Hometown helpers

As Thanksgiving rolls around, we’re reminded that gratitude is more than a holiday sentiment — it’s a way of honoring the people whose everyday actions make Weston County a better place to live. That’s why it’s once again time to select the News Letter Journal’s Person of the Year, and we need your help.

Since 1996, this award has recognized neighbors, business owners, volunteers, public servants and ordinary citizens who have done extraordinary things. You may remember past honorees, such as Tierny Parrish, Norma Shelton, Galen Stafford, Nate Strickland and Don Thorson — all people whose contributions strengthened our community in quiet, steady, meaningful ways.

Now we’re seeking nominations for the 2025 Person of the Year, who will be highlighted — along with all nominees — in our first issue of 2026. The contribution you recognize can be big or small. Maybe it changed the trajectory of the whole county, or maybe it changed just one life. Either way, if it mattered to you, it matters to us.

Thanksgiving reminds us that we don’t say “thank you” often enough. This is your chance to change that. If someone has gone above and beyond for you, for your family or for your
community, tell us their story so we
can help shine a light on the good they’ve done.

Submit nominations to editor@newslj.com or circulation@newslj.com, or stop by our office at 14 W. Main
St. in Newcastle. Be sure to include
your name and phone number, and tell us exactly how your nominee has made a difference and why they deserve recognition.

This season is about gratitude. Help us express it by lifting up those who have earned it. We look forward to hearing from you.