“I don’t think of all of the misery, but of the beauty that still remains.”
– Anne Frank
A year and a half ago, I shared this same quote when I started as Managing Editor of Epicenter Mt. Pleasant; yet, it seems even more fitting now.
Recently, I put together the list of Epicenter’s most popular stories from 2020 – a year that saw businesses struggle under the restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic; families face heartbreak at the hands of this disease; and communities torn by racial injustice.
However, as I put together the list of our most popular stories from this year they had themes of community development, neighborhood pride, and hope. This year, you proved that the phrase, “if it bleeds, it leads” which unfortunately circulates around many newsrooms does not ring true. You proved that during times of difficulty people will cling to stories that bring hope.
While this year has undoubtedly been difficult, I have found joy in it. I have found joy in publishing stories that show the beauty of our community in the midst of our struggle. That is why it is bittersweet for me to announce that with the dawn of this new year I will be stepping down as Managing Editor of Epicenter Mt. Pleasant in order to further pursue my goals with my own videography and social media management business, which has grown to the point of needing my full attention.
I will not be leaving completely, though. As passionate as I am about the mission of this publication and as much as I enjoy sharing stories centered on solutions-based journalism, I’m not ready to completely leave yet. I will continue to write for Epicenter Mt. Pleasant as the publication takes on a new Managing Editor, whose name you are likely familiar with since she has written many stories for us: Liz Fredendall. I have had the pleasure of working with Liz as I’ve been Managing Editor, and I have no doubt that she will be a wonderful leader for this publication.
As I step away from this chapter of my story and into the next, I would like to thank you all for sending story tips, supporting our publication – whether that’s by reading our stories, sharing them on Facebook, or telling your friends about us, and for welcoming me with kindness into your homes and businesses as I have interviewed you for stories.
I look forward to this new chapter and wish you all the very best as you begin your New Year!
Sincerely,
Gabrielle Haiderer
Managing Editor, Epicenter Mt. Pleasant
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