Keeping up with The Times

The Aspen Times has always been more than ink on paper — it’s a conversation with the community we love. Like any good conversation, it grows and evolves. That’s why I want to share some updates about our deadlines and newsroom leadership, which reflect that growth and help us continue telling your stories with care, speed, and depth.

Change is inevitable, in life and in journalism. It often sparks fresh ideas, especially as our industry continues to evolve. While the ways people access news may shift, our mission remains the same: to serve you with trusted, relevant, and impactful local reporting.

As part of that commitment, we are moving to earlier deadlines. This shift will enhance the quality of life for our team, enable us to publish breaking news online more quickly, and facilitate more thorough and accurate reporting in print. Earlier deadlines will also strengthen carrier retention, creating better-paying routes in Aspen, Snowmass Village, Basalt, and Carbondale. In the newsroom, earlier deadlines foster collaboration in editing and give us more flexibility to navigate the challenges of mountain life — from canyon closures and snowstorms to rockslides and press breakdowns. These steps ensure we remain your trusted local news source, today and in the future.

We’re also updating newsroom leadership to position us for success. River Stingray will assume the role of Managing Editor, bringing thoughtful leadership and a keen editorial eye to our daily coverage. Skyler Stark-Ragsdale will step into the role of Senior Reporter and Assistant Editor, a well-earned recognition of his dedication to storytelling and community connection. I will serve as Editor in Chief while continuing as Publisher.

Since 1881, the Aspen Times has served our valley, making it the oldest and most trusted news outlet in Pitkin County — a privilege and responsibility I do not take lightly. It is an honor to steward a publication with such deep roots, and I am committed to ensuring it thrives for generations to come.

Thank you for reading, sharing your stories, and being an essential part of our community conversation. The best chapters are still ahead, and we look forward to sharing them with you.

Sarah Girgis is the Publisher for The Aspen Times. She can be reached at 970-429-9151 or sgirgis@aspentimes.com.