Tell us about your history here in Tucker…
I have lived in Tucker since 1999, when my husband and I moved here with our two boys from Atlanta. The good schools and small-town feel are what have kept us here. We expanded our family and moved to our current home in 2004. After a year of renovations, we were definitely rooted in Tucker. Our kids attended the local public schools, this is where my volunteering began, and I have found it has been the backbone of my love for the community. I have been a volunteer since we settled here, and I am passionate about bringing the community together through service.
Why did you want to work for the City where you live?
As a 20-year resident of Tucker, I have visited and participated in sports and leisure throughout the city, starting with soccer at TYSA, t-ball at Fitzgerald Field, even teaching my boys to swim at Kelley Cofer Pool. These parks are at the beginning of my children’s lives and my hope is that, through the work of the City of Tucker, they will continue to serve the community. I also had the opportunity to work with Rip and Ray on a volunteer project and knew that they would be great to work with.
What are the best and worst parts about working in Parks and Recreation?
The staff is the best part! I know that is so cliché, but I have truly enjoyed getting to know each and every one of them. I really enjoy people and developing relationships with them. The worst is that I am a helper and sometimes I try to help where help isn’t needed.
How difficult has it been to adjust professionally to the challenges posed by coronavirus?
The hardest part has been not interacting with the clients that I have come to care about that use the Rec Center on a regular basis. I enjoy the small talk that I believe is a vital part of our health and wellness.
What do you do in your free time?
I like to hike, cook, read, do puzzles and hang out with my family. I am getting to do a lot of these lately since we are all home. I also love the beach and will take any opportunity to put my feet in the sand and hunt for sharks’ teeth.
What is your favorite sport?
Whatever sport my children are playing. Currently my daughter is playing softball. I recently started to play golf and have come to enjoy the personal challenge it brings to my life, combining my love for nature and the excitement of a game.
How would you describe yourself as a mom? How would your kids describe you?
I am a black belt mom; I want it my way and usually get it either through cooperation or manipulation. My kids would say I am high maintenance and can be a bit dramatic.
If you could vacation in one place you’ve never been, where would you choose?
Egypt. The history and architecture have always amazed me, and I look forward to being able to travel there one day.
