What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job as a journalist was at 16 covering Scouts and BOE meetings for a tiny weekly in the Adirondacks. I still have the clippings.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, I have used a typewriter! My first articles were done in 1991 on a typewriter (and not for kitch reasons - that was the tool I had).
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Today what it means to be a journalist is being a torchbearer for truth, creativity and the human spirit. It's not easy, but it's worth it.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer email pitches for stories. Yes, I've taken a few stories I've been pitched in the veggie aisle at Wegmans, but I prefer email.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
My most used tools of the trade are my Bic pens, notebooks, iPhone, my "big" Canon, my desktop computer and all my social media accounts.
What's your favorite social network?
My favorite social network for my journalism work is Twitter. For my private life it's Instagram. They overlap sometimes though.
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist because I had to. I've always felt journalism was an innate calling - my blood bleeds ink.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Sadly my little Adirondack school had no paper, but I was editor of the yearbook and literary magazine and wrote for the town weekly.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
My advice to aspiring journalists is to be a Jack or Jackie of All Trades in the field. Embrace it all! Do not limit your scope.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I true to find the value in every pitch, so nothing comes to mind. Is that bad?! Sorry I don't have anything funny here!
What's your favorite drink?
Coffee of course!
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Awesome question. If I'm not at my computer I'm on my yoga mat, shuttling my t(w)eens or loving on my beagle rescues.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
My favorite publication is the New York Times - gold standard and classic, yet always relevant and always pushing the boundaries.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
The most common misconception about my beat is that it's all "puppies and bubblegum." Sometimes it is! Community news is important.
