From the editor’s desk
I guess it’s fair to say we’ve jumped into 2013. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve written 2012 on a check or a document here at work, instead of writing 2013. How about you? Hopefully by the time March rolls around, I’ll have 2013 ingrained in my head ... maybe not.
Have you noticed how it’s getting a bit lighter in the morning and how it doesn’t get dark as early in the evening? I can deal with winter (since I have to), but I truly dread those long dark mornings and early evenings. Daylight Saving Time begins March 10 ... Just two months away! Yee-ha!
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Have you picked up a copy of our newest Illinois Valley Living magazine? It hit the streets in December, and from what I’m understanding, there aren’t many copies left. It’s really a great piece, so if you haven’t yet secured your own copy, stop by the BCR and grab one. We are also offering an annual subscription to Illinois Valley Living magazine, which includes all four editions being mailed directly to your home. Call Brandie in our Bureau County Republican Circulation Department at 815-875-4461, ext. 239, to find out more information or get your subscription started.
We are already working on our Spring 2013 edition. If you have any story ideas for our magazine, which features the people, places and things of the Illinois Valley, give me a call at 815-875-4461, ext. 229, or better yet, email me at tsimon@bcrnews.com. Right now, I’m searching for someone in the Illinois Valley area with an unusual collection; someone who has a huge garden every year; and an area child or teenager who has a special talent or interest. All other ideas are also welcome. I look forward to hearing from you.
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I’m a little late in mentioning this, but I have to say how impressed I was with all the Christmas decorations I saw in all the towns and villages across the county. I know it takes quite a bit of work, time and energy to get these decorations in place, but please know I thought they were absolutely beautiful. If you see your village workers who were responsible for this year’s holiday decorations, make sure you give them a well-deserved pat on the back.
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Thought for today: “Do not anticipate trouble or worry about what may never happen. Keep in the sunlight.” Benjamin Franklin.
Thought for tomorrow: “The best substitute for experience is being 16.” Raymond Duncan.
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How are your New Year’s resolutions coming? Just wondering ... After failing miserably for the last umpteen years on my personal New Year’s resolutions, I’m not setting myself up for failure anymore. This year, my main resolution is to be a kinder person every day. I’m hoping by the end of the year, it’s not something I have to think about, rather something that just comes naturally. Don’t misunderstand. I think I’m kind; I just want to be kinder.
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I’m happy to report Shaw Media’s acquisition of the Putnam County Record and The Tonica News is going very well. In the last month, we’ve made some great changes to those two newspapers, and I’ve heard a lot of nice comments from folks in those areas. Like the staff at the BCR, these folks are committed to publishing the best newspaper possible. That’s wonderful, and it’s also fun to get to know the readers from those areas.
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Just a reminder: The BCR enjoys the photographs you take and share with us. I’m continually impressed with the photographers in and around Bureau County. Send your photos and information to BCR Copy Editor Terry Himes at thimes@bcrnews.com.
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What will 2013 bring? None of us are sure, but I do hope it’s a year where we can remember how important it is to take some time for ourselves and those we love. And remember ... you are important to me and the BCR.
