I was born and raised in the Pee Dee. I am a proud graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia (Go Gamecocks!). I received degrees in Journalism and Mass Communications, and in Media Arts.
Prior to becoming editor of Irmo-Seven Oaks Patch, I was an education reporter for a daily newspaper in Florence, SC, for about five years.
In my spare time, I enjoy attending local festivals, concerts and Gamecock sporting events. I also enjoy watching movies, and spending time with family and friends.
I have lived in Columbia, off and on, since 2001. I look forward to getting to know the Irmo community better and meeting new people.
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?
I am not registered to any political party. What’s important to me are the issues, how we choose to address those issues and how we can come together to fix problems that impact our communities, our state, our nation and the world.
Religion
How religious would you consider yourself? (casual, observant, devout, non religious)
I believe in God and know that all things are possible through Him.
Local Hot-Button Issues
What do you think are the most important issues facing the community?
With all communities, the areas of education and economic growth are always important issues as well as public safety.
Theodore Walter Podewil IV, 23, to 15 years in prison but will only have to serve seven years and he must attend a treatment facility for alcohol, drug and mental health issues.
Thirty-two incidents were investigated by Richland County deputies on May 22.
Margie R. Hamm, 34, was arrested Wednesday and charged with homicide by child abuse.
Authorities began the investigation Wednesday night at a home on Lester Drive near Farrow Road.
Jerry Ward Galloway, 36, faces charges of manufacturing methamphetamine and possession of heroin with the intent to distribute.
Deanna Sumter faces up to five years in prison and could be fined up to $250,000, plus a special assessment of $100.
Fifty-three incidents were investigated by Richland County deputies on May 21.
The Freedom Award is the Department of Defense’s highest recognition given to employers for exceptional support of employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve.
The initiative, 100 Days of Nonviolence, aims at reducing youth violence and crime by providing activities, programs and events for children during the summer months
Investigators say in 2012 a tax preparer at M&M Tax Service falsified W-2 forms for people she recruited.
The hearing begins at 6 p.m. in the council's chambers, 2020 Hampton Street.
Motorists should find an alternate route around downtown Columbia after heavy rain and flooding closed several roads.
Forty-seven incidents were investigated on May 20 by Richland County deputies.
The Falcons defeated Airport High, 11-3, in the second game of the best-of-three series Monday night.
The forum will be held Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Benedict College Center for Continuing Education.
The Richland County Sheriff's Department investigated 31 incidents between May 16.
Rain caused the game, scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, to be moved to Monday.
Saturday's win in Gilbert was the Battling Bishop's 16th state title.
The game starts at 7 p.m.
Deputies responded to an aggravated assault at 4349 Crestlite Drive around 8:30 p.m. Thursday night.
