We did it!
Literally as we write this editorial, the 50th edition of our epic Casual Country publication is hitting the presses.
As reporter Monica Lamb-Yorski would say, Casual Country is anything but casual in our office.
Every year the editorial department burns the midnight oil to get the 80-page product to press and on the streets in time for Stampede Weekend. The advertising, production and press departments are also running full-tilt in June and we all try to keep our composure and grace under pressure.
This year was extra special for us as it is the 50th year for Casual Country.
Looking back, it was very interesting to read the stories that shaped the region starting back in 1968.
The first Casual Country edition was printed on broadsheet and was titled Cariboo Country Pictorial.
Much like what we have done in years past, the early editions celebrated everything that makes our area unique; the wildlife, the rodeo, the countryside, industry and, of course, the wonderful people.
We really enjoyed diving into the archives over late-night pizzas for story ideas, historical photographs and important community events we felt our readers would like to see.
Employing the assistance of our talented freelancers such as Sage Birchwater, Diana French and Barry Sale, and our resident writers — Monica Lamb-Yorski, Tara Sprickerhoff, Greg Sabatino and Angie Mindus — we unearthed the history of the hospital, the beginnings of the golf course and even the Tribune itself (including David Black), to name a few.
We hope you enjoy reading the product as much as we have researching it, when it is unveiled next week.
— Williams Lake Tribune