By By E. RAMONA BROWN
Special to the Daily News
My years at the Washington Daily News provided several memorable experiences.
Following a number of internships, the Washington Daily News was my entry in the real, real world of journalism. Among my most vivid memories was the interview for the job. I distinctly remember what the late publisher, Ashley B. Futrell, said before offering me the job.
He said, “Young lady, we can’t guarantee that you will make a lot of money here, but I can guarantee you one thing — you will learn a lot.”
He was absolutely right. I did learn much working at the Washington Daily News. It was a real, live general-assignment experience. As a GA, the variety of stories to write and the daily office tasks were diverse. It helped me to become a more versed writer and reporter.
My memories also include the guys on the news desk. I was surrounded by Mikes — Mike Rouse, Mike Voss and Mike Hughes. No one believes me when I tell them how I answered to so many Mikes. They were great guys to work with. Each of them had their own approach to news. I always wondered if I ever did fit in the “Boys Club of Mikes.”
Among my greatest memories were the daily exchanges between Mr. Futrell and attorney John Wilkinson. Mr. Wilkinson would show up at the WDN almost daily like clockwork to discuss with Futrell what appeared to be his take on the latest edition of the paper.
Mr. Futrell’s response generally remained even-tempered. At times it appeared to be steamy and adversarial, but, overall, it seemed as though they were chums.
Another strong memory for me was my daily trek upstairs above the newsroom to deliver the Daily News’ headlines via radio. I never realized how far-reaching the broadcast was until one day I met an elderly gentleman from out on the coast in one of the local banks.
He heard the teller call my name. He entreated me with a handshake, and he said, “You are the little girl who delivers the headlines from the Daily News.”
I said, “Yes, sir.”
He then said, proudly, “The wife and I never miss it.”
It made my work all worthwhile. I felt like I really was providing a service and a well-received product.
Finally, during my tenure at the Daily News, I experienced the untimely passing of my father. When Brownie Futrell and Mike Rouse attended the funeral, I knew then that I had joined a family. My family and friends were indeed impressed that the editor and publisher of the paper for which I worked would take the time to visit me and my family at one of the most difficult times in a young person’s life.
I shall never forget my days at the WDN, from August 1984 to August 1986. It was great place for a career start.
Congratulations on your centennial, WDN.
E. Ramona Brown is a grants and contracts officer with East Carolina University. Prior to that, she spent 15 years working in public affairs and community development at the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. During her days at NCDHHS, she worked with the media campaigns for former Gov. Jim Hunt’s SmartStart initiative.