On a beautiful evening in May, neighbors gathered in the garden of Tom Hoch and Mark Addicks to raise funds for the Hill & Lake Press, and to encourage involvement in the 46-year-old community newspaper.
Craig Wilson, who became editor when long-time editor Jean Deatrick retired in February 2022, has assembled a team of writers, photographers, copy editors and graphic designers who have worked hard to create a lively paper to report on issues relevant to the neighborhood that would otherwise go unreported. As the motto on the masthead has stated for 46 years, “Where the biggies leave off . . . “
For better or worse, in the digital age the editor no longer sits around a table with volunteers literally pasting up the pages of the paper while enjoying each other’s company and a few beers. The technology of producing the paper you see today, with an editor and then a production person sitting alone in front of their screens employing advanced design software, makes the paper more technical to produce.
The goal of the party was to encourage participation and fresh ideas, and to help pay the bills until advertising revenue increases. It succeeded at both.
In a brief program Craig spoke to the need for community connection in today’s divisive age with the following call:
“First, we imagine a future where storytelling brings our community together, showcasing the authentic voices of our neighbors. The Hill & Lake Press has always been a platform for our community's diverse voices, and we are committed to taking it even further. We want our newspaper to truly capture the spirit of our neighborhoods, uncovering untold stories that would otherwise go unheard and unnoticed. I invite all of you to join us in celebrating the rich tapestry of experiences that make our community vibrant and unique.
“Second, we imagine a future where we promote truth. Unfortunately, we are living in a time of division and discord, often overshadowing the many connections we have in common. We want to foster a platform where different perspectives are shared and where meaningful, respectful and fact-based debates can take place. In a world dominated by misinformation, short inflammatory messages and polarizing opinions, it is vital that we protect and nurture this small but mighty space.
“Lastly, our future depends on the Hill & Lake Press embracing the transformative power of technology while staying true to our core values. While being steadfastly committed to ink on paper, we recognize the tremendous potential of digital platforms to reach a wider audience, engage new generations and facilitate meaningful conversations. We enthusiastically embrace the digital age as a tool to amplify our impact, connect with readers near and far and create immersive, multimedia experiences that captivate and inspire. By embracing this vision, we embark on a journey of innovation while maintaining the essence of our community print newspaper.”
Craig ended his appeal with this call to action, “Let's embrace the opportunities that lie ahead while honoring our past, seizing the present and shaping a future where the Hill & Lake Press remains a beacon of civil discourse.”
Susan Lenfestey, co-founder of the Hill & Lake Press, compared the old days of the volunteer-driven paper to now, noting certain advantages to today’s process. For example, using the U.S. Postal Service to mail the paper means that everyone gets a copy in their mailbox, including apartment residents who previously didn’t receive the paper due to building access issues. The Hill & Lake Press has received thank you notes — and checks — from many residents who say they feel part of the community for the first time.
And for a bit of nostalgia, Tricia Conroy, Lowry Hill resident, described being part of the volunteer paper delivery squad as a kid in the late 1970s, her first foray into civic engagement!
Many thanks to hosts Tom and Mark for their incredible generosity, to event organizers extraordinaire Susan Lenfestey and Carla Pardue, to Claire Bretzke, Margit Bretzke, Tricia Conroy and Sue Smukler and to Gwen Daniels for creating story boards featuring photos and articles from the earliest issues of the Hill & Lake Press. Finally, thank you to our staff production designer, Christopher Bohnet, for designing the beautiful invitations and staff photographer Tim Sheridan for the lively photos of the event.
The Hill & Lake Press is grateful to everyone who has written a note, a check or an article for the paper, and plans to host a larger gathering in the coming year to celebrate those contributions and the vibrancy of our community.
