ON THE COVER
March is the month we most often associate with spring. Once it was April — until climate adjustment pushed our seasons forward a bit. But notwithstanding the quirks of our calendar-based lives, change seems to be in the air everywhere we look this month.
The shadow of the pandemic seems to be diminishing. A rare but brutal winter storm seems like a cold, cold memory. Things are looking up. The assumptive forecast is for fair days ahead. We are ready for it.
This issue embraces this changing mood, these changing times.
The cover story is about Carla Due (photo taken by Kelsi Brinkmeyer), a Miller County Extension Agent for more than 30 years. The cover photo was taken at the Miller County Courthouse — itself a symbol of the rapid, almost bewildering changes taking place around us. The building is getting a massive makeover thanks to a disabling winter storm. Carla’s role has expanded to the greater region. We wish her the best.
This issue celebrates Easter and the hope it represents. It celebrates new beginnings, as in the seeds we sow. It celebrates the many things we do — like decorating and personal makeovers — to break out from the depths of winter doldrums. It celebrates the new chances we have to make a difference, and those singular individuals who embrace these opportunities. But meet Carla first. She’s had a wonderful run here and deserves all the success her new role represents. Her story begins on Page 6.