Musings On A Holiday Monday

No news is good news…whoever said that obviously never ran a newspaper.

On this abbreviated work week because of the Monday holiday honoring the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I’m sitting at my desk wondering what in the world I’m going to find for my faithful readers to read about.

The Jasper County School Board meets Tuesday night, so I’ll have that story for the front page, I think, and of course, there’s always crime and Covid. But, people like photos. As I sit here on the holiday contemplating what will fill these pages this week, I realize, again, that even if I have plenty of “news” my readers need visuals.

I’m weird (at least I recognize it); I like words. I understand the need for photos, but being a little different than the average reader, a headline may well catch my eye before a photo does. But, I know from experience that most people want illustrations…not just words.

I love my job. No, I hate my job. Really, it’s a love-hate relationship. Some days I love it, some days I hate it, and many days it’s a job…something you’re glad to have and gives your purpose, but still it’s not like vacation.

Jimmy and I were planning a trip to Florida last weekend to visit relatives and have a little down time. Unfortunately, it didn’t pan out. We did end up going to south Georgia—Darien, to get some shrimp and check the town out. Jimmy envisions going crabbing there himself in the spring or summer.

He discovered the town previously, and has made one trip without me, but we both went. And while we were there we checked out the wedding venue we’re going to possibly visit in April at Jekyll Island.

And, the only reason I say possibly is because we’re expecting a new grandchild in April, and we may need to stay home and travel to Athens to help out the new mom and baby. It all depends on timing. Emily’s due date is April 20, so if she makes it til then, we probably won’t make a wedding on April 24. But, babies don’t always come when expected, so we’re just playing it by ear.

But, back to my dilemma…what to put in the paper. I’m sure something will turn up. But this is where you, dear reader, come in….we need help. Let us know what’s happening with you…your club or organization, church or social group. Although that often won’t be front page news to help with my dilemma this week, it keeps the newspaper vital.

We have worked to have a comprehensive calendar for years. The Chamber of Commerce keeps a calendar. It seems (in non-Covid times) that oftentimes several activities are planned on the same day. The idea behind the calendar the COC keeps is to coordinate projects.

Last week, for example, the DDA said it is planning to have a tour of homes. As soon as the DDA sets a date, hopefully it will let everyone know so we can mark our calendars.

I learned from Lynne Jordan this week that Seuss on the Loose will not be held this year. Covid. Because that festival has been held the first Saturday in March for the last several years, many of us know now to mark our calendars way in advance for that activity.

And, I realize with Covid, there just aren’t many gatherings going on. Which is part of the reason the newspaper is having a hard time finding news.

Pre-pandemic, we might have a half dozen or more announcements from area churches about special events. Not lately though. The same with weddings and so many gatherings of all kinds. Oh, how I hope the vaccine changes things.

So, if you want to help me out, call me 706-468-6511; email me, editor@themonticellonews.com or come by and visit…247 West Washington Street.

In the meantime, thank you for reading.

Let me hear from you!