What was your first job as a journalist?
Radio news director at WHAP in Hopewell, VA
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, and because I am spoiled by word processing and computers now, I don't think I could ever go back.
How is social media changing news?
It's making people who are not journalists think they are journalists. Plus, the line has blurred between reporting and opining.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Well, since we're all considered to be "fake news" then it would be me.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Tell the truth, be fair and spell names correctly. Remember, John Smith can be spelled several different ways. Take nothing for granted.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Straightforwardness is always the best way. Before I ever begin putting words to screen, I research all the angles to ensure fair coverage.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
HP Laptop, camera, recording equipment and whatever knowledge I have accumulated in 30+ years in the business.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter, although I do have a substantive Facebook presence.
Who do you wish followed you?
Wow, well, it would be nice to include influential policy-makers and thought-drivers, but I am content with anyone who wants to hear me.
Why did you become a journalist?
I always enjoyed writing and telling stories. I am an information geek and a news hound. I always want to find out more.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, but it has been so long ago, I cannot really remember. I do know I got an A for it.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Probably covering the 1992 presidential debate at the University of Richmond (Bill Clinton, George HW Bush and Ross Perot).
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Don't go into it thinking you'll be covering hot and heavy stories. We all started out with that little Podunk School Board meeting.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Early in the morning before I get distracted with the thousand things I have to do before I go home.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
Well, it was the bottom of the ninth in Game 1 of the World Series, and it was my turn at bat...
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Anything involving a grip-and-grin photo or something with an advertorial slant. I pucker at the thought.
What's your favorite drink?
Diet Dr. Pepper
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
In front of the TV or traveling with my family.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Any other newspaper
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
It's boring. No beat is ever boring. Only the approach one takes to covering it is boring.
