Changes.
They are inevitable, and good or bad, each of us experiences our share of them in a lifetime.
Though moving from one situation to another, as I am currently doing, can have its challenges and difficulties, the eventual rewards typically outweigh any downside.
It is with this expectation that I assume the duties this week as editor of the Lake Orion Review.
I won’t take this responsibility lightly. Having served as an editor of two papers in Lapeer County, the Tri-City Times and LA View, I recognize the value and importance of community newspapering.
A newspaper can be the heart and soul of a community, while reporting on the joys, accomplishments, tragedies and tribulations of our readership.
We have to reflect the diversity of opinion that exists in the community and serve as a sounding board for all those voices to be heard.
Community newspapers regularly include stories and photos of our children, senior citizens, veterans, businesses, governments, schools and people just like you.
That is the distinction between the big papers and community papers like this one.
I promise to take pride in the content of this publication. And I want to acknowledge Jim Sherman and Don Rush who have entrusted me with the responsibility of carrying on the rich tradition of this venerable newspaper.
I also wish to offer best wishes to my predecessor, Lisa Valentine, who is making a change of her own by moving to Las Vegas. Good luck, Lisa, and hold onto your wallet!
In the coming weeks and months, I will work hard to learn about this community and help maintain the quality of journalism our readers have come to expect.
I hope to get out and meet as many of you as is possible, and please feel welcome to call or stop by the office to say hello.
From what I’ve seen of this community so far, it is blessed with beautiful architecture, wonderful schools, great sports teams, fine organizations, lots of stores, shops and restaurants and a shared pride among its people.
From a personal standpoint, I’m looking forward to this editorship as an opportunity to grow and learn.
And although I’ve been accused of being a wee bit ‘old-school? by some, even an old dog is capable of learning some new tricks.
I welcome this new opportunity. While changes may be inevitable, in this case I’m quite certain that the result will be rewarding.
Tom Wearing, Review Editor