Dear Editor,
As a self-confessed “news” junkie that reads the papers from front to back, and having kicked off work life delivering the Haney Gazette, I have always had a deep appreciation for the news of the day.
One benefit, I always aced current events quizzes!
I still love to read from the printed page, whether a good whodunit novel or the newspaper, especially our local news stories.
So on to the point of my letter, your coverage of our 2024 Maple Ridge Summer Games was exceptional! From the lead up coverage coupled with the snapshot history of the Games, to covering the opening ceremonies, the 21 athletic events and then the wrap up, in your coverage was outstanding, your team definitely caught the spirit of the Games “Celebrating Competition & Community.”
Both your written and photojournalism was done with excellence and professionalism.
The News coverage made me so proud to be part of our community.
Then just when I thought it was all a wrap and presses would be given a break … along came Maple Ridge’s 150.
Again, your team stepped up to the plate and did not disappoint!
Your sharing Maple Ridge’s story over the past 150 years while respecting our Katzie First Nation and Kwantlen First Nation and the lands they have called home since time immemorial was done with care and professionalism.
The articles that described and explained the different “communities” that make up Maple Ridge gave a great context to how our community developed and became what we know today in 2024.
Those pieces were a great snap shot and I am sure answered the many folks that ask: “So what happened to Haney?”
A reality in 2024, the newspaper business is not an easy one.
With social media, a wide range of opinions, speed of information sharing, coupled with changes in marketing, I acknowledge the newspaper business is a tough row to hoe.
I just realized that recently it was National Newspapers Week, and I know it is not easy to keep everyone happy and there is no shortage of criticism some days. I have been singing your praise to others and it’s time to share my thoughts with you!
And in closing, please pass on my deepest appreciation to your team for their passion and commitment to local journalism and by extension to my hometown.
During my life journey and experiences, some of the local journalists that crossed my path, past and present, are people of integrity and committed to sharing the local news.
I would be remiss if I did not reinforce my appreciation for Black Press Media and the great partnership that was a big part of making the 2024 Maple Ridge Summer Games the success they were.
Ernie Daykin, Maple Ridge
‘Home grown since 51’, Gazette newsboy, proud Rambler Grad and Maple Ridge resident, An ‘olde’ mayor, and vice-president 2024 Maple Ridge BC Summer Games
