What was your first job as a journalist?
I was a neighborhood correspondent for the Charlotte Observer with a weekly neighbors column.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Long ago!!
How is social media changing news?
Making information immediately accessible gives leads to journalists in order to further explore stories.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Lou Grant.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Engage the target audience with a well crafted, researched and complete story.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I like to know who the audience is and why the publication is interested in this story now.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Pen, paper, pc, library card, head and heart.
What's your favorite social network?
Linked in - love pertinent posts.
Who do you wish followed you?
the Dali Lama
Why did you become a journalist?
I am a story teller and want to describe the world around me.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I entered journalism late as a corporate refugee with no HS or college experience.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I had the opportunity to profile the Foundation For the Carolinas & the great work they are doing in the community in a long form narrative.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Find a mentor or two and pay attention.
When's the best time to pitch you?
I am available daily - Mornings are when I do my best work but I always check for notification.
