The Vulture's Nest
Who Am I?
It’s difficult for me to explain who I am, as I’m still figuring out the answer myself. In fact, my search for one may be the reason this website exists in the first place. What I can say is that I was born in Daytona Beach, Florida, and would go on to spend time in Kansas, Colorado, and Jacksonville before settling into my current residence in North Dakota. At some point during this journey, I developed a love of writing and photography which has only grown over the years.
In my current position, I am a reporter and photographer with the Morton County News Journal. I previously served as a reporter, editor, photographer, and digital content producer for KX News Bismarck - where I combine traditional breaking news (including crime and live court coverage) with unique content such as long-form interviews, event recaps, photography, and travel columns that seek to capture the full picture of an area and its residents. This versatility has aided in winning several Eric Sevareid Awards for Excellence in Journalism, and being featured on both Associated Press and CNN news wires. I also dabble in horror, sci-fi, and fantasy writing, and my work has appeared in everything from story collections to video games.​ Throughout these experiences, my passion for photography and travel has only increased, causing me to venture out even further in the hopes of honing my skills.
I am currently pursuing my Master's Degree in Journalism and Strategic Communications from the University of Missouri, and constantly undertaking new projects to improve my writing regardless of form or genre. ​In the future, I aim to become a professional travel journalist, and continue discovering both the light and dark sides of our world on a global scale… and, of course, share these experiences with you in the process.
So, Why a Vulture?
I have always gravitated towards misunderstood animals, and there are few I relate to more than the vulture, especially in recent years. Many people refer to vultures as grotesque scavengers- but from a spiritual perspective, they are far more.
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In many traditions, the vulture is seen as a creature that plays an important part in the cycle of life: by consuming the dead, they act as a bridge between death and new life, where one can change and discover their true self. The concept of rebirth and redemption is one that has always struck a chord with me, but the similarities do not end there. Vultures are patient, protective, and driven to succeed by any means necessary, all of which are traits we share.​
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Some time ago, I realized that I am not the kind of person who can create a light for others to follow. I can, however, help to guide others towards it. Besides... journalists are already referred to as vultures. Why not view it as a compliment?
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