Maybe 2008 is the year for change. I know the presidential candidates would like to think they all have the corner on touting change, but we have had some change here at the Valley Record as well.

Leif Nesheim, our editor, recently left to work closer to his fiancee. He is now with the Aberdeen Daily World as a reporter. Leif did a great job while he was here and our growth in circulation is a direct reflection of his efforts to improve the quality of the newspaper. In his place we have promoted Seth Truscott, former reporter, to the position of Editor. Seth has dogged determination for finding the story and I have no doubt he will continue the work of Leif in providing a quality product. Joining Seth in the newsroom (they sit side by side) is Denise Miller. Denise has already become the critical eye for our stories, noting corrections and catching errors. She has a genuine interest in community journalism as well.

It’s good to have Denise because our former critical eye, Sue Randall, has fallen in love and is moving to Idaho in a few months. Sue has been the rock in our office, always here, always smiling and our customers loved her. We wish her all the luck in the world and I know the entire Valley will miss her.

In Sue’s place we have hired Anna Harris. Anna most recently worked at the Salish Lodge but has worked at a newspaper in Alaska. She is a quick learner and will do well filling the big shoes of Sue.

Finally, we have a new account executive, Christina Wester. Christina replaces Shari Graber who left to pursue other interests. Christina has worked in the newspaper business before but most recently in the mortgage and real estate businesses. She is eager, able to keep up with the never-ending cycle of deadlines and has a genuine interest in helping businesses succeed.

I should also mention one staff member who nobody sees, behind the scenes. Rachel Duncan is our talented graphics designer, creating ads that get your business noticed. If you have an idea for an ad, just let your account executive know and we can have her whip something up for you.

We still have Leesa McKay as well, who has now been with us over six years. Leesa won salesperson of the year honors for 2007 and continues to be the best at servicing her customers.

Finally, you still have me. Some may even suggest I am now part of the furniture but I do find myself out and about more than in the past. I will continue to shoot sporting events and attend various community activities. This is a great place to live and all of us feel fortunate to live here and bring you news about this community.

If you have a new business, give us a call or send us an e-mail. If you have a suggestion for a story, send us a note or give us a call. I truly believe a community newspaper is the glue by which we all feel a sense of community and belonging.