“So long; farewell; auf wiedersehen; goodbye….” The words of this famous song came to mind recently when I made the difficult decision to retire from The Star-Herald. It’s hard to believe that I’ve been here over eight years. I’ll never find words to express how grateful I am to my Star-Herald family for accepting me and treating me like one of you all of these years. As I prepare to leave at the end of October, I will always remember my years here fondly.
I’ve had the great honor and pleasure to work with three different publishers, and I’ve learned something different from each one. First, thanks to James Phillips, who originally hired me in June of 2013. James taught me about AP style, about the importance of faith and family, and about leaving out the last comma in a series, a hard habit for this old English teacher to break.
Second, thanks to Joseph Brown, who taught me that above the fold is the best location in the paper. Joseph modeled the importance of meeting deadlines and writing timely editorials.
Last, but in no way least, thanks to Karen Fioretti, who gave me a chance to write. She taught me about using direct quotations, about how to use the camera, and about putting in the last comma in a series, confusing this old English teacher even more.
I truly love my Star-Herald family and have a message for each one. Trisha, you are such a pleasant voice for customers, even when they call you week after week about their papers being late. Landon, your enthusiasm is contagious and it is encouraging to see how well and seriously you do your job. Karen, I appreciate your believing in me and giving me the opportunity to express myself in print. Jennifer, you know what I’m going to say. I appreciate your sharing your kids with me and giving me the chance to be a grandma. Rocking Starla while we watched Dr. Phil is one of my most precious memories. “How’s that workin’ for ya?”
In the past eight years, I have worked with several people and would be remiss if I did not mention them: Cindi, Kim, Bess, Mandy, David, Caitlyn, Laurie, Jon Eric, Daphne, Shelley, Stan, Elton, and Jason…you’ve all been integral parts of the paper at one time or another, and I appreciate all of you.
I cannot write this piece without mentioning Nancy Green. She became a dear friend and confidante, and she was a great role model as a reporter, writer, and Christian. All of us miss her every day, and Nancy’s memory will live on for many years.
What will I do when I retire? I plan to see my son, his wife, and his children much more often. The trip to Tennessee is one we’ve gotten used to, and my grandson and granddaughter-soon-to-arrive are the lights of our lives.
My husband and I are so very blessed at our age to have four living parents, and we plan to spend time with them as well.
We will travel some, but I suspect that most of our trips will be to Tennessee! We will remain active in our church and continue serving Chapel Hill United Methodist as long as they will have us.
How many people have been blessed to have two careers that they love? I spent 29 years teaching and loved (almost) every minute of it. When I retired 10 years ago, I thought that was it. Whoever thought that a random call from Cindi would lead me down a whole new path? And what a path it was! I truly love what I’m doing and have loved writing week after week.
I can’t close without thanking my “other boss,” Dr. Tim Alford. Working on KFEE stories has been a challenge, an opportunity, and a pleasure. Thanks for entrusting me with interviewing such special people, and allowing me to make a small contribution to such a worthy cause as The Skipworth Performing Arts Center.
Finally, thanks to the readers out there. You’ve held me accountable; you’ve given me a pat on the back when needed; you are truly the best readership out there. Thank you for your continued support of our weekly paper.
So, “adieu, adieu, to you and you and you.” I’ll always love The Star-Herald and everyone associated with it. Good bye and God bless.
