Editorial: Thank you, Sonoma — editor’s farewell

Longtime Index-Tribune publisher and editor Emily Charrier steps down, with a few parting words.|

I don’t have to tell anyone reading this that there’s something special about Sonoma Valley.

Perhaps it’s our geographically isolated nature, which forces neighbors to be more reliant on each other. Very few of us go to Target or Costco without checking if a friend or neighbor needs anything.

Perhaps the water or the stellar wines provide some unseen boost to our wellbeing. The hot springs have always been touted for their healing benefits, after all.

Or maybe we’re just lucky.

Whatever it is, the Index-Tribune plays a critical role in knitting us all together. It keeps an eye on local government, offers details about the next killer concert, highlights our friends and neighbors and so much more.

For 14 years, it’s been my pleasure to be a part of that coverage, from a cub reporter to publisher and editor. Thank you all for the phenomenal ride.

From soaring in a Huey helicopter with local veterans as we ushered in the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, to sitting in your living rooms just listening to your stories — I’ve been blessed with thousands of memories as I head into my next adventure.

By the time you read this, Sasha Paulsen, formerly of the Napa Valley Register, will be seated in the editor’s chair at Sonoma Valley’s finest newspaper.

As for me, I hope to see you around town — I’ll be busy volunteering for some of my favorite local causes.

As I clean out the pounds of paperwork that build up during a career based on collecting information, I find myself with some parting words.

Journalism Depends on You: We could not do this without you. Each reader, each source, each person who raises questions — you all help fuel and guide what we do. Reach out, we want to hear your thoughts. (You can find email addresses on the Contact Us page at sonomanews.com.)

Journalism is not cheap to produce. That few dollars a month you spend on a digital subscription can make all the difference. We’re thankful for each loyal reader who hits “subscribe.”

Listen More: Many of us live in online echo chambers where those pesky algorithms only show us what we want to see. Remember to keep your mind and heart open.

Kindness Counts: No one becomes a journalist for the paycheck or the hours. We do it for you, the readers. A nice email or social media comment about a great article or a beautiful photo goes a long way on our long days. (Advice for life: Spread kindness like confetti.)

Thank you, Sonoma Valley, you have made me a better person. Let’s keep in touch.

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