Hi, I’m Alissa Bandy; I was hired to work for the Independent as a reporter at the beginning of January.
I first came to Eureka Springs 11 years ago to write a paper on paranormal tourism and realized that I wanted to live in this city of dreamers. I was born and raised in Michigan and have lived from Juneau, Alaska, to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Bournemouth, England. In each place I appreciated their communities, histories, and unique charms, always attracted to the character and beauty intrinsic to each location.
There is a special energy to Eureka Springs that I couldn’t resist.
My initial reason for coming to Northwest Arkansas was to attend the University of Arkansas where I received a PhD in Anthropology. I am curious by nature and have always found culture and archaeology fascinating, so anthropology, the study of humanity, was a field to which I felt called.
I have primarily worked as a teacher, working nine years at Northwest Arkansas Community College. Many of you may know me from the four years I worked at the Eureka Springs Carnegie Public Library, where for a time I was in charge of the Eureka Springs Oral History Project, interviewing and recording the rich history of the city and the people who have built and shaped it. Please go to the website and hear some incredible yarns from your fellow citizens – it was a project I really enjoyed and is still ongoing. Every person shares an exceptional perspective of the city.
The primary belief I have developed over the course of my life is that every person’s life is made up of stories and every story matters, which is why I feel so comfortable taking on the mantle of reporter. It gives me an opportunity to learn and share those stories. It has been an interesting transition to this position, getting the opportunity to watch the way our local government and committees shape the community. I look forward to keeping our readers informed about matters that impact them.
Another important belief I hold is that news is supposed to be just facts. Facts are not based on personal beliefs or opinions, they are simply what happened, what was said.
I will report what I see, hear, and research, with supporting evidence, so that you can trust that you’re getting all the information you expect.
I look forward to being a member of the team which is made up of people I greatly respect and trust.