Hello, my name is Lauren Saria. I am a freelance writer and photographer at the Phoenix New Times, covering food, arts, culture and sports. My passion for food journalism stems directly from growing up in northern California near the famous vineyards of Napa Valley, where many could argue the modern American food movement began. My experience in sports writing includes covering the Arizona Diamondbacks during their spring training season, writing stories for the Arizona Cardinals website and various features for a local fitness magazine; Last summer I worked full-time at the New Times as one of six Village Voice Digital Media Fellows. I enjoy writing and learning about a variety of topics and am actively looking for a job in print or digital media.