My first week as a reporter with BarrieToday is officially done and dusted and I have to admit — it’s been great to be back behind the keyboard.
Over the years, I have worked in several communities across Canada, but joining the team at BarrieToday is the first time I get to cover events and issues at home! Until last week, I have always felt a little bit like an interloper, having moved to a community for the job. While I have always been welcomed with open arms in those places, I never quite got over the feeling of being an outsider.
While I didn’t grow up in Barrie, I have now lived in Simcoe County for nearly 15 years. I got married here, started a family here, and have a life here. It’s home.
This opportunity with BarrieToday means I now get to cover issues and events that are not only important to and impact the community I am working in, but that also matter to and impact me and my family.
I always knew the people of Barrie had a big heart, but the support I have received from my new colleagues, as well as the community in welcoming me — as well as reaching out to share their stories with me on the issues that are important to them — has been overwhelming.
My first published story for BarrieToday was one that hit close to home. I use those trails, my friends and family and neighbours use those trails.
For another story, researching the rising rental rates in the city made me think back to when I first moved to the area in 2007 and was shocked to find rent on par with the GTA. My recent experience helping a friend look for a place was just as disheartening. The rent for many of the places we looked at were more than what one would likely pay for a mortgage — and in extremely poor shape. As it turns out, that experience is not an uncommon one.
The sheer number of people who willingly offered to share their experiences not only shows me how big of an issue this is here, but also, how much residents here are willing to look out for one another in the hopes that shedding some light on the issue will bring about change. So for the welcoming (virtual) arms, I say thank you.
I’ve been told getting back behind the keyboard after a brief hiatus will be like riding a bike. Hopefully the only difference will be that now, nearly 20 years after the first time my byline hit newsprint, I may need glasses to see the road up ahead.
Nikki Cole is a reporter with BarrieToday.
