By Heather Graves
Editor
Seeing my name in this week’s paper likely won’t come as a surprise to Press Times readers, as my stories have filled the pages of the paper for years now.
What may turn a few heads, however, is the title that now follows it – editor.
Yep folks, you read that right.
I humbly (and excitingly) announce I have taken the reins as editor of this dynamic, growing, hyper-local newspaper.
As I wrap up the first week in my new corner office with a view, I can’t help but find myself at somewhat of a loss for words.
I know, it came as a surprise to me, too.
What I can say is this:
The ride that has brought me here has been nothing short of serendipitous.
Starting as a Press Times freelancer, or stringer as they call it in the newspaper world, in April 2019, I was instrumental in the paper’s move into Green Bay.
My responsibilities widened as I began covering Green Bay City Council, Brown County Board, Bellevue Village Board, Allouez Village Board, Howard-Suamico School Board, Green Bay School Board and the Seymour School Board, not to mention the countless features I’ve had the pleasure of writing.
The professional and personal relationships I’ve made along the way have been invaluable.
I was brought on board full time in May 2021 to contribute to the Microsoft grant-funded story series, which I will continue to work on going forward.
When I was asked to lead the paper as editor as it continues to expand its goal of reaching all readers, it was a no-brainer.
My goal as editor is to continue to publish stories that intrigue, engage and entertain all readers, and to continue to build strong relationships throughout the community.
Our coverage will continue to be developed with you, our readers, in mind as we strive to tell the stories of what’s happening in the communities we all call home.
There is something special about this community – the people, the atmosphere – it just says ‘welcome.’
I guess you could say writing, and the Press Times for that matter, has always been in my blood.
I graduated from UW-Green Bay with a bachelor’s degree in communications with an emphasis in print journalism.
Since then, I have written for more than a dozen local and regional newspapers and magazines, as well as for three of the four television stations in the Green Bay area.
I often say I feel like I’ve come full circle.
My writing career began at the Green Bay News-Chronicle many years ago (now I’ve aged myself) and now I find myself steering the Press Times ship. You could say I’ve found my way home.
I plan to give nothing less than my best as I lead our incredible team of writers and photographers.
Please let me know what we can do to better serve you, our Press Times readers. Reach out to me any time with questions, thoughts and story ideas at [email protected].