Announcing Austin Post's New Editor: Karie Meltzer

I'm really excited to introduce you to the newest member of the Austin Post team: Karie Meltzer.

Karie is from Arlington, Texas and studied English at Tulane before she was displaced to Austin by Hurricane Katrina. She eventually returned to New Orleans to finish school and work at New Orleans Magazine, but she had fallen in love with Austin. Karie came back to UT for her master's degree in journalism. Her thesis focused on Social Media and the Future of Journalism, so we think she's a perfect fit for our adventurous newspaper.

Here's a little more about Karie in her own words:

What are you most excited about Austin Post?
I'm the kind of person that is happiest spending my time engaged with the community and hearing people's stories. I think everyone has something to say, so being part of a Web community that values individual voices and conversation is perfect for me.
 
What's your favorite topic to write about?
Something that a former professor of mine called "the hidden city," which is really just a broad term for what's below the surface that few people see. Whether it's arts or politics, I just like to offer readers something new they've never thought about.
 
Least favorite?
Meetings! As a reporter, covering bureaucratic meetings is essentially a root canal.

Favorite restaurant in Austin?
That is such an impossible question. East Side Cafe, Polvo's, Malaga, Fricano's Deli, Foodheads all come to mind!

Top "Must-Do" in Austin?
Everytime someone visits, I take them to walk around Laguna Gloria. It's the most beautiful place in this city.

Favorite thing about Austin?
The way people support local businesses over chains. No matter how bad the economy is, you can go out on the weekends and see people enjoying brunch at Magnolia Cafe, shopping at Waterloo Records and Book People, etc.

Favorite little-known activity?
I love to box, which not everyone knows about me. As far as Austin goes, I love being involved in Girl Guitar Austin - it's a great network of women who take lessons and play gigs and open mics all over town. The shows are fun for anyone, and the lessons are a great way to take up a new hobby without a lot of pressure.  

Favorite band?
I recently discovered T-Bird and the Breaks, so I'd say they are my new favorite Austin band.

Favorite spot to catch live music?
Continental Club. Any night of the week, you can walk in and hear something that will make you dance.

Favorite sport?
I like to play basketball -I'm not a bad shot! I'm not crazy about watching sports on TV unless I'm with a big rowdy group.

Favorite sports team?
New Orleans Saints, who, I am quite positive, will win the Super Bowl. And I have to mention Shoal Creek Saloon, because it's a gathering place for New Orleans and all Louisiana exes living in Austin - I love going and sharing New Orleans stories with total strangers who instantly become friends.

You can reach Karie at karie@austinpost.org.