Beach local takes over Observer editor position
Bob Petcher, a 17-year beach local who loves kayaking the local waterways and playing any other outdoor sports, has assumed the role of Beach Observer editor, as 10-year Breeze Newspapers employee Charlie Loucks has retired.
Petcher said he is excited to dive back into the editorial pool, having previously worked for newspapers in his native state of Maine, as well as as a sports writer for the News-Press in the early ’90s.
“I’m eager to get back into writing and editing,” he said. “I’ve got clown-sized shoes to fill. Charlie’s a true professional, a great mentor, and will be missed.”
Earlier this week, Loucks was recognized by the Town of Fort Myers Beach for dedicated service to the community and presented with a proclamation and plaque by Vice Mayor Herb Acken.
“It was certainly a very interesting time,” Loucks said of his tenure with The Observer. “I began right after Fort Myers Beach’s incorporation, watching it form and struggle, dealing with all of the issues that were new to the town. It was probably the best 10 years of my life.”
Loucks said he will continue to concentrate on his writing as well as carve out some time for golf.
“It’s just I think the timing is right,” Loucks said. “One of the promises I made to myself when I began writing was to finish a novel. I haven’t made much progress with it, so I’m going to get that going.”