It’s been three weeks since I made my confession about “the lousy job I do” — including my past failure to ask readers to support us through a voluntary subscription.
The results of that appeal have been encouraging so far, and I have to say it’s not just about the money. Most checks arrive with a supportive note, and I’ve come close to tears more than once reading them. People have approached me in coffee shops and on street corners, offering words of encouragement and thanks.
Please know that I appreciate both your financial donations and moral support more than I can say. They validate our efforts to provide you with the best community journalism possible — from breaking news to fun features to stunning photography to lively videos, along with a forum to discuss the important issues of the day.
And our coverage is truly what I’m most proud of — such as:
– When Dembo Sanneh and his family were threatened as they walked along Sunset Avenue last year, we were the only news organization to cover that story. We were also the only news outlet at the Edmonds Walk Against Racism a few weeks later.
– When last fall’s civil trial of former City of Edmonds Human Resources Director Debi Humann vs. the City of Edmonds ended up in federal court, we covered it live from the courtroom every day for 11 days — again, the only news organization in attendance.
– And when some parents began raising questions about the safety of field turf proposed for the former Woodway High School, we alone were on the scene for both the Edmonds School District-sponsored public meeting and the City of Edmonds Hearing Examiner’s review of the project.
My personal pledge to you: We will continue to bring you the coverage of the community you care about. In return, I hope that those of you who have not yet donated will support us with a voluntary subscription of any amount –– $5, $10, $15 a month? $100 a year? It helps us pay our reporters, designers and sales people along with our other expenses.
Until next time,
Teresa Wippel, Publisher
Yes, we do appreciate you. Having coverage of local news including local politics makes government work better. And being able to show the beautiful pictures that locals take is a real bonus. Keep up the good work.
Teresa, I appreciate you a lot for up-to-date information and print out the pictures for my old-fashioned photo album of Edmonds. The “lousy job confession” is tongue-in-cheek.
Freedom of speech is one of our most basic rights in this Country, but if we don’t have the Freedom to Assemble, another basic right, there is no one to hear the free speech. My Edmonds News is really about providing that “Place” we can assemble. Thanks to all of you.