A new face with some fresh ideas

A new era has begun at The Scope.

As you probably know by now, Michelle Minnoch has left the newspaper. I'm you're new editor, reporter and photographer, and hope to continue the success she has had.

I've lived in Innisfil for the last 13 years, with the exception of a brief two year stint in the print journalism program at Loyalist College in Belleville. I've worked for The Orillia Packet and Times, Midland Free Press and Barrie Examiner during the last few years. They've all been great experiences, but wanted a challenge.

This is my first editor's job. While I'm sure some of the job requirements will take a bit to get acquainted with - newspaper layout being the best example - I certainly guarantee well edited and quality news, and good photography.

I've spent the last few years covering various levels of government. The Scope has a long history of covering Innisfil's municipal political scene, and I fully plan to continue that tradition. The newspaper has also been a bastion for details on community events, sports, police updates, and county government coverage. I don't intend to change that.

However, I'd like to introduce several changes to the newspaper over the coming months, in an effort to serve readers better.

I encourage readers to submit story ideas and photography.

Ideally, I'd like to start a weekly community photo page. Readers can now submit photos of anything ranging from birthday parties and Thanksgiving celebrations to business openings. I especially encourage outdoor photography, like the changing of the fall colours, a gorgeous red sunset or a close encounter with deer. Just keep it safe and clean.

We're also asking for feedback. I certainly do not expect everyone to agree with future editorials.

Submit a letter to the editor, and it just may get published. If you have a story idea, or would like us to write about something we're currently not, call or submit an e-mail. While the newspaper will never be able to cover every story idea or community event, it will continue to provide solid, accurate and fair coverage of Innisfil.

Finally, I'd like to start covering community events before they happen. I believe a short preview story and photo will be beneficial and help generate interest for many community events. Organizers can also submit information and story ideas by calling or e-mailing our newsroom.

If you have a photo, story idea or letter to the editor, please e-mail thescope@rogers.com. Within the next few weeks, The Scope will also receive a new toll free phone number. Until then, please feel free to call Simcoe-York Publishing at 905-729-2287.