From the desk of Daniel P. Finney, Paragraph Stacker-at-large, Des Moines, Iowa.
ITEM ONLY: I got a job.
The last of the “onboarding” paperwork went through this morning. I start as assignment editor for Local 5 We Are Iowa at 9:15 a.m., Monday, Dec. 7, 2020.
This ends an employment drought that dates to May 1 when the local paragraph factory eliminated my job amidst corporate cutbacks during the coronavirus pandemic.
That WOI-TV wooed me back to daily journalism surprises me only slightly more than they convinced me to try a new medium.
I started stacking paragraphs for pay when I was 17. I thought that part of my life was over for good.
But the people at Local 5 seemed to want me at their shop even after I explained that all I know about TV is how to turn one on.
I don’t know what “assignment editor” means yet. I know it means I will be behind-the-camera, which is exactly my preference. I know it involves writing, story idea generating and working with reporters and anchors.
Hell, I’ll get people coffee if the pay deposits on the regular and I can afford to get cortisone shots for my arthritic knees.
I plan to continue my graduate studies at Drake University. I’ve laid out money for next semester already. I will teach someday. As my old friend Don Adams, the retired Drake vice president, always says: “Preserve your options.”
This week, I’m finishing up the semester work. I’m off school until Feb. 1, which means I’ve got two full months to learn my job, get to know people and immerse myself into the new gig’s culture.
Family, friends and readers, I thank each and every one of you for your support of this blog and me personally. This year tested all our souls.
I am blessed to know so many people who showed the love for me even as they carried their own burdens.
I promise to reward your faith in me by being the very best journalist I can be for Local 5. You may not see my byline, but know that I’m there trying my hardest to make sure you know what’s going on in your hometown.
As for this blog, the future is uncertain. I may keep writing. Some topics will be verboten, especially media criticism and politics.
That’s OK. There’s lots of good stuff to type about.
For now, though, I’m going to take a break to finish up the semester and get ready for my new adventure in journalism.
With love and hope,
dpf
ParagraphStacker.com is free, reader-supported media. Please consider donating to help me cover personal expenses as I continue writing while I pursue my master’s degree and teacher certification. Visit paypal.me/paragraphstacker.
The Paragraph Stacker 
Congratulations! So pleased for you!!
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Whoo hoo! So happy and excited for you!
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Hallelujah and congratulations!! All of us followers are thrilled for you. WOI-TV has a gem in you!
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Woo hoo! Good for you! Keep up the brilliant humor and keen unique perspective of life
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Dan I am so happy for you. I will tune in to channel 5 which will be new for me but I think will be a wonderful new adventure for both of us.
All the best in your new venture!
JanOB
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That’s awesome Dan!! I knew someone would find your talents. Patience is a virtue.
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Fantastic news! I’m thrilled, and relieved, for you.
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Yippee-eye-oh-kye-Y-A-A-y!!!!
👍🌞🌞🎉🎉🌞🌞🎉🎉🌞🌞👍
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Great news! Congratulations on your new role. Your future is bright. In a couple years I think you’ll look back & see leaving the paragraph factory was the best thing for your career. Tough at the time but leading you to new roads, Exciting !
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This made my day-no,my month!Congratulations!They are lucky to have you on their team.All the best!
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congratulations. I’m sure you will do. I may have to start watching Channel 5.
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Thrilled for you as I read this. Excited to see what touches you add to the Local 5.
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Congratulations! So happy for you!
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What wonderful news about your new position! I am sure your ideas will be valued there & you’ll expand your influence!!
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Congratulations on your job.
Perseverance does payoff.
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Congratulations.
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I am so excited for you and know you will do a terrific job. I see watching Channel 5 more in my future! Please keep us posted how your studies at Drake go the second semester. I hope you realize lots of people cared during the last several months about you
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Congrats!!!
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CONGRATULATIONS! You don’t know me, but I enjoy reading your posts, paragraphs and anything you write. I’m so happy for you. I’ve been in your shoes before and it’s not fun. Feel good about yourself! You deserve to!
Sent from my iPhone
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Congratulations!!! So glad for you.
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Woohoo! I am sooooooo excited for you! I enjoy your writing very much and am thrilled your perseverance paid off. WOI-TV is very lucky to have you join their team. I also live in Dogtown and work at Drake – Go Bulldogs! Take care of you!
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This is such great news! Way to go! WOI is brilliant to take you on. Please keep blogging if you can; I’m grateful for your perspective!
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Good for you and all of your fans.
We know you’ll do a greaat job.
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You’ve landed on your feet, yet again! Hope this gig offers you fulfillment, as well as a paycheck.
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That is great news, Dan! I’m so happy for you. You will definitely be an asset for WOI as well!
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