REMARKS: ANNIVERSARY GOOD EXCUSE FOR REFLECTION

Celebrating my two-year anniversary in Jackson with a severe head cold was not exactly what I had envisioned for this weekend. Of course Feb. 1, 1999 was my first day on the job here, so last weekend would really have been the most appropriate time for a celebration. I only had a mild head cold then.

Oh well, my thinking tends to be cloudy and deluded even without cold medicine and Vicks. The advantage we in the print medium have over our television and radio cohorts is that you have no way of knowing if we're blowing our noses in the middle of a story.

Anniversaries give one an excuse to reflect on the past. Looking back to February 1999, I had some big plans and goals upon taking over the twin duties as Jackson USA and Scott County Signal editor. Not all of those goals have come into fruition. I had intended to open doors of communications with the local schools and to recruit several local columnists. This has been only partially successful. In two years, I definitely should have accomplished more along these lines.

Still, it has been enjoyable working with the schools. I can understand why people want their children in the Jackson School District. I've gotten to know a lot of fine administrators, teachers, parents and students since I've been here. I guess I got to know the graduates of the Class of 2000 better than others during my short span here. That was a special group -- although the classes surrounding it have certainly been outstanding, as well.

Covering the high school theater productions has been one of my highlights. From Shakespeare to light comedies to one-acts, they have all been a treat. So have the two Madrigal Feastes I've been able to cover.

Getting to sit down with student leaders and pick their collective brain in the fall of 1999 was a special treat. I still appreciate the invaluable help of Jeni Zinner -- then student body president -- in arranging the interview.

I've also come to know a considerable amount about Jackson area history since I've been here. I was amazed to find that the town was named for Andrew Jackson before the Battle of New Orleans! It is certainly a heritage to be proud of.

I've had the chance to write about everything from jet ski champions to M&M collectors to beauty queens to selfless charity workers to long-lost sisters. It has definitely been an interesting run. I just wish my own performance was equal to the task of presenting such fascinating subjects more consistently.

I think Jackson has a great future. I hope it keeps hold of its past and doesn't fall victim to the danger of rushing into "progress, for progress' sake." So far the city has seemed to keep a close watch on its growth and maintain the very atmosphere that is drawing people here in the first place. I hope this continues.

I appreciate the feedback I've gotten. It seems like virtually everything that goes in a newspaper is somebody's favorite. One person has e-mailed me, saying that my former trivia quizzes -- derived during numerous hours in trivia chat rooms -- were his favorite items. For many, it's the historic photos -- either from the Missourian files, from Bern Schaper and the Jackson Heritage Association, or those submitted by readers. Of course, some like the chance for local folks to submit poetry and short fiction.

Whatever one favors, we have tried to provide an interesting publication. I have heard good feedback on the new design -- courtesy of Missourian design specialist Jamie Hall. It certainly adds a new snap to the publication.

I'm sure readers will continue to enjoy the Jackson USA. I've certainly enjoyed my two years at the helm. Meeting so many fine people has been the real highlight of this time. They have made the time fly.