An insider view of the local newspaper

Freedom of the press is considered one of the most important bulwarks of our liberty and was established by the Founding Fathers and guaranteed within the Bill of Rights. For journalists, this can be a double-edged sword. Unlike many forms of electronic “news,” we are signing off on a byline without anonymity. You May Not Like My Opinion, But My Facts Better Be Right.

The powers of the “Fourth Estate” and the ability of a free press to advocate and frame not only political issues but social, economic, and environmental, to name a few, issues is essential for transparency and accountability.

As an aspiring journalist, I’m lucky in another regard. I came into this as a paying side gig in my retirement. The reason I bring this up is to highlight the slippery slope print journalism is on. During the past six months, I’ve been laid off twice. No problem; I understand the concept of last-hired, first-fired. Like I said, for me this is a side gig.

However, for the rest of the Herald staff, this is their life. This is their career. Watching Carlton’s efforts to keep the wheels turning against current challenges makes it obvious local journalism is his passion.

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