I believe in community journalism. And I believe in telling your stories.
My name is Erin M. Gentz, and I am the interim editor of the Wilton-Durant Advocate News and the West Liberty Index. I have been the editor of The North Scott Press in Eldridge since November of 2022, but I have been with the paper since August of 2013.
In that time, I’ve not only helped tell the stories of our community members, but I’ve also been in your communities as well. I’ve done your legal notices and helped lay out the paper. I’ve covered sporting events and even had a byline or two on stories.
Even though I’m in Scott County, I believe in your communities. And I wanted to introduce myself to you so that we can get off on the right foot.
Recently, your former editor, Jacob Lane, accepted a position as director of the West Liberty Chamber of Commerce. We at Eastern Iowa Publications wish him well in his new endeavor.
I recognize that over the last two-and-a-half years, we have experienced some stumbles in staffing. But I want you to know that I’m committed to ensuring that you have the best newspaper we can give you, filled with the kinds of stories you are interested in reading.
I’m here to provide stability as we commence another staffing search.
Given the scope of my responsibility, that won’t be an easy task. We do have internal support, including our freelance writers and our ever-improving sports coverage team, under the leadership of regional sports editor Ross Shinberg.
But I’m also asking for your help. I’d love it if readers could reach out and tell me what’s important to them.
We know about the school boards and the city councils, but what else should we be covering? Who are the characters in your community story? What can we do to make sure you look forward to receiving your newspaper every week?
Community journalism has never been more needed or wanted. I grew up in Eldridge, and The North Scott Press has been my hometown newspaper my entire life, so I know the importance of having a community record.
Your newspapers have been covering the community for more than 150 years each, and that needs to continue.
I believe in community journalism. And I believe in you and want to advocate for you. So, let’s work together for a bit, shall we?
Share your stories with Erin at egentz@northscottpress.com.