By Mark McGee – My Take
I love the smell of ink and paper as it makes its way through the printing press.
Another new edition of a newspaper I work for is rolling out. The feeling of excitement and anticipation of holding the newspaper in my hands has never waned despite my more than 40 years in the business. I know a newspaper can be read online, but there is nothing like the printed page.
The first week of October was National Newspaper Week. But I don’t need a special week to remind me of the importance of a newspaper, especially a community one. For me every day is National Newspaper Day.
Being a part of the Bedford County Post has been an exciting addition to my journalism career. Lakeway Publishing responded quickly to the need of a local paper in Bedford County.
The first few weeks have been gratifying. Every day people give me positive comments about what we are doing. They want to know where to subscribe. The Post is selling out at many retail locations and some have asked for more.
Even many people who may not have been fond of the local newspaper admit they missed having one during the lull before we were up and printing.
It’s like the old saying, “you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.” The more complete version of that quote says “Truth is, you knew exactly what you had; you just never thought you would lose it.”
Well, the community didn’t lose us. We are here to cover your events whether they be large or small, serve you during your times of celebration or grief and let you know what is happening with city and county government.
My first exposure to the newspaper business was working for Bo Melson back in 1974 during my junior year of high school covering sports events and helping out with the police beat.
But the other day I remembered my first reporting job actually goes back to my days at the old Madison Street Elementary School where I used to call Nellie Mae Morgan at the newspaper to fill her in on what had happened at the 4-H meeting.
I learned from an early age that what happens locally is what is important to people. They can find all of the bad news they want on the television, larger newspapers, or the Internet.
We often win state awards but we aren’t seeking a Pulitzer Prize. Much of what we I refer to as “refrigerator door” journalism where stories and photos we publish are taped in a prominent spot.
We are seeking the support of the community and we strive to provide what the community wants. We thank you all for your support!
