Canada's heart beats in its small communities. These are communities where people don't just tolerate their neighbours, they cherish them. These are communities where we come together to discuss, debate and disagree until our collective disdain for the cold and love for hockey provides enough common ground to settle our disagreements. That is why I have chosen to dodge hustle and bustle of city life to make the vibrant community of Bonnyville my new home.
I am the newest addition to the Nouvelle's award-winning reporting team. In the coming weeks, you will see my face at council meetings, community events and the odd hockey game. Don't be shy, come and say hello.
Originally from Toronto, I have lived in Ontario, Quebec and, most recently, Nova Scotia. Having never been west of Hamilton, ON., I drew most of my knowledge of Alberta from Rick Mercer's western sojourns and obsessively watching coverage of the Stampede. All of that will change as I slowly settle into the pattern of life here in the wonderful Town of Bonnyville.
I completed my postgraduate degree in journalism at the University of King's College in Halifax, Nova Scotia. My affair with writing began when my mother, herself a journalist, began pushing me to write about our family vacations in the local paper. Her idea worked and I caught the writing bug at an early age. She has a tendency to dig those articles up to embarrass me during dinner parties.
Later, when I became serious about a career in journalism, I had the opportunity to work as a reporting intern for the Globe and Mail in Toronto. Between numerous cups of coffee, I would write the occasional breaking news story, discovering the excitement of working as a reporter, while reluctantly accepting the fact that friends that studied business will pay off their student loans much sooner than us journalists. Being a journalist pays off, too. It is one of the most exciting jobs in the world - and one worth moving across the country for.
Historically an economic engine for the province – and the country – this region has always fascinated me. So when this opportunity came calling, I was quick to pack my bags and head off on my own western adventure. During my time here, I hope to discover more about northeastern Alberta's distinct heritage and culture.
Every reporter has their niche and reporting style. As a young reporter starting out, I bring my own set of values and biases to the job. In my writing, I will attempt to be transparent, accountable and accurate with our readers. In this industry, we encourage debate and disagreement because we feel it is vital to a healthy democracy. Please do not hesitate to write to me if you feel strongly about something I have written. Compliments and suggestions are welcome, too.
Between the price of oil dropping, job cuts in the offing and a federal election looming, there is a lot going on our region. The Nouvelle will continue to bring you the very latest in the lead up to what is promising to be a very interesting election. Between the two federal ridings in the area, there are eight candidates. We will have all the latest from the upcoming debates and election developments for you.
During my time in Bonnyville, I hope to contribute to continuing this paper's legacy of providing the most up-to-date coverage of news from around the Lakeland. I look forward to engaging with the community and calling this beautiful province my new home.
