E-mail: Erica.Jackson at Patch.com
Phone: 631-605-9648
Facebook: Westhampton-HamptonBaysPatch
Twitter: Westhampbayspatch
A graduate of the Smithtown School District, I found my journalistic calling while attending Suffolk Community College. It was not until a college professor asked me to write an article for the campus paper, the Compass, that I realized I wanted to be a reporter. I changed my major to journalism and graduated with an associates degree in communications. I went on to attend Hofstra University where I earned a Bachelors degree in print journalism.
I started my professional career working for the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce as an administrative assistant. There, I created a monthly newsletter for chamber members. In 1999, I moved on to work for the Smithtown Messenger, covering local politics and happenings. After five years, I took a position as an associate editor for The Traveler Watchman Newspaper in Southold. There, I thrived on local politics, covering a wide-array of topics. During my tenure at The Traveler, I received an honorable mention for investigative reporting from the New York Press Association.
The Traveler Watchman was sold in 2006 to the East Hampton Independent and I took a position with the East Hampton Independent as editor of the newly named, Independent Traveler Watchman.
I took some time off after my daughter, Karen was born, but soon started freelancing for papers, including the News Review of Riverhead and the Long Island Advance of Patchogue. Two years later, my son, Cole was born and I took time to spend with my children. Missing the thrill of journalism, I got back to my computer and started working for SmithtownMatters.com and now, Patch.com.
I am married to my high school sweetheart, Lee. We have two children, Karen and Cole and live in Shirley, NY.
I enjoy hiking, reading, camping, writing and spending as much time as I can with my family.
Got a yard, garage or estate sale coming up in your neighborhood? Let your neighbors know by sharing the event info on Patch.
Got a yard, garage or estate sale coming up in your neighborhood? Let your neighbors know by sharing the event info on Patch.
The car is the third posh ride found after a string of Hamptons car thefts.
Find open houses in the region on this page every week, from our partners at Zillow.
Top events across the Hamptons August 3 and 4.
Top events across the North Fork August 3 and 4.
Top events across the North Fork August 3 and 4.
Top events across the Hamptons August 3 and 4.
Top events across the Hamptons August 3 and 4.
The new firehouse, which will replace the existing 63-year-old firehouse
Have you tried the Rainbow Loom yet? Find out where to get it locally.
The tournament grew from 40 people and 4 teams last year to 120 players on 8 teams this year.
Tips to get your kids ready for 'early to bed and early to rise'!
Tips to get your kids ready for 'early to bed and early to rise'!
Tips to get your kids ready for 'early to bed and early to rise'!
Tips to get your kids ready for 'early to bed and early to rise'!
Tips to get your kids ready for 'early to bed and early to rise'!
Westhampton Beach Coobook author Margaret Johnson shares her recipe for Spinach, Blue Cheese, and Smoked Salmon Tartlets.
Will you be going to the Hampton Bays carnival this weekend?
Police are trying to find this woman who they say stole an iPhone.
