My Ocean View by Jennifer Roush

This is my first "Ocean View." A new one will be posted weekly.


As many of you know, I recently took over the position of managing editor of the town’s Lumina News, but for most of you that likely is the extent of it. My story of change began a month ago, which ended up with me making the long journey from the mountains to the shore.
I grew up in the small suburb of Cross Lanes, W. Va. This community is a few miles from Charleston, and, to the rest of the state, that is “the city.” Staying in the area, I kept some of the same friends from grade school to my college years.
After one year attending Clemson University right out of high school, I transferred to West Virginia University, where I received my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism. In school, I did such things as write for the school newspaper, was managing editor of a quarterly newspaper, co-authored a book, had internships and took about every opportunity I could.
After school, I stayed at WVU teaching journalism as an adjunct instructor. I also worked as a community reporter and city reporter, eventually working my way up to features editor of a local daily newspaper.
I had found myself at the home of the Mountaineers, Morgantown, for several years, but something in me knew I wouldn’t be there forever.
I had visited the Wilmington area every year on vacation and absolutely loved it. It became my favorite place to go. It was also quality time with my mother, who lives in Raleigh. One summer she asked if I perchance wanted to go to Outer Banks instead, but I still just wanted to come back here.
Something about this area’s beauty makes me want to smile, cry and try to wake up at the same time. Even though I can also bask in the beauty of the mountains, this place, in addition to beauty, has an air of endless possibilities. The saying is “the grass is always greener on the other side.” Well, the grass may be greenest here.
When I saw the job posting for this position, I felt it was the perfect job for me. And it is. I love writing, editing, people and stories. I am ever curious and intrigued by people’s stories and issues, which is one of the main reasons I am drawn to this profession.
My goal as managing editor is to not only continue the legacy of success established by Lumina News, but to also forge ahead. I have a lot of hopes for what I can do for this publication and for the community. I plan to do all I can to make sure Lumina News meets and exceeds your expectations weekly.
We are a people who strive for excellence and that comes with a lot of work, but, in the end, it’s worth it for the service we provide to Wrightsville Beach.