Hi, I’m Karen Bonar and I’m the new editor/ publisher of the Ellsworth County Independent-Reporter.

If we were meeting in person, I would pause here and let you make a “Karen joke” ... or I might go ahead and make it myself. That is, if I wasn’t wearing one of my “Karen” t-shirts (I own two; my husband owns an “I’m with Karen” shirt). We pretty much embrace it and get a good laugh out of the whole ordeal.

Which then brings me to my last name, Bonar. With 13 years of marriage under my belt, I’m used to the long pause when someone is reading and trying to figure out exactly how to pronounce my last name. I’ll make it simple for you. It rhymes with “sonar.” Just replace the “S” with a “B,” and you’ll be good to go.

Now that I’ve introduced myself, I have a confession to make: I’m terrible at remembering names. It’s very possible I will introduce myself to you multiple times. I might recognize your face, but if it is I who gives one of those very pregnant pauses, I’m probably trying to recall your name.

I will also need some time to adjust to the last names that are unique to communities with a strong cultural heritage. I can almost assure you that I will stumble over names such as Doubrava or Fabrizius. Without doubt, I will ask you to spell your last name for me — several times.

None of this daunts me. It’s just part of the getting-to-know-you process. It happens when a newspaperwoman goes into any new community. In Hays and Ellis County, the locals enjoyed the predictable ways I would butcher the pronounciation of towns such as “Schoenchen.” It was almost a combination of rite-of-passage and very easy way to identify the outsiders.

There’s no question that I have much to learn about Ellsworth County and its residents. But I will learn about you, and you will also come to know me.

Six years ago, when Bishop Edward Weisenburger asked me to assume the role of editor of The Register, I had no idea exactly what I was getting into. It was trial by fire. I learned and grew, but I was also surprised. Perhaps the biggest surprise for me was the relationship formed with my readers.

While I’ve worked in small-town newspapers before, I was unprepared for the deep connections and affection that developed with the readers. It was significantly different from my previous experience of being a staff writer or photographer.

Those relationships take time to build. They are built upon trust, which I know I must earn. I cannot and will not walk into Ellsworth County and expect you to trust me; I know I must earn it. But once trust is established, the most beautiful things happen.

I had the honor of telling some very powerful, albeit difficult stories, during my tenure as editor of The Register. I know without a doubt that the access and stories shared were because of the trust that was built and established. We will get there in time, and I am looking forward to bearing witness to your lives and your communities.

Bonar is the new editor/ publisher of the I-R and can be reached via email: kbonar@indyrepnews.com.