The last words

By Candace Doyle

I’ve got to admit I was excited to learn Marquette Constructors LLC, Milwaukee, submitted the low bid of $359.6 million to rebuild the core and south legs of the Marquette Interchange.

The only other firm bidding was Walsh Construction Co., Chicago.

I’ve got nothing against Walsh, and I don’t harbor any resentment toward Chicago — I love the Windy City — but there was just a sense of pride that the biggest Marquette contract will go to the Wisconsin consortium of contractors.

Being editor of The Daily Reporter, the state’s construction newspaper, doesn’t really mean I’m in the construction industry. I know that.

But this was the first time I actually felt a part of it, that it was more than about a good story, snappy headline, whatever.

I cared, which also, I’m afraid, means I’m biased.

Some will argue that’s not so good in the newspaper business, that you’re supposed to be objective, not pick sides.

My thought is you should treat each side fairly, equally. But not care? Having thoughts and feelings are an inevitable part of being human, and I’d fear to see a newspaper where no one cared about caring.

And speaking of The Daily Reporter, I hope you’ve noticed the changes in the paper.

It’s got a nice, new clean look and, with that, more newspaper real estate to fill.

That’s good, as it means you should be getting more — more news, more features, more photos.

You’ll also be getting more of me. You can decide whether that’s good or not.

I’ve started writing a weekly column for the newspaper, so this will be my last last word.

I’ve enjoyed this monthly column and especially the people I’ve come in contact with.

Many of the same topics touched on here will find a place on The Daily Reporter’s Opinion page, which is where my new column — Press Box — can be found on Mondays.

As always, I hope to hear from you.