Ode to a grumpy ol’ man

Years ago, when I first moved here, one of the first things I did was to purchase the local paper, aka, the Lovell Chronicle. One of the first things I noticed was the relationship between the town council and Jim Szlemko. Jim did his best to bring to the council’s attention any problems around the town, be it potholes or overgrown brush, etc. So Jim didn’t actually gain any favors with the council.

My first article was a story about how the then mayor, Bruce Morrison, had declared Jim as the Man of the Year for the town of Lovell. I went on to write about the presentation to Jim and how much the town loved him, etc. This brought many different responses. Some people were up in arms about why the mayor would do this. I had such a good laugh. The readers then read the last line of my story - April Fools!

I didn’t always agree with Jim and wrote as such, but I did enjoy reading his articles about things that needed fixing and trying to keep the town on the right track. The town council didn’t appreciate him overlooking their work, but I think every town needs an overseer or two. Critics should apply by attending the council’s meetings or write to the editor.

I mentioned in one of my articles that Jim was the town grump, and he picked up on it and I think enjoyed calling himself the town’s grumpy old man. Alas, Jim has gone on to finer pastures and is missed by some.

I do not intend to pick up his torch, even though I am grumpy enough to fill that role, but I do know I enjoy it when others write letters, whether it be praise or about something that needs to be addressed by our town. Just remember, it is your paper, and it would be a shame to lose it due to lack of participation by our townsfolks.