Meet Christina Estes. During her 20-plus years in broadcast journalism, Emmy-winning reporter Christina Estes has written news stories and special features for a variety of Arizona radio and television stations—covering crime and special investigations, along with presidential campaigns, state and local politics, education, and business.
In addition to being on the scene with breaking news or focusing on topics that impact the economy or public policy, Christina has reported her share of unusual events. One of the most remarkable involved a fish that had to go to a dentist.
Her diverse assignments also provided Christina a plethora of ideas for her newest venture…writing mysteries.
Her passion for reading blossomed at an early age. “I’m a huge fan of public libraries because that’s how my love of reading developed as a child—yay to Bookmobiles!” she said. One of her favorite memories regarding books was bonding with title character, Ramona the Pest, the engaging, precocious, and determined protagonist of the popular Beverly Cleary children’s series.
Christina’s youthful fondness for reading progressed to her enthusiasm for writing, and forged a talented, dedicated journalist. After studying journalism and political science at Bradley University in Illinois, she reported in two TV markets in the Midwest. Then, sunny Arizona beckoned, leading to multiple career opportunities and professional acknowledgment. In addition to being honored with an Emmy by the Rocky Mountain Southwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, her reporting has been recognized by the Arizona Associated Press.
She is currently working on the first novel in her mystery series featuring a Phoenix journalist. “I follow the ‘write what you know’ advice,” she explained, “which is challenging enough. I’m in awe of people who can write about characters, jobs and settings that they have never encountered.” In her debut book, Christina has crafted a murder mystery against a background she knows well. When a controversial radio talk show host is murdered, a local TV reporter finds herself fighting for her job and her life.
A member of the national Sisters in Crime organization, Christina is also a founding member of the Sisters in Crime Grand Canyon Writers chapter and served on the Board of Directors as the chapter Secretary during its inaugural year.
She is a senior reporter for KJZZ-FM radio, the NPR member station in Phoenix, and still an avid reader. “Twilight Zone fans, think Henry Beemis,” she said. When she’s not working on press deadlines, Christina relishes lying in a hammock, devouring a good mystery. She also enjoys yoga…and has a long term “love-hate” relationship with running.
Christina’s reporting for KJZZ can be heard on 91.5 FM and www.kjzz.org. She’s also on Twitter at @reporterestes.
For more information on Christina, go to www.christinaestes.com