I am a multimedia journalist. I've worked for local NBC and CBS affiliates, documentary companies and contributed video and content for an Emmy Award winning website. I began my career in journalism when I was 19 years old, working as a news production assistant for KELO TV in Sioux Falls, SD. In the past 7 years I worked my way up from running prompter to anchoring the evening news. I spent time with KELO-TV in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, KVLY-TV & KXJB-TV in Fargo, North Dakota. I've reported on tornado stricken towns, state and federal murder trials, and record-breaking snowstorms. I've been to Washington D.C. for special assignments. My work has been featured on the CBS Morning Show and has caught the attention of the Oprah Winfrey Show.
I spend my free time with my husband Robert and 12-year-old Persian cat Snow White. We enjoy almost everything outdoors including beach volleyball, camping, hiking, mountain biking, jet skiing and tubing in the summer and winter. I have the bruises to prove it!
I recently moved to Florida and I look forward to reporting and learning about the community inside and out.
Your Beliefs
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. This disclosure is not a license for you to inject your beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that your beliefs are on the record will cause you to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you ever see evidence that we failed in this mission, please let us know.
Politics
How would you describe your political beliefs? Are you registered with a certain party?
I am a registered Independent and have been since I turned 18. I vote according to issues and candidates' qualifications, beliefs and voting record. Given that, I'm a firm believer of freedom of speech, the right to bear arms and am a strong supporter of the United States Military and Veterans of our country's wars and conflicts.
Religion
How religious would you consider yourself?
I believe in God and a greater being and purpose, but I do not currently attend church or belong to any religious organizations.
Local Hot-Button Issues
What do you think are the most important issues facing the community? Where do you stand on each of these issues?
I'm new to the Gulfport community and look forward to covering local politics, community development and city growth.
From 50% off to 25$ off, Gulfport businesses are offering local deals on everything from jewelry to home decor and antiques. Be sure to shop on Small Business Saturday!
The entire house is a loss but the family of five is safe, because of the quick response of a grandmother who awoke to the crackle of flames.
Books make great holiday gifts. Give your loved ones these books as stocking stuffers this holiday season.
Who's going to the Pre-Thanksgiving Bash tonight at the Gulfport Casino Ballroom! Burn off those calories before turkey day! That and more in "5 Things to Know Today."
Upload your best local photos here — yours might be picked to be Gulfport Patch's Facebook Cover Photo in December!
Thanksgiving is almost here! The Gulfport Senior Center is hosting a meal for members today and the Tuesday Fresh Market is sure to have gifts for the entire family. That and more in "5 Things to Know Today."
The following people were arrested between November 11 and 18. The information is provided by the Gulfport Police Department and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
Have you seen this man? Gulfport Police are asking for your help following several burglaries in the Pasadena Yacht and Country Club. That and more in "5 Things to Know Today."
With manatees moving to warmer waters as the temperature dips in Florida, boaters are reminded to take extra precautions to protect them.
The winners of Gulfport's First Annual Youth Book Writing Contest are announced. Three talented writers, ages 9, 11 and 14, will become published authors.
Have you seen this man? Gulfport Police need your help.
Did you miss our top stories? Check out our "Week in Review" to get caught up!
Learn all about planting fruit trees, urban gardens, a community food table and more at "Green Saturday" on Nov. 24 in Gulfport.
We want to see your photos! We know we live in paradise and part of that is enjoying a beautiful sunset everyday. Starting today, we want you to send in your sunset photos from around the area and every Sunday, we'll share it on Gulfport Patch.
We asked and you guys responded! Yes, you're sending in awesome one-of-a-kind photos taken right here in Gulfport!
A turkey can't just sit alone on the table. Here are some recipes for Thanksgiving's most popular side dishes.
Get all your holiday shopping done before Thanksgiving! Shopapalooza is all day today with the Third Saturday Art Walk kicking off tonight. That and more in "5 Things."
The following people were arrested between November 1 and 10. The information is provided by the Gulfport Police Department and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
There's still time to drop off donations at Gulfport On The Rocks for Hurricane Sandy victims in New Jersey. Also, we have more info on how you can recycle your holiday decorations in today's "5 Things."
Watch sand sculptures come to life this weekend at Treasure Island, the sand sculpture capital of Florida! Watch our video to hear more about the competition.