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.
Several Gulfport businesses and Fresh Market vendors are offering discounts on goods and services in honor of Older Americans Month. Seniors 50 and older are eligible.
Previous council member and lifelong resident Bob Worthington wants to be Gulfport's next mayor. The election is in 2013.
Chris Herman, a 14-year-old Gulfport teen, is competing in South Korea in the 17th annual Paribas World Team Cup wheelchair tennis tournament.
Everyone is encouraged to join in some friendly competition during the first annual Aquamania at the Gulfport Beach on Saturday, June 23 from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Get ready for the City of Gulfport Hurricane Seminar, Celebrate Older Americans Month with senior discounts and more in "5 Things to Know in Gulfport."
Twice a month, Art Walks in Gulfport attract people of all ages to Beach Boulevard. The Art Village Courtyard is a popular spot for live music, local food and unique vendors during the free event. Check out our photo gallery of the courtyard.
Come one, come all to the Third Saturday Art Walk tonight! Be sure to grab a bite to eat at one of several local businesses and find something unique at the Art Walk!
Did you miss this week's top stories? Check out our "Week in Review."
We want to see your photos! We know we live in paradise and part of that is enjoying a beautiful sunset everyday. We want you to send in your sunset photos from around the area and every Sunday, we'll share it on Gulfport Patch.
Business owners, community members and volunteers came out to the monthly Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce Mixer. Bo-Tiki welcomed the group Thursday night!
We asked and you guys responded! Yes, you're sending in awesome one-of-a-kind photos taken right here in Gulfport!
Update your voter registration information today at the Gulfport Senior Center. That and much more in "5 Things to Know in Gulfport."
Stop by the Third Saturday Art Walk, Craft Beer & Food Truck Festival and Splash and Dash this weekend!
Gulfport CERT Meeting today, Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce Mixer tonight and more in "5 Things to Know in Gulfport."
Gulfport couples are confident more communities will follow the city's actions and create domestic partnership registries. Supporters believe the momentum will eventually lead to legalizing same-sex marriage across the country.
Following a unanimous vote by the Gulfport City Council, Mayor Mike Yakes officially signed the domestic partnership registry into law on Wednesday.
Gulfport Mayor Mike Yakes will sign the domestic partnership registry into law on Wednesday at 9 a.m. at Gulfport City Hall.
Mayor Mike Yakes will publicly sign the ordinance into law Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. in front of Gulfport City Hall.
The following people were arrested in Gulfport between May 1 and 13. The information is from Gulfport Police and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
Gulfport City Council meeting tonight, Sign up for the new City E-Newsletter, Gulfport Fresh Market today and more in "5 Things to Know in Gulfport."
