An Editorial Opinion of The Luverne Journal

There is an old adage, the origins of which many sources debate, which advises the reader that, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Because there is much truth in the proverb, The Luverne Journal held a photo opportunity on Jan. 11 aimed at compiling the sentiments of community members into a cover photo for a special section to say, “Thank you” to local first responders.

At 7 a.m., the Journal staff joined photographer Anna Findley in creating a photo representing the various agencies and personnel involved in responding to Crenshaw County emergencies. To that end, we invited police officers, firefighters, dispatchers, emergency medical technicians and utility repair crews to join us at the Crenshaw Community Hospital, where we captured a photograph to grace the cover of a feature highlighting the men and women who serve their communities in some of life’s most difficult moments.

Frederick R. Barnard is widely attributed with publishing the adage, “One look is worth a thousand words,” in ‘Printer’s Ink’ in December 1921. The publication later printed the phrase in another form, “One picture is worth a thousand words” six years later, tailoring the proverb into a format still popular today.

The Journal and The Greenville Advocate have published a first responder special for many years. Findley, compelled by a desire to honor local responders, created a photo for Greenville responders in 2022 and graciously donated the image for the cover of that year’s Advocate’s feature.

The Journal has improved upon the Crenshaw County effort this year, adding a combined-agency photo and developing an event where several photos were taken while our staff and the community had an opportunity to thank responders personally for their selfless service. The hospital graciously partnered with Journal staff and provided a grab-and-go breakfast for responders, just another way to thank them for their service.

The effort produced a moving assembly of men and women who have offered Crenshaw County countless hours of sacrifice and service. We are excited to share the results with our readers. Look for the section as an insert in the Aug. 1 Journal issue.

Photo by Anna Findley.