MULTI-MEDIA JOURNALIST | KTBS 3 NEWS

A multi-media journalist, Julie Parr covers the news in a 13-county area, including Texas and Arkansas. In the Texarkana region, she covers breaking news, crime, city government, health, and education on both sides of the state line. During the wake of the pandemic, journalists were especially busy trying to create interesting and informative content to keep their viewers abreast of the most current happenings. Julie is a multi-tasker who does it all and feels fortunate to have a career she loves.

Why did you decide to be a newscaster?

When I was a kid, I would pretend to be a news anchor standing in front of a map and using a candlestand to report the news. I guess that’s where it all started, but college is where I learned good journalism matters. Who knew nearly 20 years later, I would be living out my dream reporting the real news in a community I love and care for deeply.

Name one thing about your profession that people might not know.

Sometimes people will ask if I have a photographer or who edits the video. In this day and time, most journalists do it all. A multi-media journalist is a storyteller who wears many hats. Some of the duties and responsibilities of an MMJ include researching and writing stories, shooting and editing video, and publishing online content.

Who has helped you become the person you are today, and how did they inspire you?

Family is the most important part of my life. It’s one of the main reasons I chose to live in the Texarkana area. My mom, a school teacher, taught me to value education and to be kind to others. My dad taught me to be a hard worker with focus and follow through. My brother and his family inspire me to enjoy life, travel, and embrace new adventures.

Tell us one thing you can’t do without on Thanksgiving Day and explain why.

Thanksgiving is one of my all-time favorite holidays. There’s just something comforting about having everyone you love in one room, reminiscing on old memories while making new ones. Even if we all started the day off stressed about making a perfect meal and creating the best experience, it was the imperfections that brought us the most laughter and gratitude.

What do you love most about the Four States area?

I love that my job allows me to travel the Four States area on a regular basis. I enjoy learning about all the unique characteristics of the different states and communities. There’s so much natural beauty in this region. I think we’re fortunate to not only live in a beautiful area of the country, but we’re also blessed to have neighbors who look out for each other.

What lessons have you learned from the pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic started out on a national stage, but it quickly became an important issue on a local level. It’s been heartbreaking to lose friends and family members to this deadly virus. Life is a precious gift, and we must appreciate it. The pandemic also expanded the way in which TV stations gather the news. Reporters were forced to think outside the box, use even more technology and remote interviews to inform the public.

How would you like for others to remember you?

I would be happy if people remembered me like they remember my grandfather, James Pool. He was fiercely devoted to his family, loved helping others, and was a loyal friend. You could always count on him. He passed away when I was in high school. I still think about the valuable lessons he taught me every day.

Feature Stories

Julie Parr | Through Her Eyes