What was your first job as a journalist?
I worked for the Nevada Press Association for nearly 20 years. This is where I learned the basics of journalism.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes. Many years ago. However, I used one for well over 30 years.
How is social media changing news?
A lot of untruthful or misleading information is more easily accepted.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Bridget Jones and Walter Burns (Carey Grant, His Girl Friday)
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Make sure what you write is truthful. Check your sources and check again. Write in a way that your information is easily conveyed.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I haven't or haven't noticed.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email is always good.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
My MacBook Pro is nearly an extension of my body. I also use KeyWord, Ubersuggest, Flipboard, Facebook, MailerLite, and, of course, Canva.
What's your favorite social network?
Flipboard, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram
Who do you wish followed you?
Rachel Maddow, Christiane Amanpour, Jane Goodall, Taylor Swift, Paul McCartney, Charlize Theron,
Why did you become a journalist?
I love to write and help people with truthful information.
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?
Again, I can't pick one. I've written about reducing animal costs and vet advice for extending furry friends' lifespans.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Check your sources. Read your copy and make sure it answers the questions the reader will naturally have about the topic.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Probably at 8-11 am PST. However, if pitching by email, that can be sent anytime.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
One for a dog supply company.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
One that was very generalized and didn't have anything in mind they wanted me to write about. Anything in the universe would work.
What's your favorite drink?
I can't pick just one. I'm partial to coffee in the morning followed by tea (both hot and cold).
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
On a hike with my dog, Henry.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Wall Street Journal, New York Times, AP Wire, The Atlantic, NPR
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That pets are disposable. Or that people don't really love their animals or will go the extra mile for them.
