Since 2005, I've been leading The Star Press's efforts to embrace online journalism and new media. My multimedia production and online technical skills have allowed me to handle many different projects.

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New redesign and content management system
In 2005, TheStarPress.com underwent a redesign. It also moved to a new content management system. While I was not responsible for the site's look, it was my task to manage the project and develop procedures to send content to a new content management system. Once the technical aspects were finalized, I was responsible for training fellow editors, reporters, designers and photographers how to accomplish various online tasks. These include editing stories, creating breaking news updates, and generating photo galleries.


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Blogs
In 2006, one of my goals was to launch a blogging initiative at The Star Press. I installed the MovableType blogging system and coordinated the launching of staff and community generated blogs.


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Multimedia and mashups
I'm frequently asked to edit audio and video for the Web site. I've produced multimedia slide shows, animated Flash graphics and edited audio from 911 calls. Part of my role is to leverage Web resources to report the news. This includes efforts such as a Google Maps mashup of area CAFOs and zooming aerial photographs.





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Video
I was among a group of editors and reporters that were trained for video as a part of Gannett's video convergence initiative. In addition to shooting video and editing with Avid Xpress Pro, I also troubleshoot our video platform and work with codecs and compression techniques. I prefer Final Cut Pro, but have made peace with Avid.

Examples of my video work are available on request. Notable pieces include a parole-hearing for a convicted killer and a short documentary


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Databases
My latest effort at innovation is the development of online databases using the Caspio Bridge system. Databases such as those that contain government salaries are quire popular with readers. This work required usability and technical skills.



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Forums
I've been administering and moderating The Star Press forums for two years. While other reading commenting experiments by newspapers have failed, I've attempted to shepherd and cultivate the online community.