Of the many small community newspapers in western Washington, The Beachcomber is one of a handful that feature a robust weekly arts and entertainments section as part of the paper — a testament to the truly artistic place we live. And for five years, the section of the paper that documents our island’s diverse array of visual artists, musicians and actors, as well as a plethora of visiting artists and entertainers, has been steered by a woman who has brought professionalism, enthusiasm and a true passion for the arts to her post. Elizabeth Shepherd — known to us and many of you as simply Liz — recently announced she’s stepping down as arts editor to focus on her other job. We will miss Liz’s sharp wit, vibrant energy and warm spirit, as well as her perceptive reporting, engaging writing and keen direction on the arts pages.
Liz came to The Beachcomber in 2008, following a string of impressive positions that included director of an international children’s film festival in Chicago, editor of a monthly arts publication in Chicago and director of the Center on Contemporary Art in Seattle. At The Beachcomber, Liz has not only previewed events and shows, but profiled local artists and performers, reviewed our homegrown shows and contributed engaging features on other facets of our unique community. She’s done it all with skill and a creative flair, and she’s picked up several press awards along the way.
For nearly a decade, however, Liz, a true film aficionado, has also contributed her talents to Seattle’s Northwest Film Forum, where she is director of children’s programming, puts on an annual children’s film festival and travels worldwide to other film festivals. Her work at the Film Forum is expanding, and she’s leaving The Beachcomber so she can more fully commit herself there.
The goodbye is bittersweet. We’re glad Liz is pursuing her other passions. We’re also saying hello to Juli Goetz Morser, a talented writer who is joining our team as the new arts editor. Juli is already well known in the community — she’s worked at The Harbor School and Books by the Way, and she’s written freelance for Vashon Allied Arts and The Beachcomber. She’s had a long career in TV and film, and she knows the local arts scene well. We think she’ll bring new energy and a fresh perspective to the arts pages.
The Beachcomber has gone through several staff changes recently, but our team is as committed as ever to bringing you the most current local news each week and documenting this eclectic and beautiful place we live.
