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 a 1970s rock band to a performance filled with 1950s classic hits, there's plenty to entertain music lovers of all generations this weekend.
Soon, you can swing by the Gulfport Fresh Market on your way home from work or dinner on the town.
From a 1970s rock band to a performance filled with 1950s classic hits, there's plenty to entertain music lovers of all generations this weekend.
The following people were arrested in Gulfport between August 28 and September 4. The information is from Gulfport Police and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
What began in 2008 as a small music event to shine a light on the business corridor along 49th Street South in St. Petersburg and Gulfport has blossomed into one of the Bay Area's most formidable blues festivals.
Mayday! Mayday! Be on the lookout for Capt. Jay's boat.
That's right! Stop by the Gulfport Historical Museum and learn more about everyday living in the 1950s, 60s and 1970s in the new fall exhibits.
Progress Energy unveiled Gulfport's first electric charging station.
Domain Home Accessories celebrated a benchmark with the grand opening of their new art gallery, residents say, the achievement is also kicking off a re-birth of art in Gulfport.
Many of us remember where we were when terrorist attacks took place at the World Trade Center, Pentagon and in the air on September 11, 2001. Where were you?
Organizers of Gulfport’s annual Gecko Ball are encouraging the public to vote now on the theme of next year’s event.
Thousands chanted, cheered and called for support for President Barack Obama following his visit to St. Petersburg College this weekend.
President Barack Obama says he has a plan that will create jobs, expand renewable energy and strengthen the workforce. Watch our video to hear more.
President Barack Obama says his plan will create jobs, expand renewable energy and strengthen the workforce. Watch our video to hear more.
The former GOP Florida governor underscored his support for Democratic President Barack Obama at a rally Saturday at St. Petersburg College.
You're invited to an art gallery grand opening, gallery talk by a well-known local artist and a special evening of tango dancing at the historic Gulfport Casino Ballroom. Yep, there's a lot going on this weekend in Gulfport!
Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about President Barack Obama's visit Saturday to the Seminole campus of St. Petersburg College.
Stroll along Williams Pier in Gulfport and you may encounter a feathered friend. I did! And I decided to share some pics with all of you! Upload your photos to Gulfport Patch as well.
We asked and you guys responded! Yes, you're sending in awesome one-of-a-kind photos taken right here in Gulfport!
Volunteers released 40 baby Loggerhead turtles after sunset Thursday night at Fort De Soto Park. We caught the little guys heading out to sea on video!
