Category Archives: Life Stories on Film

Real people, real moments, and meaningful events captured on video. This category features weddings, personal stories, celebrations, and custom films created for those who want their story told beautifully.

Investigations, Jodi Arias, Life Stories on Film, Rebecca Beard, Texas Cold Cases, True Crime

Why I Fight So Hard for Victims: The Story I’ve Never Shared

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Tammy Rose hiking with a friend before sharing the personal story that inspired her investigative reporting and advocacy for crime victims.
Tammy Rose shares the personal journey that inspired her lifelong commitment to fighting for victims.

Why I Fight So Hard for Victims: The Story I’ve Never Shared

By Investigative Reporter Tammy Rose

Why I’m Sharing This Now

People often ask why I spend so much time filing public records requests, interviewing grieving families, and refusing to give up on cold cases.

The answer isn’t found in a newsroom.

It’s found in one of the most painful chapters of my own life.

Long before I became an investigative reporter, I became a victim.

For years, I kept this story private because of the shame, embarrassment, and fear that followed.

Today, I’m sharing it because I hope it helps others understand why I fight so hard for victims.

⸻

I Didn’t Want to Report the Crime

The person who sexually assaulted me wasn’t a stranger.

He was someone my family knew and trusted.

After it happened, I didn’t want to report the crime.

I was embarrassed.

I was ashamed.

Like many victims, I blamed myself.

I wanted to pretend it had never happened.

It was my former husband who convinced me to go to law enforcement. He told me that if I didn’t report the crime, he would.

Looking back, I’m grateful he encouraged me to speak up.

At the time, it felt impossible.

⸻

The Trial Changed My Family Forever

Going through the criminal justice system was one of the hardest experiences of my life.

During the trial, I learned the defendant had previously been convicted in another sexual assault case involving a child under the age of 14 and had served a much shorter sentence.

That realization was heartbreaking.

The case also divided my family.

One of the most painful moments was watching my own sister testify for the defense.

My father blamed me for what had happened.

Losing the support of people I loved was devastating.

The verdict ended the criminal case.

It did not end the pain.

⸻

The Papers I Never Threw Away

Wisconsin court records and victim notification documents preserved by Tammy Rose years after her criminal case, illustrating the lasting impact of surviving sexual assault.
Court records and victim notification letters I kept for years—documents that reminded me the criminal case ended, but the journey as a victim did not.

Recently, I opened a folder I hadn’t looked at in years.

Inside were Wisconsin court records, sentencing documents, and a Wisconsin Department of Corrections victim notification letter informing me the offender would one day be released from prison.

Holding those papers again reminded me that victims often carry a case long after the courtroom is empty.

The documents aren’t just legal records.

For me, they represent years of healing.

⸻

Years Later, I Had to Defend My Truth Again

Courthouse walkway during the Jodi Arias sentencing retrial where testimony related to the State Bar proceedings was taking place.
Courthouse during the Jodi Arias sentencing retrial, where my reporting ultimately led to State Bar proceedings that resulted in my deposition years after my own criminal case had ended.

Years after my criminal case ended, I was covering the Jodi Arias sentencing retrial as a reporter.

During my reporting, I uncovered information that led me to file a complaint with the State Bar of Arizona regarding prosecutor Juan Martinez.

As part of that disciplinary process, I was deposed.

During that process, records from my own criminal case became part of the deposition and were made public. As a victim, it was devastating to see deeply personal parts of my past become public record years after I believed I had finally moved forward.

I never imagined my own past would become part of those proceedings.

During the deposition, my background was examined, including the sexual assault case from years earlier. My credibility was challenged, and I felt as though I was once again defending one of the most painful experiences of my life.

For years, I had been afraid to speak up.

Then something changed.

I remember saying, “The judge and jury believed me. If you disagree with that, take it up with them.”

It was the first time in a long time that I truly stood up for myself.

⸻

Why I Fight So Hard for Victims

Texas Department of Public Safety Missing Persons Bulletin for Rebecca Jean Beard, issued during the investigation into her disappearance.
Official Texas DPS Missing Persons Bulletin for Rebecca Jean Beard, documenting her disappearance before Paul Taylor Jr. later pleaded guilty in the case despite her remains never being recovered.

Every records request I file…

Each family I interview…

No cold case is just another story.

Every difficult question I ask…

Is driven by one purpose: finding the truth.

I know what it feels like to wonder if anyone will believe you.

I’ve experienced losing relationships because I told the truth.

Years later, my credibility was questioned over events from my past.

Those experiences shaped the reporter I am today.

Victims deserve compassion.

Families deserve answers.

The truth deserves to be pursued—even when it’s uncomfortable.

⸻

To Every Victim Reading This

Memorial image of Terri Denise McDaniels, an unsolved homicide victim from Pearland, Texas, whose case remains unsolved.
Terri Denise McDaniels was murdered in Pearland, Texas, on October 31, 1986. Her homicide remains unsolved. Every unsolved case represents a family still waiting for answers and justice.

Maybe you’ve been afraid to report a crime.

Perhaps someone blamed you for something that wasn’t your fault.

Or maybe you’ve wondered whether anyone would believe you.

You are not alone.

Sharing this story isn’t about reliving the past.

It’s about explaining why I continue fighting for victims every single day.

I can’t change what happened to me.

But I can make sure my experiences help someone else find the courage to speak.

As long as I have a voice, I’ll keep fighting for those still searching for justice.

That’s why I fight so hard for victims.

Continue Reading

If you’d like to learn more about trauma, healing, and the importance of seeking justice for victims, you may also find these resources helpful.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Reading

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker

More Investigations by Tammy Rose

Rebecca Beard: No Body. No Weapon. My investigation into the 1986 disappearance and the unanswered questions that remain.

Roy Alan Stuart Prison Journals: Former Harris County Deputy Kent McGowen shares chilling prison confessions that could help solve cold cases.

Breaking News, Life Stories on Film, Rebecca Beard, Texas Cold Cases, True Crime

Exclusive: My Effort to Reach Paul Taylor Jr. in the Rebecca Beard Case

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Paul Taylor Jr. booking photo taken during the investigation into the Rebecca Beard case.
Paul Taylor Jr. during the investigation into the 1986 disappearance and death of Rebecca Beard.

For nearly 40 years, the Rebecca Beard case has been filled with unanswered questions.

As I’ve investigated the case, I’ve interviewed Rebecca’s daughter, Brittany Pipkin. I’ve also interviewed family members, reviewed court records, obtained police reports, and spoken with others connected to the investigation. Throughout the process, I kept one goal in mind. I wanted to hear directly from Paul Taylor Jr.

Taylor pleaded guilty in connection with Rebecca Beard’s death. However, no trial ever took place. Investigators have never recovered Rebecca’s remains. Many questions still remain.

I believed it was important to give him the opportunity to tell his side of the story.

My First Attempt

My first step was sending Paul Taylor Jr. a message through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s eMessaging system at the Alfred D. Hughes Unit, where he is currently incarcerated.

In that message, I introduced myself as an independent investigative journalist researching the Rebecca Beard case. I explained that I wanted to hear his perspective and asked whether he would be willing to discuss anything he believed had been misunderstood over the years.

Screenshot of Tammy Rose’s message sent through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice eMessaging system requesting an interview with Paul Taylor Jr. about the Rebecca Beard case.
One of several attempts I made to contact Paul Taylor Jr. while seeking an interview about the Rebecca Beard case. Communication proved difficult during the reporting process.

Hitting Roadblocks

Reaching Paul wasn’t as simple as sending one message.

I also attempted to contact him by mail, but my correspondence repeatedly failed to reach him. Despite multiple attempts, I wasn’t able to establish communication.

Like many investigations, this became another reminder that reporting often involves persistence, patience, and countless dead ends before making progress.

Screenshot of a Penmate notification indicating Tammy Rose’s letter to Paul Taylor Jr. could not be processed because required delivery information was missing.
One of several challenges I encountered while trying to contact Paul Taylor Jr. My initial letter could not be processed because additional delivery information was required.

A Breakthrough

After months of trying, a trusted friend who has asked to remain anonymous was able to establish communication with Paul Taylor Jr. and let him know I was hoping to interview him.

That effort led to something I had been working toward for months—my first direct response from Paul Taylor Jr.

In his message, Paul greeted me warmly, shared a few thoughts about life, and encouraged me to continue writing to him.

Although he did not discuss the Rebecca Beard case in that first message, it marked the beginning of direct communication after months of unsuccessful attempts.

Continuing the Conversation

I’m continuing to work toward an exclusive interview with Paul Taylor Jr.

Through subsequent communication facilitated by my anonymous source, Paul indicated that he had stopped speaking publicly for a period because of pressure from detectives. That statement reflects Paul’s account and has not been independently verified.

Whether an interview ultimately takes place remains to be seen, but I believe every person connected to this decades-old case deserves the opportunity to be heard.

For me, investigative journalism isn’t about reaching conclusions before asking questions. It’s about documenting the facts, giving people the opportunity to respond, and continuing to pursue answers—even when the process takes months.

If I am able to conduct an interview with Paul Taylor Jr., I’ll share it here on http://ChopperRose.com and on my YouTube channel.

What Would You Ask?

If an interview with Paul Taylor Jr. takes place, what question would you want answered?

Leave your question in the comments below.

Read my exclusive interview with Rebecca Beard’s daughter Brittany Pipkin

 Read Part 2: No Body, No Weapon, Sealed Documents

Interested in true  crime and cold cases? 

Crime& Justice

Readers who follow the Rebecca Beard investigation may also be interested in these books on criminal investigations, missing persons cases, and unsolved mysteries:

I’ll Be Gone in the Dark

American Predator

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Breaking News, Investigations, Life Stories on Film, Rebecca Beard, Texas Cold Cases, True Crime

Exclusive: Rebecca Beard Family Wants Answers From Key Witnesses Named In Police Reports

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Brittany Pipkin poses in a police uniform during her law enforcement career. Pipkin, the daughter of Rebecca Beard, later used her investigative training to review records related to her mother’s unsolved murder case.
Rebecca Beard’s daughter, Brittany Pipkin, became a police officer and is now using those investigative skills in her search for answers about her mother’s 1986 murder. Photo courtesy of Brittany Pipkin.

Why Brittany Pipkin Questions the Original Investigation

Becky Beard’s 1986 planner with handwritten notes and calendar entries, reviewed by her daughter Brittany Pipkin during her search for answers in the decades-old case.
Becky Beard’s personal planner from 1986 remains an important piece of family history. Her daughter, Brittany Pipkin, has carefully reviewed the planner and other records while searching for answers about her mother’s disappearance and presumed murder.

BEAUMONT, Texas — More than four decades after Rebecca Beard disappeared and was later presumed murdered, her family says they are still searching for answers.

After reviewing decades of police reports, Rebecca’s daughter, Brittany Pipkin, believes there are questions that remain unanswered about several people whose names appear throughout the investigation.

Among them are businessman Arch Aplin and John Cohn.

Watch the Full Video Report

Investigative Reporter Tammy Rose sat down with Brittany Pipkin to discuss why she believes additional questions should be asked about individuals named in the original investigation.

Questions About Arch Aplin

Redacted police report pages reviewed by Rebecca Beard’s family, with highlighted sections referencing individuals connected to the investigation.
Redacted police report pages reviewed by Rebecca Beard’s family, with highlighted sections referencing individuals connected to the investigation.

According to police reports reviewed by the family, Arch Aplin’s name appears numerous times throughout the investigation.

Pipkin says she first became aware of Aplin while reviewing records connected to her mother’s case.

“When I was younger, I was a huge fan because I saw his name in all the police reports,” Pipkin said.

According to Pipkin, reports indicate Aplin had contact with Rebecca Beard before her disappearance and later communicated frequently with investigators.

Police records also reference reward money being offered during the investigation.

“He was contacting detectives almost daily,” Pipkin said. “He’s offering rewards.”

Despite that involvement, Pipkin says she has never had an opportunity to speak with Aplin directly.

“I’ve sent him a few emails,” she said. “He’s never reached out to talk to us.”

Pipkin says she would like the opportunity to ask questions about Rebecca’s final days and what information he may remember from that time period.

“I would love to ask him if he knows more than what was told to investigators,” she said.

Conflicting Accounts Raise Questions

Brittany Pipkin points to what she believes are inconsistencies within the case records. One document appears to list Arch Aplin as the last person known to have seen Becky Beard on February 14, 1986, while another references a witness statement involving Paul Taylor at the Excalibur Club around the time of her disappearance. Pipkin says the records raise questions she believes deserve further examination.

Questions Surrounding John Cohn

Police report excerpt referencing investigators contacting John Cone regarding information in the Rebecca Beard homicide investigation.
A police report indicates John Cone requested to speak with his attorney before providing a statement to investigators.
Signed photograph of Rebecca Beard with handwritten inscription provided by the Beard family.
A signed photograph of Rebecca Beard provided by her family. Family members believe the inscription may be connected to John Cohn.

Pipkin also wants to speak with John Cohn, whose name appears in investigative records.

According to police reports, Cohn reportedly contacted then-Brazoria County Sheriff E.J. “Joe” King shortly after Rebecca’s murder.

The reports indicate Cohn allegedly told authorities that his friend and co-owner of a home on Third Street in Clute was responsible for Rebecca’s death.

That individual, Paul Taylor Jr., would not be charged until approximately nine years later.

Taylor eventually pleaded guilty in connection with the case.

For Pipkin, the timeline raises questions.

“What did people know, and when did they know it?” she asked.

She believes additional information may still exist regarding what occurred in the days immediately following Rebecca’s disappearance.

“I think he knows a lot more than what has been stated,” Pipkin said.

The Family Says This Is About Finding The Truth

Pipkin emphasizes that the family’s goal is not to publicly accuse anyone.

Instead, she says they are seeking answers and hoping investigators continue pursuing leads that could help locate Rebecca’s remains.

“We’re not doing this to accuse anybody,” Pipkin said.

“We just want the truth. We want to bring her home.”

More than 40 years after Rebecca Beard vanished, the family says that goal has never changed.

They want a place to visit.

A place to leave flowers.

And finally, a place to lay Rebecca Beard to rest.

Related Coverage

Read Part One:

Read Part Two:

More Rebecca Beard coverage:
https://www.chopperrose.com/tag/rebecca-beard/

Editor’s Note

The individuals named in this story have not been charged with Rebecca Beard’s murder. Statements referenced in this article are drawn from interviews, court records and police reports reviewed by the family. Investigators have not publicly announced additional suspects in the case.

Recommended True Crime Books

If you’re interested in cold cases, unsolved mysteries, and investigative reporting, these books provide insight into how complex cases are investigated and solved:

📖 I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
A bestselling investigation into the Golden State Killer case.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Chopper Rose earns from qualifying purchases. If you purchase through the links below, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support independent investigative journalism and cold case reporting.

Breaking News, Life Stories on Film, True Crime

Texas Killing Fields: Survivor Speaks as James Elmore Jr. Awaits Trial

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Former neighbor of Clyde Hedrick points to where he thinks the Texas Killing Field suspect lived in a trailer in Hitchcock.

For decades, the Texas Killing Fields have stood as one of the country’s most haunting crime scenes. Along Calder Road, multiple young women were murdered—leaving families still searching for answers.

Now, the case is taking a new turn.

Investigators say more arrests could be coming. They also warn additional victims may be connected.

For the first time, a man is speaking out. He says he survived a disturbing encounter as a child—one that closely mirrors what investigators believe happened to a known victim.

👇 Watch the full report below:

🔎 Recommended True Crime Reads & Gear

    •    “The Texas Killing Fields” by Kathryn Casey

→ Deep dive into one of Texas’ most chilling cases

    •    “Mindhunter” by John E. Douglas

Have thoughts on this case or information you think should be looked into?

Drop a comment below or reach out directly.

Follow for more exclusive crime coverage and updates as this investigation continues to develop.

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Aviation News, Life Stories on Film

Rare Jerry Foster Interview with Legendary Helicopter Reporter Jerry Foster

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Years ago, I had the chance to sit down with legendary helicopter reporter Jerry Foster.

Over the years, Foster became known for his fearless reporting style and his love of aviation.

In fact, long before drones and modern traffic systems, helicopter reporters like Foster were pioneers in the sky.

This rare interview captures his personality, humor, and reflections on a career that helped define an era of broadcast aviation journalism.

This interview is especially meaningful today because Jerry Foster has since passed away, making these recorded conversations even more valuable. They preserve the voice and perspective of someone who truly lived life on his own terms.

The Story Behind Earthbound Misfit

Read Jerry Foster’s autobiography Earthbound Misfit on Amazon:

buy on amazon
Jerry Foster book Earthbound Misfit autobiography by legendary helicopter reporter

In addition to his broadcasting career, Foster also wrote about his life in the book Earthbound Misfit.

In the memoir, he shares stories from his aviation adventures and his unconventional career path.

As a result, readers get a rare look into the world of early helicopter journalism.

Life as a Helicopter Reporter

Jerry Foster helicopter reporter flying Santa Claus in a chopper during holiday news coverage
Helicopter reporter Jerry Foster shares a cockpit moment with Santa during a memorable holiday flight.

Being a helicopter reporter is not just about talking on camera. Instead, it requires strong situational awareness, and aviation discipline.

For example, pilots must constantly monitor weather, airspace, and traffic conditions while reporting live.

Jerry Foster was part of a generation that helped pioneer the role.

Today’s helicopter reporters still rely on many of the same fundamentals Foster practiced — professionalism, aviation discipline, and respect for safety.

Essential Pilot Safety Gear

Anyone involved in aviation understands the importance of proper gear and safety equipment. Whether you’re a professional pilot, helicopter reporter, or aviation enthusiast, the right equipment matters.

Aviation Headsets

Clear communication is critical in the cockpit.

Bose A30 Headsets

Pilot Flight Bags

Keeping charts, iPads, and gear organized is key for pilots working in fast-paced environments.

Ascend Flight Bag for Pilots

Aviation Flashlights

A must-have tool for night flying or emergency situations.

AKNEAR Rechargeable LED Flashlight 99000 High Lumens

Pilot Kneeboards

Many pilots use kneeboards for quick notes, checklists, and flight planning.

Aviation Pilot Kneeboard – E6b Flight Computer Plus Plotter & Cross Country Planning Notepad, Student Pilot Bundle

Meanwhile, aviation reporting continues to evolve with new technology and aerial tools.

Remembering an Aviation Original

Pilot holding a handheld camera inside a helicopter cockpit, firing aerial footage.
Capturing the world from above-a pilot’s eye view through the lens of a handheld camera in the cockpit.

Jerry Foster’s career represents a time when aviation reporting required equal parts courage, skill, and personality.

Helicopter reporters like Foster didn’t just deliver traffic updates — they became trusted voices for the cities they served. They helped viewers understand what was happening from a perspective only the sky could provide.

This rare interview offers a glimpse into that world and preserves the voice of someone who truly lived an unconventional life.

If you enjoy aviation stories, behind-the-scenes broadcast history, and real pilot experiences, Jerry Foster’s story — and his book Earthbound Misfit — are well worth exploring.

More Aviation Stories

👉 If you enjoy aviation stories like these…

✈️ …you’ll love “When the Sky Turns Hostile” — a firsthand account of life‑and‑death moments above the clouds.

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Life Stories on Film, Travel

Diving Into Paradise: Our Unforgettable Scuba Experience in Cozumel

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First-time diver underwater with scuba gear at Chankanaab Beach Cozumel
Exploring the colorful underwater world of Cozumel on my first scuba dive at Chankanaab Beach.

If you’ve ever dreamed of diving into crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant marine life, Cozumel is the place to make it happen. Thanks to our travel agent, Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations, we discovered an excursion that truly knocked it out of the park: scuba diving at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park for under $80! Whether it’s your very first dive or you’ve been exploring the depths for years, this experience is absolutely not to be missed.

I captured this entire dive using my GoPro underwater camera, and it was worth every penny for the footage.

First-Time Divers Welcome

First-time diver getting scuba gear fitted by instructor at Chankanaab Beach Cozumel
Getting ready for the dive! Our instructor made sure everything fit perfectly before heading into the water.

I had never dived before, but our instructor was amazing—patient, supportive, and right there with me the whole time. From the moment we got our gear on to our descent into the turquoise waters, I felt safe and encouraged. My pictures and video show the excitement leading up to the dive and the calm, careful instruction that made everything seamless.

Underwater Wonders

We always bring our own snorkeling masks and goggles when we travel. Having gear we trust makes a huge difference in comfort and visibility.

Once underwater, it was like entering another world. We swam alongside schools of colorful fish, curious barracudas, starfish clinging to coral, and even spotted a few stingrays gliding gracefully across the sandy bottom. Every photo and video I captured showcases the incredible variety and beauty of Cozumel’s underwater life—it was like snorkeling through a living aquarium!

More Than Just Diving

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After the dive, we had the chance to relax and explore Chankanaab’s beach area. There was plenty to do: enjoy the sun, grab a bite, or watch the entertaining sea lion show.

Pro Tips for First-Time Divers

    •    Book Through a Trusted Travel Agent: Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations made the whole process easy. Call (832) 703-2432 to learn more.

See what happened when my cenote jump went wrong

   

Life Stories on Film, Travel

How Jumping 20 Feet Into a Cenote Sent Me to the ER: What Tourists Need to Know

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It looked like something straight out of a dream.

Crystal-clear blue water. Limestone walls. Sunlight pouring through the opening above. The kind of place that makes you forget everything else and just jump.

So I did.

And five days later, I was in the emergency room.

Tammy Rose standing in front of cenote in Cozumel, Mexico moments before 20 foot jump travel excursion
Moments before jumping 20 feet into a cenote in Cozumel, Mexico.

The Excursion That Looked Too Good to Pass Up

Before traveling to Cozumel, I booked an excursion that included a 20-foot jump into a cenote. The photos looked incredible — travelers suspended mid-air over glowing blue water, smiling like they were in a travel magazine.

I had never done a jump like that before, but it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There was no real warning. No talk about risks. Just climb up, step forward, and jump.

So I went for it.

I’m so glad I was wearing my GoPro during the cenote jump because it captured the entire moment-even though I had no idea at the time it would later send me to the ER. Watching it back now is unbelievable.

Before you jump, watch this: my real cenote experience and why I got sick.

The Jump

The second I hit the water, everything changed.

Instead of a smooth landing, I swallowed a large amount of water.

It went down my throat, into my nose — everywhere.

I came up coughing, but everyone around me was laughing, smiling, and swimming like nothing happened.

I brushed it off.

I wish I hadn’t. Click video below to see the jump.

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The Symptoms Didn’t Hit Right Away

At first, I felt mostly fine.

But over the next few days, things started to change.

It started with nausea.

Then fatigue.

Then I just felt… off.

Each day, it got worse.

I couldn’t understand how jumping into beautiful, clear water could make me feel this sick.

woman jumping 20 feet into cenote in Mexico adventure excursion
I‘m so glad I was wearing my GoPro during the cenote jump because it captured the entire moment-even though I had no idea at the time it would later send me to the ER. Watching it back now is unbelievable.

Five Days Later, I Ended Up in the ER

By day five, I was throwing up blood.

My husband rushed me to the hospital.

Tests showed I had picked up bacteria.

I was given medication and treatment, and thankfully, I’m now recovering.

But it was scary.

Because it all started with something that looked completely harmless.

hotel bed with blood and vomit after Tammy Rose became sick from cenote water in Cozumel Mexico
This is when I knew something was seriously wrong-five days after swallowing cenote water, I ended up in the ER.

What Many Tourists Don’t Realize About Cenotes

Cenotes are natural sinkholes.

They are not chlorinated pools.

They contain natural water — and sometimes bacteria and parasites.

Even when they look clean, they can still make you sick if you inhale or swallow the water.

Most people are fine.

But not everyone.

And I wasn’t.

According to travel health experts, natural bodies of water can contain bacteria that may cause illness if swallowed. Click here to learn more from the CDC.

Couple standing in front of a cenote

Before the jump, I left my belongings in my waterproof beach bag I brought to the cenote and kept my camera in my travel backpack I used in Mexico so everything stayed organized and protected.

My Advice to Anyone Thinking About Jumping Into a Cenote

I’m not saying don’t do it.

Just be smart.

Be careful.

Protect yourself.

And listen to your body if something feels wrong afterward.

Because what started as a 20-foot jump into paradise…

Sent me to the ER.

This wasn’t the only adventure we experienced on this trip — you can read about my full Cozumel excursion here.

Life Stories on Film

He Ditched Glasses for Good: Inside My Husband’s LASIK Surgery Day

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Man lying on a surgical table moments before undergoing LASIK eye surgery

Watching someone you love have eye surgery is not for the faint of heart — but today, my husband officially took the leap and had LASIK. After years of glasses and contacts, he decided it was time to wake up and see clearly without reaching for lenses first thing in the morning. From the nerves before the procedure to what the surgery actually looked like and how he felt afterward, here’s what the LASIK experience was really like from our side.

Watching part of the procedure up close was surreal. I decided to share a portion of the LASIK surgery so you can see what the process actually looks like in real time — something most people are curious about but rarely get to witness. The video below shows a brief moment during the procedure as the laser works to reshape the cornea, which is how vision is corrected. It’s quick, highly precise, and over before you know it, but seeing it happen brings a whole new appreciation for the technology behind modern vision correction.

Viewer note: This is a real medical procedure, so if you’re sensitive to eye-related content, you may want to skip the video.

How my husband felt when we got home,

🎬 More Life Stories on Film — click here.

Breaking News, Life Stories on Film

After Media Pressure, HOA Drops Lien-Elderly Couple Saves Home, But Tragedy Follows

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Editor’s Update – January 2026:

In 2019, Klaas and Dorothy Tadema, a retired math teacher and former nurse in Dickinson, Texas, faced a $100,000 HOA lien over their flower beds. I reported on their case, which quickly gained national attention and ultimately forced the HOA to drop the lien.

Since then, we learned that Dorothy “Dotty” Tadema, the homeowner at the heart of this story, passed away on June 13, 2021, at age 77. She is remembered by her family and community for her faith, kindness, and service. Her obituary can be viewed here: Crowder Funeral Home obituary.

This update honors her memory and adds new context to a story that resonated with readers nationwide.

Dorothy "Dotty" Tadema smiling in a younger portrait photo

Elderly Couple HOA Lien Over Flower Beds Sparks National Outrage

Following widespread media coverage and public pressure, the HOA released the lien, allowing the couple to sell their home and move forward with their lives. But months later, tragedy struck when Dorothy passed away after ongoing health complications.

This is the full story — and the update few people know.

National Attention Forces the HOA to Back Down

Update: Despite dozens of landscapers offering to help elderly couple following a $100,000 lawsuit filed by Land Tejas over flower beds, the property developer refuses to back down.
Landscapers help Texas elderly couple after HOA place $100,000 lien over flower beds in case first reported by journalist Tammy Rose
Texas elderly homeowner Dorothy Tadema walks outside her home during HOA dispute over flower beds and $100,000 lien investigated by journalist Tammy Rose

After weathering many storms over their 52 years of marriage including losing a home during Hurricane Harvey, Klaas & Dorothy Tadema never imagined flower beds could force them to potentially lose everything again including their health. Click on link below to view full story.

How a Flower Bed Sparked a $100,000 HOA Lien

🎬 More Life Stories on Film — click here.

Breaking News, Jodi Arias, Life Stories on Film, PCR, True Crime

Juan Martinez Disciplinary Hearing: My Story as a Key Witness

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This story is long overdue. I am speaking publicly because I was a key witness in the Juan Martinez disciplinary hearing. My decision to come forward helped expose misconduct that ultimately ended his career as a prosecutor.

How I Discovered the Misconduct

Flying in SkyEye 13!
Journalist Tammy Rose

Covering the Jodi Arias Sentencing Retrial

 I was covering the Jodi Arias case when I noticed troubling behavior by then‑prosecutor Juan Martinez. It crossed ethical lines.

One of the most disturbing revelations was the leak of Juror 17’s identity to the public. The information did not come from the court; it came from within the prosecution itself, passed via a media intermediary.

When a juror’s identity becomes public, it puts them at serious risk. In this case, that juror later received threats to their safety.

That moment marked a turning point for me. What began as reporting became a matter of public responsibility. I realized I needed to document and report what I had uncovered.

I provided investigators with records and testimony about how the leak happened, knowing it could affect my career and reputation. Still, I chose to act ethically and tell the truth.

The investigation confirmed that protected information had been improperly shared and that this conduct was part of a broader pattern of ethical violations.

Prosecutor Juan Martinez walking into court with a key witness during Jodi Arias' sentencing retrial

My Role in the Disciplinary Hearing

I gave testimony and submitted evidence detailing the leaks and unethical conduct. My goal was never to attack individuals unnecessarily, but to ensure accountability and integrity in the justice system.

I acted independently and ethically, aware that speaking out could impact my professional life. But truth and public safety were my priority.

Journalist Tammy Rose traveling to court for the Jodi Arias resentencing, connected to the Juan Martinez disciplinary hearing
Journalist Tammy Rose traveling to court for the Jodi Arias resentencing trial, connected to the Juan Martinez disciplinary hearing

What Happened After the Investigation

After reviewing the evidence, the investigation confirmed a pattern of ethical violations, including:

• Improper communications with media members

• Leaks of protected juror information

• Conduct prejudicial to justice

As a result, Juan Martinez was terminated and later disbarred. His ability to practice law was permanently revoked.

Proseuctor Juan Martinez during the Jodi Arias resentencing trial, observed by journalist Tammy Rose

Why This Story Still Matters

Prosecutors hold immense power. When that power is abused, the entire justice system is at risk. I came forward because journalists are not above the law — and neither are prosecutors.

This story reminds us that accountability matters.

More Investigative Journalism by Tammy Rose

This story is part of my work covering the justice system and holding powerful figures accountable. You can read more of my investigative reporting here.