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.
Gulfport Firefighters are reminding drivers to share the road with school buses and slow down in school zones. In fact, the largest fine a driver can get for speeding is through a school zone.
There's a lot going on tonight at Gulfport City Hall; workshop, council meeting, Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting. Find out more in "5 Things to Know Today," Tuesday, August 21.
High School Students at BCHS need to report to their Safety Net Teachers today. Write down important dates for students this year and more in "5 Things to Know Today," Monday, August 20.
We asked and you guys responded! Yes, you're sending in awesome one-of-a-kind photos taken right here in Gulfport!
Here's what you need to know this weekend in Gulfport!
City leaders are moving forward with changes to the political sign ordinance.
Enjoy a family dance party, live comedy show and free art walk all in South Pinellas County this weekend! Watch this week's Patch Minute for complete details on how to enjoy your days off in Gulfport, St. Pete and the beaches.
Enjoy a family dance party, live comedy show and free art walk all in South Pinellas County this weekend! Watch this week's Patch Minute for complete details on how to enjoy your days off in Gulfport, St. Pete and the beaches.
Did you miss this week's top stories? Check out our "week in review" to get caught up!
The Gulfport Senior Center just won't be the same without Marie Louise Love, say her friends. She greeted them at the door with her vibrant smile, colorful hats and infectious humor.
Enjoy a family dance party, live comedy show and free art walk all in South Pinellas County this weekend! Watch this week's Patch Minute for complete details on how to enjoy your days off in Gulfport, St. Pete and the beaches.
Meet the eight talented artists who created one-of-a-kind gecko pieces to be auctioned off at this year's Gecko Ball, "Geckowood!" From a golden Oscar to a new species called Geckosaurus, the show-stopping art pieces are sure to shine.
Elliot Stern will take on Janet Clark in the November general election for a seat on the Pinellas County School Board.
Are you ready for the weekend? You should be! There's a lot going on in Gulfport! Here's what you need to know today.
There is a City Council Workshop, CERT Meeting and Coffee Talk Book Discussion today in Gulfport.
Mark your calendars for these fun-filled events in Gulfport!
The following people were arrested in Gulfport between August 7 and August 14. The information is from Gulfport Police and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
Concerned citizens are donating money for medical care and offering to buy Dreamer. Capt. Jay says Dreamer is part of his family and he shouldn't be forced to give him up.
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.
Expect more seating, food trucks and more on Saturday, Sept. 29 at the Tangerine Greenway in Gulfport.
