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.
If Gulfport City leaders pass the Domestic Partnership Registry Tuesday night, the city will be the first in Pinellas County to create a registry for unmarried couples.
From fried green tomatoes to smoked salmon, Stella's serves up breakfast plates made to please. Welcome to our first "Local Flavor" article, complete with a description to jump-start your appetite.
The Gulfport Teen Council asks for award nominations, Fill out the Gulfport Crime Watch survey and more in "5 Things to Know in Gulfport."
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.
Did you miss this week's top stories on Gulfport Patch? President Obama Supports Same-Sex Marriage, "Spring Breakers" Spends $1 in Pinellas County, Teacher's Aide Arrested and more.
We love when our readers share their opinions. Of course, we appreciate it when people agree to disagree, post important questions and share personal stories.
We asked and you guys responded! Yes, you're sending in awesome one-of-a-kind photos taken right here in Gulfport!
Wow! There's a lot going on in Gulfport this weekend. What are you doing? Check out some of the main events listed in our "Events" calendar.
Do you know a young person who has made a difference in another person’s life, in the community, or at school? Please share their story with the Gulfport Teen Council.
Everyone is invited to a free family event in Gulfport this weekend. The first ever May-Faire will feature activities, information and entertainment for all ages.
We have some last minute gift ideas for Mother's Day. Also, check out some of this weekend's events in "5 Things to Know in Gulfport."
How are you at tossing a bean bag? If you're pretty good, you better head out to the first ever Spring Bash by Red Hot Tiki and Yummy's this Saturday! The Corn Hole Tournament begins at 1 p.m.
There are lane closures on Bayway Bridge between St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach to allow for concrete to be delivered for the bridge reconstruction.
Looking for something to do this weekend? We've got a list of local events including the John Levique Pirate Days, SoStudio Art Tour and Country music concert in downtown St. Pete.
Starting today, there will be lane closures on Bayway Bridge between St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach to allow for concrete to be delivered for the bridge reconstruction.
Still looking for that perfect gift for mom? You'll find plenty of one-of-a-kind gifts in and near Gulfport. Check out our suggestions!
President Obama announced today his support for same-sex marriage, with advocates across Florida cheering his decision.
President Obama announced today his support for same-sex marriage, with advocates across Florida cheering his decision.
President Obama announced Wednesday his support for same-sex marriage, with advocates across Florida, including Dunedin, cheering his decision.
From hotel rooms to hiring off duty police officers, the film production spent an estimated $1.3 million during filming in Gulfport, St. Pete Beach and St. Petersburg.
