Helen Raptis is thrilled to be hosting AM Northwest. It’s her dream job, interviewing news-makers and celebrities and having lots of laughs along the way. She joined KATU in May of 1998 as AM Northwest's 'Roving Red-Head,' where she reported on the "fun and quirky" side of Portland. Helen also anchored KATU’s early morning newscast for three years.

Before joining AM Northwest, Raptis reported for KGW's "Good Evening” and KING TV's "Evening” magazine shows. Previous to those shows, she anchored the evening news and reported for KVAL TV in Eugene.

Her feature reporting and breast cancer revelation have garnered her Regional Emmy nominations. In addition, her news and investigative reporting earned her Associated Press and Society of Professional Journalists Awards. Her most cherished nods are the Broadcaster of the Year awards she won two years in a row while learning the ropes in Montana.

On a personal note, Helen enjoys traveling, playing scrabble with her very funny husband David Schmitke and spending time with their doggies, Murphy and Sadie and cat, Figaro.

Since being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, Helen and her husband actively encourage women to get regular mammograms and they the support American Cancer Society, Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation, the Pink Phoenix Dragon Boat team and other Cancer support and research organizations.