Laura joined the KARE 11 weather team in February 2012.
Previously she worked in Lima, Ohio at WLIO as the morning meteorologist. She has also worked in radio and with the American Heart Association.
Laura is a Minnesota native, born and raised in Corcoran on the western edge of the Minneapolis suburbs. She is a meteorologist by trade, but as an amateur, enjoys gardening, cooking and sewing.
Alma mater: University of Wisconsin-Madison. Badgers for life!
Favorite book: "On the Night of the Seventh Moon," I love Victoria Holt. She writes the classic strong woman love stories and I can't get enough. I'm also a huge fan of Janet Evanovich for a quick fun read or Jodi Picoult for some intellectual stimulation.
Describe your perfect day: A little shopping never hurt anyone, in my opinion. After some light bargain hunting I'd head to a northern Minnesota lake for boating and catching some rays. While we're at it we may as well have a beverage or two. To cap off the night, I'd share a late dinner with lots of appetizers made from fresh food with a few close friends.
Favorite sport to play: Croquet, what's not to like?
Favorite subject in school: Chemistry. Call me crazy but I love balancing equations. It's like solving a puzzle.
Why do you like your job: The weather is fascinating to so many people, me included. Plus it's a little scary at times and it's always changing! I love that no two days are the same, and each day provides meteorologists with a new challenge.
When I was young, I wanted to be: A Rock Scientist (whatever that is, a geologist I guess?) or a Surgeon.
Family: I consider my husband, Bryan, and my shar-pei, Punch, as my core. I'm close with my mom, dad and sister, but I am absolutely in love with my niece, Ella.
E-mail: lbetker@kare11.com
