My father was a man of substance, an emblem of hard work and perseverance, whose story resonates with many. As a young boy, he had shared with me tales of my grandfather’s aspirations for him to pursue law, a secure and prestigious profession. However, following his heart, my father delved into the realm of journalism and later transitioned into a small business owner, a path laden with challenges yet imbued with gratification.
His endeavor as a publisher was something he cherished deeply. Despite the trials inherent in maintaining a flourishing circulation through the painstaking task of attracting advertisers, my father found joy in his profession. He often delineated the intricacies and the daunting task of selling—a notion well understood by those in the realm of advertising. In his view, selling was an art, an excursion often bereft of the flashy allure that a character like Don Draper from Mad Men encapsulated. However, the reality of modern-day advertising is far removed from the glamour portrayed in fictional dramas.
His perception of the challenging yet rewarding life of a publisher led him to aspire for a different professional path for me. Much like his father, he envisioned a career in law for me—a path seemingly less thorny. In adhering to his advice, I embarked on a journey into the legal domain, which some may jest was fueled by my knack for debating, while others saw a potential for advocacy and aid.
As I matured and delved deeper into my profession, the reassuring notion of my father’s pride in my accomplishments was a source of relentless motivation. His friends, post his demise, reiterated his pride, expressing how fondly he spoke of my little triumphs, even in my absence. As a father of two, I now resonate with the profound joy that beams from a father’s pride.
My father had always veered me away from the challenging life of journalism and publishing, but life has a peculiar way of orchestrating events. Today, as I stand at the helm of my father’s longstanding local paper, I feel an unspoken duty to continue his legacy. This endeavor, unexpected yet heartwarmingly familiar, beckons me to carry forward my father’s dream, his community service through the lens of a local publisher.
Working alongside my stepmom, Maureen, the diligent chief editor, and the rest of the crew that keeps this paper lively, I am eager to keep the wheels of this local paper turning, impacting our community as my father did for over three decades. It’s an expedition I am embarking upon with reverence for the past and hope for the future.
I am new to this realm, stepping into colossal shoes, and as I gingerly tread this path, I request the patience and support of our readers. The journey ahead is long, but with a legacy to honor and a community to serve, the essence of my father’s spirit will undoubtedly be the guiding light. I vow to keep this paper relevant, local and even give it a new look while maintaining its beloved internal charm. Together, we will continue to share stories that matter, keeping the pulse of our community beating through the pages of the Dunmorean.
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