New beginnings

As I made the journey from my current home in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to my first day of work as regional publisher out of the Imperial, Nebraska, office, I recalled just why my wife, Melissa, and I moved West. It is not only beauty of the landscape but also the kindness of the people. I am currently staying at the Balcony House bed and breakfast for a bit, and the owners, Jim and Lisa Pirog, are the perfect hosts. They have a warm and welcoming home with friendly smiles, great food and wonderful conversation. They are just a sample of the outpouring of welcoming handshakes and kind words of “welcome to the area” I have been receiving this past week, and for that I am grateful.

Newspapers all over this country have gone through a series of ups and downs but still continue to be strong and the heartbeat of any town. Those in my new group, which includes Imperial and Grant, Nebraska, and Holyoke, Colorado, are no exception. All three have a unique identity, and all remain community-focused newspapers. I am also grateful that these papers have dedicated individuals working tirelessly to get out the product delivered every week. They are a part of this community, and by being so, they are in touch with the events happening around them locally. I am extremely lucky to have this team and place and look forward to expanding and hiring more people to help us grow.

I will never forget the warm welcome I have received my first week here as I start this next chapter and a new beginning.