This column represents the thoughts and opinions of Jason Hennington. This is NOT the opinion of the Taylor Press.
Executive Editor Thomas Edwards swooped down on me regarding the July 4 incident in Murphy Park. Some of this conversation actually may be true.
Thomas (trying to hold his laughter): Have you written your column yet?
Me: I don’t want to talk about it.
Thomas: But you know you have to, right?
Me: We’ve already talked about it.
Thomas: But it’s a local issue, so we have to cover it.
Me: We did. I mean, it happened Monday. We talked about it online Tuesday and in Wednesday’s e-edition. It’s even on the front of today’s paper. Why do I have to talk about it?
Thomas: I’m sure people want to hear what you think about the situation. You are the publisher of the Taylor Press.
Me: Hasn’t it been talked about enough?
Thomas: Maybe, but as reporters, we have to make sure we’re covering all of our bases. Especially when other media outlets are showing up in Taylor.
Me: Everyone has been talking about it. It’s been on social media, TV, probably the radio and I’m sure it will show up on a City Council agenda.
Thomas: Why are you hesitant to talk about it?
Me: Because I’m positive this happens every year, but once people felt they were affected by it, now it’s important.
Thomas: Isn’t it though?
Me: Yes and no.
Thomas (puts pipe in mouth, crosses arms and leans back in chair): Please elaborate.
Me: It is important for the safety of the people and creatures involved. Safety should always be the No. 1 priority. At the same time, unexpected phenomena happen, and it scares people. I think this is one of those times.
Thomas: Why do you think it scared people?
Me: Because it was something they hadn’t experienced or seen before. Not to mention, it had an impact on them.
Thomas: Continue with your explanation, please.
Me: It also sparked outrage about a creature many label a nuisance.
Thomas: A nuisance?
Me: Yes, because of the mess they leave behind, the noise they make and the fact that people aren’t supposed to harm them.
Thomas: (nods in agreement)
Me: This isn’t anything new, though. When people have new experiences that are out of the ordinary, they react. Sometimes, they overreact. But, it’s their right to do so. However, sometimes it turns into a sh . . . well, let’s just say a show that stinks.
Thomas: It’s interesting you feel that way. However, it is your responsibility to make sure the community is informed about the situation and make sure the accurate information is presented. It wouldn’t hurt to hear from residents and community leaders.
Me: Believe me, I have.
Thomas: Good. But, I think you misunderstood my questions earlier.
Me: (Confused)
Thomas: I just asked if you had written your column. I didn’t mention a specific topic. Just wanted to see where your head is at. It’s obvious that you are a bit of a “bird brain” this week.
Me: Bye Thomas, I’m getting off my soapbox!
“When you have seen one ant, one bird, one tree, you have not seen them all.” – E. O. Wilson
– E. O. Wilson
