• Katie DolacPatch Staff Verified Patch Staff Badge

  • Dunedin, FL

Email: kathryn.dolac@patch.com

Phone: 727-365-2531

Hometown: My hometown is the U.S. Army. At one time or another, I've called North Carolina, Indiana, Germany, Tennessee, Rhode Island, Virginia, Hawaii and now, Florida my home.

Bio: I'm the editor of Dunedin Patch. I spent six years in print journalism as a features reporter and editor at various Virginia newspapers before joining the government herd as a writer-editor at the U.S. Department of the Interior in Washington, D.C. Ultimately, I missed serving my community as a reporter and journalist, and found Dunedin Patch.

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.

How would you describe your political beliefs

I'm the product of a military upbringing. I'm an independent thinker with what most might consider conservative values. Having just lived in the Washington, D.C. area, I dislike politics and politicians in the national arena as they are today. I believe that true change starts small: first with the individual, then at the community level. We are in charge of our destiny. We must be vigilant and caring citizens for this thing called freedom and democracy to work, and the only time we have is now. So don't be afraid to start small.

Are you registered with a certain party?

No.

How religious would you consider yourself?

I am Catholic and regularly attend Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Dunedin.

Posting Activity

Dunedin|News|

5 Things to Know Today: Friday, Feb. 24

What to do with the kids today, how to get your hands on some Girl Scout cookies, and how to show your favorite business love without breaking the bank.

5 Things to Know Today: Friday, Feb. 24
Dunedin|News|

Group Pushes to Preserve Scenic Edgewater Drive

A citizen group is crafting a longterm plan for improving and preserving Dunedin's most scenic roadway. They want to present their preliminary draft to commissioners at an upcoming meeting.

Group Pushes to Preserve Scenic Edgewater Drive
Dunedin|News|

Authorities Seek Teen in Apparent Mardi Gras Stabbing

Pinellas County Sheriff's deputies are looking to speak with a teenage male in what appears to be an accidental stabbing at the Dunedin Mardi Gras celebration downtown on Feb. 21.

Authorities Seek Teen in Apparent Mardi Gras Stabbing
Dunedin|News|

City May Tighten BB Gun Laws

A rash of BB gun attacks last year prompted the Public Safety Committee to ask for tougher restrictions. A proposed new ordinance would make it illegal to fire a BB gun in city parks.

City May Tighten BB Gun Laws
Dunedin|News|

Teacher Up for 'Outstanding Educator' Award

Dunedin Elementary ESOL teacher Stephanie Whitaker, one of six finalists for Pinellas County School's Outstanding Educator of the Year award, explains what she loves about teaching. She will find out Feb. 27 if she is chosen for the award.

Teacher Up for 'Outstanding Educator' Award
Dunedin|News|

Mutt March a Howling Success

The wacky annual event raised thousands of dollars for the Suncoast Animal League.

Mutt March a Howling Success
Dunedin|News|

5 Things to Know Today: Monday, Feb. 20

Jump start your President's Day with suggestions on things to do after work and how to show your favorite Dunedin merchants some love without spending a dime!

5 Things to Know Today: Monday, Feb. 20
Dunedin|News|

5 Things We Hope You Didn't Miss

You work hard, so we understand you may have missed something. Let us catch you up on the highlights in less time than it takes to finish your coffee.

5 Things We Hope You Didn't Miss
Dunedin|News|

5 Things to Know Today: Friday, Feb. 17

The D-Jays have a special visitor this weekend, Dunedin High School wrestlers go head-to-head at states, and other things worth knowing.

5 Things to Know Today: Friday, Feb. 17