, writes articles, proofreads, coordinates, and anything else it takes to keep this publication growing in size, scope and popularity. She is a seven-year resident of Edwards, MO, and enjoys swimming, boating, and fishing from her front door on the Lake of the Ozarks.