Nov. 4: I think it’s gonna be good
I feel like we’re standing on the edge of something good here.
Just the words “something good” bring to mind one of my favorite images: a trio of little boys (about 3 to 6 years old), peering over a Redding ice cream counter. I wrote about them last year. It’s one of those memories I pull out when I need a boost.
As the Rite Aid clerk hunched over the freezer case to muscle ice cream scoops from colorful cardboard tubs, the oldest boy started a spontaneous chant, with choreography.
With his elbows bent like double Ls and his small fists clenched like a shrunken boxer’s, he alternated his scrawny arms back and forth, like a runner. His feet joined in – synchronized with his arms – and scissored in place. He punctuated each word with a fist punch forward into the air and a foot stomp down onto the floor.
“I think it’s gonna be good! I think it’s gonna be good! I think it’s gonna be good!”
His enthusiasm was infectious. His younger companions joined the chorus under the flicker of fluorescent lights.
“I think it’s gonna be good! I think it’s gonna be GOOD! I think it’s GONNA BE GOOD!”
The young man and woman who’d brought the children to the store reddened, winced and tried to shush the boys. But the kids were totally oblivious to adults’ stares. As everyone could see, those boys were in their element.
That’s where I am right now. In my element (trying to ignore the stares).
I can relate to those boys. They expected the ice cream to taste delicious – even before they’d grasped their cones; even before their small pink tongues sampled the scoops of frozen Thrifty’s ice cream. They knew it would be good. They could feel it.
I can feel it, too. I expect that whatever work lies ahead will be good.
I also expect that it’ll take a minute or two or three (or four or five, I’ll keep you posted) before I can step nonchalantly over the corpse of what was once my newspaper career. And walk away.
Mourning is the name of my train today, and I’m its conductor.
Right now Mourning’s barely rolling as I crane my neck toward the window and scan my retreating landscape:
Ten years’ worth of newspaper columns and stories. Ten years’ worth of acquaintances, relationships, story sources and subjects. Ten years’ worth of revolving editorial staff. Ten years’ worth of desk changes, computer upgrades, stylebook updates and newspaper redesigns. Ten years’ worth of group-signed cards to wish colleagues farewell, get well, so sorry, congratulations on your wedding, new baby, new home and retirement. Ten years’ worth of readers’ tales, complaints, praise, phone calls, faxes, postcards, e-mails and snail mail. Ten years’ worth of attending colleagues’ weddings, baby showers, open houses and even, in the case of the wonderful artist, Steve Jacob, a funeral.
I was an entirely different person when I joined the paper as its education reporter more than 10 years ago. I was a divorced woman with three teenagers. We lived in a Redding subdivision. I drove an ancient yellow Volvo station wagon that my oldest son rode as a passenger in a crouched position, so his friends wouldn’t see him.
I’d worked hard and frantic after my divorce as a 30-something “re-entry” college student, which always sounded like a sexual position to me. (There’s something I could never write in the Searchlight.) I graduated and became a journalist. I felt elated and proud when I was hired at the Record Searchlight. My hometown paper.
The 10 years sped by. My daughter left for college. Bruce and I married. I became a columnist. Josh joined the Marine Corps. Joseph moved out. Josh fought on the front lines of Iraq and returned home alive. Bruce’s sister Mindy died of cancer at 47. My twin’s daughter Brooke got married and I catered her reception that ran out of every bit of food except parsley. The boys helped Bruce and me build our house in Igo, out in the boondocks. My little sister Bethany got cancer at 46 and lived. My twin’s youngest son Matt got cancer at 19 and died. My youngest son moved to the Czech Republic and married the love of his life.
I wrote about everything. My life was pretty much an open book. I also expressed many opinions about politics, war, sprawl, downtown, homelessness, foster homes, big-box strip malls, small-town good ol’ boys and other stuff. Readers seemed to either really love or really loathe those columns. But my favorite columns and stories of all were about ordinary people who possesed extraordinary talents, quirks, problems, achievements, kindness, abilities and habits.
Wait a minute. The train’s picking up speed. Those 10 years _ they blurred and disappeared.
Nowhere to go now except forward. Look, up ahead: wide open sky, a still horizon, and many years and many unexplored miles ahead.
Feel free to join me. All aboard!
Forward is the name of my train today, and I’m its conductor.
I think it’s gonna be good.
Mike Littau replied:
It is a bit of fun to ride the train and see where you are taking us
November 4, 2007 at 4:46 pm. Permalink.
Sue Crandell replied:
I feel much better now. I wrote my angry letter to Silas and the powers that be and I Cancelled my subscription (it took two phone calls) and I plan show up on the 7th to march with y’all
This town does indeed need you, Doni, and blessings on your son for setting up this blog. I have never bogged before either; we can learn together. Let the fun begin.
Cheers!
November 4, 2007 at 5:31 pm. Permalink.
mary catherine pearl replied:
Doni — As one of the few politically independent thinkers in Redding, you will be sorely missed. Around the courthouse, the local rag is known as the Flashlight. Even that sad little bulb is dimmer now…Best of luck on new adventures!
November 4, 2007 at 5:46 pm. Permalink.
Anonymousagain replied:
You know, I was just thinking about the newspaper boy from 1941 in your last article, and although I’m unsure if the story is propietary to the RS, I was curious if there ever were any leads on that story…
November 4, 2007 at 6:05 pm. Permalink.
Jim Thompson (Ventura CA) replied:
That’s right…..hop on ‘board, nothin’ but blue skies, wide eyes, good feelin’s, a darn sight better read with a splash of whaz happenin’ in the Northstate ahead with maybe a bump or two (but that’s expected) along the way. Better than ridin’ that ole rickety “flashlight” down that crummy road of corporate publishing that cares nothing for their readers – at least those who still has a subscription or flips two quarters into the daily newspaper rack (or a buck or more on Sundays).
Keep writing Doni…we’re out here readin’!
I know it’s gonna be GOOD
November 4, 2007 at 7:17 pm. Permalink.
Carmen replied:
Doni, we can’t wait to see where you’re taking us on this adventure of your’s on this train. Wherever it is, we’re in it for life. You have too much to offer all your readers so we wait with great anticipation!! Have been loving the letters to the editor on your behalf. Keep on keeping on, that’s what you do best!!
November 4, 2007 at 7:49 pm. Permalink.
Linda Masterson replied:
Doni,
I moved to Redding to open the Macy’s and have been blessed every single day I live here. I met my husband (3rd generation -maybe 4th-in Redding!) and thank God every day. I’ve followed your columns and all the controversy you’ve generated in the six years I’ve been here and though sometimes I totally disagree with you, I sometimes say “right on”. You will be greatly missed for your ability to make Redding history real and remind us of what went before. Every newspaper needs those who shake things up and make people express an opinion – it’s all too easy to just put your head down and move on through life. I wish you God speed and good luck in what you take on next. You have a special gift and I believe things happen for a reason…that philosophy brought me to Redding and I’ve never looked back. I’ll tell you for sure that for all the warts here, there are far more amazing blessings.
Good Karma to you and your family and thanks for your very considerable contribution to this community.
Linda Masterson
(You knew my sister-in-law Beverly on Magnolia St.)
November 4, 2007 at 8:07 pm. Permalink.
jered replied:
All aboard!
November 4, 2007 at 9:14 pm. Permalink.
Daniel Meyer replied:
Doni, glad I found you at this site. I am trying to keep my friends and classmates email & addresses up to date. Please send me yours when you get the opportunity.
Daniel Meyer
November 4, 2007 at 9:24 pm. Permalink.
Barbara Pierce replied:
Oh, Doni, you continue to be a breath of Spring air. Thanks, and may God guard you through each night and day and ever watch above you…God smile on everything you do. God go with you…God love you!! Because we do!!!
November 4, 2007 at 9:33 pm. Permalink.
Lauren Brooks replied:
Hi Doni,
I’m so glad you started this blog. I heard about what happened at the Searchlight and I’m still in shock that they let you walk out that door. You were the heart of the newsroom. It’s an empty shell without you.
Anyway, I think the Searchlight needed you a lot more than you needed it. You’re a fantastic writer and the sweetest person I know. You’ve got so many opportunities – you could travel, freelance, write a book or take some time off to figure out what you want to do next.
Whatever you decide, I know your future is gonna be good.
Keep in touch,
Lauren Brooks
November 4, 2007 at 9:49 pm. Permalink.
Cathleen Lindell replied:
Doni I love you. You will come out ahead.I am waiting for justice.
November 4, 2007 at 10:27 pm. Permalink.
Michelle replied:
Doni, I’ll be ridin’ the train, too!!!
And your future IS gonna be good!!!
November 4, 2007 at 10:53 pm. Permalink.
Tim Osborn replied:
Doni,
I’ve lived in Redding for fourteen years now and have always read your articles. I always found them to be insightful and entertaining. Admittedly I haven’t always agreed with some of your opinions. Anyway, I wish you nothing but the best in your future en devours, and I will continue to read your works no matter where they may be published.
Tim Osborn
November 4, 2007 at 10:54 pm. Permalink.
Lyn Regan replied:
I think this time you are wrong. It is going to be GREAT!
November 4, 2007 at 11:00 pm. Permalink.
Dan Frank replied:
Doni,
If you don’t mind, I’d like to come along on your new train ride into the future. For the past ten years we have followed your journalistic endeavors at the Searchlght and miss your personal and heartfelt musings about life in the area.
I have written you on several occasions regarding your articles and you were always gracious and even acknowledged my comments by mentioning my name in the paper.
We look forward to reading about your new adventures, wherever they take you. I just wish I knew what excuse management used to cut you loose. Many of us have written the paper and asked for a explanation, but thus far the silence has been deafening.
November 4, 2007 at 11:50 pm. Permalink.
Mary Willmon replied:
Hi Doni,
Our mantra since leaving New Orleans:
Happiness is not a destination we arrive at, but a manner of traveling.
Looks like you have caught the right train! We will enjoy the journey with you.
Mary
November 5, 2007 at 4:26 am. Permalink.
Sylvia Lang replied:
Doni, I am so sorry that you are not writing columns!
You are a wonderful writer – and, obviously, a wonderful person as well.
I look forward to reading all of your blog entries, but I also hope that some day you will return to the newspaper. Surely Silas Lyons must by now realize the terrible error of his ways!
I left the comment below with Lyons’ blog:
Add my name to the long list of readers who are disappointed and dismayed by the firing of Doni Greenberg.
I am a retired journalist who moved to Redding two months ago.
What a joy it was to pick up the newspaper and read Doni’s excellent columns. She always had an interesting angle, and wrote with such compassion – and passion.
I know editors tend to be “alpha dogs” who do not back down from their decisions. But unless Doni has committed a crime, plagiarized, used alcohol or drugs on the job or done something unethical, please have the good sense to re-hire her. Newspapers can’t afford to lose readers today. You must realize that. You should check out Doni’s blog (http://donigreenberg.wordpress.com) so you know how many fans, such as myself, are continuing to check out her writing.
I also love Thom Gabrukiewicz’s writing. I hope his job isn’t in danger, too!
November 5, 2007 at 7:08 am. Permalink.
Darcie replied:
I agree with a post above, the RS needed you a lot more than you need them. This will be an amazing ride, thanks for letting us climb aboard!
November 5, 2007 at 7:22 am. Permalink.
Janet Landles replied:
We have many talented and creative people in this community who can put our heads together (in this blog?) and come up with a creative competitor to the Record Searchlight. I, too, have been reading this hometown newspaper for most of my 60 years and will miss it. But there’s so little of interest to me in it now that Doni’s gone.
I noticed that you still have dial-up. If you ever decide to get satellite internet, I’d like to warn you about Dish/Wild Blue service. My equipment has failed, and the company can’t get a technician out here for 10 DAYS.
Doni, I hope you realize how many people are out here supporting you and hoping we’ll be able to read your work regularly again.
A special thanks to Joe for making this all happen. Isn’t it an amazing world?
November 5, 2007 at 7:55 am. Permalink.
Laurie replied:
Oh, Doni,
I’m so happy to find you here — and so sad to hear of your ouster.
Bigger and better things ahead — and best of luck in your blogular and other pursuits. From this torrent of support you’re receiving, do remember that despite its grubby paws and mismatched socks, our town appreciates you — and your brave, passionate, wry (and delicious — oh, those recipes!) voice.
So say it loud and proud, sistah! We’re still listening!
November 5, 2007 at 8:26 am. Permalink.
Maria Sudduth replied:
I hope this train takes you and the others we have lost from the RS to a new newspaper! Call Kelly and Greg! We need you!!!!! I also will be at the march on Wednesday!
November 5, 2007 at 8:27 am. Permalink.
Angela Torretta replied:
Doni,
I can’t imagine the newspaper without you. A good newspaper needs impartial reporting to be a credible source of information, but it also needs the open, soul-baring columns of people like yourself to be a friend and trusted companian through the years. Your recipes were a great comfort (a certain super brownie helped me make it through a rough and rainy first few weeks in April, even if it wasn’t for me!), but more lasting was your insight into life through beautiful and well-crafted words. Don’t stop writing.
November 5, 2007 at 9:01 am. Permalink.
Jan Gandy replied:
Wow — Doni — I leave town for a few days and up pops your blog! Great news — a place where we can share our feeling of loss (feels like the death of Carter House to me)AND where seeds of the future can be planted. I’m with Janet and those who say start a new local newspaper! You’ve got the contacts, the friends and supporters, the ethics, ability and enthusiasm. Who else is willing to help??
November 5, 2007 at 9:07 am. Permalink.
Richard Douse replied:
Good title! I,too, think it’s gonna be good. And, trains are neat . . . but first we need to MARCH. Many of us are going to do just that! Those who haven’t heard about it will find all they need to know at:
http://www.rtdouse.com/DoniGreenberg.html
You are going to be just fine. We will help.
November 5, 2007 at 9:31 am. Permalink.
Kerri replied:
As always, you are the picture of grace in the face of adversity. I hope it warms your heart to know that so many people – many of whom have never even met you – are as inspired by you as those of us who have been fortunate enough to be your friends. Biggest hugs to you and Bruce.
November 5, 2007 at 9:39 am. Permalink.
gamerjohn replied:
Time flies. Whatever happened to the Redding Pilot? I believe that was the name of a second local paper 15 years ago. With more good ex-writers for the Record than current writers, somebody with some advertising ability could start something.
November 5, 2007 at 9:47 am. Permalink.
darnedtoheck replied:
I would pay double the cost of what I used to pay for the Searchlight (before I cancelled) to subscribe to an alternative paper. Potential investors and advertisers, are you listening?
November 5, 2007 at 10:13 am. Permalink.
Dust Bunny Queen replied:
Welcome to the world of blogging.
You know what they say, for every door that is closed another is opened. While this is painful for you, it may just be the best thing that has happened in your writing career.
I didn’t always agree with your articles, especially on the political side. I always enjoyed your historical articles and reminiscences of a town that has changed from a small town to a bigger city and of a lifestyle that has passed away.
As a dedicated foodies and recipe junkie, I am definitely going to miss your food column and articles in the paper. I’m looking forward to seeing some of this on your blog.
Best wishes and best of luck.
November 5, 2007 at 10:21 am. Permalink.
margi replied:
We’re many many miles away, so won’t be at the march on Wednesday. Please know we’re with you in spirit. Enjoying the blog and the ride on your train.
November 5, 2007 at 10:28 am. Permalink.
Brenda Sinclair replied:
Doni-I canceled my subscription to The Record Searchlight this morning-I will miss the local paper, but decided anyone with the poor judgement to let you go and keep that Alana what’s-her-name, isn’t the person I want to get my news from anyway-good luck and keep writing…
November 5, 2007 at 11:22 am. Permalink.
Rob replied:
I’ve watched the RS change from a paper that supported our community to a something that now only want to play “Gotcha”. Certainly a paper’s job should be to monitor local politics, local government and so on but all I see is sensationalism and attacks which is eroding the community we all belong to. This seems to be the new mission of the RS- to destroy everything good and turn everyone on their neighbor to sell their tabloid. Good reporting is one thing, what the RS is doing is trashing everyone and every group.
I read all my national news on several websites. I rely on the RS for local news and it’s a shame because I’m not even sure what to believe anymore. I haven’t trusted the editors for some time.
I often didn’t agree with Doni but many times I did. I especially enjoyed the human interest stories. Like who was that paper boy anyhow? And the lost and wallets and yearbooks. I loved the stories about local history. Sorry folks, that’s all lost for good now. I highly doubt the new RS will waste precious column space on that!
Anyway, I have no idea what transpired- if it was an argument or just the editor’s feeling of new direction. What I know is that these people are not in tune with Redding and are going to cut themselves off further with these actions. Doni’s opinions mattered- especially the ones we didn’t agree with because that’s what this country is all about.
I don’t have time in the evening to watch the local TV news but i am really reaching the level of dropping this paper. Not specially because Doni is gone but for what this act represents. I don’t need to read stories from pit bulls digging up the muck as I read earlier will be replacing Doni. I just want good honest reporting of happenings in our city and how it might affect me and my family. Leave the trash reporting for the supermarket check outs.
Letting Doni go is just an indication of the arrogance and ignorance of this editor. The captain goes down with the ship unless he’s a rat who jumps off as it’s going down- that’s what I’ve seen happening with the RS with each editor as of late and I’m guessing will continue until she sinks completely.
November 5, 2007 at 11:53 am. Permalink.
Beth replied:
Hi Doni – Moving forward is right! How about considering running for political office, and running for City Council of Redding or as a County Commissioner? My understanding is that two seats will be vacated soon on the Redding City Council! This community needs you and your big heart!
November 5, 2007 at 1:04 pm. Permalink.
Anne Peterson replied:
Go Team Doni! Sent yesterday:
Nov. 4, 2007
Kenneth Lowe President and Chief Executive Officer E. W. Scripps
Dear Mr. Lowe:
The corporate deciders who put Silas Lyons at the helm of the Redding Record-Searchlight must have had a low opinion of its readership. Did they expect we wouldn’t notice or care about the mass “retirements”/ defections/ dismissals of highly respected, longtime staff members that coincided with or closely followed his appointment? Did they expect we wouldn’t notice or care about the shift toward fluff, sleaze and wire stories at the expense of local news? Did they expect we wouldn’t notice or care about the systematic dismantling of a once venerable local institution? Did they think this would be the way to “win” younger readers and increase advertising revenues? If not, then what were they thinking?
The firing of Doni Greenberg has galvanized this community as few other events have in recent memory. Even Doni’s critics concede she is a talented writer, credit to the R-S and conscience of the community. Record-Searchlight consumers need and deserve an explanation of why she was terminated. This is no ”personnel matter” for the deciders to hide behind. It’s a matter of corporate responsibility, not just to stockholders, but to stakeholders as well.
Lyons came to town promising to “ …start giving readers more of what they value.”* Readers value Doni Greenberg. Lyons claims, “the conversation goes both ways,”* yet remains mum on why he has denied readers a voice they clearly do value. Lyons would have us believe, “People who do journalism labor on the side of what’s good and right in the world.”* He needs to prove that by “owning” this debacle, not ignoring it.
I appeal to you in the name of what’s truly ‘right and good in the world’ to give the R-S readership ‘more of what they value’— the truth.
Sincerely,
Anne Peterson
Former R-S Reporter
cc. Maline Hazle, Bruce Ross
*from Lyons column of June 10, 2007
November 5, 2007 at 1:36 pm. Permalink.
Norm Braithwaite replied:
It has been brought to my attention that my e-mail of November 30 titled “Make Limonade” may not have reached you. I have reproduced it below.
Doni:
I am sorry to hear that that RS is no longer interested in your services. I do not believe, however, that you will be happy going back to the RS even if a letter writing campaign is successful and they offer to rehire you. Although I have not been among your most faithful readers, I do believe your columns were very valuable in adding balance to the paper and the community. Based on recent changes to the RS, I do not believe the RS is the award winning paper of the past but is appearing more and more like the SLO Times that I remember reading on field trips to SLO. To me, the SLO Times seemed to lack breadth of coverage and published an unseemly number of letters to the editor. As I recall, it was a rather small paper considering the large population base that it served. I believe it is high time that the greater Redding community has a balanced news organ that focuses on building the community rather than profiteering from divisive issues. While divisive issues are important news and should be reported, without balance they do not help to build a community to say nothing of the psychological effects on the members of the community (children included). Should you be up to the challenge, I would be your first subscriber to an e-mail column. If, on your own or with the help of others, you are able to report on a fair number of interesting local, state, national, and world issues, I would happily drop my subscription to the RS. Make limonade! I’ve been there (although the desire for departure was mutual and congenial). I have received much gratification from running my own business.
Norman
November 5, 2007 at 1:41 pm. Permalink.
Josh replied:
Hey Momma-
Great piece. I really enjoyed reading it, almost got a little choked up on one part. I’m glad you found a new place to share your thoughts with everyone who was robbed when you got fired. Kinda cool that you are no longer limited by length or censorship. Talk to you soon. Your number one fan-Josh
November 5, 2007 at 1:48 pm. Permalink.
Denice replied:
Doni…
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”…Margaret Mead. While Margaret said it, you’ve always lived this optimistic concept to the fullest both in your day to day life and in the insights you’ve shared with your readers.
Your columns were my connection to the small town I left 30 years ago. So…the letters to Silas and Scripps have been written! If I had a subscription it would be cancelled, but most importantly it’s encouraging to read your blog and know that you’re going through the process…sharing your growth with your readers and continuing to galvanize folks to do the right thing.
And Joseph has managed to pull his Aunt into blogging!! Who knew!!!
We’re proud of you…blessing to you and Bruce…
xo
d
November 5, 2007 at 2:36 pm. Permalink.
Budd Hodges replied:
Doni…Count me in as a rider on your train. You go girl. You’ve got the stuff. Silass…his dorkness could never match your talents. His piece in the Sunday paper is BORING.
What a great following you’ve got…I love it!
Sincerely wit much love,
Budd Hodges… bdg741@aol.com
November 5, 2007 at 2:55 pm. Permalink.
Dave Bartle replied:
Doni,
I wish you the best of luck. Shasta.com can get you high speed internet.
November 5, 2007 at 2:55 pm. Permalink.
Doug Mudford replied:
Doni
When I first heard you were no longer with the Record-Searchlight, I thought someone was just kidding around. Silas must be here with a directive to shut the paper down. There’s no other explanation for forcing you out and the unreadable/unbearable front page. Enough about the paper. I will miss you. While we’ve disagreed on some subjects, you have always given a perspective worth considering. Some of your columns have become personal favorites I still read from time to time. If I can help with your future plans in any way, just call. It is a small repayment for the many hours of enjoyment you’ve given me and my family.
You’re already a star. It’s just a matter of deciding which theater to play.
Doug
November 5, 2007 at 3:25 pm. Permalink.
Svend Holst replied:
Hey Doni,
Let me know if you’d like any help getting the train on some more tracks.
There are quite a few open source (free) Web site applications that y’all could use. My top suggestion would be joomla (http://www.joomla.org/). You can develop as your time and success allow. As far as blog software goes, WordPress is great and the price is fantastic.
I’m sure a few folks out there, indeed, I’ve seen a few posts by folks who’ve got top-end skills, and who seem like they’d be happy to help with business-side stuff, and, I bet, local photos and articles.
It’s just not that hard to put up a nice-quality Web site these days. And, as luck would have it, there’s a market for talent.
Sure as heck would be fun.
Cheers,
Svend
November 5, 2007 at 3:32 pm. Permalink.
Leon C. Nelson replied:
Hi, Doni…
TO THE POINT:
SOME OF YOUR WELL-WISHERS WANT TO EMAIL THE RECORD SEARCHLIGHT CORPORATE HQ:
—Ken Lowe is E.W. Scripps’ President and CEO — Scripps owns the Record Searchlight
—Mr. Lowe’s email: lowe@scripps.com
SOME OF YOUR WELL-WISHERS WANT YOU TO BE INVOLVED WITH A NEW REDDING-AREA NEWSPAPER:
—My suggestion for the name of the newspaper: Redding Record & North State News
—Domain name: http://www.reddingrecordnsn.com OR http://www.RRnsn.com
Keep chuggin’ along, Doni!
Leon C. Nelson
November 5, 2007 at 4:07 pm. Permalink.
Billy Pilgrim replied:
Shocked when you were let go..we were first to announce it. Been trying to get a hold of you for a week and a half. Please call us at Q97. We’ve provided a link on our website to your blog. Please call us!!!!!! We think the world of you….We want you to be on our show. It’s
been awhile..You rock our world and always have.
November 5, 2007 at 4:13 pm. Permalink.
Jean Wilcox replied:
I just gave a “Doni Greenberg” subscription cancellation to the Record Searchlight. I was told it would be noted that Doni Greenberg was the reason for my cancellation. May it be noted that I am 62 years old and I do hope that Silas is paying attention to this Blog.
On a positive note it is wonderful that Doni has not disappeared totally from our lives as I am sure the RS would preferred.
The comment from Josh was very heart warming.
Blessings to you Doni and while I would like you back at the RS, I also would like our previous Editor back and even more, some more positive changes made.
November 5, 2007 at 4:43 pm. Permalink.
Kay K replied:
Hi Doni,
I just got back to Redding to discover you had been fired. What were they thinking?
Oh, right. What I see is the beauty that is coming from this in the expression of love and caring from your friends, readers and even those who would argue your opinions! I so appreciate all you have brought to the Redding area through your stories and recipes, but especially your brilliant smile and compassionate attitude.
I hope you spend some time sipping wine with Bruce on your porch taking in your view. Collecting your thoughts for your upcoming book!
Cheers! Kay
November 5, 2007 at 4:58 pm. Permalink.
Wendi Harner replied:
Doni
Yippeeeee you have blog!! (doing the happy dance!!) the RS is STOOOOOOPID for letting you go. I will cancel my subscription asap! You’re the main reason I looked forward to getting my newspaper everyday. I could always count on your sense of humor to make laugh. Not to mention wonder food articles that made me drool.
Thanks to Joe for setting up this blog (still happy dancing!) I have this wonderful, warm feeling that lots of people are standing behind you, supporting you and telling the RS to SHOVE IT! You are an awesome person, writer, mother, cook, mentor and lover of Peets coffee. Thank you for staying a part of my life. YOU ROCK.
Oh by the way the Peets coffee at Great Harvest Bread is excellent.
November 5, 2007 at 6:57 pm. Permalink.
Bob Madgic replied:
For the R-S to dismiss its clarion voice, its most incisive columnist, the strongest and most insightful observer of the local scene, the most enlightened of all its writers, has to be one of the most glaring errors in the history of a newspaper. I will never view the Record Searchlight in the same light again. In fact my wife, Diane and I, will cancel our suscription as a statement of principle.
Doni, keep doing what you are so good at doing. Your voice has spoken for so many in the north state, home to so many right-wing non-thinkers that shoot from the hip and accept what they are fed while leaving reason, judgment and evidence behind. Your columns always expressed progressive, enlightened views on prevailing issues, and your absence from the pages at the R-S will leave a vast void and render the paper far less adequate as a source for the search for truths–the main journalistic responsibility at this time when the media has in many aspects abrogated its main role as the nation’s conscience. You are among the select few who comprise the north state’s conscience.
November 5, 2007 at 7:42 pm. Permalink.
Dave Andrade replied:
Doni,
So glad that you are blogging. Though I don’t read the paper now like I did years ago, my wife would always tell me “Doni said this..” or “You gotta read Doni’s column today”. It was always well worth reading. In fact, on Sunday’s (when my wife and I usually do take a few moments to sit down with the paper) I found myself often looking for your column before I even looked for the sports page and for me, that’s saying alot! Best Wishes in your new endeavors.
Sincerely,
Dave Andrade
November 5, 2007 at 8:16 pm. Permalink.
Nancy Sesher replied:
Doni, I alreay Miss your columns sooooo…. much. I would love to hear you on Q97 sometime, with Billy and Patrick. They are another “Pulse” of the Redding area. I am not much good on the computer, but I will be reading your blog. There is not much left to read in the paper now that you are gone.If someone starts a new newspaper I’ll subscribe to it. The changes to the Wreched Flashlight have been disappointing at best.
November 5, 2007 at 8:28 pm. Permalink.
Liz Andrade replied:
Hi Doni:
Well, I do believe the Record Searchlight has never been more deserving of it’s “Wretched Flashlight” denotation. RS’s decision to let you go is completly bafflng to me……I have always felt you to be the “Heart of Redding” and a sophisticated talent in our humble burg. You were and are destined for bigger things! The best of heartfelt wishes, Liz Andrade
November 5, 2007 at 8:34 pm. Permalink.
Sharon B. replied:
Dear Doni,
You are such a gifted writer and such a warm, wonderful human being. Thank you for all that you have given us.
While I have hopes that a new and different paper might be started, I think you have bigger and better places to go. I will love hearing your new ideas and want to support you in anyway I can.
And. . . .take as much time as you need getting there.
Peace and best wishes,
Sharon
November 5, 2007 at 8:59 pm. Permalink.
Maggie T replied:
Hi Doni
Your dad would be proud of you and would probaly treat you to a slap up lunch in San Francisco.
O too cancelled my subscription. Apart from your interesting and varied point of view. i think you were the only journalist at the Record Searchlight who could spell and write gramatically. The erros in the print are awful. The Sunday paper used to be a joy to read now it’s almost nothing but ads and Mr. L’s “opinions”
Miss your columns, despair of all the fillers. I can get more local, state and national news from BBC America.
Great Idea about trying for a new paper!
Meanwhile stop and smell the roses and enjoy your beautiful home. Bread (home made of course) and water beats eatingg humble pie and swallowing your dignity and ethics.
Keep witing………..silly me i’ve never read a blog before!!!!!!
All the best
Maggie
November 5, 2007 at 10:50 pm. Permalink.
Maggie T replied:
P.S. sorry about the typo’s. It’s late!
November 5, 2007 at 10:52 pm. Permalink.
boo replied:
(Well, Joe, THIS is what it takes for an auntie to wade into blog land…I’m so proud of you, from the other side of the globe, to put this together for your mom…good job!) Doni,you may have to hitch a few more rail cars to your train…I’ll be happy to shovel coal in the engine, picket the ‘record-dimmer-switch’ on Wednesday, or whatever it takes to help get the Doni Express in full ‘localmotion’…..I can say for fact, that I have admired you, and have been so very proud of you, every moment I have known you, but never as much for the integrity, honor and class you have displayed during this time of adversity. You are, as Matt would have said, “Top Drawer”…indeed!
November 5, 2007 at 11:41 pm. Permalink.
Ed Heffelfinger replied:
Darn right it’s gonna be good! You’re gonna live longer and be a lot happier without all the fuss of working at that awful place.
I met you a long time ago after my son, Chris and I had been featured in the RS during the divorce and child custody battle from hell. We left Redding five years ago after a lifetime there and moved far far away…to China.
Chris just turned 18 and is attending an American University here in China and I’m teaching English and American Culture at a university in Zhengzhou, China. Life is now incredibly great as both Chris and I have finally been able to put all that tragic past behind us.
You were one of the few reasons I still logged on to the Searchlight everyday. I really don’t see the point in doing that anymore now that you’re gone. Instead, I’m bookmarking your new home and am looking forward to reading you daily.
And Doni, look at the bright side…You got off the Titanic before she sank. The RS is just a shadow of it’s old self. It’s not the paper we grew up with all those years in Redding. The paper is on life support and it won’t be too very long until we hear of it’s passing. A side of me says good riddence but it really is a damn shame!
All the best in life to you Doni!!!
November 5, 2007 at 11:48 pm. Permalink.
Sue Crandell replied:
Such a sad comment, but maybe the way to save the paper from it’s hijackers is to get rid of the morons who are running it. My message tomorrow will be along the lines of “hey,hey, ho,ho, Silas Lyons got to go”
November 6, 2007 at 10:46 am. Permalink.
Maggie T replied:
(B)logged on and you new blog although listed did not come up. Hope no-one is sabotaging your efforts!
Maggie
November 6, 2007 at 11:27 am. Permalink.
Jessica M. German replied:
Dear Doni,
Just wanted to add my 2 cents worth of support. While it is true that all too many newspapers are suffering losses in readership, doing ridiculous stuff like this (your firing, trashing teachers, trashing high schools, etc.)is not going to make anyone want to read the RS. My daughter has called it the Wretched Flashlight for years, and it lost its last flicker of light when they canned you. I have this sneaky suspicion that you’re more like the Energizer Bunny, though, and you’ll keep going and going long after Silas has departed. You go girl!
November 6, 2007 at 5:59 pm. Permalink.
Celeste White replied:
Shanna Cannon needs to go, too. She’s definitely calling a lot of the shots here.
November 6, 2007 at 6:15 pm. Permalink.
Chris Myers replied:
Heard through a Mercury News colleague that things weren’t good at the ol’ R-S. Can’t imagine the rationale behind getting rid of a key local voice and brand in these turbulent times for the industry.
I still remember my time at the R-S fondly, and your terrific energy and enthusiasm – and have little doubt you’ll come through this triumphant.
Run with this blog. Become a WordPress whiz (it’s really not that hard), start tagging these posts and get an image of your shining face on here.
Hope turnout at the Doni rally is grand.
November 7, 2007 at 8:01 am. Permalink.
Mary Simonsen replied:
Dear Doni — I was stunned to learn that your column had been cancelled. You have always been a bright light in a newspaper that feeds on stories of doom and gloom. I have been so touched over the years by your stories. (My favorite was the story of the little boy in Cottonwood who longed for a pair of cowboy boots just like his neighbor wore. His mother had no money her budget for the boots but the little boy’s faith led her to take him out shopping despite having only change in her wallet. The boots were located at a local secondhand store who accepted the amount of change the young mother had for the purchase.) Thank you for never giving anything less than the best and for always insisting on using your column to shed light on all that is still good in society. You outgrew the the Record Searchlight long ago and I look forward to the day when your column appears again – in a much more deserving and appreciative publication.
November 7, 2007 at 12:05 pm. Permalink.