Thoughtful editor was very tuned in

Published 2:38 pm Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Regarding the news of former Herald Executive Editor Stan Strick’s death:

I did not personally know Stan. I talked with him by phone only once. But I will not forget his accessibility and respect for an issue important to me. My conversation was concerning an excellent article by Christina Harper about my work of teaching “tone deaf” adults to sing.

I told Stan of my passion for and concern that our culture has lost the ability to sing, not for performance, but instead for personal expression. I was surprised and impressed that he found my concern valid.

He then told me of the sadness he experienced at the news meeting, where editors choose the articles to be highlighted on the front page.

Each one around the table had told their own stories of their inability to sing. He said there were even a few tears.

In reading Saturday’s Herald tribute, I began to understand some of the depth and breadth of Strick’s innovative personality. When I expected a hard-nosed, business-only brush-off, Strick gave a thoughtful, kind response, revealing how he valued each individual and the importance of personal expression.

Thank you, Stan Strick. You’ve been a gift to Snohomish County.

Ruth King Goddard

Everett