Straight Talk with Shannon: New Beginnings

I’ve talked for some time with others in the community about launching an alternate news source—one that embraces truth, diversity of thought, and accountability. Now, I finally have both the platform and the freedom to do just that.

To understand what brought me to this point, let me briefly revisit a past editorial I wrote titled “What They Don’t Preach on Sundays.” That piece was written in response to a prior article published by my former employer that criticized atheists and questioned how anyone could not believe in God. After attending a lecture on world religions, I decided to offer a different perspective—one that invited discussion rather than condemnation.

Instead of sparking meaningful dialogue, the reaction was swift and hostile. What could have been a civil exchange of ideas turned into a modern-day witch hunt. Community outrage was met with internal panic. Though I was told my termination was unrelated to that column, I received multiple screenshots from readers who contacted the owner and his executive assistant. Their responses made it clear: I was let go for expressing a belief that differed from the owner’s.

There’s a growing push in Tennessee and right here in Weakley County to put the Bible in public schools. But are we ready for students to ask real questions? Because they will. And how do we treat people in our own community who don’t share the dominant beliefs? There are over 5,000 religions in the world. Yes—there are people in Weakley County who are not Christian. Do we shun them, silence them, or treat them with contempt?

From the reaction I received, one might think there’s no love like Christian hate. That’s certainly how it felt. The nastiness from some in the faith community was disheartening. But I want to be clear—others, including pastors, reached out in support. They condemned the hate and showed compassion, living the values Christ actually taught. For that, I am sincerely grateful.

I still stand by what I said in that editorial: many Christians today behave in ways that are nothing like Christ. If you want to bring people to your faith, maybe take a moment to reflect on how you respond to those who think differently. When people look back at this moment, they’ll remember who showed kindness—and who didn’t.

Moving forward, after an outpouring from the community to continue, I have decided to do just that. News will keep coming-I have never faltered at keeping the community updated on county meetings, city board meetings, records, obits, ribbon cuttings, grand openings, events, crime and that hard-hitting journalism everyone has come to appreciate.

I will be navigating this page and adding new content daily, so I appreciate the continued support. Please subscribe-right now I am only charging $5.00 per month for my news or, alternately, you can make a donation of your choice.

I am looking forward to hearing from the community and I hope that I will still be your point of contact for anything news related. Some may not like everything that gets put out and that’s okay, but I will persist, nevertheless.


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Responses

  1. thechristiantechnerd Avatar

    congrats on your first blog post!

    1. shannontaylor17 Avatar

      Thank you so much!

  2. Officialmosey Avatar

    Congratulations!!!

    1. shannontaylor17 Avatar

      Thank you!

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