The Eatonton Messenger is pleased to welcome Ian Tocher as its new editor based at the Messenger office in downtown Eatonton.
A graduate of the University of Toronto and the print journalism program at Centennial College, also in Toronto, Tocher has lived the past 24 years in the Atlanta area. Since 2014, he and his wife, Sue, also have owned a small vacation home in the Twin Bridges area of Lake Sinclair.
“Some great experiences and meeting people in Eatonton and the surrounding area are what convinced me this is the place where I really wanted to live and work,” Tocher said. “I also knew the Messenger enjoys a long, respected history in the community, so when the opportunity to join it came, it was a very easy decision to reach.”
A. Mark Smith, president and CEO of Smith Communications Inc., welcomed Tocher to the company.
“We are proud to introduce Ian as editor of The Eatonton Messenger,” he said. “I feel he is a good fit for the job and will be an important part of our team going forward.”
Tocher’s journalism background includes serving as editor for an airline pilots’ magazine, as well as editor and contributor to several professional motorsports-related print publications and websites.
“Working at a newspaper certainly presents a different challenge for me, but getting to know the issues that affect Eatonton and all Messenger readers is my priority now,” Tocher said. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
Managing Editor Josh Lurie said Tocher’s biggest strength is that he wants to be involved in Eatonton and Putnam County.
“Ian has been in Putnam County on a part-time basis but is ready to jump in with both feet to become a full-time ambassador for the community and our company,” he said. “Don’t hesitate to stop by the office and meet him.”
Tocher’s direct line at the Messenger office is 706-749-7232 or email can be sent to ian@msgrnews.com.