Even after nearly a half century in journalism, I still count it a privilege every day to tell others about the life, people and story of our community. In an era when one in 10 Chattanoogans is out of work – and many more are unable to work regular jobs – I’m fortunate to telework amid the stay-home directives to limit the spread of coronavirus.
Our stock-in-trade is telling stories that are of interest or significance to our readers. That usually involves talking with people in person, observing their lives and witnessing community events in person. In an era of social distancing, the gathering of those stories has obviously changed. But in Gig City, we are still able to stay virtually connected.
Perhaps the greater challenge for us these days is to tell the story of the unprecedented threat to both our physical and fiscal health. I officially became a senior citizen during the current coronavirus pandemic, turning 65 years old last month. In my life as a business writer and editor, I have witnessed about a half dozen previous economic recessions. None have hit us so quickly and deeply. We’re living in extraordinary times when getting the right information and perspective is vital to all of us to protect our health, wealth and well-being.
The Times Free Press newsroom is now physically scattered across many homes in our region. We may be wearing facial shields and standing back, but our team remains united in our commitment to the truth and giving you the best, most complete and accurate information you need every day, as we have for the past 150 years.
– Dave Flessner, business editor, dflessner@timesfreepress.com