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.
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!
Looking for something to do this weekend? Check it out, we're highlighting the Tampa Bay Rays, Sand Dance at art gallery grand opening in Gulfport.
One year ago, the teen band Circle 4 made their "big break" at Geckofest in Gulfport. The group graced the stage again with a mix of rock and blues.
John Burki, known as Captain Jay, told a Pinellas County Judge he sold his boat and was unable to move it by the deadline because of bad weather.
You're invited to the grand opening ceremony for a new art gallery space provided by Domain Home Accessories this weekend in Gulfport.
Increased fees and special charges are projected to help balance the budget while giving citizens the quality of life they deserve, according to Mayor Mike Yakes.
A Boca Ciega High School student who snuck a gun into school was caught when another teen alerted police.
Firefighter and EMT Brian Campbell has been with the Gulfport Fire Department since 1996.
The following people were arrested between Feb. 7- Feb. 13. The information is provided by the Gulfport Police Department and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. The Police Blotter also includes the Gulfport Police Department's call log.
Happy Monday! Today is Feb. 14, 2011.
During the weeks leading up to the municipal elections, Gulfport Patch will feature a City Council Candidate Question of the Week every Monday.
Check out what we're working on for Gulfport Patch this week.
We found the Bald Eagle’s Nest, biked over a body of water and worked up a sweat on the Pinellas Trail.
Each week, we’ll tell you about one great idea to give you a much deserved break, and make your life a little easier, maybe a whole lot easier.
Here’s a recap of Gulfport Patch’s coverage this week.
Patch's weekend round up of news and events.
Nearly 10 years ago Seth Thayres joined the Gulfport Police Department Explorers program. Now, he’s saying goodbye to the Gulfport family after receiving a position with the Department of Homeland Security.
Check out our Gulfport Patch Picks of the week.
Friends of the Gulfport Library can help.
