EDITORIAL: Let's chat over coffee

Shortly after being named managing editor of The Press, I asked my friend and former Press managing editor Mike Patrick, who held this job for 20 years, for advice. 

What are a few things I should be sure to do? 

His answer was filled with words that, if heeded, should smooth the road ahead and perhaps I will even come out of this feeling as positive as when I went in. 

But one point he made in particular caught my attention: Coffee. Drink lots of coffee. Live by coffee.

Now, he didn’t mean to sit in my office all day getting wired up on cups of java and become a caffeine addict. Mike said what he meant: Meet with people over coffee. Frequently. Talk to them about how they’re doing, what they see as key issues in the area, and ask how they think The Press is doing in covering those issues. Keep the coffee and the conversation flowing.

I intend, for once, to listen to Mike. 

I have met with several people whose opinions and knowledge I value. I intend to meet with more. It’s more important that I listen than talk, so I do. There are always things happening that I’m not aware of. This helps me find out. The idea is to hear different viewpoints, get information and build relationships because relationships are the foundation of trust. It isn't easy to trust someone you know nothing about.  

No, I’m not leading into a long piece about myself.  

But even after calling Coeur d’Alene home for three decades, writing about hundreds of people, taking thousands of pictures, witnessing five kids go through schools, running many miles, attending scores of events and watching good and bad unfold, I still have much to learn and people to meet. 

Before closing, let me add this. I feel blessed and fortunate to have this job. I love North Idaho. I believe The Press is a great paper in a great community. It is filled with great people. It's a pleasure to know them and it will be a pleasure to meet them.

While The Press is subject to much criticism, know this: Our editorial department is fortunate to have talented and dedicated veterans like sports editor Mark Nelke and news editor Glen Christmann, along with strong reporters and copy editors. I am proud of each of them.

So, what about the coffee?

If you want to meet to chat over a cup of Joe, let me know. I want to hear from you. The Press wants to hear from you. 

I can be reached at [email protected] and 208-651-8643. 

And no, you don’t have to buy.

— Bill Buley, managing editor