Digging the chance at a "Dizzy Davis" scoop

The greatest thing I've learned in working for a newspaper is simple: contrary to what some may believe, people are actually incredibly interesting. The fact that there are so many stories waiting to be told only makes me wonder why newspapers are failing in this county (though there might be a few other factors figuring into this equation). Nevertheless, when I get to go out and do a feature solely on the life of a person and the impact this person has had on the community, I'm pretty excited. That is what happened when I stepped into the office of Jeff Davis, band director at Greeley Central High School.

Within the first few seconds, I saw the close-knit relationship between Davis and his students. Some students waited for a few extra instructions before walking away with their instruments while others simply waited and enjoyed the company of a person they now refer to as a second father — a habit that, unfortunately, will soon have to change. 

After all, in May, Davis will retire after 29 years as the band director of Greeley Central.

Writing stories like these are always enjoyable. In Davis' case, it was a relatively simple story to cover and write. Everything, it seemed, just kind of fell into place. Everywhere I turned, people were glad to attest to Davis' benevolent nature and proven teaching style. 

In looking back, there were a few things I did well in this feature story and a few things I probably should have thought twice about.

I had fun writing the lead and I hope that it came across as creative beginning to the story. I also had fun incorporating some of the small stories — such as the Trumpets of God reference — since I think they helped to show the Davis' personality.

On the other hand, I probably should have worked to make sure my nut graph (main descriptive paragraph on what the story is mainly about) was more clear. I also waited a long time to get to what the point of the article was about — that being, after 29 years, Davis had had a huge impact on those around him.

Being able to get comments from my professor, Lynn Klyde-Silverstein, was great. I realized that I needed to think more closely about how certain ideas fit together and to make sure my writing is as clear and concise as possible.

Overall, though, I had a great time doing this story.

To read the article, check out the Panorama magazine, which is a publication that the Greeley Tribune puts out every year detailing the lives and accomplishments of a few "Unsung Heros" in Weld County. It will be published in a few weeks.

After doing that, let me know what you think...