I am here to announce some big changes at the Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter, as we welcome some new faces and say goodbye to an old one – that would be me!
After 23 years here at the Reporter, I am ready to move on and see what life has in store for me. I’m guessing I’ll be spending more time in a tractor helping on the family farm and more time with my grandchildren. So the future looks bright!
My journey at the M-R started when I was a senior in high school and I was the student-editor of the Dandy Lion, a page that CLHS students were given in the paper to share their news. From high school I attended NIACC, where I served as the editor of the college newspaper and I worked at the M-R while pursuing my degree. I took some time off to raise my children and then came back 23 years ago.
This newspaper has been such an integral part of my life, that it’s been hard to separate the two. While my kids were still in school, I covered all of their sporting events. I was on the football field taking pictures of my sons. And when my daughter competed at the State Track Meet I was able to get a press pass that got me on the field to snap some up-close photos. When they all graduated, I was taking my own photos, but also photos for the newspaper. I’ve attended many events where I wore two hats.
I have loved being there to capture the highs and the lows in our community. I have enjoyed the countless interviews I have done to help others share their stories. What an honor it has been to highlight the wonderful events and people that make Clear Lake unique.
I’d especially like to recognize the staff that I worked with a majority of those years. Former owner Mike Finnegan, former editor Marianne Gasaway and photographer Chris Barragy, who were not only my co-workers, but also my friends. A special recognition also goes to Kathleen Thul, who has sat beside me for 23 years, who I have shared all of life’s ups and downs with.
Although Kathleen is remaining at the newspaper, she is moving from being the designer into a new role. Kathleen will be the face that greats you at the front desk and who will be answering the phone as the office administrator.
New faces
Now for the exciting part. The M-R has hired two new people who are bound to continue the excellence that you have come to expect in the Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter.
Jenna Prather will assume the role of editor. She recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Simpson College and has worked at local newspapers in Indianola and Knoxville. While attending Simpson College, Jenna also served as the editor of the college newspaper, “The Simpsonian.” She is originally from Knoxville, Iowa, and has relocated to Mason City to work with the Mirror Reporter.
“I am looking forward to working with everyone and covering Clear Lake and the surrounding area as a new resident,” said Jenna.
Patrick Hernandez will be the new designer. He is a 2016 graduate of Iowa State University with a BFA in graphic design and a minor in sociology. He began his design career in Steamboat Springs, Colo., as a t-shirt artist. From there he became a sticker artist for the Steamboat Sticker Company, where he was the company’s lead graphic designer providing designs for Ron Jon Surf Shop, Coors and national parks.
Chanse Hall, Mary Loden and Devin Lowe will all continue their duties at the newspaper. Chanse has been busy covering sports for the newspaper, while Mary helps with the news reporting. Devin continues in his role as the sales associate.
I’m hoping this new staff can one day look back on a long career here at the CLMR and have as many fond memories as I do.
