dann.white@patch.com

813-334-1081

I have been married to my husband, Michael, a forensic psychologist, for 28 frenzied-but-wonderful years. We have a musically talented 16-year-old son, Ian, who attends Tampa Catholic High School, an incorrigible Yorkshire terrier named Oliver and a prissy toy poodle named Mignon. We've lived in Bloomingdale East for 15 years. I'm a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism and have spent my entire professional career in journalism. I was the editor of The Brandon News for 18 years. When The Brandon News and Brandon Tribune merged, I became a reporter for The Tampa Tribune, covering everything from breaking news to photo features. After being laid off from the Tribune in May 2009, I worked as a correspondent for the St. Petersburg Times. My hobbies include reading, antiques, arts, crafts, decorating and gardening. 

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 and human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal certain key beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable.

This disclosure is not a license for our editors to inject these beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that our beliefs are on the record will force us to be ever mindful to write, report, and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you, the user, ever think you see evidence that we failed in this mission, we wholeheartedly invite you to let us know.

With that in mind, I'd like everyone to know that I am pro-life and staunchly believe in the sanctity of life no matter what stage. As such, I'm opposed to the right to choose and to capital punishment.

How would you describe your political beliefs?

I'm a registered Republican but tend to vote independently, based on the qualifications and positions of the candidates. 

I'm an active member of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Valrico where I serve as chairwoman of the parish council, a sacristan and Eucharistic minister.

 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 believe one of the most critical issues facing this community is the economy. We're seeing more and more small businesses, the mainstay of any community, close their doors. At the same time, more families are struggling to make ends meet. As the local editor, I will highlight programs dedicated to helping small businesses stay open and will focus on organizations dedicated to helping the community get back on its feet. I want to feature stories about people working to make a difference in this community, enabling all of us to weather this current economic crisis.