This document is from an octogenarian's personal perspective. I am proud to share of having two home towns – Madison my birth place and Monticello-Jefferson my residence. I have countless family members and friends in Madison. I graduated from Suwannee River Junior College (SRJC) and began my teaching career in Madison.
I was transitioned and transplanted in Monticello at the age of six. I attended and graduated from Howard Academy schools (old and new). I raised my three children, bought my first home and established my livelihood here.
During my early adulthood I was an avid reader of the Madison Carrier of which I submitted articles and was privileged to meet Mr. Tommy and observed Emerald at the office.
Forwarding my experiences of being an avid reader and contributor of the Monticello News when Mr. Cichon was proprietor until present the newspaper has been a friend. I totally agree with the narrative Emerald pointed out about the importance of local newspapers. They are informative and a device that reports what's happening in our local government and our little corner of the community and the world.
I often defend and rebut those who feel the Leon paper is their choice. My view – what local news does it offer except the obituary. Furthermore the costs are far different.
To ECB Publishing staff, I offer congratulations to the entire staff who earned and brought home various, prestigious awards at the Florida Press Association. To Emerald, I'm proud of and for your accomplishments of carrying on a family legacy and becoming Chairperson of the FPA.
More significantly, I offer my gratitude to every member of ECB Publishing for your proficiency and dedication to your craft for offering seniors like me and others who appreciate the tangible newspaper. To the naysayers of local news and our old-fashioned method, I say in the case of tangible local printed news to me is like “beauty” only it's in the interest and intelligence of the recipient.
Again, congratulations and best wishes to ECB Publishing and keep up the GOOD WORK! From an old timer
– Mary Madison