My first week as the new publisher of the Record-Bee and Observer*American has left my head spinning. There is so much to do, to learn and so many people to get to know. Plus, I had the perfect timing to arrive during the annual budgeting and strategic planning season, which only adds to the head spins. But, I really feel fortunate to be here.
I started in the newspaper business at the age of nine, helping my big brother deliver his paper route. Three years later, I took over the route and kept it through most of high school. I have spent very little of my adult life not working at a newspaper. Last year I thought it was time to try something else, so I passed all of the licensing exams to become a financial advisor for Edward Jones Investments. I quickly realized that I missed the fun and frenzy of managing a newspaper operation. Most newspaper people will tell you that if you are around the business long enough, you develop “ink in the veins” syndrome.
On Wednesday evening I attended my first community activity. It was the Clear Lake-Lakeport joint chamber of commerce dinner at Robinson Rancheria. I have to say that I was astounded by the reports from the two chamber executives, as well as other business leaders, who detailed the activities coming up in Lake County during the summer season. The choice of activities in which to participate is mind boggling. I can honestly say that there is more going on here than in the Colorado ski towns in which I have managed papers. That obviously makes this a great tourist destination, but it also provides great fun for residents as well.
I plan to do my best, as the local newspaper publisher, to be a promoter of Lake County. I also plan to build on the good work that Gregg McConnell did here as publisher and provide the very best news and advertising products possible to locals and visitors.
I took note at the chamber dinner when a couple of folks commented that I have my work cut out for me. I have managed newspapers in five states now. In every community, no matter how good the paper was, there were always people who thought it could be better, including me. Many people have a tendency to be critical of their hometown newspaper. I have no problem with people constructively criticizing the paper. It shows that they care. If they didn”t they wouldn”t take the time to comment.
I want all of our readers to know that you can call me or e-mail me whenever you wish. You can stop by the office, too. I have an open door policy. It is usually better to call ahead to see if I am in, but I welcome all comments and suggestions about our products.
For many years, I have generally written a personal column for the newspaper. I plan to do so here, too. The great thing about a personal column is the freedom it allows to pick a topic. It”s a big world and anything is fair game.
I am happy to now be part of this community and I look forward to being a contributor toward its positive future.
Gary Dickson is publisher of the Clear Lake Observer?American, the Lake County Record-Bee, Penny Slaver and Willits News. Contact Gary Dickson at gdickson@record-bee.com.
