Clintonville, New London editor moves on
By Bert Lehman
It is with mixed emotions that I inform you that this issue of the Clintonville Tribune-Gazette and New London Press Star will be my last as editor.
When I was promoted to editor of the two papers two and a half years ago, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. At the time, I had been editor of several magazines, but being editor of two weekly newspapers is a whole different ballgame.
Despite that, I accepted the challenge of being the editor of two newspapers for two reasons. First, it was a new challenge. I’m the type of person who enjoys new challenges, as well as looking for opportunities to better myself and my family. Second, I’ve always had an interest in news.
My goal was and continues to be to report the news fairly, accurately and leave my opinions out of it. I’ve always felt that nobody cares about my opinion as they want to know the facts. That’s what I tried to give our readers with each and every article that appeared in the paper.
After becoming editor, I told people who I met that it wasn’t my goal to make friends and it wasn’t my goal to make enemies. My goal was to report the news so readers knew what was happening in their communities.
I hope that you, the reader, feel I have accomplished that goal.
During my time as editor, I have met many great people in Clintonville and New London. I am appreciative of the help members of the communities have provided me, as well as the kind comments, and constructive criticism relayed to me.
It is the connections in the communities that make the decision to leave a difficult one. But it’s a decision I had to make with the best interests of my family in mind.
For those of you wondering, I have accepted an editor position at F+W Media in Iola. I had previously worked there for almost 10 years. The editor position that I accepted is in the same department that I previously worked in. It’s an opportunity that presented itself, and was too good to pass on.
My last day as editor of the Tribune-Gazette and Press Star will be Friday, Sept. 30. You’ll still see my name in the paper after that, as I have offered to help out on a part-time basis until my replacement is found.
Before I go, I want to thank Multi Media Channels for giving me the opportunity to be editor of two weekly newspapers. I also want to thank Robert Cloud, editor of our sister publication, the Waupaca County Post, for being a great mentor. I valued his advice, which was based on his many years of experience in the business. I also have to thank the many co-workers I have worked with for helping to provide a great working atmosphere.
Even though it required long hours and covering many night meetings, it’s been a pleasure covering your communities.