A year.

It has been a year since I resumed my career as a newspaper guy. And what a year it has been.

It was in May of this week last year that I began working at The Oxford EAGLE. To say I was a bit in awe would be an understatement.

The majority of my 20-plus year career in newspapers has been spent in Mississippi and one of the most storied newspapers, not only in the state, but in the South is right here in Oxford.

Every journalist in this state and outside its borders is familiar with The EAGLE and its historic past. So to get the opportunity to be part of that tradition and history has truly been a blessing.

I’ve certainly learned a lot in my time here in Oxford and Lafayette County.

One of the first things I learned that first week is how to pronounce Yocona. Yes, I messed it up pretty good pronouncing it in the newsroom. I also had no clue what “LOU” stood for and why he was in a headline on Page 2 of the newspaper. I once again quickly found out.

I was told how drastic the change around town would be when Ole Miss students returned for the fall semester, but didn’t realize how really drastic it would be until I tried to get home from work driving down Jackson Avenue in the afternoon. I was also told how big game day is on a Saturday, but of course didn’t realize just how big until that first home football game.

I have enjoyed everything the LOU community has to offer. From my first tailgating in the Grove experience to walking around at the Double Decker festival, there has been plenty to enjoy and experience.

And now a year later, as I start another chapter, the EAGLE is also beginning a new era as we move into our shiny new digs on Highway 30 near Northeast Power Association. I have to say that I will miss working on the Square and the convenience of being able to walk to some of the greatest restaurants and shops. But I’m also looking forward to working in a more modern work environment. The new facility is first class and has all the amenities and then some, most of which were not feasible in the Jackson Avenue location.

If you get the opportunity I urge you to come by the new EAGLE location on Highway 30 next to Stout’s Carpets and see for yourself.

The new chapter for me and the new era for The EAGLE both begin tomorrow.

Rob Sigler is managing editor of The Oxford EAGLE. Contact him at rob.sigler@oxfordeagle.com.