The next edition of the Redmond Spokesman will come out in 2024 — a year that sounds more like a science fiction novel than present day.

Yet here it is, barreling down on us. May the new year bring peace and joy to your and yours.

Here in Redmond, we’ve been busy during the holidays. A story we ran in last week’s edition has been our most read story of the year: The Redmond School District is considering closing Redmond High. District administrators note it could be the financially prudent thing to do, but judging by the initial reaction from readers, many are concerned about the loss of a local institution. We’ll be sure to update you on this story as the school board continues to meet and discuss the merits of the plan.

On Christmas Day, reporter Joe Siess checked out one of the busiest restaurants in Redmond, Yi’s Wok. Chinese food on Christmas has been a tradition for American Jews for more than a century — a tradition that’s alive and well in Redmond thanks to customers lining up for heaping amounts of chow mein.

Another thing to check out this holiday season is the upgraded American Legion hall. New leadership at the venerated social club hopes to increase membership and also bring more members of the public into the fold. The post in downtown Redmond offers cheap drinks, live music and a fun place to hang out — and you don’t have to be a member to drop in.

We also have an update on the terrible October crash that killed a family of four on Highway 97 north of Redmond. The out-of-state driver of the car who slammed into the Troutdale family en route to watch the eclipse was allegedly high on drugs and alcohol. He was charged with manslaughter this week, among other charges.

Stories in next week’s paper include a first look at the city’s first low barrier shelter, Oasis Village. And we’ll also talk to the proprietor of another new food pod set to descend on downtown. This one has a twist — alcohol-free and family friendly. Read about it in next week’s paper, where those stories will appear alongside our weekly staples, like the Redmond police log, our look back at Redmond history, and a calendar of community events.

Think about supporting local journalism as one of your 2024 resolutions. We’re only here because of your support. Consider purchasing a subscription for digital access or home print delivery to ensure we can remain in Redmond until 2124 — a number that is surely science fiction, yet, like 2024, will be here before you know it. Become a fan on Facebook.

Visit redmondspokesman.com or stop by our office, at the intersection of Deschutes and 6th St., and we’ll get you signed up at an affordable price. It’s a great way to support our work and stay informed about your community.

— Tim Trainor is editor of the Redmond Spokesman.