Preserving journalism through tough times

THE Seattle Post-Intelligencer's move away from print to an online-only publication is an unfortunate byproduct of printing a newspaper in a time of industry transition.

Luckily for the region and readers, there is still a major metropolitan newspaper here. The Seattle Times, which my family has owned since 1896, has no plans to pack it in. In fact, our goal is to make it through these hard economic times and emerge a stronger newspaper and Web site than ever.

The Times has grown from a minor failing newspaper when my great-great grandfather bought it into the most widely circulated newspaper in the state. Including online readers, The Times now reaches more people than ever.

In the months and years to come, readers can expect more of the newspaper's hallmark investigative reporting, features, and local and governmental reporting.

Let's not forget about The Times' editorial page. We will continue to be a place for civic discussions and smart, sharp opinion.

With or without a printed P-I, we at The Times have always taken seriously our mission of serving the community through quality journalism. That mission takes on a bit more urgency now that we are the backstop for professional journalism in Seattle, the Eastside and South King County.

If you are a new reader to these pages, welcome. To our valued readers, know that we are committed to preserving professional journalism at The Times.

— Ryan Blethen