You have heard their voices on radio and seen their faces on TV. Now The Blade goes behind the scenes to introduce you to your favorite media personalities. Stay Tuned appears the third Monday of every month.
First job: A dietary aide at Autumn Aegis Nursing Home. I was 15 and I couldn't get hired at a fast food joint so I applied at the nursing home and they took a chance on me. I put food on residents' trays and washed all of those trays and other dishes for three years.
First salary: It was around $4.15 an hour. I thought I was making •pretty good money at the time!
My idol is: Anyone who is working hard to overcome obstacles in order to succeed. Anytime I hear someone's story of perseverance despite what could be viewed as a negative circumstance it helps to motivate me.
Most embarrassing television moment: I can't say any one moment stands out. There are plenty of times I'm flubbing •words, making weird faces, or just plain caught off guard. In general, though, my life moments can be pretty embarrassing because I'm a klutz. I remember when I was leaving class in college and I fell backwards on the stairs. There was nothing there to trip over except for my own two feet. I sprained my ankle. I was crutching around campus for weeks. The good thing was that my book bag broke my fall.
Highlight of my career: I'm relatively new to this business so I'm sure the true highlight will come in the future, but so far the best part of my career is having the ability to positively influence young people. I think they listen a little more to what you have to say when they know you as "the news lady." I like being able to give them encouragement and explaining that no matter your circumstance or the negative things people can say, you can achieve if you work hard and stay focused.
My favorite thing to do outside of work: RELAX! Nothing beats curling up on the couch and watching a Law & Order (any series) marathon. It's my absolute favorite show and no matter how many times I see an episode it always has me hooked.
I think Toledo's best-kept secret is: The Metroparks. Whether it's by walking, jogging or just sitting on a bench writing, I sometimes go there to think and clear my mind. It's a great way to get away from everything and enjoy nature at the same time.
People may be surprised to know that I: •Am a substitute teacher and what a challenge it can be. I teach mostly elementary students and you'd be surprised at just how much these kids know. I've had good days and bad days and honestly didn't know all I was getting into when I signed up for the job. When they walk in and see me, "the substitute," their eyes light up. It makes me think back to my days as a student and wonder how I acted in class, especially when I had a substitute. But I can honestly say that even on my worst days the students can make me smile because they are bright and clever. Now I have more respect for teachers than ever before and I understand what great responsibility they truly have.
In five years, I see myself: I'm not really the type to map out my life because over the years things haven't always happened the way I've planned. However, I do see myself growing personally and professionally probably in another market, anchoring more and also reporting. The uncertainty of it all makes me a little nervous but also excited to see what the future will bring.
My dream job is: One where I can have a good balance of career and family. I'd eventually like to work in Cleveland, so my family and all of those who have supported me along this journey can see my work and how far I've been blessed to come, so far. There are so many people who are obsessed with going network or working in a Top 10 news market. I want to be happy, with a husband and children someday and feel good about going to work while having the opportunity to make a difference.
Contact Rod Lockwood at: rlockwood@theblade.com or 419-724-6159
First Published November 19, 2007, 12:06 p.m.