As we celebrate the Sequim Gazette’s 50th anniversary, we find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable journey that has brought us to this milestone. Over the past five decades, the Gazette has been a steadfast pillar of our community, delivering news, stories, and insights that have shaped and informed the lives of our readers. To celebrate, we’ll hold an open house from noon-2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20 at the Gazette’s office located at 175 W. Washington St.

Kicking off the event will be a ribbon cutting with the Sequim Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce at noon. Please join us at our new office and feel free to stay for refreshments!

Last week, we also bid farewell to our long-time editor, Michael Dashiell, whose leadership and dedication has been instrumental in upholding the high standards of local journalism that our readers have come to expect.

Michael’s tenure at the Sequim Gazette has been marked by a commitment to journalistic integrity, community engagement, and editorial excellence. His ability to capture the essence of our community through thoughtful reporting and compelling storytelling has left an indelible mark on the Gazette and its readers. Under his guidance and with reporter Matthew Nash, the Gazette has not only reported on the events that matter but has also fostered a sense of connection and shared purpose among the people of Sequim.

As we continue to honor the legacy of award-winning local journalism, I am also excited to share that Matthew Nash will step into the role of interim editor while we continue our search for the candidate that best fits the extraordinary role of the Sequim Gazette’s editor.

Matthew Nash, who brings a fresh perspective, dedication and a deep understanding of our community’s needs, will continue to maintain the Gazette’s standards of excellence while ensuring a smooth transition as we look to the future. Returning to the fold to help with this transition is reporter Emily Matthiessen, whom you will recognize as a talented photographer and feature writer.

Our team has shown incredible resilience and adaptability, working together to build on the strong foundation laid by previous owners, publishers, editors, and staff. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to them and to you, our readers, for shaping the remarkable journey of the Sequim Gazette.

Lastly, we hope you’ll enjoy the Gazette’s 50th anniversary special section included in today’s paper. This section offers a retrospective on our history, and we are grateful to the 33 businesses that placed advertisements to support the Gazette’s legacy and its impact on local journalism. Thank you!

Eran Kennedy is regional publisher of the Olympic Peninsula News Group that includes the Sequim Gazette, Peninsula Daily News and Forks Forum. She is also the 2024 Board President of the Sequim Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce, and a board member of the Clallam County Economic Development Council.