Learning life lessons

by Amy Gohlich (Hurlburt)

I had the privilege of writing for the Cosmos first as a high school co-op student with aspirations of a career in journalism, and later as an occasional contributor. It was fascinating to see how a new edition was birthed each week, churning out information, opinions, and advertisements. I was able to see how the relationships with local businesses and other advertisers work, and how the medium of newspaper is uniquely situated to connect with and reflect the community. Conrad Boyce, my editor, was very patient, even as I butchered my first assignment: a photo and caption of a James-Campbell Insurance cheque presentation. Nevertheless, I was still given the chance to interview and highlight local businesses and leaders.

Three memorable interviews included Pat Higgins at Canadian Tire, a fixture in the community and a genuinely kind and generous person; Cathy Christoff, who shared about the inner workings of the irreplaceable Roxy Theatre; and Cheryl Hinzel, a multifaceted entrepreneur who runs both Sugar FX and Red Hot Design. I learned how local businesses contribute to the community in so many ways beyond their economic value.

Not every interview was a happy one. When one of my classmates passed away in a tragic accident, I interviewed those who were closest to her. I also covered the protest of the high school production of The Laramie Project; my first conversation with deeply unhinged, hate-filled strangers.

My time at the Cosmos was valuable. I learned many lessons, but one of the biggest is the value of community, and why “local” matters. Freedom of speech may be a right, but having an appreciative audience and a medium to speak to them is certainly a privilege.

Amy Gohlich is now a proud mom living with her family in Nova Scotia.