New managing editor takes reins in newsroom

March 29, 2005

CASEY RESSLER/Frontiersman Valley Life Editor

The Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman has a new managing editor, although he is a familiar face to many readers.

Mark Kelsey took over as managing editor on March 28, marking the beginning of his second stint with the paper. From August 1995 to April 1997, Kelsey was the sports editor at the Frontiersman, and he brings with him a strong knowledge of the community.

"I have very fond memories of my time at the Frontiersman and the people of the Valley," he said.

Kelsey said he is dedicated to taking the Frontiersman to new levels.

He brings a strong background in community news reporting and copy editing. Following his stint at the Frontiersman, he worked as the assistant sports editor at the Juneau Empire from April 1997 until August 1998, when he took over as managing editor at the Peninsula Clarion in Kenai. From there, he went to the Homer News in 2002, where he served as the paper's editor and general manager.

"My years in Alaska journalism and the variety of positions I've held in various corners of the state have given me a great appreciation for Alaska and the people who make it special," he said. "I am thrilled to be back in the Valley, and I look forward to becoming reacquainted with the community."

In 2003, Kelsey left Alaska, returning to his roots on the East Coast to attend to family health matters. While living in New Hampshire, he worked as a copy editor and page designer at The Nashua Telegraph, a 30,000-circulation daily, which was named New England newspaper of the year last year. He said that while he left Alaska, Alaska never really left him.

"Leaving this great state was a difficult experience for me. Not a day has passed that my heart hasn't ached for Alaska. I feel blessed and privileged to be back here."