Annette Potter

Editor's note: This story has been updated from the original version that went to print. Native Village of Eyak officials say they have been in discussions with Rachel Kallander of Cordova for her to take ownership of the paper after the July 8 edition. While no contract had been signed as of press time for the July 1 edition, NVE officials confirmed it was signed after the print edition went to press this week. Kallander intends to publish a letter to readers in the July 8 edition outlining the transition plan and what the community can expect.

Editor & Publisher Magazine recognized The Cordova Times with an honorable mention in its March edition, 10 News Publishers That Do It Right. The national journalism industry publication said it researched the newspaper and found it to cover news that lead to “meaningful discussions” and “positive growth across Alaska.”

Proposals to be considered for ownership of The Cordova Times are due to Native Village of Eyak by May 1. At a Tuesday, Feb. 15, NVE Tribal Council meeting, councilmembers addressed the Tribe’s desire to find a new owner for The Cordova Times.

Native Village of Eyak is looking for a new owner for The Cordova Times. The price? Free. Without a suitable candidate, the 108-year-old newspaper may cease to publish. The Tribal government in Cordova, Alaska, has owned the local weekly newspaper since April 2016.

Cordova Chamber of Commerce’s Hometown Holiday Kick-off returns this year on Friday, Dec. 10. Cordova High School Music Department will sing Christmas carols at 5:15 p.m. at the Cordova Center. Next up, Cordova Volunteer Fire Department’s Santa Parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street. A live tree lighting will take place at 5:45 p.m. in front of the Cordova Center on Main Street.

Annette Potter, who recently departed as editor of The Cordova Times, reflects on her 11 years with the paper.

“This is a delicate and important moment in our community’s COVID-19 trajectory,” city officials stated. “With the Thanksgiving holiday approaching, it is paramount that every individual does their best to keep their social bubbles small and minimize personal exposure. Social distance remains our most effective tool in the fight against COVID-19. Use it.”

With the holidays right around the corner, I want to invite you to thank someone publicly in the letters section of The Cordova Times. Send thank you letters up to 150 words to share@thecordovatimes.com.

Participating in Report for America will allow The Cordova Times to expand its coverage of Alaska Native news, writes editor Annette Potter.

The Cordova Times has been chosen as a host newsroom for Report for America, a program that helps fund journalism in underserved communities across the nation.