In this episode of The Backstory, North Dakota News Cooperative CEO Sabrina Halvorson speaks with Allison Olimb, editor of the Walsh County Press in Park River. Olimb discusses how she first became interested in journalism, the influence of mentors who helped shape her career, and what it means to report on the people and issues in a small rural community where the stories you cover involve neighbors, friends and local leaders.

One of the most difficult parts of community journalism, Olimb says, is maintaining fairness while reporting on sensitive issues that directly affect the people around you.

“I’ve had stories before where I’ve had people from both sides of the topic come up to me and say, you did a good job on this… the one side is thinking you’re taking their side, and the other side is thinking you took their side, so I kind of feel like I did okay. But it’s always in the back of your head like, I’m going to screw this up and they’re going to be talking about me at the bar.” – Allison Olimb, Editor, Walsh County Press

The conversation also highlights the realities of running a small-town newsroom, where limited staff means editors often juggle multiple roles — reporter, editor and community liaison — while trying to make sure important stories are still covered.

Despite the challenges, Olimb says local newspapers remain essential gathering places for community conversations and shared information. Even when coverage can be uncomfortable, providing accurate and fair reporting helps ensure residents stay informed about the issues shaping their towns.