Dear Editor,
It is with profound sadness that I learnt of the imminent closure of Stabroek News, a paper which came through like “a breath of fresh air,” sometime in 1986.[1]
I clearly remember the first time that I read one of its editions. It was while I was standing on the New Amsterdam Ferry Stelling, waiting to board a launch to travel to Blairmont, when a very vocal female newspaper vendor persuaded me, and some others who were there, to purchase this newspaper “which had just come out.”
From that time, to the present, the “News” has been a staple in my household. Its wide and comprehensive reporting over the years, on matters locally, regionally and globally and on topics such as politics, culture and sports has kept me “informed” on a timely basis.
Locally, I was particularly impressed with two features of the “News”. The first is the “Cost of Living” column, which appears in the Monday editions (and) where the common people are given the opportunity to not only air their views but also to share their views on how the cost of living is affecting them.
The second relates to the Grade Six Social Studies segment of the Weekend editions. I was running through the contents of the Social Studies pages to see what topics were engaging our young students and I was absolutely amazed at what I saw.
There was information which I can say served as a refresher course for me and, quite surprisingly, there was information about the Administrative Regions of Guyana, which I was totally unaware of. I guess the adage you are never too old to learn still holds true.
Unfortunately, however, the end of the era for Stabroek News beckons.[2] But I am sure I speak for many, including my neighbour and good friend Uncle John, when I say you will certainly be missed.
And as I contemplate life ahead, without my favourite news, I feel somewhat consoled by the fact that the date selected for its last edition will give me just another reason to always remember the Ides of March.
Farewell Stabroek News…
Thanks for the years.