About Derek
Welcome to my corner of the web! I’m Derek, a Silverton, Oregon-based multimedia journalist, photographer, and community advocate with a passion for telling stories that matter. With 20 years of service as a U.S. Navy Aviation Ordnanceman, I honed my ability to thrive under pressure, communicate clearly, and lead with purpose—skills I now channel into creating impactful local journalism.
As the founder of Derek2Earth Media, relaunched in January 2025 to fill the news gap in Silverton, I’ve reached over 5,000 readers in just 30 days—half the town’s population—through hyper-local articles, videos, and photos. Using my two cameras, wireless microphones and tools like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro, I craft SEO-optimized content, from human interest stories such as local ghost hunters to community-driven stories, while engaging audiences on platforms like Facebook and X.
My work as a substitute teacher in the Silverton School District lets me inspire students by presenting digital media in classrooms, fostering creativity and connection. I am also the winner of Edustaff's 2024 video contest.
Previously, I served as a Multimedia News Producer at the Itemizer-Observer in Dallas, Oregon, boosting online visibility with compelling content that increased web traffic by 15%. Whether I’m behind the lens, in the classroom, or building Derek2Earth’s online community, I’m driven by a commitment to authentic storytelling and supporting local journalism. Join me in celebrating Silverton’s stories—let’s connect and create something meaningful together!