Author, publisher, and retired educator, Regina Long Southall is a freelance writer and poet. Her writing expertise dates back as far as high school. This skill was further mastered after becoming a teacher. Having served as grade chairman for many years, writing, for Regina, was extensive. Regina always had a passion for writing poetry about everyday life experiences.
Regina has written more than 100 poems including The Neighbors We Should Be, Another Day, The Effects of Hurricane Katrina on Our Nation, God Is Getting Our Attention, Anchorman Peter Jennings, My Three Best Friends, Thank You Rev. Dr. Kenneth Eugene Lillard, My First Teacher, My Favorite Pharmacist 2010, Farewell Kappa Sweetheart, Melvin Twitty, and The Presidential Election of History.
As an author, Regina has also written a professional book entitled 'Teaching In Elementary Schools: The Real Deal.' This book explains the ins and outs of being a teacher. Her poems and educational resource allow readers to become involved in situations they have encountered at some point in life.
Regina was featured in the January 1977 magazine issue, Early Years for Teachers through Grade Three. This experience explained her expertise in reinforcing math skills for second grade students who were having problems.
While teaching, Regina wrote the second grade curriculum for World Class Social Studies for Portsmouth Gity Public Schools in the early 90's. In 1993 she became the citywide second grade curriculum writer for Family Life Education.
Her local newspaper, The Virginian-Pilot, featured her in two of its city circulars in 2007 entitled The Currents and The Clipper. These articles made reference to what led her to become an author, causing her to publish 'Poetry from the Heart' in 2006. The circular newspaper coverage in February and March, 2007 then led her to being featured in the 2007 May/June issue of Tidewater Teacher, A Magazine for Teachers across Hampton Roads. The article entitled 'Moving On' made reference to Regina being the retiring elementary teacher who was now moving on to further pursue her writing passion. Regina is now the author of three books. Her third book, 'Coffee Table Poetry: Experiencing the Power of Poetic Literature,' was published February 29, 2012.
Regina received the Apple for The Teacher Award in 1996 sponsored by Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. In 2000 a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of dedicated services rendered in the field of education was presented to her by Delicados, Inc. Portsmouth Chapter, at their 8th Black Educators' Awards Dinner. Elizabeth City State University School of Educational Psychology, Elizabeth City, North Carolina held its International American Education Assembly Program on Thursday, November 18, 2010. The national theme was "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility" and "To Boldly Go: Charting Our Common Future through International Education." Regina was one of six authors recognized. The other five honorees were all ECSU professors.
On June 24, 2012, Regina was one of fourteen recognized by the Area II NAACP ACT-SO Coalition at their 'Tribute to Excellence Awards Celebration'. This honor recognized role models of Hampton Roads who have made outstanding achievements. She was recognized in the categories, poetry/education.
Regina was also recently honored as Author of the Month by UBAWA (Urban Books Authors & Writers of America) for the month of December, 2012. UBAWA was founded in 2010 by Danielle Leach who features an online network of authors across the country.
Regina is the winner of We Read Literary Services 'What Christmas Means to Me' 2012. She will receive one custom designed book cover.
Regina is a Silver Star and Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is a native of Portsmouth, Virginia. She graduated from Norfolk State College (now University) and Regent University Graduate School of Education. She retired as a public school educator, working in the Portsmouth and Suffolk City Public School systems, respectively, in 2004, rendering 32.8 years of dedicated service. She and her husband, Alton, are the parents of two adult children - a son, Jason , and a daughter, Andrea.
About “Coffee Table Poetry”
'Coffee Table Poetry: Experiencing the Power of Poetic Literature' was written to inspire everyone needing encouragement to excel. Reading her poems will enable you to appreciate what has been accomplished in life. Every poem will be appreciated from a personal point of view and will affect each reader differently.
DP: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?
Regina: I decided I wanted to become an author when I became a teacher because I was always writing lesson plans, creating workshop programs, developing curriculums, and attending in-services that required extended written assignments, making presentations, and always having to write something for school during my hours away from school.
DP: How did you decide on the idea for your first book?
Regina: My poem, "The Neighbors We Should Be" was written as Hurricane Isabel was destroying my neighborhood on September 17, 2003. This disaster made everyone realize how unimportant material things are. It distinctly exemplified service rendered by neighbors as they strengthened neighborhood bonds. When I completed this poem that evening, I kept writing poems for days. I ended up with 46 poems. I submitted my poems to Xlibris Publications in June, 2006. My first poetry book entitled 'Poetry from the Heart' was published October 30, 2006.
DP: How long did it take you to write your first book?
Regina: I worked off and on, writing my first poetry book for three years. Since I was still teaching, I had to find time to work on my writing passion.
DP: Did you self-publish or are you signed to a publishing company?
Regina: All of my books are self-published.
DP: How did you decide on the cover for your most recent book?
Regina: I knew I wanted to continue to write poems for a book that could be placed on a coffee table. This book would be visible if placed there. I was certain anyone passing by would pick it up because of a coffee cup and an open book appearing on the front. People also usually drink a cup of coffee while reading. I visualized a cover that would be inviting.
DP: Tell us about your writing style. Do you write on a schedule?
Regina: My writing style usually deals with experiences I have encountered throughout my life. I write when I desire, at any time of the day. What I write is usually based on how feel about something that has happened in my life. I also write about those who have helped me to be who I am today. I have no set schedule for writing. When the urge hits me, I write.
DP: What makes your writing unique?
Regina: All of my writing is one of a kind. I am able to take just a simple thought and develop it into a poem or even a story.
DP: As a writer, what motivates you?
Regina: As a writer, I am motivated to write when I have encountered a loss, a surprise, an honor, or even a hurtful moment.
DP: How do you balance your writing and various responsibilities that come along with being an independent author?
Regina: I have no difficulty balancing responsibilities and being an independent writer now that I am retired. I manage my day by day routine as I please. I usually enjoy writing in the early morning hours. Since my children are grown, I have no problem establishing quiet time. My husband does his own thing and allows me to do my writing because he knows what my goals are.
DP: When you’re not writing what are you doing?
Regina: When I am not writing I am usually clipping coupons, shopping for bargains, watching the game show channel and other talk shows like 'Live With Kelly and Michael', 'The View', 'The Talk', 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show', and 'Family Feud'. I also travel extensively. I only have 14 of our 50 states to travel to.
DP: What’s a typical day like for you?
Regina: A typical day in my life includes eating breakfast and then checking my facebook page to see who has communicated with me. I also enjoy being able to sleep as late as I want to and not having to leave the house if I don't want to.
DP: Tell us about your last book signing.
Regina: My last book signing was held on March 25, 2012 at the Community United Presbyterian Church, 801 Cavalier Boulevard, Portsmouth, Virginia. Friends in attendance purchased my most recent book publication, 'Coffee Table Poetry: Experiencing the Power of Poetic Literature.' They also had an opportunity to read my table displays that illustrated past book signings. Refreshments were also served. They were impressed by my cake being a picture of the cover of my 'Coffee Table Poetry' book.
DP: Do you have contests or giveaways?
Regina: Sometimes I give away a magnet that shows my book cover. I also give out complimentary copies of my books to family and friends.
DP: Many independent authors find it hard to get readers to buy their books. How did you handle the challenges that come along with being a first-time author in a competitive and ever-changing market?
Regina: I have to be my own book marketer. I had a huge button of my first poetry book made by a mall vendor. The button did attract attention which caused some people to make a purchase. I even had a t-shirt made that I would wear to attract attention.
DP: What did you do on your 2nd book that you did not do in your first one?
Regina: My second book was published by a different company because the second company paid more attention to the size of my lettering on each page than the first company. I also gave a copy of the poem I dedicated my book to long before the book was published. The book, which was my professional book, was dedicated to my first teacher. She received the poem along with a picture of the two of us two years before the book was published. This book was published in 2009 and my first teacher died in 2012. I am glad I was able to honor her long before her death.
DP: If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be?
Regina: I would advise an upcoming author to stay the course when attempting to formulate written expressions. Since success does not happen overnight, you must have faith in God.
DP: Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?
Regina: Readers can purchase a copy of my book by going to http://outskirtspress.com/coffeetable poetry, amazon.com, barnes&noble.com., and The Norfolk State University Bookstore, Norfolk, Virginia.
Regina has written more than 100 poems including The Neighbors We Should Be, Another Day, The Effects of Hurricane Katrina on Our Nation, God Is Getting Our Attention, Anchorman Peter Jennings, My Three Best Friends, Thank You Rev. Dr. Kenneth Eugene Lillard, My First Teacher, My Favorite Pharmacist 2010, Farewell Kappa Sweetheart, Melvin Twitty, and The Presidential Election of History.
As an author, Regina has also written a professional book entitled 'Teaching In Elementary Schools: The Real Deal.' This book explains the ins and outs of being a teacher. Her poems and educational resource allow readers to become involved in situations they have encountered at some point in life.
Regina was featured in the January 1977 magazine issue, Early Years for Teachers through Grade Three. This experience explained her expertise in reinforcing math skills for second grade students who were having problems.
While teaching, Regina wrote the second grade curriculum for World Class Social Studies for Portsmouth Gity Public Schools in the early 90's. In 1993 she became the citywide second grade curriculum writer for Family Life Education.
Her local newspaper, The Virginian-Pilot, featured her in two of its city circulars in 2007 entitled The Currents and The Clipper. These articles made reference to what led her to become an author, causing her to publish 'Poetry from the Heart' in 2006. The circular newspaper coverage in February and March, 2007 then led her to being featured in the 2007 May/June issue of Tidewater Teacher, A Magazine for Teachers across Hampton Roads. The article entitled 'Moving On' made reference to Regina being the retiring elementary teacher who was now moving on to further pursue her writing passion. Regina is now the author of three books. Her third book, 'Coffee Table Poetry: Experiencing the Power of Poetic Literature,' was published February 29, 2012.
Regina received the Apple for The Teacher Award in 1996 sponsored by Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. In 2000 a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of dedicated services rendered in the field of education was presented to her by Delicados, Inc. Portsmouth Chapter, at their 8th Black Educators' Awards Dinner. Elizabeth City State University School of Educational Psychology, Elizabeth City, North Carolina held its International American Education Assembly Program on Thursday, November 18, 2010. The national theme was "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility" and "To Boldly Go: Charting Our Common Future through International Education." Regina was one of six authors recognized. The other five honorees were all ECSU professors.
On June 24, 2012, Regina was one of fourteen recognized by the Area II NAACP ACT-SO Coalition at their 'Tribute to Excellence Awards Celebration'. This honor recognized role models of Hampton Roads who have made outstanding achievements. She was recognized in the categories, poetry/education.
Regina was also recently honored as Author of the Month by UBAWA (Urban Books Authors & Writers of America) for the month of December, 2012. UBAWA was founded in 2010 by Danielle Leach who features an online network of authors across the country.
Regina is the winner of We Read Literary Services 'What Christmas Means to Me' 2012. She will receive one custom designed book cover.
Regina is a Silver Star and Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is a native of Portsmouth, Virginia. She graduated from Norfolk State College (now University) and Regent University Graduate School of Education. She retired as a public school educator, working in the Portsmouth and Suffolk City Public School systems, respectively, in 2004, rendering 32.8 years of dedicated service. She and her husband, Alton, are the parents of two adult children - a son, Jason , and a daughter, Andrea.
About “Coffee Table Poetry”
'Coffee Table Poetry: Experiencing the Power of Poetic Literature' was written to inspire everyone needing encouragement to excel. Reading her poems will enable you to appreciate what has been accomplished in life. Every poem will be appreciated from a personal point of view and will affect each reader differently.
DP: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?
Regina: I decided I wanted to become an author when I became a teacher because I was always writing lesson plans, creating workshop programs, developing curriculums, and attending in-services that required extended written assignments, making presentations, and always having to write something for school during my hours away from school.
DP: How did you decide on the idea for your first book?
Regina: My poem, "The Neighbors We Should Be" was written as Hurricane Isabel was destroying my neighborhood on September 17, 2003. This disaster made everyone realize how unimportant material things are. It distinctly exemplified service rendered by neighbors as they strengthened neighborhood bonds. When I completed this poem that evening, I kept writing poems for days. I ended up with 46 poems. I submitted my poems to Xlibris Publications in June, 2006. My first poetry book entitled 'Poetry from the Heart' was published October 30, 2006.
DP: How long did it take you to write your first book?
Regina: I worked off and on, writing my first poetry book for three years. Since I was still teaching, I had to find time to work on my writing passion.
DP: Did you self-publish or are you signed to a publishing company?
Regina: All of my books are self-published.
DP: How did you decide on the cover for your most recent book?
Regina: I knew I wanted to continue to write poems for a book that could be placed on a coffee table. This book would be visible if placed there. I was certain anyone passing by would pick it up because of a coffee cup and an open book appearing on the front. People also usually drink a cup of coffee while reading. I visualized a cover that would be inviting.
DP: Tell us about your writing style. Do you write on a schedule?
Regina: My writing style usually deals with experiences I have encountered throughout my life. I write when I desire, at any time of the day. What I write is usually based on how feel about something that has happened in my life. I also write about those who have helped me to be who I am today. I have no set schedule for writing. When the urge hits me, I write.
DP: What makes your writing unique?
Regina: All of my writing is one of a kind. I am able to take just a simple thought and develop it into a poem or even a story.
DP: As a writer, what motivates you?
Regina: As a writer, I am motivated to write when I have encountered a loss, a surprise, an honor, or even a hurtful moment.
DP: How do you balance your writing and various responsibilities that come along with being an independent author?
Regina: I have no difficulty balancing responsibilities and being an independent writer now that I am retired. I manage my day by day routine as I please. I usually enjoy writing in the early morning hours. Since my children are grown, I have no problem establishing quiet time. My husband does his own thing and allows me to do my writing because he knows what my goals are.
DP: When you’re not writing what are you doing?
Regina: When I am not writing I am usually clipping coupons, shopping for bargains, watching the game show channel and other talk shows like 'Live With Kelly and Michael', 'The View', 'The Talk', 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show', and 'Family Feud'. I also travel extensively. I only have 14 of our 50 states to travel to.
DP: What’s a typical day like for you?
Regina: A typical day in my life includes eating breakfast and then checking my facebook page to see who has communicated with me. I also enjoy being able to sleep as late as I want to and not having to leave the house if I don't want to.
DP: Tell us about your last book signing.
Regina: My last book signing was held on March 25, 2012 at the Community United Presbyterian Church, 801 Cavalier Boulevard, Portsmouth, Virginia. Friends in attendance purchased my most recent book publication, 'Coffee Table Poetry: Experiencing the Power of Poetic Literature.' They also had an opportunity to read my table displays that illustrated past book signings. Refreshments were also served. They were impressed by my cake being a picture of the cover of my 'Coffee Table Poetry' book.
DP: Do you have contests or giveaways?
Regina: Sometimes I give away a magnet that shows my book cover. I also give out complimentary copies of my books to family and friends.
DP: Many independent authors find it hard to get readers to buy their books. How did you handle the challenges that come along with being a first-time author in a competitive and ever-changing market?
Regina: I have to be my own book marketer. I had a huge button of my first poetry book made by a mall vendor. The button did attract attention which caused some people to make a purchase. I even had a t-shirt made that I would wear to attract attention.
DP: What did you do on your 2nd book that you did not do in your first one?
Regina: My second book was published by a different company because the second company paid more attention to the size of my lettering on each page than the first company. I also gave a copy of the poem I dedicated my book to long before the book was published. The book, which was my professional book, was dedicated to my first teacher. She received the poem along with a picture of the two of us two years before the book was published. This book was published in 2009 and my first teacher died in 2012. I am glad I was able to honor her long before her death.
DP: If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be?
Regina: I would advise an upcoming author to stay the course when attempting to formulate written expressions. Since success does not happen overnight, you must have faith in God.
DP: Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?
Regina: Readers can purchase a copy of my book by going to http://outskirtspress.com/coffeetable poetry, amazon.com, barnes&noble.com., and The Norfolk State University Bookstore, Norfolk, Virginia.
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