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.
Share how you feel about a millage rate increase, charging for special events, increasing recreation fees and GEMS fees at tonight's public budget hearing.
The 4th Annual Industrial Strength Chili Cookoff by the Industrial Arts Center is just around the corner. Don't worry, you still have time to enter!
A 69-year-old woman was found floating in between two boats at a South Pasadena Marina.
Upload your photos from Geckofest!
We asked and you guys responded! Yes, you're sending in awesome one-of-a-kind photos taken right here in Gulfport!
The 12th Annual Geckofest kicks off at 10 a.m. on Beach Boulevard! Are you stopping by?
You're invited to the 12th Annual Geckofest celebration in downtown Gulfport. Hear why 30,000 people are expected to attend, including Patch.com.
You're invited to the 12th Annual Geckofest celebration in downtown Gulfport. Hear why 30,000 people are expected to attend, including Patch.com.
RNC Delegates were invited to Gulfport, Tropical Storm Isaac was not. Check out our "Week in Review" for this week's top stories on Gulfport Patch.
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.
You're invited to the 12th Annual Geckofest celebration in downtown Gulfport. Hear why 30,000 people are expected to attend, including Patch.com.
Who do you think should be the next Pinellas County Sheriff? Gulfport City leaders have picked their candidates.
Several Gulfport Police Officers are providing security services during the 2012 Republican National Convention in Tampa.
Are you ready for the annual celebration on Saturday? The free event is expected to lure 30,000 people!
First full day of convention kicks off Tuesday.
Gulfport residents and collectors came out to support glass artist Owen Pach at the Museum of Fine Arts during a "Gallery Talk." A similar event is planned for September 9.
Republican National Committee delegates enjoy the calm before the storm, as Tropical Storm Isaac may crash the convention in Tampa, Fla.
The following people were arrested in Gulfport between August 22 and August 27. The information is from Gulfport Police and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
Tropical storm conditions are still possible today in Gulfport. Check out our photos from around town including storm preps downtown. Feel free to add your photos to our gallery.
