Journey Home: A New Era Begins in Newberry’s Local Journalism

Welcome Back to Newberry: A Personal Journey

Hey there, Newberry! It feels wonderful to be back in this lovely city where I have spent all my life. Many of you may remember me from my previous stint in the local publication scene, while others might be wondering, “Who’s that?” Either way, I’m excited to introduce myself and share my journey with you. Let me take you on a little trip of my own – kind of like following the yellow brick road, but more like my own path that led me back home.

From the Big Screen to Real Life

As a kid, my favorite movie was The Wizard of Oz. Seriously, I was obsessed! I think I had every version of the book at least once, and it was the very first movie I ever owned on VHS. Now, I know kids today might not understand the thrill of VHS tapes, but trust me, it was like a gold mine! Even now, I still own that trusty old tape, but these days, I kick back with the DVD when I want to dive back into that magical world. Dorothy was absolutely right in saying, “There’s no place like home.” I guess that’s why I’m thrilled to be back in Newberry, a place that feels just like home to me.

My Journey So Far

You may not know this, but I actually started my journalism career here a few years back before life took me on quite a detour. My last byline in a local publication was back in 2020, just as the world began to change dramatically with the arrival of COVID-19. I ended up in Clinton as a reporter and graphic designer at The Clinton Chronicle, and then I made my way to Greenwood, where I covered public safety and courts for The Index-Journal. Isn’t it funny how life works out? In a bit of a cosmic twist, I traded places with Orion Griffin, who recently left for The Index-Journal as well. Now, here I am again in Newberry, ready to re-establish old connections and forge new ones.

Getting to Know Each Other

I lived in Newberry long enough to remember when both Walmart and Winn-Dixie were in the shopping center where Piedmont Technical College now stands. Those days were a nostalgic trip, especially when I think back to when my mom taught me how to drive in that very lot. Picture a young me zipping down the aisles, only to finally turn onto Wilson Road. I was terrified! You all know how wild the Newberry drivers can be, right? In 2012, I graduated from Newberry High School and then followed that up with my degree from Newberry College in 2016.

Now, beyond journalism, my hobbies include journaling and the love for bookstores. Seriously, my house is overflowing with books, yet somehow, I still find myself haunting local shops! Add in a penchant for horror movies, and you have a fair snapshot of who I am – a friendly book-loving soul navigating life right here in our dear Newberry!

What’s Next for Our Community

As I step into the role of editor, I intend to continue the work I started in 2020. My goal is to build strong, positive relationships with everyone here in Newberry County. Whether you come through our office doors as a customer, represent a business that contributes to our community, or are involved in local industries that desire to grow, I want to hear your stories. I believe every voice matters, even the difficult stories that might be easier to overlook.

We have an essentially new staff here now at the local publication, and we’re ready to serve you with kindness and respect, just as we hope to receive in return. So don’t be shy! I’d love for you to stop by, say hello, and perhaps even share some interesting story ideas. It’s all about reconnecting and making this community even stronger!

Home is Where the Heart Is

As I wrap up this little introduction, let me just say how thrilled I am to be back in Newberry — my home. Let’s embark on this journey together, uncovering tales that highlight our community’s uniqueness. I can’t wait to reconnect with familiar faces and make new friends along the way. Remember, as Dorothy wisely said, “There’s no place like home.”

If you’d like to reach out, feel free to give me a call at 803-768-3122 ext. 1867 or shoot me an email at kduncan@championcarolinas.com. Let’s make some magic happen here in Newberry!