In The Vicksburg Post newsroom, each reporter, the editor and the publisher write a weekly column for the newspaper. This responsibility does not come with a specified topic, so we choose our own subjects.  I like that.

It allows you as the reader to see our many different styles of writing and perspectives on an array of topics.

This week, however, we were all asked to write about something pertaining to the newspaper industry since it is Newspaper Week.

I have enjoyed reading my colleagues columns and would have to agree with many of the aspects they highlighted about working in the industry.

I loved Jan Griffey’s perspective as she admitted she has fun knowing things before others. Well yea-aah!

Austin Vining focused his column on the power of the press. We like it when newspapers reflect our positions in a positive light, but how quickly attitudes change when they conflict with our perspectives. Nevertheless, it is our job to report fairly and balanced.

Fortunately for me, I am usually assigned the fluffier stories to cover, but I have admired the reporters with whom I work when I see them digging for the truth, like a dog searching for a bone.

Josh Edward’s column highlighted some of his most memorable interviews and assignments. The Vicksburg Post would not allow me the word count it would take to list all the interesting people or events I have covered in my time here.

And if you do not think there is anything to do here in Vicksburg, come to the newsroom and start typing in the calendar events that our community has scheduled.

Of all the columns I read, Alana Norris’ column most related to me.

Like me, parental encouragement veered me towards the newspaper.

My mom knew I wanted to write. I guess she got tired of me making excuses for not sitting down and doing it.  For one of my birthdays, she gave me a gift certificate to a “Shut Up and Write” workshop taught by the editor of the Jackson Free Press, Donna Ladd.

The class was amazing, and I received encouraging feedback, which egged-on my desire to continue.

I wrote a few freelance pieces for the Jackson Free Press, but it was not until Karen Gamble took a chance and hired me at The Vicksburg Post that I got a real taste of what all happens behind the scenes of a newspaper.

Admittedly, before taking the job, I had no clue about the hours, dedication and DEADLINES that have to be met.

Last week, I had the opportunity to expand that knowledge when I was assigned the Sunday story on how a newspaper is made from blank page to driveway delivery.

People, this place is a well-oiled machine!

I may get a byline with my name, but I can assure you being a reporter is merely one of many spokes in the wheel at The Vicksburg Post.

I was truly humbled at the dedication and job performance executed by all of the employees here.

Vicksburg is fortunate to have a daily newspaper. There are numerous towns our size that do not have this luxury.