Every now and then I like to ask for help with Anacortes Now. I'm looking for writers, former reporters, photographers or people who want to write and/or shoot local photos. This is another plea.

I started Anacortes nearly 3 years ago hoping the people of Anacortes were looking for an alternative way to express themselves and an alternative way of keeping up on what's happening around town.

Yeah, yeah, I know that so-called community Web sites, micro-sites or micro-blogs frequently haven't done well, even when sponsored by major newspapers.

I keep hoping that Anacortes is different. Friday Harbor seems to support several  blogs, all of whom sell advertising, something Anacortes Now has never done.

Anacortes Now is fairly well-read. Readership goes up and down with local news events. In February, we had over 61,000 page views, but smaller numbers are more typical month to month.

So, why not join us and make a contribution to Anacortes Now? I'm not asking for money, but for stories and photos. Send inquiries to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Or, register and build your own blog. Add, community events to our calendar without registering. If you're a local business, register and list your business.

At the very least tell your friends to visit us at anacortesnow.com.

Art Shotwell