“Hello La Conner…”
That was the headline of the first La Conner Community News email newsletter on Jan. 17, skillfully produced and edited by Kari Mar and Staci Baird. Just two months later, we published the first print version of La Conner Community News.
March 20’s inaugural edition represents not just a newspaper, but a collective effort, a shared belief in the power of local news, and a commitment to keeping our community informed and connected.
First and foremost, I want to thank the community. Your enthusiasm for a local newspaper, your generosity in donations, and your steadfast belief in the necessity of independent journalism have made this possible. Without you — our readers, our supporters, our neighbors — this newspaper would be just an idea rather than a reality. Your backing fuels our mission and ensures that local news remains vibrant in La Conner.
To the volunteers who stayed up late last week to bag newspapers in plastic so they wouldn’t get wet and then got up early Thursday morning to deliver them all over the area — thank you. Your dedication ensured that the very first edition of La Conner Community News landed in the hands of readers without delay, rain or shine. Your hard work did not go unnoticed, and we are deeply grateful.
To the board of directors, I extend my deepest appreciation. Some of you have been involved since the first spark of this project nearly two years ago; others have jumped in with tireless dedication just weeks ago. Regardless of when you joined, your commitment, expertise, and sheer determination have been invaluable in bringing this vision to life. The road from concept to print has been long, but your efforts have built something truly special.
And finally, to the staff — Bill Reynolds, Nancy K. Crowell, Mel Damski, Staci Baird, Casey Lynn, Kari Mar and all the others behind the scenes who contributed to produce the first edition — thank you. A newspaper is only as strong as the people who create it, and your talent and dedication have given La Conner Community News a powerful and promising start. Everyone I have talked to has only had praise for the finished product. I have enjoyed seeing the enthusiasm people expressed upon receiving and reading the paper.
This is only the beginning, but know that your efforts are appreciated by a great many in the local community and beyond. I am grateful for your contributions to keeping local news alive in La Conner.
Andrew Ashmore is the president of the La Conner Community News Board of Directors.
