What was your first job as a journalist?
Working as a copykid one day a week at The News Journal in Daytona Beach, Fla.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes.
How is social media changing news?
Immediacy, and, as Jay Rosen might argue, more democratic. The wall between the pro and the amateur has been reduced, if not eliminated.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Fletch.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
For me, I am more of a chronicler. I want to let our readers know what happened and who said what.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Not sure. They are so ephemeral.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Just tell me what you think would be a good story for our readers. Call, text or email.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I like Storify, Twitter, Google Docs, Corel Video Editor, JVC video camera, Samsung Galaxy SIII.
What's your favorite social network?
It used to be Twitter, but I get more feedback on Facebook. Seems like I am a persona non grata on Twitter.
Who do you wish followed you?
People who have a broad view of the world. My posts are all over the board.
Why did you become a journalist?
I wanted to get paid to write.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No, I did not.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Suicide series for which I won an award from the Society of Professional Journalists for scientific/medical writing.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
You have to want to do this. The pay is OK, but not great. And, you better be curious. We don't need journalists who are not curious.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Any time.
