A lot can happen in just a few days, and that’s especially true when you’re in the news business.
Over just the past few days, we added a new staff member to the Gazette team, got a huge compliment from one of Maine’s most respected journalists and stumbled across a significant story that is still in development.
Hint: I’ve got a funny feeling we have not heard the last from our former city manager, Jim Bennett
This week, we also first broke the story about Biddeford’s new city manager, provided in-depth coverage about a site walk at the University of New England and were able to reminisce with others about the final closure of the JFK Memorial School.
A new face at the Gazette:
I am excited to announce that Gail Toussaint of Biddeford has decided to join our team as a much-needed copy editor.
Gail told us that she really enjoys reading the Biddeford Gazette, but noticed occasional typos and grammatical errors. When you’re basically running a one-man operation on a deadline, little mistakes can be expected, but they are never acceptable.
We strive to give you a quality, trustworthy product that is accurate, relevant and timely (ART). Gail actually volunteered to help us meet that mission. I was blown away by her offer to help us without any type of compensation.
“I love what the Gazette is doing,” Gail told us. “I think it’s an important part of our community, and I’m happy to help.”
It’s important to note that Gail will not be able to edit all of our stories, so if you see a typo, blame us, not her. Actually, we really do encourage our readers to contact us if they spot an error, have a complaint or a suggestion about a possible story.
A huge compliment:
Who doesn’t like being recognized for their efforts? A few days ago, I received an email from A Jay Higgins, one of Maine’s best known and respected journalists.
For more than 40 years, AJ has worked as a reporter and editor at the Bangor Daily News, at the Portland Press Herald’s former parent company (Blethen) and most recently at Maine Public Radio before retiring.
“I admire your tenacity as you undertake this project,” Higgins wrote. “I just don’t get it. People really do want local news: the council meetings, the school board meetings, the sewer district meetings, baked bean suppers, school sports, Elks Lodge, births, deaths etc.
“But they apparently don’t want to pay for it. “Just a thought, keep up the good work.”
When you get a compliment from a colleague, it reminds you that your work is worth the effort.
That said, I would also like to thank all the others who pass along well wishes and compliments on an almost daily basis.
For example, last week I took my truck for an oil change at Jiffy Lube in Biddeford. The man working at the counter asked, “are you Randy Seaver?”
Cautiously, I affirmed his query. “Cool,” he responded. “I really like what you’re doing with the Gazette.”
And there are so many others, former city councilors, teachers and former classmates. I cherish all of it. Thank you so much for your continued support!
New city manager
A lot of people have asked me what I think about the woman who will likely become Biddeford’s next city manager. I have yet to meet Truc Dever in person, but I am feeling quite optimistic about her taking over the helm at City Hall.
In my opinion, she is well-qualified for the position — both on paper and hands-on experience. But the biggest thing she offers Biddeford is a fresh set of eyes and a breath of fresh air. She has no allegiances to anyone or any institution. She has not been influenced by Biddeford’s culture, history or the often-negative narrative about our community.
In short, I am looking forward to seeing what she can do to help Biddeford achieve all the success we deserve.
What’s on the horizon?
I have a lot of stories in development. So, stay tuned. We are also approaching our six-month anniversary, when Laura and I plan to make some significant decisions about the Gazette’s future.
Later today, you can expect to read my exclusive feature story about Gen. Marquis de Lafeyette and the celebration of his visit to Biddeford 200 years ago.
In the meantime, stay safe, have fun and enjoy your summer!
Remember what Shakespeare said: “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date.”
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On a more personal note, you may want to check out my recent blog post about my time as a student at the JFK School in Biddeford: Fear and Loathing in Biddeford
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
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