I’ve seen my name in print before, but never my photo. This is a big day for me. Arts degree validated.
Dan Yates here. I’m a writer-editor, wannabe funnyman, nerd of all trades and the newest hire atThe Western Producer.
I’ll be reporting in these pages for the foreseeable future, until I win the lottery or accept a handsome dowry, so I’ve been asked to introduce myself.
I come to theProducerafter a 4-year stint at a leading Regina newspaper (yes, that one), where I did almost everything except sign the cheques.
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I’ve written stories, edited copy, designed pages and worked online. I’ve received what I feel is a well-rounded education in journalism.
But while I’ve done many different things, I have no specialization. In that way,The Western Prod uceris like going to graduate school, specializing in agricultural journalism.
I’m Saskatchewan-born and raised, but I’m not a farm boy. At least not yet. Truth be told, I’m more at home talking about comic books and pro wrestling than the finer details of grain marketing.
First lesson: the differences between a haymaker and an actual, you know, hay maker.
Needless to say, I have a lot to learn, but so far so good. I’ve been inThe Western Produceroffices for a week and I haven’t gasped, “I’ve made a huge mistake,” at least not audibly.
I do, however, know one or two things about newspapers. And the Produceris a heck of a newspaper. As a reader of this product, you’re spoiled. Look at how big it is. It’s filled with quality stuff, too: informative, thorough and well-written. And the photos? Awesome. Not all papers are like this, you know.
And that’s why I want to be here. I have an opportunity to do compelling work, see some new parts of Saskatchewan and exercise my writing muscle. The challenge is to learn about agriculture on the job. That’s not a bad gig. I’m spoiled, too.
I’m eager to throw myself into this world. Though I have many things to learn, it’s my hope that by being keen and curious, I can live up to not only the hefty reputation ofThe Western Producer,but those of the reader as well.
My name is Dan Yates and there are, hopefully, no stupid questions.
