We have a new mayor's advocate in town! I figured the best way to get her information to readers, would be to let her explain it herself. Here's a little "Q and A" with our new mayor's advocate, Rosie Stockdale.

Q: First off, give a little information about who you are and some history about yourself.

A: I'm Rosie Stockdale, a lifelong resident of the near eastside of Indianapolis. I am the mother of two, and a grandmother of two. I went to St. Philip Neri School for elementary school and graduated from Scecina Memorial High School.

Q: Political/professional background?

A: I worked in a bank and then was a stay-at-home mom for several years. After I returned to work I worked three years in the Marion County Clerk's Office where I issued marriage licenses. I have always been an advocate in my spare time, serving on several boards in my neighborhood and my children's school.

Q: What exactly does a mayor's advocate do?

A: Mayor's Neighborhood Advocates serve as a bridge to city services, neighborhood-based groups, and businesses seeking to improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. We work to provide residents in our neighborhoods answers to their questions and a person to share their concerns. Mayor Hogsett's Neighborhood Advocates want to work with you to improve your neighborhood and make Indy an even better place to live and work.

Q: What are some of your plans for neighborhood/community development?

A: I come into this position without any specific projects for the neighborhood. My plan is to listen to what the neighborhood goals and dreams are and help move goals into accomplishments and dreams into reality.

Q: Some of your goals while in this position?

A: My main goals to help resident's and neighborhood group have their voices heard. I want to become a full partner in my neighborhoods. I am ready to help with any goals the neighborhood has for itself. My main goal is to be open minded and neutral until I develop those relationships and not try to impose my ideas in existing plans.

Q: How can people get contact you?

A: The best way to reach me is by e-mail at rosemary.stockdale@indy.gov or my cell at (317) 833-4938. I often return phone calls in the evening, so if you leave a message, please leave the latest time you would like to receive a return call.