Bob Hastings
Editorial by Robert Hastings (Originally published April 9, 1970)
The transition from reporter to full ownership of a newspaper has been accomplished in gradual steps, due to an interim partnership that has existed between myself and Bert Quackenbush.
Nor are the community or the inner-workings of the paper strange since Tuscola has been my home for over 20 years and The Tuscola Review my means of livelihood for the past 13 years. For these things I am deeply grateful.
If I were new to the community and to the paper it would become necessary to set down a listing of newspaper policies. Since neither is true, and since most of you are acquainted with our policy at The Tuscola Review, we need not dwell on this further.
This does not, however, mean that there will not be changes at The Tuscola Review. The entire staff is constantly striving toward a better paper that is geared to serve a growing community. We have plans, hopes, fears, and regrets, just as does any other small business in these trying times.
As the new owner and publisher of The Tuscola Review, I pledge to our advertisers and subscribers as well as the residents of Douglas County, that I will continue to carry out the high principles always advocated by the distinguished gentlemen who have preceded me in the nearly 100 years of the paper’s existence.
I am extremely proud of our staff. We are fortunate to have Allen Mann as managing editor. Mr. Quackenbush has capably pointed out his assets in his farewell.
Our shop foreman, Robert Jackson, comes to us from Sullivan, and the Decatur Herald. He is an accomplished printer and has purchased the W.A. Irwin property which will become the new home for the Jackson family. Included are his wife, Lois, and daughter, Lisa.
Needing no introduction to most of you is our society editor, Mrs. Nora Collins. Mrs. Collins is both my right and left arm, and as you all know, a lady with whom it is a pleasure to be associated. Mrs. Collins has been a member of The Review family for nine years and we sincerely hope she will be with us many, many more.
Another vital member of the family is my wife, Beverly. She daily handles hundreds of details so necessary to any publication, and most important, keeps track of finances.
Our “gal Friday” is Freeda Evans. Freeda sets 99 percent of the news in type, and can be called upon to fill in almost anywhere in our production operation. Mrs. Evans and her daughter, Tammy Jo, make their home at Village Haven, Tuscola.
Rounding out our full-time staff are Larry Schweighart and Terry Bassett. These two young men run the press, cast advertising mats, and carry out the many hundred duties of printers.
Also vital to our operation are the many correspondents who bring you news from all parts of the county.
These are the people who make YOUR newspaper possible. Our best efforts will be put forth at all times to make this a live readable paper, advocating any movement or project for the betterment of the community. We will appreciate your continued good will and support.