February 13, 2025
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Tracy Dishman, Editor, News-Leader
Beth Jones – A legacy of excellence in local sports journalism
Some people talk about the magic of small-town journalism. Beth Jones lives it, breathes it, and for 35 years, has been teaching the rest of us what it truly means.
When Beth walks into our newsroom, she brings more than just scores and game highlights. She brings stories that make you lean in closer – she’s watching the next Olympic skateboarding hopeful; she is excited to share photos of the seniors who just signed documents to begin their college sports journey because she’s been sharing their successes since most were in elementary and middle school. A college signing event isn’t complete until Beth Jones gets a group photo.
Through three and a half decades, Beth’s camera has captured countless touchdowns, home runs, and game-winning shots. But more importantly, she’s captured the heart of Nassau County sports. From Yulee to Fernandina Beach, she knows every field, every gym, and every story behind every athlete she covers.
When our own Poe Pinson was competing in the Olympics in Paris, we all watched with pride. But Beth? She was texting Poe and her dad between events, sharing in their excitement, celebrating each adventure as if it were her own. That’s classic Beth – making every local story personal while keeping her journalistic integrity intact.
In an industry where staff turnover is measured in months, Beth has measured her tenure in generations of athletes. She doesn’t just cover sports – she records the history of the heartbeat of Nassau County, one game, one athlete, one story at a time.
That’s the real beauty of having Beth Jones as our sports editor. She reminds us daily that great journalism is about being there, being trusted and being part of the community you serve.
Tracy Dishman is the editor of the News-Leader.
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