Advice for Future Reporters: Michael Powell Retires His News Cap

By: Grace Smith – Wise News Network

Powell learned journalistic standards from influential figures, including mentor Jack Paxton, known for his Vietnam War news contributions, and former Eagle publisher Greg Ledford, both praised for integrity and hard work.

“Most people don’t have a clue what goes on in the world, and I don’t mean this negatively, but they don’t understand what it takes to do what I did or what you do; guys like Greg or my former publisher, Jack Paxton.” said Powell.

He shifted to a career in journalism, driven by his passions for photography and cartooning. Powell received his first journalistic award for an image he took of a rare turtle. Upon receiving the award, Powell sought the approval of Paxton.

“I took it into Jack Paxton and flung it down in front of him and I said, “I’m an award-winning journalist,” said Powell.

Paxton congratulated him, but Powell was surprised by his mentor’s lack of excitement. This moment became a valuable lesson for Powell, teaching him how to manage his ego in the face of success.

Powell learned the nuances of journalism, emphasizing the importance of balancing objectivity with ethics. According to him, journalists report facts while choosing an ethical approach to presenting them.

He said that journalists are wordsmiths and they have an ethical obligation to be thoughtful with their wording.

“Words really do carry weight and they can hurt, written or otherwise. And that is definitely something that, as journalists, we have to be very cognizant of.” said Powell.

Juggling that balance is one of the challenges Powell overcame as a journalist, evidenced by his work in the Eagle. He took a neutral perspective on his news articles, strictly reporting the facts.

He demonstrated objective reporting in the case of the proposed sale of the Cherryville Historical Museum. Although he did not agree with the proposed sale, he did not insert his opinion in his articles about the subject.

Powell experienced significant personal and professional growth during his time at the Eagle. He learned to master local reporting, but he also learned how to plant his roots.

Although he looks back on his time at the Eagle with pride, Michael is unsure about the future of print media. After his retirement, the 100-year-old newspaper transferred ownership to the Lincoln Times. The Eagle is now featured in the Lincoln Times every Thursday, however, it is no longer a stand-alone paper.

He encourages young people to become invested in the news industry. He hopes news writing can continue through talented young journalists who can revitalize the industry.

“The new journalist, whoever he or she may be, that individual’s job … is to wade through the gobbledygook, or in my language, to find out the kernel,” said Powell.

Young journalists must discern the news value in stories while being cautious, as they are susceptible to exploitation because of their need for experience in distinguishing between PR and news.

As a young journalist, Michael’s advice on the weight of words resonates. In this industry, whether covering sensitive topics or publishing press release-based stories, making tough decisions on reporting is inevitable.

Journalists cannot selectively pick story elements, but they can shape the narrative by using unbiased language and asking questions that delve beyond the surface.

After his retirement, Powell was honored by the Cherryville City Council for his years of service to the community, acknowledging his reporting and dedication to keeping residents informed. The Cherryville New Year’s Shooters also awarded him a certificate of appreciation.

Powell does not plan on leaving Cherryville anytime soon. His children and grandkids reside in North Carolina, keeping him close to family. He plans to spend time with his family and friends. Perhaps he might even rediscover his love of musical instruments.

“I’m probably a better musician than I am, a speaker or a writer. Probably a better songwriter than I am a commentary write; music has always been my life.” said Powell.

As he reflects on his career from the comfort of retirement, Powell can rest easy knowing that his contributions to Cherryville’s journalism will forever be ingrained in the city. If not the city, his advice will stay with me forever.

In 40 years, when I am retired and giving an exit interview with a young journalist, I might echo Powell’s advice. Journalists have to stick together and encouragement from a veteran reporter is motivation for a green news writer.

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