Another year in the books, and I must thank all of you for supporting your community newspaper. Many of you might not know this, but cities without newspapers have lower bond ratings. Yes, by supporting your local paper you are actually ensuring your tax dollars go further.
This year I took a big leap and went digital. As a paperman, I have been pounding the table for decades about how the demise of print will be by our own doing. When papers started websites, it was free and now many folks balk at paywalls. But the time has come where readers just want the news and don’t mind the digital platform. My 82-year-old father reads his local paper in Arkansas by using their online subscription.
The www.theivnews.com has been live since July and we are just now becoming profitable. A big thank you to our digital subscribers.
2022 brought other changes, Laura and I have a new dog, you may have seen her around. Lucy, a beagle, came to us in April of this year and to say she has tested us is an understatement. When someone asks you if you are sure you want a beagle, listen to them, there is reason. The simple fact that she is so cute, is truly her saving grace.
Speaking of Grace (our granddaughter), she has a new sister. Lauren Elizabeth Brandi arrived Nov. 16 weighing in at 6 pounds, 4 ounces and 19 inches long. We have not met her in person yet, but Grandma Ya Ya, as Grace calls Laura, and I plan to make the trek to LA soon.
Laura is spearheading a transitional housing project and things are moving forward with great speed. While I’m jealous of the time it takes her away from me, I am very proud of the accomplishments she and the steering committee have made.
Both of us have been founding members of Main Street Cave Junction, which currently Laura is writing a grant for, which if approved will pay for new lights and installation on the city’s Christmas tree before the 2023 holiday season.
I suppose I could carry on for a few more pages, but I’ll stop bragging and let you get on with the rest of your day.
Again, we thank you for your continued support and look forward to serving you next year. Remember, the Jan. 4 issue is a joint issue with the one in your hand. I’ll fill you in on our exploits of our week off in the Jan. 11, 2023 editon.
Thank you for picking up this week’s paper, enjoy! ~ djm