Look, these last few months have not been easy for me. In fact, they have been very stressful. One thing I have learned is instead of being hateful and ugly like those who have altered my mood, I have decided to turn “hateful” in to “grateful”. Interesting concept; right?
Having said that; I would like to give some people their flowers and acknowledge those in the community who have made a positive impact during my time so far with our Oakdale, Riverbank and Escalon newspapers, but especially The Oakdale Leader.
Marg Jackson. I really do not know how you do it. You manage to run several papers and projects that keep the surrounding towns informed. Great work. The folks in the office of The Oakdale Leader. What a great group of people who deal with so much every day, both positive and negative. A large majority of the negative that they take on are not even their fault or in their control (such as taking calls about late delivery, billing or questions/concerns regarding articles that the staff writes). Way to take those and keep smiling.
Oakdale High School principal Mike Moore. You, sir, are a gem. Someone I respect a great deal. I cannot imagine being in your shoes. The amount of responsibility you take on and face on a daily basis is insurmountable. Thank you for keeping OHS moving in the right direction. His staff, including Shannon Kettering and Diane Kline. Two ladies I have gotten to know for the last decade plus. Your efforts to make OHS enjoyable for students, parents and guests have not gone unnoticed. To all the teachers and coaches. Wow, not only do you begin your day before the sun goes up, but you are still on campus late into the night. The impact that you make on these young people’s lives is help molding the future.
Retired educator and ‘Voice of the Mustangs’ Pete Simoncini. Mr. Simoncini was one of my biggest supporters. From the first time we met in 2014, Mr. Simoncini welcomed me with open arms. We clicked. The things that man did for OHS, both in the classroom and for their athletics program, is unparalleled.
Oakdale High School’s maintenance crew and on campus security is top notch. They too work endlessly to make OHS a positive and safe environment.
I have been blessed to meet so many great parents and families over the last 11 years. You have made my time working in the community and on campus amazing.
Dennis D. Cruz is a staff reporter for The Oakdale Leader, The Riverbank News and The Escalon Times. He may be reached at drcruz@oakdaleleader.com or by calling 209-847-3021.
