Time is running out on these cliches

Read Bob Baker's column, "At the end of the day, an about-face on clichés" at your own peril. You may find some phrases lampooned there that have appeared in your own copy. But he will heighten your awareness of clichés. Thanks to him and Chris Pash for calling these clichés to our attention.

I have long loved Michael Gartner's writing. This wonderful Father's Day column he did came to my attention belatedly.

And I call your attention to two recently published books:
Roy Peter Clark's Writing Tools (the book version of the "Writer's Toolbox" series of columns that he published online).
John Rains' "Practical Words on News Writing"