The first instructions I received after being named editor of the New Westminster Record didn’t come from my new boss – tireless publisher Lara Graham – but from my old boss.
Meaning my mother.
Her instructions were explicit: “Make sure you cover Century House.”
Mom is a volunteer there and also performs with the centre’s drama group, and through the years I have been taught about what a vital role Century House plays for the community’s seniors.
So, instructions noted.
These are the things you need to know when you are editor of the community newspaper editor.
I’ve learned these lessons during a journalism career that’s spanned more than 25 years.
I was born and raised next door in Burnaby, all the while knowing I was going to end up in a career involving writing.
I spent time working as a reporter in the Fraser Valley before settling down in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, first as a reporter and then editor. In all, I worked 20 years for one of the town’s community newspapers. Along the way, I raised an amazing daughter who is approximately 1,266 times smarter and more mature than I was at age 19. The good news is she’s finally reached the age where she no longer says I’m ruining her life.
After leaving Maple Ridge, I ended up back in Burnaby to be closer my mom, as well as my previous job as managing editor of a Vancouver commuter daily.
And then … it happened.
Legendary editor Pat Tracy, who was one of my mentors when I first started out in this business, retired after a distinguished career – and now here I am, sitting in the uncomfortable office chair that she swears she loves and looking to fill her enormous shoes.
I’m grateful to Record publisher Lara Graham for giving me this opportunity. I was hired with the promise to continue the high standards that Pat set.
That means great stories and photos, plus engaging opinions, in both the print editions and our digital platforms.
I’m helped in this challenge by an amazing editorial team, led by the unsung assistant editor Julie MacLellan. She’s held things together during the transition, producing excellent newspapers and holding my hand as I got settled in (and trying not to laugh as I attempted to record my office phone’s voicemail greeting approximately 68 times).
So, what can readers expect from me? Well, an experienced journalist who understands what makes a community newspaper great. I’ll also be a visible presence in the community.
If you do see me at a community event, come over and say “hey” and tell me your story.
Follow Chris Campbell on Twitter and Instagram @shinebox44. Send story ideas and letters to [email protected].
