While change is inevitable, it’s also a time of opportunity. For me, it’s a new job here at The People-Sentinel.
I have been writing for The People-Sentinel for nearly three years and have enjoyed my time meeting people and telling their stories.
Recently I have been honored with a promotion to Managing Editor. For those who do not know me, I am a mother, a wife, an only child. Thanks to my parents, I understand and appreciate hard work. The title of a job does not mean much if the person behind the title is not willing to get down in the trenches and actually work.
We are working to fill the open reporter positions here at The People-Sentinel as well. We want reporters who have a passion for telling our communities’ stories and will uphold the journalistic integrity this newspaper has established over the years.
I look forward to serving my fellow co-workers in my new position but more importantly, I look forward to serving our readers.
I want to see our “hometown” newspaper be something our community is always be proud of.
My door is always open, so I welcome your suggestions and comments as we find ways to become more of what our community wants to read each week.
Introductions aside, I wanted my first editorial to “say something,” to move people.
My husband told me to write about one of the things that I am passionate about. The problem is that I am passionate about many things - the elderly, abandoned animals, our children, stories and photographs. From these, I could write for hours.
But a commonality runs through these passions. They are what make up our community newspaper. Each one has a special place and special advocates.
Generations Unlimited provides needed services for our elderly. Because of the economic conditions and other factors, the number of elderly now relying on those services is growing. However, the budget to provide those services is not.
Barnwell County and rescue groups like the Animal Advocates, care for animals that have been tossed aside, forgotten, abandoned or abused. The shear number of animals coming into the county shelter is staggering. They too are working with a shrinking budget.
Local educators try to instill not only a good education, but moral values that will lead the next generation onto better lives. They are doing more things with less money.
These groups not only deserve respect, they deserve a hand. Whether it is a monetary donation or some amount of time out of your busy schedule, none of the organizations have enough of either one. So I challenge each one of our readers to get involved today. Encourage your family, friends and neighbors to do the same. Volunteer your time and resources. Raise money. Raise awareness. Take action today.