As a child who wanted nothing more than to grow up and become a journalist, I used to write stories for and draw out my own homemade “newspapers” to distribute to my family on Sunday mornings at breakfast. I tried to design my publications based on what I thought each of my family members might want to read. Dad’s “newspaper” was about sports, and my younger sister’s often featured reports on Strawberry Shortcake and her social circle.
Cartoon characters aside, I don’t think what I do today is all that different from what I started a few decades ago.
I was hired by Morris Multimedia, owner of the Bryan County News, over six years ago as the assistant managing editor of the Coastal Courier in Hinesville and immediately felt at home. I’d found a family, both with my new co-workers and with the welcoming residents of the Coastal Georgia region.
In 2010, I was promoted to managing editor of the Courier, and I also began to familiarize myself neighboring communities, such as Bryan County. I’ve gotten to know the area more intimately. I’ve met and spoken with readers, families, soldiers, spouses, leaders, officials, workers, retirees, pastors, students, centenarians and children. And, with each new face, I’ve asked myself, “What would that person want to read about?”
Recently, I was named managing editor of the Bryan County News and, now more than ever, I’m striving to produce a publication everyone will enjoy. But like everyone who, from time to time, has called on relatives and friends, I’m reaching out to the community for help. I want to hear from every member of the Bryan County family. As your new editor, I want to know what interests you and what doesn’t, what you’d like to read about and who you’d like to see featured.
Just as our readers in Liberty and Long counties allowed me to become part of their lives, I hope the readers and residents of Bryan County will do the same. If we’ve never had the opportunity to talk or you’ve never met me, I’d like to change that. I want to get to know all the News’ readers and I welcome suggestions regarding the newspaper’s content and structure.
In the coming weeks, my talented staff and I will roll out some changes. Readers can expect to see expanded online news coverage and more video features. We’re building a stronger, more dynamic newspaper, and I’m excited to share our plans and this period of growth with the community.
Please don’t hesitate to give me a call at 756-2668 or e-mail me at hbarnidge@bryancountynews.net. This is your newspaper, Bryan County, so join in as we climb to new heights.