In a wide-ranging broadcast career spanning 30 years, several states, and way too much fast food, I have reported on issues and events across the United States and around the world.  I was catapulted off an aircraft carrier in the Persian Gulf (and out of several H.R. offices), prayed with Moses (well, Charlton Heston, who played Moses), stayed with Kosovar refugees in Albania, and chased aliens in Roswell, N.M.  It is now my privilege to tell the story of North Central Florida every single day.

 

Covering Congress on September 11th, my memories of that tragic day include hearing the thunderous explosion at the Pentagon and being evacuated from my office in the Capitol Building.  Later I kept vigil on the roof of a five-story townhouse across from the Supreme Court building, and the next day witnessed firsthand the stirring and defiant image of lawmakers of both parties uniting to sing "God Bless America" on the front steps of the Capitol.  The issues and events in North Central Florida are just as intriguing as those in Washington.  And the people here are a lot more friendly!  By the way, I find that our best source of news is our viewers.  We can't report it if we don't know about it.  So, please write me at dsnyder@wcjb.com with your suggestions and comments.  You can also follow my insights around the newsroom and on the news set on Twitter: @20newsguy .

 

I am proud to be a part of the North Central Florida community.  Among other activities, I am honored to be the host of the annual "Jerry's Kids" Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon every Labor Day.  I am proud to have a close association with our active veterans' community.  I love to read to schoolkids.  I serve as Treasurer of the North Central Florida chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists and as an active "Friend" of the Dance Alive National Ballet.  

 

I'm a native of Detroit, so please cut me a little slack while I pull for the Red Wings, Tigers, Lions, and Pistons.  But in the college ranks, my children are now growing up as proud Florida Gators!