A fond farewell

Boulder Weekly's long-time publisher moves on after 8 years

By Fran Zankowski - Jan. 20, 2025
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Special projects manager Carter Ferryman, left, with ex-publisher Francis Zankowski in the Boulder Weekly offices. Credit: Jezy J. Gray

It’s hard to believe, but the time has come to say goodbye. As some of you may know, I’ve taken a job as publisher of the Colorado Springs Business Journal and Colorado Springs Independent, a paper I worked tirelessly to save last year. 

When I gathered with everyone to celebrate the holidays, it was bittersweet, knowing it would be my last chance to see so many familiar faces before this farewell. As I looked around the room, a flood of memories came rushing back — moments shared, challenges overcome and everything we’ve built together since those long, uncertain days of COVID. 

So much has changed in the past few years. Only a handful of us remain from before, while many others joined during this transformative time. And what a transformation it has been.

This summer, I realized it was time to move on. After eight years at Boulder Weekly, I felt my chapter here was complete. It’s time for a new generation to bring their vision, energy and focus to take this paper to even greater heights.

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Leaving a place I’ve come to love isn’t easy. But as I go, I want to take a moment to reflect on the lessons learned and, most importantly, express my gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey.

First, let’s be honest: COVID was brutal. It hit local businesses and communities hard, and recovery has been anything but easy. To everyone who has persevered through it all, holding onto hope and working tirelessly for a brighter tomorrow — thank you. You’ve kept the faith, and in doing so, you’ve made our community stronger, more resilient and more vibrant.

Through my work with SCFD and Create Boulder, I’ve had the privilege of helping support the arts in this town — whether it was finding much-needed funding, securing grants or creating opportunities through advertising. It’s work I’ve been proud to do, knowing how critical the arts are to the quality of life we enjoy here.

I’m especially proud of our efforts to pass 2A and the steps we’ve taken to hold Boulder’s city council accountable to fund the arts. That work must continue; our creative community deserves sustained support.

I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with some incredible people. A heartfelt thank-you to Jan Burton, Nick Forster and Deborah Malden for welcoming me into the amazing team at Create Boulder. Your passion and leadership have been inspiring, and I’m grateful to have been part of it.

To the Boulder Weekly staff — you’ve been nothing short of amazing. From brilliant editors to talented graphic designers, dedicated ad staff and rock-solid business managers, you’ve left a lasting impression on me. Special thanks to Circulation Manager Cal Winn and Director of Advertising Kellie Robinson for sticking with me through the highs and lows — you’re the backbone of this operation.

To Stewart Sallo: I owe you the biggest thank-you of all. Thank you for taking a chance on me and trusting me with this incredible paper. It has been an honor to work alongside you and call you a friend. Your faith in me means more than I can say.

Finally, to the readers of Boulder Weekly — thank you. It has been a privilege to serve this community. I’ll always be grateful for the trust and support you’ve given me.

Here’s to the next chapter — for all of us. Cheers!

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