What was your first job as a journalist?
Intern — covered wrecks, fires, the basic stuff every journalist should do at least once
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Oh, yes. I grew up with an electric typewriter, and I typed my first school papers that way. Then I moved to a Commodore 128.
How is social media changing news?
It makes it harder because journalists have to fight against the fake news that spreads like wildfire on social media.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Hard to pick just one — Les Nessman, Will McAvoy, Dick Preston, Isaac Jaffe — and there's more that I can't remember at the moment.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Making a difference in the world. It may just be to a mom with a pic of her son playing Little League, or it could be exposing Watergate.
Why did you become a journalist?
Honestly, because I couldn't play the piano. I was going to be a music teacher, but my piano wasn't up to par. So I settled into writing.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
There's been so many over the years — murder trials, exposes on public works, sports features. I cannot pick one.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Read. Read everything you can get your hands on. Keep reading even deep into your career. You can always improve from reading others' work.
What's your favorite drink?
Abita Turbodog or Guinness Extra Stout
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Running, watching TV or reading.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
New York Times
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That there's nothing to do. There's always something going on. You just have to find out who knows it.
