This issue of the Whidbey Crosswind marks another milestone. It is our 26th, which means we are halfway through our first year of publication!

I find that hard to believe. It seems like just yesterday I was offered this job. I couldn’t believe they hired me then and I’m still surprised by it on a daily basis.

I remember writing about the growing pains we would likely experience as we began this new “old” venture. While we have had a few, I’m happy with the way the Whidbey Crosswind has grown.

Our numbers were good from the start, and I can happily say this little paper continues to chug along, surpassing our expectations.

Out of more than 7,000 papers printed each week, only about 200 remain the following week. That makes for a return rate of about three percent, a figure I’m told is impressive when put up against comparable papers.

That also means our entire community — on base, off base, active duty, retired, civilian employees, military spouses and families — has found something worthwhile about the way we cover Navy news in the Oak Harbor area.

We’ve added some unique features, too, like our twice-monthly For Pets’ Sake column and syndicated family columnist Sarah Smiley, a Navy wife and mother. Look for more new writers to join the Crosswind community in the near future.

We’d still like to hear from you — we know there are veterans out there who have a unique perspective to share on any number of topics.

You’ve also done a great job telling us when newsworthy events are happening and I hope that continues. I invite you to contact me at kreed@whidbey
crosswind.com or by calling 675-6611.

Thank you for making our first six months so successful and enjoyable. It is true that time flies when you’re having fun. I can’t wait to see what the next 26 issues will bring.

-Kathy Reed, editor