Over Coffee by Barbara Briggs Ward

Author:Barbara Briggs Ward [Ward, Barbara Briggs]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Astraea Press

Cate listened to this man she initially thought was just one of the suits. Again she was reminded of how wrong she was on her assumption. Every tweak he suggested reinforced the efforts already made.

“Now I want to talk about an additional feature we need in the paper a week from Sunday along with the feature already planned. Although it may sound like it is all about me, it isn’t. It’s about the human spirit—a mother and a son and a paper determined to help their readers who are hurting. Once again we must remind ourselves we are their voice. The presses will keep rolling if we remember why we are here.”

Then Ted explained what he was talking about. He asked those present not to discuss what he was telling them with anyone. He felt the feature would make a greater impact if the surprise element was still in place. He started back with that little boy counting snowflakes awaiting Santa to the Christmas locomotive ready to go. He had details ironed out for the winter coats ordered. Everyone was surprised to learn the paper was behind the Christmas Stocking Express. But after Ted made his closing remark, such generosity made perfect sense.

“I’ve gone over this into the wee hours. I’ve met with our accounts and financial wizards, asking them to get creative in looking for any possible ways to avoid furloughs, at least until we get through the winter. And I am here to tell you they came through for me. All planned furloughs are suspended for the time being. I can’t promise what lies ahead but I believe if we dig in with all the talent I see in front of me, we can turn this corner. These features leading to Christmas will certainly be a plus. Although that is not the reason why we are doing them, the bottom line is the better our product, the better off we become and the better informed the public becomes.”

Spontaneous applause filled the newsroom. If ever a moment united them, this was it. One by one reporters and graphic designers and photographers thanked Ted. Cate could tell by the surprised look on his face that it was more than he’d expected. She was the last in line to speak to him.

“You’re making a difference in real people’s lives.”

“I didn’t sound too consumed with myself?”

“Not at all. You presented a human side they’d never seen. We all make presumptions of people without knowing them. I’d done that with you before even meeting you.”

“Cate, about the other night. I didn’t mean to—to take advantage of you.”

“You didn’t. It was a moment. A special moment.”

She paused. Ted was the one who started it up again.

“I don’t know what or why, it just happened. Quite honestly, I’m thankful that it did.”

Reporters were back, waiting to talk to Ted. They had more questions about the Sunday edition.

“This isn’t the place for personal discussion. I have an idea. I took your suggestion and contacted the owners of the house where I grew up.

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