I have worked in the journalism and writing industry for roughly two decades.
During that time, not only have I worn many hats as a reporter, freelancer, columnist, and editor, but I have also covered a variety of major events, some that lasted several days.
Out of all those events, the largest-and most impressive one that I have reported on is undoubtedly the 2024 World Archery Field Championships, which wrapped up on Sept. 22 in Lac La Biche. It is nothing short of spectacular to see hundreds of athletes from all over the globe come to a small community like Lac La Biche and compete on the world stage for medals in a sport they love and are thoroughly dedicated to.
As the local reporter, I had the pleasure of meeting many of these international archers and hearing their stories. There were stories about the preparations they made to come to the international competition, stories about what they enjoy most about archery - as well as what they got out of their time in Lac La Biche.
Community newspapers - as the term implies - are focused on what goes on in our respective communities, whether that be a local seniors group hosting a friendly bingo, an motor vehicle accident, sports games, or a major competition such as the one that took over Lac La Biche for an entire week.
Through getting to know not only the archers, but also coaches, officials and volunteers, I learned just how much work goes into putting on a big event like this. You must appreciate and hand it to people such as Lakeland Archers president Rene Schaub - and all those who volunteered their time and talents to make this competition an overwhelming success.
They worked hard for months to ensure that all the pieces and moving parts came together nicely, which not only showcases some of the top archers in the world, but also helped to put Lac La Biche on the map.
Working for a small-town newspaper, I learn something new every day. I learned so much during the week that the Worlds were hosted in town, which has given me a greater understanding of people in general.
