I hate blowing off commitments. Generally if I say I’m going to do something, I do it.

On Friday night I had two events to which I was planning to do: celebrate the retirement of Ray Hershel after 50 years of reporting local news and introducing one of my favorite films at the Bing Arts Center, Buster Keaton’s classic 1924 comedy, “Sherlock Jr.”

Thanks however to surgery that day, I couldn’t do either. The more sensible head of my wife prevailed.

I was prevented from saying to Ray what other people undoubtedly said to him: that he is a great role model to younger reporters and a true “gentleman of the press.”

I got to know Ray about 10 years ago when I wrote a column congratulating him on his 40th anniversary, which was also an impressive milestone. I knew he was a solid reporter, but I was soon impressed with his genuine nature and professionalism.

What Ray did was a true accomplishment, especially in the 21st Century. The career path of many journalists in broadcast and print is to start in an entry-level position and then hop and jump to larger markets where the prospect of better pay and more prestigious news outlets beckon.

There is nothing wrong with that career strategy, but there is nothing wrong with what Ray did – and many of us have done – stay in an area that appeals to you and become part of the community.

With changes in the media landscape it may become more and more difficult to do what Ray did in the future and that’s a shame. Staying in a community gives a reporter a context that can deepen his or her work. You can have a greater understanding of issues that develop over time. That greater understanding can benefit your audience.

I’m pretty sure we’ve not seen the last of Ray Hershel. It’s difficult for old reporters to put down their notebooks entirely and I for one would certainly welcome his reporting in the future.

Time for the Roast

Speaking of reporters, it’s that time again when reporters and elected officials square off at one another at the annual Valley Press Club Roast on May 10.

If you’ve not gone to one in the past and you’re either a media or political junkie you need to attend this year’s roast.

Skits and sarcastic remarks  fueled by adult beverages can result in a very entertaining evening – at least that been the track record of previous roasts.

And yes, the officials actually do get down and dirty, but the slings and arrows are all in fun.

At least I think so.

Valley Press Club President Charlie Bennett wrote, “The Press Club Roast follows in the footsteps of the White House Correspondents Dinner held in Washington, D.C., which made headlines by being boycotted by President Trump April 28. We won’t have that problem. Locally it’s the one night out of the year that folks in the public sector and news sources get to mingle with the media to raise money for scholarships and to have a good time.”

The roast is once again at the John Boyle O’Reilly Club, 33 Progress Ave. in Springfield with doors opening at 5:30 p.m., at the club hall and the show beginning at approximately 6 p.m. after a social hour – the lubrication needed for the remarks to follow.

The proceeds from Roast benefit the club’s scholarship fund dedicated to help area students who wish to pursue a career in journalism,-­ yes we actually encourage young people to enter this crazy career path.

The club has been giving out scholarships since 1964 and has helped more than 130 students with over $130,000 in grants over the years.

Tony Cignoli, noted national political consultant, will return as the ringmaster for the occasional chaos of the roast. I think that usual he has a whip and pistol to keep everyone in line.

At this point political attendees will include Sheriff Nick Cocchi, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, state legislators and some their 2018 election opponents. It’s a great place for political bird watching. Bring your binoculars.

Tickets are $20 and can be obtained in advance, or at the door. Tickets are also available online at Eventbrite-Valley Press Club.

Hope to see you there.