Daily employees get promotions

By Eric Fleischauer
eric@decaturdaily.com · 340-2435

Three longtime employees of The Daily recently received promotions.

Randy Dewberry, formerly press manager, was named production director.

John Godbey, previously staff photographer, took the position of chief photographer.

Don Williams, previously assistant press manager, was promoted to press manager.

“Randy has done a fantastic job for this newspaper for 31 years, working in and running our press room,” said General Manager Clint Shelton.

Dewberry started as an apprentice pressman shortly after graduating from high school.

Then-General Manager (now Publisher) Barrett C. Shelton Jr. wanted him to start the Saturday after he applied, Dewberry recalled, but Dewberry had to beg off.

“Saturday was Valentine’s Day, and I had a date,” Dewberry laughed. “It turned out to be my first date with my wife.”

The boss relented, Dewberry started on a Monday, and he has worked his way up ever since.

“We strive for consistent quality in the newspaper, but often we fall short of meeting our own expectations,” said Clint Shelton. “Randy will be responsible for working with our people and equipment to put out the best newspaper today, and also for keeping an eye on our future printing needs.”

Godbey has been a staff photographer at The Daily since 1976. His promotion to chief photographer comes with the retirement of Gary Lloyd.

“John is one of the most outstanding photographers in the state of Alabama,” said Executive Editor Tom Wright. “Not only is he readily identifiable as an excellent photographer, he is well-respected in the community.”

Wright recalls Godbey giving a speech at a service club recently. Godbey, who is active in church and community service projects, received a standing ovation before he ever opened his mouth.

Williams, who replaced Dewberry as press manager, has been with The Daily since 1998.

“Don is a good man,” said Dewberry. “He’s conscientious, and he’s always coming up with new ideas on how to do things in the press room. He’s very innovative.”

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