I've seen the future of journalism, or at least read its copy. For all of the genuine sadness that comes with the demise of The Seattle Post-Intelligencer, the final edition was a short course in the history, substance and service of journalism. I hope the students who competed at the Washington State Journalism Conference in Lacey spend time reading the final P-I. Much more than a grand obituary, it represented the charge and challenge for the next generation to carry forward.

The Washington Journalism Education Association presents an annual meeting and writing competition for high school students from around the state This year Timberline High School, a sparkling new campus, played host on Saturday.

At the heart of gathering is an intense competition for student reporters, editorial writers, photographers and news editors. This year the featured newsmaker was Randy Dorn, state Superintendent of Public Instruction, who spoke and was interviewed. The students then had tight deadlines to produce their varied assignments.