What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job was working as a freelance reporter for the Suburban Life News. I covered the founding anniversary of Frankfort, IL.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Not a typewriter, no. But I used to work with my father's old word processor back in the late 80s and early 90s.
How is social media changing news?
While it's damaged the business. It can help with the development and distribution of news, as well as with audience interaction.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Ben Urich, from Marvel comics. He's an ordinary man in an extraordinary world, but he doesn't let it change the purpose of his job.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To push for clarity, accuracy, and stick to what you know. Not to be afraid to say, "we don't know at this time." And then finding out.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer to receive pitches in written form. I also like a quick conversation to possibly refine a pitch into a more focused topic.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Openoffice or Word for drafts, and Google Drive to save articles. I've also extensively used Wordpress to regularly.
What's your favorite social network?
TikTok is a surprisingly fast source of news.
Who do you wish followed you?
Either someone working in the comics or the game industry.
Why did you become a journalist?
Because I take pride in educating and informing people. It's important to strive towards an adherence for facts, clarity, and proper context.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No, I get into a journalism shortly after receiving my Bachelor's Degree.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
A story about a local man from La Grange who worked for the CDC during the Ebola crisis in 2015.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
To get into the habit, write about something every day. Also, give yourself time to consider what you wrote when you do your next draft.
When's the best time to pitch you?
I'm usually open for a pitch any time of day. Normal business hours are the most preferred. Possibly before 5pm, Central Time.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
At Suburban Life News when both my editors wanted me to tackle a story about a former homeless woman, and La Grange's transient population.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Having an interview with an author assigned to me with less than a few hours to prep for questions.
What's your favorite drink?
Green tea in the mornings.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Most likely with a book in a quiet room while texting a friend.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Associated Press, Business Insider, or Reuters for news. For entertainment, Polygon for time being.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That it's just transcription when I cover local government. I typically have at least one interview and one followup with all involved.
