One clear theme rose to the top: the return of a local newspaper.
“When we learned we’ll keep having a paper, and then when I started receiving it at home,” shared Annabelle Vergne. “I think I appreciate our paper even more than before, and bravo to Kari and the team for their awesome work!”
“The highlight was the start of La Conner Community News,” wrote Gale Fiege.
Others quickly echoed that sentiment.
“I agree with Gale and Pat! I love the paper!” wrote Jennifer Gaskin Mortenson.
“First and foremost… we have a newspaper! Well done Kari and team!” added Troy Olason.
And sometimes enthusiasm needs no elaboration.
“Gale Fiege yes!!” wrote Patricia Paul.
Beyond the paper, many people shared moments that captured the feeling of La Conner itself — a town animated by festivals, art, history and unexpected encounters.
“Momo (referring to a photograph of a person in a dog mask) and I loved meeting Bigfoot at the Bigfoot Festival in Gilkey Square this year!” wrote Shanna P Lowe.
“Festival of Tiny Trees was a huge success!” said Alexa Robbins, who also celebrated “Making wreaths to decorate the town through LaConner Thrives!”
Others reflected on how the town looks and feels.
“Town starting to look so happy,” wrote Gina Torpey, who later added, “best people” and “amazing community.”
Some moments were rooted in long-standing traditions and shared history.
Robin Carneen shared a photograph from a past tribal Canoe Journey. “(I) … always looking forward to our Canoe families landing at Swinomish and spending time with our community and town of La Conner…,” she wrote.
“The Historical Museum putting Tom Robbins desk on permanent display was a highlight for me. I’m grateful that others can view his desk for years to come,” Robbins added.
Art and creativity surfaced again and again.
“Dance showcase at our very own Civic Garden Club,” wrote Mo Olason, who also noted, “full moon rising.”
“The Rick Epting Foundation for the Arts contributed $2000 to MONA’s children’s arts program Creative Connections from money raised at the 4th of July Community Concert sponsored by the Port of Skagit,” wrote Linda Ann Lipke.
Some responses focused on everyday places where community happens.
“A great new pet store!” wrote Randy Ayers.
“The wonderful food and friends I’ve met at our local gym,” shared Debbie Wise Denton.
“I love when the locals stop by and tell me stories about what previous businesses were in this building before me and tell me how they grew up in the area,” wrote someone from Kirmses Antiques.
Several people highlighted civic engagement and care for one another.
“Community activism for No Kings was fantastic!” Robbins wrote.
And one of the longest, most heartfelt responses captured the quiet, patient love that also defines a year.
“Have to say, all these things are so awesome! My personal La Conner experiences of the year were catching and saving the beautiful black stray cat off the streets early January after feeding him for four months. He’s most loving and happy now. Then catching the orange feral after feeding him for almost a year and a half. Brought him home Oct 29th … wildest animal I’ve ever encountered,” shared Mo Lough.
“After two months of sitting, talking, worrying I did the wrong thing, I started to pet him with a long brush and … Christmas Eve he got off his safety perch and rubbed against my leg. This week he’s rubbing me when I sit on the floor. Every time. He luv me. Thanks, La Conner, for two new family members. Please … no more. Seven now.”
Others shared milestones that made 2025 unforgettable.
“Welcomed our first granddaughter!” wrote Susan Macek.
And sometimes, one word is enough.
“Thankful!” wrote The Rex Bistro & Dessert Bar.
Taken together, these responses remind us that a year is built from many things — institutions returning, traditions continuing, art and activism, small kindnesses and personal joys. As 2026 unfolds, La Conner Community News is grateful to be part of telling these stories — and to be part of a community that has so many reasons to look ahead with hope.
