A 'Big' Thank You

Today I want to brag on several local folks with whom I've developed relationships, specifically those who submit community notes to the paper.

When I was first given the job as 'community note taker' I have to admit it was no easy task. People call at all times of the day with notes to submit. Often times this means that I must stop right in the middle of writing a column or other story. This also means I must have an immediate change in thoughts and come out of my writing trance.

And believe me when a writer's in a trance, stopping mid-sentence is no easy task. But I've learned to deal. And I've also learned to appreciate those who call to submit an area/community note. Most of you just leave a voice mail, but some of you I know by name and we get to chat for a moment.

There's Fred, who calls to submit the note for the Greene County Singles Dance. Fred's very polite and always asks how I'm doing. I very much appreciate Fred's caring manner. I have never met Fred face to face, but I'd recognize his voice.

There's Kathy, who calls to submit the note for the Lyons Senior Center's breakfast. Kathy's as sweet as can be. Our conversation has often led to stories about the center's recent expansion and relocation. I've learned a bit about Kathy and I think she's also learned a bit about me.

There's also the lady who calls to submit the note for the Hendricksville Area Association. I don't know her name, but again I recognize her soft-spoken voice. I always appreciate when she calls because of the way she reads her item to me. I know she must recognize the fact that I'm typing while she slowly speaks.

Then there's Peggy who always calls for the Red Bonnet Belles. Peggy and I both share a love of gardening. I've learned this through chatting with her on the phone.

A lot of people submit their community notes through e-mail. I always work hard to develop a relationship with them as well. Instead of just copying and pasting the item into my directory, I e-mail them back asking how they are as well as letting them know that I have in fact received their item.

There's Sandy and Don -- who have both submitted items for the Bloomfield Friends of the Library book sales. I always enjoy getting an e-mail from them because they always take the time to say thanks. It means a lot to me when someone appreciates what I do. Maybe one day I'll meet Sandy and Don in person.

With a little patience and effort I've been rewarded with 'meeting' new people because of community notes.

If you have an item for community notes, you can call and leave a voice mail or e-mail me at tferree@gcdailyworld.com

Looking forward to getting to know you...

Timberly is a staff writer at the Greene County Daily World. She can be reached by e-mail at tferree@gcdailyworld.com or by phone at 1-800-947-4487 or (812) 847-4487.