It’s the end of an era at the North Shore News, with Layne Christensen moving on after a 30-year career at the paper, including the past eight years as editor.
Under her leadership, the North Shore News team was recognized with numerous awards for newspaper excellence, including the Canadian Community Newspaper Association’s Newspaper of the Year award in 2019, and Gold in the Ma Murray Community Newsmedia Awards for Newspaper Excellence for three consecutive years, 2017-2019.
“I grew up with the North Shore News and it’s been a privilege to help contribute to its 54-year legacy by leading a news team – one that is among the very best in our industry – in sharing stories of our community,” Christensen said. “Local journalism is vital to all of us as it provides a trusted news source and helps create community.”
All North Shore News readers have much to be thankful for as it relates to Layne’s time as editor, said Peter Kvarnstrom, the president, community media division, for the Glacier Media Group, and a former North Shore News publisher.
“Layne has been a strong North Shore News team member and leader for nearly three decades, and has made a huge impression on all of us and our community,” he said. “Her work has made a huge difference to the health and well-being of the North Shore and all its communities. Through dedication and commitment to everything North Shore, Layne has left her mark and will be sorely missed.”
Those sentiments were echoed by North Shore News publisher Matt Blair.
“Layne’s leadership of the North Shore News’ editorial team has undoubtedly had a tremendous impact on our community,” he said. “Under her guidance, our newsroom has elevated countless social causes, held our community’s leadership accountable, and brought folks from the North Shore together in times of grief, uncertainty and celebration. I am excited to see what is next for Layne as I am confident it too will play a role in shaping our community.”
Andy Prest has taken on the role of acting editor following Christensen’s departure. Prest served as the paper’s sports editor before becoming assistant editor. He also writes a biweekly humour and lifestyle column.
“Andy has been an award winning and respected journalist and columnist with us at the North Shore News for many years, and is more than ready to take us to the next level of community reporting,” said Kvarnstrom.
