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Being a Superman buff, Mr. Newland is no stranger to action and helping others. The book he has written addresses the common problems encountered by those who have decided to join the military. "I like to think of this book as a self-help guide and a way to make military experience more enjoyable by eliminating surprises", said Newland.

The book is called "The Military is Like a Cold ShowerÉSomebody should tell you about it before you get in."

This is not a book about war. It is a book that reviews how things in the military work. The author draws on extensive experience in three different branches of the service. He served in the Navy, Marines and the Coast Guard, from which he retired.

While in the service, his duties included laboratory and emergency technician responsibilities. He also worked as a drug abuse counselor, and family advocate officer.

"I made many mistakes, and I saw others make many mistakes,"he said. "By sharing these with others, maybe they won't have some of the same difficulties."

He believes his book is a "must read"for those joining the military, and it is his hope to get copies into the hands of military recruiters to give recruits a clear look at military realities. He said, "The military is not just an adventure, it is a job."

Newland cited some of the areas where mistakes or misconceptions can occur. They included career choices and advancement, economic challenges, marriage and sexuality complications, religion issues and even the process of mourning.

Central Lake is now home for Mr. Newland and his wife Cathy. He is originally from Hartford, Michigan. His grandparents, Josephine and Paul Ecke were long time Central Lake residents.

His book will be available beginning September 17th, but can be ordered now through Borders or Horizon Books. He will have a book signing at the Central Lake library September 19th. The book is published by Publish America.

Jeff Kessler can be reached at perkins90@hotmail.com