Column: Thomas Martin and The Eye of The Tiger
Former comedian Thomas Martin, born and raised in Lexington, NC, is a dynamic force in local journalism. A 2011 graduate of Lexington Senior High School, he was a standout athlete, excelling in football, track, wrestling, and while also serving as president of FBLA and Deca. With a career that spans business, media, manufacturing, and security, Thomas brings a wealth of experience to Davidson Local as a photographer, digital creator, and community engagement leader.
His goal with Davidson Local is intense: "Reach all demographics with a positive outlook on every story. We know that we have to tell hard stories, but we also want to balance them with positivity and community engagement." His stories about everyday people in Lexington put the "hyper" in hyper-local journalism, gaining attention and attracting fresh eyes with his unique perspectives. Thomas is committed to showcasing the full spectrum of his community—hard truths balanced with uplifting narratives that reflect the heart of Davidson County.
Thomas’s journey has not been easy. It was deeply influenced by powerful mentorship. One of his most influential mentors, Mr. Donnie Holt, instilled values of character-building, humility, and the importance of listening more than speaking. Mr. Holt also went above and beyond by hiring an expert to teach proper restaurant etiquette, helping students learn skills many had never encountered before.
Thomas has the eye of a tiger. His sharp focus and keen insight into community stories have led him to incorporate a tiger into the Davidson Local logo, symbolizing the organization's clear vision and dedication to uncovering the heart of the community. Just as the tiger sees with precision, Davidson Local aims to reflect that level of clarity and commitment in every story told.
People are embracing the content made possible by a grant from Borealis and NC Local News Lab. Grant funding doesn’t last forever. If you'd like to see more stories like these, please consider supporting Davidson Local. Your support helps keep community journalism alive and thriving!
