Missouri Press Association
Serving Missouri Newspapers Since 1867
If your eyes got whiplash between reading the March issue of Missouri Press News and the headline above, it’s understandable. But it’s true, Kristie Fortier has returned as Missouri Press Association’s event planner and member services director.
For the more than 10 years I’ve been doing this job (exactly half of Kristie’s tenure), I’ve avoided editorializing in the magazine for many reasons, mainly because there are better people than I to share their thoughts and opinions about what’s happening in the newspaper industry.
This time is different, and I’ll say what many are thinking: I’m glad Kristie is back. The Association would have been OK if she hadn’t returned, but I believe we’re better with her here.
Kristie represents a lot of institutional knowledge that can’t be easily replaced. She knows things, including how to keep the gears turning. MPA members like Kristie, and Kristie likes you all.
But enough about what I have to say, let Kristie tell you in her own words:
“Sometimes you have to leave to realize you were already home and in the place you were meant to be! I’m excited to share that I have returned to Missouri Press! I look forward to reconnecting with members, supporting our community, and carrying on the legacy — and yes, I’ll take good care of that purple chair.”
While a very nice story was written about how Kristie had made the difficult decision to leave Missouri Press, including letting her purple chair pass to a new occupant, let this column stand as an addendum of that article to instead congratulate Kristie on 20 years with Missouri Press (celebrated last month, of course.)
Let’s hope she never ever puts us in a position to panic like that ever again.
