by David Leestma
It is my pleasure to introduce Meda Hutchins Baughman, incoming publisher for The Mountain Breeze, who has been working with the paper for more than 16 years. Meda’s education in art and design started with her work in high school at Rutherford-Spindale Central High School and continued through her education at Converse College in Spartanburg, S.C. “Scott and I are thrilled with the opportunity to continue the storied tradition of the local newspaper for Lake Lure and the surrounding area,” she said. “I first started doing advertising and design work with The Breeze when Bill and Betty Williams were the paper’s owners and consider myself truly blessed to have been able to continue working with Dave and Cathy during their tenure. Becoming publisher myself is a dream come true.”
Meda’s husband, Scott Baughman is a veteran newsman having worked at newspapers across the southeast from New Orleans, La. to S.C. to Charlotte. He has been writing the Technically Speaking column for The Breeze for more than a decade and has over 25 years of newspaper experience. “Local journalism is more important than ever in today’s world and getting to keep such a venerable local newspaper running into the next decade with my beautiful bride is a fantastic opportunity,” he said. “We look forward to continuing to work with all of the wonderful writers and community members on making The Mountain Breeze the best newspaper it can be.”
The Baughmans currently live in Mint Hill but plan to return to living in Rutherford County in Forest City in 2022.
History Loves Community
As the Breeze passes hands from us to the Baughmans (see announcement on this page), I smile as I think of all the history made by all of you in the Hickory Nut Gorge community since Cathy and I acquired The Breeze in 2005. And history continues to be made as we move into the new year.
This Breeze edition acknowledges the challenges of 2021 but looks with fresh eyes on the opportunities ahead. With millions of dollars budgeted by the state for our dam rehabilitation and water/wastewater infrastructure projects, Town of Lake Lure Mayor Pritchett with her new council are moving forward with bold plans to enhance our quality of life, page 5. See what the ‘design gods’ have chosen for 2022 colors, page 21. Open enrollment is open now for Lake Lure Classical Academy, page 7.
Are you taking any time to rest this winter? Mother Nature certainly does, page 6. With the holidays past, try some ‘razzle dazzle’ winter recipes using berries of all kinds, page 17.
Having a healthy mind and attitude simply makes you feel better. Reflecting on the past and looking ahead to the future are things we do but savoring the present is important, too. “Seize the day”, page 18. Showing kindness is always a good idea. It will brighten your day, page 22.
You will find local news, stories, advice, business ideas, genealogy, health matters, outdoor activities and more in this Breeze edition. So take your time paging through as you think about all you can do in 2022.
With gratitude for this history-making community – our Breeze family of writers, advertisers and you, our Breeze readers – with the anticipation of new dreams ahead.
