Think First

America’s small towns are special places. There is a sense of home, an invitation to get involved and the blessing of getting to know neighbors.

It takes effort to foster a sense of community, whether it was from the closeknit families who settled this area, or those today who band together to volunteer and build a stronger town.

That doesn’t happen without an investment from people who care. And that can be difficult without a unifying bond — a connection to one another for the sharing of ideas, a place for constructive criticism, an examination of difficult topics, a sharing of victories and accomplishments, and a remembering of those who came before.

During National Newspaper Week, Oct. 6-12, we note that community journalism has played that role for decades and towns across America have journalists dedicated to fostering that sense of togetherness.

We want to remind everyone about their five freedoms, which is also the theme of newspaper week “Think First: Know Your Five Freedoms.”

The Constitution’s First Amendment allows us to practice religion freely or not all. Under this right, we are free to think, express and act upon our religious beliefs, reasonably, respectfully and safely.

It also protects our freedom to share our minds and express ourselves through words and actions. Under this right, we can share our opinions openly and peacefully without interference from the government.

A third freedom allows us to peaceably assemble or protest nonviolently, privately or publicly, with an aim of accomplishing a common goal or acting on a common idea.

Our freedom to petition our government for redress of grievances is another protection that gives us a way to actively participate in government by asking for changes or adjustments that affect us or in which we feel strongly.

Finally, the First Amendment allows us the freedom of press, which gives everyone the right to publish and circulate information or opinions without government censorship through print, broadcast and electronic media.

We at The Reporter take that job seriously. Our industry faces challenges but like Rock-dale’s future we are optimistic the public will support our efforts. We don’t claim to be perfect, yet we try our best each week, guided by the Constitutional principle of a free press.

Thank you for letting us serve.—C.G.