What was your first job as a journalist?
College newspaper. I was terrible.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Many, many moons ago. For school, not for work.
How is social media changing news?
In every way imaginable. From reporting to disseminating. For better and for worse.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Regrettably, I cannot think of one. I have enough trouble keeping tabs with real journalists.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To tell great stories that challenge conventional wisdom.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Yeah... I got nothing.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
In person. Old school.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
The phone. A computer. My car. Like I said, old school.
What's your favorite social network?
Facebook.
Who do you wish followed you?
Chris Hedges. Matt Taibbi. Bill Moyers.
Why did you become a journalist?
I started in the family radio business but fell madly in love with the newspaper business and founded the Long Island Press in 2002.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Speculation in commodities trading and its effect on oil prices.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Don't overlook the basics of reporting. There's no substitute for "being there." Read. Question everything including yourself.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Afternoon.
