Where were you born and raised?

I was born to the far west in an outpost called Los Angeles...Inglewood, California to be more exact. I started college at the University of Denver, though changed my path several times. The college career then took stops at two different community colleges in California, before finishing at Syracuse University's Newhouse School, where I eventually earned a graduate degree. I got my first radio experience in Orange County, before it was "The O.C." at a community college station, spinning 45's, writing sports and covering news.

When did you begin working at WAER?

I have been at WAER in one capacity or another since 1987, starting as a volunteer in the News Dept, working as an evening reporter for a year, then leaving for another job for less than a year, before coming back to host mornings. I became the News and Public Affairs Director in 1995.

What do you do at WAER?

As News and Public Affairs Director, I oversee the entire news operation, any public affairs shows or special coverage, such as elections, and all sports programming. As such, I interact with numerous volunteers and interns, while managing a small professional, paid staff. The daily challenges include devising and deciding our news coverage, finding stories and covering events I believe our listeners will be interested in. Long term, I am always considering special projects, programs or coverage that will enrich the community, bring out some issue or concern, or shed light on something unique or novel. I oversee the sports operation, acting as liason and trainer for that unique staff to the rest of the station. Our news department was awarded a 2005 Syracuse Press Club award for Best Feature Story, and an honorable mention for Special Radio Program. The Sports Department took honors for Best Sports Show, Best Sports Story and Best Human Interest Story. In the past we have also been honored by the New York State Broadcassters and the Associated Press.

What was the most unusual job you ever had?

The most unusual job I've held was probably the year I sold imported baskets at open-air markets in California. My partner and I would get up at 3:30 a.m., board a truck by 4:00, drive 90 minutes into the desert to communities such as Chino and Colton to set up shop. We had everything from wicker soap dishes and hanging baskets to rattan furniture and 8-foot palm fans that we had to schlep back and forth every day. By 1:00 p.m. each day it was about 110 degrees, business died down and we'd load it all back in the truck and head for home. But, hey, we were at the beach by 4:30 every day...could be worse!

Why do you love public radio?

I truly love the mission of Public Radio, providing our community with both news coverage and music that commercial stations do not or would not provide. I get great pleasure reflecting back on some of the things we've brought our audience, from stories about government or interesting issues, to feature stories about educational or environmental happenings, and public affairs programs about global issues or women's issues. I'm also proud we keep Jazz alive for local fans and musicians.

What are your hobbies?

I am a member of the Syracuse Onondaga Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission. I am particularly passionate about working to reduce youth drug, alcohol and tobacco use. My free time is spent getting outdoors, any way I can. Biking, hiking, skiing, boating, golfing, running, fishing, whatever the weather, the season and the amount of time available will allow.

What is your favorite quote?

"Happy wife, happy life" Hey, it's been working for me!