Local, independently owned newspapers are an endangered species. We are sorry to read that our Astorian, in publication since 1873, is now being absorbed by a national publishing company.

Steve Forrester and his family owned and operated the East Oregonian newspaper business for four generations. The original The Daily Astorian, now The Astorian, has supplied us with reliable information on local issues for over 100 years.

In the old-fashioned way, The Astorian hired real reporters, with university training, not merely an opinion on a blog. These journalists showed professional commitment in presenting in-depth reviews, by gathering facts and interviewing decision makers. The Astorian has done extensive local coverage of housing, forestry and environmental issues.

Local and independent press is vital for a healthy democracy. “For years, local newspapers have been dying across the country, with rural areas being the hardest hit. In 2022 The New York Times reported a quarter of newspapers closed nationwide since 2005. Those closures are more common in high poverty areas.” (KGW, June 28)

We sincerely hope that Carpenter Media Group will keep their promise to “support true professional journalism for each community served.“ (The Astorian, Oct. 26)

I did not always agree with Forrester, but I always respected him and appreciated his open door for listening to Clatsop County residents and our concerns. Thank you, Steve, for providing us with professional local journalism, and for serving our communities so well, for so long.

CHERYL JOHNSON

Astoria