The Hawaiian word for people born and raised in the islands is kama`aina. Hawai`i's kama`aina have a deep appreciation for and intimate relationship with their home, but even after more than three decades here, Iowa native Doug Carlson doesn’t qualify.  Undeterred, he has created a niche and is promoting an even more exclusive group, the comma`aina -- those who demonstrate a deep appreciation for and intimate relationship with English, their native language.  (FYI, both words are pronounced like the punctuation mark.)

Attorney-turned-writer Lennie Carlson, Doug's communications partner and wife, is responsible for this tongue-in-cheek wordplay and defines it: "Comma`aina -- a consultant in Hawai`i who specializes in communications services."

It's universally observed that business writing is slipping, and that's why businesses need access to a qualified writer/editor -- a comma`aina.  Almost all business writing can be improved, from correspondence, to press releases, to brochures and web content.

A company's website is its calling card to the world, offering an early opportunity for potential clients and customers to make decisions about purchasing products and services.  The site obviously must be written impeccably, with proper grammar, consistent punctuation and correct spelling.  Sloppy writing is intolerable.  Doug provides backup for businesses and organizations that welcome outside editorial support in maintaining high standards.  He enhances his clients' editorial content quickly to improve meaning and eliminate embarrassing grammar and spelling mistakes. 

For clients with media relations requirements, Doug's experience as a newspaper reporter and editor, broadcast journalist and corporate communications manager gives him a first-hand knowledge of what makes the media tick and how to attract coverage. 

In the Internet age, a company's communications aptitude is on display 24 hours a day.  Comma`aina Communications  helps ensure a professional product that enhances the organization's image and reputation.