I’ve recently been reinvigorated about the state of young journalism.
Being a journalist is hard work; there’s no doubt about it. You’re basically on call 24/7, you’re often insulted and on display to be made fun of, and you’re on the front lines of a lot of tragedy with very little recognition or thanks.
Simply put, it’s not an easy business to go into. It’s one of the most rewarding, to be sure, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult.
But there are so many amazing young people out there looking for jobs right now, and it’s given me new hope for the industry.
In case you didn’t know, we’ve been without a full-time sports reporter in Elmore County for nearly a year. But over the course of the last two months, I’ve been interviewing almost round the clock for a new graduate to take that spot.
I’ve had some stellar interviews with some fantastic candidates, and I think you’ll all be pleased with who is unveiled as the new sports reporter come June.
Now, we just have to make sure we can keep up with her.
See, all these young people come with a new skillset and new ideas that we haven’t considered before. They are using all types of social media, and they have innovative thoughts about how to best deliver news.
But what we need is people who are wanting to consume truthful news in a positive way. Especially with the local election cycle ramping up, it’s more important than ever to pay attention to what’s happening around you.
I’m trying my best to channel my inner Mitch Sneed, and I need your support.
Yes, you.
Do you subscribe to one of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s papers? Do you read the newsletters or websites on a regular basis to ensure you’re keeping up with what’s going on? Do you want to be left in the dark?
If you answered no to any of those questions, please consider how important a local newspaper really is.
I know the climate for media trust has declined, and people often talk about “mainstream media.” But I would argue hyper-local newspapers are not that.
We pride ourselves on being all-local, all the time — that’s something Mitch taught me before his death. We want to be everywhere and know everything, and yes, sometimes we miss things. Sometimes we need a nudge toward an important story, but again, that’s where you come in.
If you feel there’s an issue in your community we’re not tackling, by all means, please reach out to us. Or even if you know of someone who’s done something great for our community, that’s something we want to showcase.
I remember Mitch used to get into some heated discussions with local politicians or other officials, but what he always taught was if we are fair and honest, we are doing the right thing.
But like most things in a small town, it takes a village. And that’s where we need you and your support. My door is always open.
Lizi Arbogast Gwin is the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. She can be reached at 434-962-9420 or via email at lizi.gwin@alexcityoutlook.com.
