Reflecting on a Year of Stories: A Look Back at 2024 with Paula Routly
In the bustling world of journalism, it’s not often that we get a chance to pause, reflect, and revisit the stories that have shaped our community. But at Seven Days, that’s exactly what they do every year. Paula Routly, the visionary behind this annual tradition, sheds light on why their writers take a walk down memory lane and shares a captivating review of the year that was 2024.
Unveiling the Backstories: A Peek Behind the Curtain
Paula Routly reveals the inner workings of Seven Days’ annual “Backstories” series, a collection of personal reflections and untold tales from the reporters themselves. From missed deadlines to unexpected surgeries, these backstories breathe life into the stories that graced the pages of the newspaper throughout the year.
One standout piece, “The Fight for Decker Towers,” by Derek Brouwer, delves into the harrowing living conditions at the Burlington high-rise. Residents armed with knives and stun guns patrolling the hallways to combat drug-related issues paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the most vulnerable members of our community.
Readers as Partners: A Call to Action
But the heart of journalism beats not only with the stories it tells but with the support it receives. Paula Routly emphasizes the importance of reader engagement and financial contributions in sustaining the mission of Seven Days. From Super Readers to philanthropic donors, each dollar contributes to the vibrant tapestry of local news and storytelling that binds the community together.
Celebrating a Year of Milestones: Seven Days by the Numbers
As Paula Routly unveils the by-the-numbers review of 2024, we see the sheer magnitude of effort that goes into producing a publication that resonates with its readers. Over 10,000 event listings, nearly 2,000 Super Reader donors, and a host of local advertisers underscore the community’s unwavering support for quality journalism. With each visual art review, local album critique, and investigative piece, Seven Days cements its status as a beacon of truth in the ever-evolving media landscape.
In the words of Paula Routly, let us “Press On,” supporting the stories that shape our world and the journalists who bring them to light. As we turn the page on 2024, let us remember that the power of storytelling lies not only in the words themselves but in the hearts and minds of those who read them.
