PLP 08 Profile: Kristie Helmick

Name: Kristie Helmick       
Age: 25
Born: Mechanicsville.  My parents still live in the same house that I was brought to from the hospital.   
Current Digs: Old Town Alexandria, directly across from my office (makes for a horrible commute).
Occupation: Public Affairs for Transurban (one of the private partners involved in building and managing the HOT lanes in Northern Virginia)
Favorite part about the job: I believe that the HOT lanes will ultimately change transportation in Northern Virginia in a very positive way, and it is a great feeling knowing that I am part of this historic effort. Everyday is unpredictable, fun and challenging- which is why I love it!
Your first job ever? Working at one of my family’s business, which could have involved selling a golf cart, assisting at a car auction, renovating a house or collecting time sheets from construction workers.
Favorite movie? Wizard of Oz
Comfort food? Anything that my mom cooks. 
What's in your car CD player right now? A CD I made....consisting of mostly country.
Next journey? I can’t wait to go back to Europe.  I lived there for a summer while studying at Oxford University as a graduate student and I loved it.  I want to go back as a non-student.
Favorite Virginia vacation spot? My family has a river house in Dunnsville, just outside of Tappahannock.  This is my ultimate favorite vacation spot. In the summer you will likely find me taking “mini-vacations” there every weekend. I also really enjoy visiting all of Virginia’s wineries, they make for great day trips.
First political memory? My uncle ran in the local board of supervisors race for the first time when I was in the 4th grade. Although he wasn’t successful, I loved every minute of the challenge.  I walked away from that election, anticipating with excitement the day that it would be my turn!!
Whom do you admire and why? Nina Peace, she was a judge and member of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors.  She was the most passionate, caring, and devoted person I have ever met. She was committed to helping those who could not help themselves and making our community a better place. 
Best advice you ever got? Nothing good comes easy
If you could have dinner with any one currently living, whom would it be and why? George W. Bush, but not for the obvious reasons.  I would like to hear how he has managed to cope with the many criticisms he has faced and his record-setting unpopularity as President of the United States. 
Describe a perfect day. Going to an amusement park with great roller coasters.
One thing most people might be surprised to learn about you? I am an avid hunter.  I have been hunting and training hunting dogs since I was a little girl. 
Ambition, political or otherwise? I would like to become involved in politics on the local level.