-Isms: Views on life in rural America

Another year, another milestone.

The volume number on Page one's flag notes a flip of the calendar. This edition marks the beginning of what will culminate in our fifth year of publishing the "Summerland Advocate-Messenger."

It's been a whirlwind. It's required late and/or early hours. It's meant hard work, occasional frustration and an intense amount of laughter. Plus, it's been some of the most rewarding work in which we've played a part.

We believe in the power of community journalism, how a newspaper is a mirror of the communities it serves, how telling the truth brings light to even the darkest of situations. The truth, we know, is the key. We are forever grateful to be part of these communities and share the stories from the fabric of our lives. Some are gritty and intense, others soft and full of curves, but each story represents the collective of who we Summerlanders are. To borrow a word from "Ted Lasso," stories represent "ussies," portraying the unique characters who fill our neighborhoods. What a privilege it is to share each and every one.

Over the past month, we've had an opportunity to read local newspapers from Georgia, Tennesee, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, South Dakota and a handful of other states. Each offers something unique. Some add interesting tidbits, like a weekly shoutout to a subscriber. Others include a monthly birthday calendar. All bring local issues and triumphs to light.

That, friends, is what community newspapers are all about.

As the paper embarks on its next trip around the sun, we're taking time to reflect on our strengths and evaluate areas for improvement. We've contemplated adding a couple new features. One begins this week; others will roll out throughout the next 12 months. As we unveil new elements, we encourage you to share your thoughts about the additions with us. We appreciate and encourage reader feedback.

During an overnight excursion last week, Scott and I talked about the first days - SAM's infancy - and how possibility, probability and a solid business plan paved the way to where we are at this precise moment. I glanced at a few photos from the pre-launch era (which only lasted a month), where we designed and created and dreamed from our dining room table. We sport a few more wrinkles now, definitely several more gray hairs.

It's been an interesting endeavor. We survived a global pandemic. We proved the naysayers, who said starting a newspaper would never work, that it can, with the right outlook. We worked diligently with the post office to secure a second-class mailing permit, which is no easy feat. Trust us. We've taken gambles that, sometimes, didn't pan out the way we envisioned. We've been pleasantly surprised with the daily ins and outs of owning a small business. We've witnessed multiple postage price hikes and paper costs skyrocket.

And, we thank God, on the daily, for the best work family ever. Thanks to all of you - columnists, photographers and designers - for your contributions. This venture would not be the same without you.

So, cheers to the start of five years. Our commitment to the Summerland area is stronger than ever. Whether you're a long-time subscriber or a new reader, we're glad your here. Thank you for making an investment in local, quality journalism.