Hello there.
I’m Lucie. Lucie Willsie, middle initial R.
I’m the new editor at the Democrat.
I just started about a week ago. I wanted to introduce myself and let you know I’m looking forward to being your editor.
I wanted to give you folks just the Reader’s Digest version about my background. I was born in Missouri, and many of my people still live across the state as well. I have a bachelor’s from the Mizzou Journalism School, as my dad had, and a master’s from Webster University in St. Louis in media communications. I have worked in newspapers for roughly 20 years or so. Name it and I have probably have written about it or taken a photo of it, from county fairs to government meetings, from business news to community events.
I’ve done a lot of things over the years working at newspapers. I remember one time when I joined a car club on its annual trip. I also organized photo shoots, met a bloodhound named “Daisy†who was dispatched to find two lost boys, and hunted down “lutefisk†at a “Scandinavian Fest.†One of my jobs was that of the “Mystery Diner,†which meant I would go to restaurants and then report what I thought of the meal. The newspaper paid for the meal, which was great, but not so great was the 15 pounds I gained.
I really enjoy the variety and getting to meet new folks and going to interesting events. And I look forward to meeting you all soon.
Personally, well, I work most of the time, but I do enjoy a good movie and a good meal.
Let’s see. What else?
Well, I am more a cat person than a dog person, but I do love most animals across the board. I even worked at the St. Louis Zoo at one point in time. I’ve also been on a pistol team. I also collect. I do love “antiquing.†I once bought a 16-inch orange cat figurine with big black eyes, so my taste is eclectic to say the least.
Now, I want to make sure I thank the great staff that has been working at the paper for you all these past years — especially reporters Michelle Brooks and David A. Wilson — since they all have been working without an editor for these past months. They did a great job and will continue doing a great job as they always have done. Also new to the staff is Carter Mulvihill, our new sports reporter. You will all get to know him soon.
And, although I haven’t met many of you folks, I have already found out how friendly and welcoming Californians are. Where else can I call up the president of a local organization and have her (in this case) be willing to meet with me on short notice so I can do a story for the paper?
Also, since you have been more than welcoming and helpful, I am going to ask you folks for a favor. I am still looking for a nice place to stay in California. So, if anyone has a place or knows of a place, I sure would appreciate you letting me know. And thank you in advance.
Our goal at the Democrat remains the same as always — to cover what’s going on in California as much as possible by highlighting local residents and events.
I do look forward to working with you all and think that this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.