In our local paper this morning, Martinsville Bulletin, there was a headline photo with story about a woman who was struck by a five locomotive, 100-car empty Norfolk Southern RR coal hopper train, slowly passing through town. She was not seriously injured, fortunately, and why she decided to walk down the track in the first place is thus far a mystery.
Now, you may ask why is this news important during these days of hectic and highly charged congressional debate in Wash DC to pass this or that before Christmas. Well, to us "southsiders" it is indeed "news"... and even though the possibility of serious injury or even death could have resulted, it's a far cry better headline than the sort of stuff seen daily in the Washington Post.
Having a paper such as the Martinsville Bulletin on my table with hot cup of Green Mountain Nantucket Blend coffee each day (except Saturday...remember, this is a small town newspaper) is one reason why I love living where we do. When it's time for you to decide where to finally settle down after your full time professional life, I recommend you go to a location such as Martinsville ... there are thousands of them all over the United States. Take my word, you won't be sorry.
