The role of a local newspaper is to be a reflection of the community it serves. That’s how Moultrie News’ incoming publisher Lisa Ortiz describes the paper.
“It’s about being the voice of what’s happening in the community,” Ortiz said. In the simplest terms, that looks like educating and entertaining readers. However, managing a paper that encapsulates the heartbeat of a community requires a desire to be a part of the community. It’s one of the few roles that Ortiz has not held in the newspaper industry, yet it’s one she’s excited about.
“The community aspect is the part that I'm looking forward to,” Ortiz said. She's spent the last several weeks introducing herself to the faces behind East Cooper's businesses and organizations, and looks forward to continue meeting more members of the community.
Throughout Ortiz’s 21-year career in the newspaper industry, she has handled the production of a newspaper from A to Z. From working with the printing of the paper to selling the ads, Ortiz has well-rounded experience of how a newspaper operates. She spent the last several years with the Post and Courier as the commercial print and prepress manager.
“Lisa comes from a newspaper background with over 21 years in the newspaper business. She understands newspapers and I am confident she will serve the East Cooper readers and advertisers well. Lisa brings with her infectious energy and excitement for her new position,” said Vickey Boyd, the former publisher of the Moultrie News who recently retired after 50 years with the newspaper group.
One of Ortiz’s goals is to make sure the Moultrie News remains a consistent community paper for locals, instead of implementing major changes. Just like the East Cooper community is growing, Ortiz wants the Moultrie News to follow the same trajectory – finding ways to improve, yet staying true to its roots.
“East Cooper has such a strong history, but it also looks forward to the future and that's a unique balance,” Ortiz said.
Ortiz wants readers to know that they can reach out about story ideas and ask questions. For example, if locals want to know how to navigate beach parking this season, the community newspaper should be the resource.
Most importantly, Ortiz wants residents to know the staff behind the paper that ends up at their front door each week. There are a few new faces to the Moultrie News staff since the start of the year, including Isaac Bagwell who is a sales representative, Natalie Miller who is the advertising coordinator and Anna Sharpe who is the reporter. Susan Haynes is a sales representative who has been with the Moultrie News for several years and Kenna Coe transitioned from reporter to editor in February.
Ortiz said typically when a manager steps into a new role, there’s staff vacancies or aspects that need to be fixed. In this situation, she’s excited to join a team that’s eager to build and grow the paper. “We have a great team and I think we're going to succeed,” said Ortiz.
Ortiz appreciates the bountiful nature that East Cooper boasts. As an avid fisher, Ortiz enjoys sitting on the beach with a line in the water enjoying the sunny weather while waiting for the fish to bite. Many East Cooper residents can relate. She also enjoys spending time with her five grandchildren.
As publisher, Ortiz wants to continue the legacy that Boyd spent decades building at the Moultrie News.
“Vickey planted the seeds and all I have to do is water it and make sure it grows,” said Ortiz.