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Thanks, Liberty, for having me
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I’ll hand it to you, Liberty County — you sure know how to make a person feel welcome. And, apparently, you’ve decided the old adage holds true: The way to an editor’s heart is through her stomach, which is just fine with me. Heck, if I’d known our readers and sources were going to invite me to so many functions featuring delicious meals, I’d have tried for my recent promotion even sooner.
I’m sure many of you remember the column I wrote March 10, during my first week as the Courier’s new editor. I appealed to the Liberty and Long county communities to get to know me by including me in events, dropping by the paper for a chat or setting up a meeting. Well, nearly two months have passed and I’m happy to report that many of you have taken me up on those offers.
Since stepping into my new role, I’ve enjoyed turkey and all the trimmings, courtesy of Occasions Catering and Event Service, at the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce’s Progress through People luncheon while listening to Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Phillips speak. It was nice to put so many faces with names.
Liberty Regional Medical Center Marketing Director Rene’ Harwell, CEO Scott Kroell and CFO Sam Johnson graciously hosted my publisher and me for a breakfast of bacon and eggs and provided a very informative tour of the hospital.
The Dorchester Civic Center Inc. Board of Directors allowed me to take part in their recent clock donation ceremony at the old Dorchester Consolidated School. I’m happy to report the building renovations are coming along beautifully … and the Lowcountry boil and homemade coleslaw guests dined on before the ceremony certainly didn’t need any work.
Of course, to balance out these feasts, I joined Hinesville’s Team Suzie Q for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5K in Savannah. A little exercise will never hurt anybody – and neither did the cocktails we enjoyed after the race!
I’ve also had the pleasure of meeting City Manager Billy Edwards and Mayor Jim Thomas at Hinesville City Hall. I appreciated Mayor Thomas taking time out of his busy schedule to discuss issues the city is facing. And, when I briefly mentioned I’ve never had a green thumb, he even gave me a few helpful pointers to improve my lawn’s appearance.
Finally, thanks to all the Courier readers who’ve dropped by the office, e-mailed and called me. I received many valuable suggestions for improving the paper, and I think I’ve gotten to know a little bit about what makes Liberty County tick. It’s been delightful talking to each of you and I’m honored you’ve taken the time to share with me information about yourselves.
And I’m not finished yet. Please know my offer still stands — if we haven’t met, let’s change that. I’m eager to check out Long County and get acquainted with residents there. There are also areas of Liberty County I still want to explore. So, fill me in. What is your community up to?
I’ll be at Mayor Thomas’ State of the City Address tomorrow at the Econo Lodge in Hinesville. If you’re planning to attend, make sure to find me and introduce yourself. It should be fun — and, in keeping with the theme, I’m sure attendees will be treated to a scrumptious lunch.

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