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Since my high school days, I have always thought the neatest job in the world was that of the journalist and photographer. The idea of interviewing people, learning about local culture, exploring the community and capturing it all in words and images to share with readers has long been a fascination.
While pursuing another path, one I am admittedly very happy with, I have always held on to that secret dream that maybe some day it could still happen and I might have the opportunity to work as a journalist.
Sometimes, life’s dreams do come true and last year mine did! I am not working for a big magazine or travelling the world, but I am getting the similar experience right here in our home towns as a member of the Mattos Newspapers staff.
Our communities are rich in culture, with their deeply-rooted traditions and fascinating histories, and are filled with absolutely amazing people! It turns out the coolest job in the world is right here!
I am deeply grateful to Susan Mattos for taking a chance on a local girl who brought enthusiasm but no experience, to Dean Harris for taking me under his wing and patiently teaching me the ropes of the newspaper business step by step, and to the people of our communities for sharing their stories with me.
I had no idea there was so much going on in our small towns, or how much goes into chronicling all those events in the local paper. It is amazing! There are school, community, sports, civic organization, church and city activities.
And then there are the meetings. There are meetings for every board, every council, and every commission.
There are also announcements, ceremonies, actions, events, celebrations, festivals and fairs. Each week brings something new to learn, but also an opportunity to hear an amazing story or delve deeper into the history of this area.
For someone new to this business, I am like a wide-eyed child trying to take it all in. Selfishly, I feel blessed because I get to meet people who are doing extraordinary things in life.
Their stories are personally inspiring to me.
I have witnessed motivating ceremonies that make me feel proud to be a citizen and a member of our communities, enjoyed young performances that bring smiles and joyful tears of nostalgia, and captured otherwise ordinary moments that reflect the simple and cherished lifestyle we enjoy. My life has been graced with these experiences and I am grateful for each new opportunity that comes before me.
You know, for a small town paper, there is a world of stories to cover.
I look forward to whatever life has in store for me this year, and to sharing new stories and new experiences in 2008.
Written by esormit, on 12-01-2008 14:20
Im proud of you MOM...I LOVE YOU |
Written by JoAnne McCormick Tehachapi CA, on 13-01-2008 15:16
What a great article. So nice to see that you appreciate all that a little town has to offer. It is always exciting to learn as much as we can. Keep up the good work. I look forward to reading your new column. |
Written by CLFantazia, on 18-01-2008 01:14
Congrats! I remember when i had a brief job there and i loved it!! So once again, Congrats! |
Written by westsider, on 18-01-2008 20:22
Well, you are going to be a nice addition. I look forward to reading your column.
Best of luck to you! |
Written by Mali, on 19-01-2008 08:38
I love your stories and your pictures are wonderful. Keep up the good work! N44 |
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