I just saw the message saying the Freestone County Times would be closing the print publication. That hurts.
But it’s not just the loss of revenue for my scribblings called Woods, Waters, and Wildlife as much as losing a partner in this journalism business.
I entered it understanding the newspaper business was a fragile one. I didn’t realize I would find myself feeling I was part of the community, although sitting miles away in a remodeled garage/workstation. I was developing a kinship with small town newspapers, their readers, and their problems.
I caught myself reading a lot of the local happenings. I was elated reading about students whose animals placed in the county fair and felt empathy for someone who tragically lost a loved one. I was also proud when their team won on Friday nights. And I appreciated the work of local law enforcement keeping the town safe. Sometimes I even read obituaries of folks I didn’t know.
It all made me feel I was part of the community. That added responsibility to what I wrote for them to read. I could imagine being part of it. Thanks for the opportunity.
My best to you and your staff. It’s been a good ride.
John Jefferson
Columnist
Website: johnjefferson.com
