Cherlene Willis, Patch Staff
- Gulfport, FL
I am a multimedia journalist. I've worked for local NBC and CBS affiliates, documentary companies and contributed video and content for an Emmy Award winning website. I began my career in journalism when I was 19 years old, working as a news production assistant for KELO TV in Sioux Falls, SD. In the past 7 years I worked my way up from running prompter to anchoring the evening news. I spent time with KELO-TV in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, KVLY-TV & KXJB-TV in Fargo, North Dakota. I've reported on tornado stricken towns, state and federal murder trials, and record-breaking snowstorms. I've been to Washington D.C. for special assignments. My work has been featured on the CBS Morning Show and has caught the attention of the Oprah Winfrey Show.
I spend my free time with my husband Robert and 12-year-old Persian cat Snow White. We enjoy almost everything outdoors including beach volleyball, camping, hiking, mountain biking, jet skiing and tubing in the summer and winter. I have the bruises to prove it!
I recently moved to Florida and I look forward to reporting and learning about the community inside and out.
Your Beliefs
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. This disclosure is not a license for you to inject your beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that your beliefs are on the record will cause you to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you ever see evidence that we failed in this mission, please let us know.
Politics
How would you describe your political beliefs? Are you registered with a certain party?
I am a registered Independent and have been since I turned 18. I vote according to issues and candidates' qualifications, beliefs and voting record. Given that, I'm a firm believer of freedom of speech, the right to bear arms and am a strong supporter of the United States Military and Veterans of our country's wars and conflicts.
Religion
How religious would you consider yourself?
I believe in God and a greater being and purpose, but I do not currently attend church or belong to any religious organizations.
Local Hot-Button Issues
What do you think are the most important issues facing the community? Where do you stand on each of these issues?
I'm new to the Gulfport community and look forward to covering local politics, community development and city growth.
Posting Activity
Gulfport|News|
Goodbye, Gulfport!
Thank you, Gulfport for your support and open arms during my time as your local editor.
Gulfport|News|
Today in Gulfport: Oktoberfest, Duffers Ball, Haunted Houses
It's Friday, Oct. 11! Here's what you need to know today in Gulfport!
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
Today on The Beaches: Concert in the Park, International Dance, Beach Crawl
It's Friday, Oct. 11! Here's what you need to know today on the beaches.
Gulfport|News|
Report: Rep. C.W. Bill Young to Retire
U.S. Rep. Bill Young told the Tampa Bay Times Wednesday that he is going to retire when his term ends in 2014.
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
Report: Rep. C.W. Bill Young to Retire
U.S. Rep. Bill Young told the Tampa Bay Times Wednesday that he is going to retire when his term ends in 2014.
Gulfport|News|
Gulfport Weekender: Newton's Haunts, Gulfport Birthday Bash, Beach Cleanup
From the annual birthday bash to the local haunted houses - there's plenty to do this weekend in Gulfport! What will you be up to?
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
Beaches Weekender: World Food Day, Symphony, Zoo Boo
What are you doing this weekend?
Gulfport|News|
Help Clean Up Gulfport Beach Saturday
Come out this weekend and help pick up trash and debris at Gulfport Beach.
Gulfport|News|
Today in Gulfport: Teen Council, Swing Dance, Free Bike Helmets
It's Wednesday, Oct. 9! Here's what you need to know today in Gulfport.
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
Today on The Beaches: Gas Dropping, Free Bike Helmets, Barry Manilow
It's Wednesday, Oct. 9! Here's what you need to know today on the beaches.
Gulfport|News|
Happy Birthday, Gulfport Senior Center!
Celebrate a milestone at the Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center on Wednesday!
Gulfport|News|
Today in Gulfport: Dine on Words, Clothing Swap, Manatees
It's Tuesday, Oct. 8! Here's what you need to know today in Gulfport!
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
Today on The Beaches: Highway Patrol, Debt Ceiling, Drier Weather
It's Tuesday, Oct. 8! Here's what you need to know today on the beaches.
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
Mild Weather Ahead for Tampa Bay
Monday’s rains are expected to give way to a week that’s sunny and just a little bit cooler in the early morning hours.
Gulfport|News|
Save the Manatees at the Gulfport Public Library
Come out to the Gulfport Public Library Tuesday night and learn more about one of Florida's most beloved animals, the manatee.
Gulfport|News|
Mild Weather Ahead for Tampa Bay
Monday’s rains are expected to give way to a week that’s sunny and just a little bit cooler in the early morning hours.
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
This Week on The Beaches: Breast Cancer Awareness, Tampa Bay Rays, Congressional Reform
Here's what you need to know this week on the beaches.
Pinellas Beaches, FL|News|
OMG PD: Marijuana Deal Leads to Shooting, Garden Equipment Stolen
We compile the odd, unusual and the "oh my gosh" police items from throughout the Tampa Bay region.
Gulfport|News|
This Week in Gulfport: Big Birthday at Senior Center, Beach Cleanup, City Bash
There's a lot going on this week in Gulfport! See what's coming up and be sure to mark your calendars!