News Photo by Kayla Wikaryasz Steve Schulwitz is seen sitting at his desk in The Alpena News newsroom. The Alpena News has named Schulwitz as the new community editor. 

ALPENA — After a long, “unorthodox” journey as a reporter, The Alpena News has named Steve Schulwitz as community editor.

Schulwitz has been employed at The Alpena News for 28 years. He began his career covering sports and is excited about the next chapter, which includes overseeing day-to-day operations of Alpena’s most vital news source.

“I was hired as a stringer, part-time, who basically talked to coaches and put scores and a few details about games in the paper,” Schulwitz said. “Then I started covering games live and doing full stories and getting photos.”

Schulwitz explained that after covering sports, he eventually transitioned to a news reporter.

“Eventually, I proved myself enough to where they hired me as a beat reporter to cover Montmorency County,” Schulwitz said. “Then finally, I was named the reporter for Alpena County.”

Schulwitz said he has covered “some of the largest court cases in Northeast Michigan” as well as some of “the largest and most controversial elections and recalls.”

Christie Werda, The Alpena News’ general manager and advertising director, said Schulwitz brings much to the table in leading the region’s news coverage.

“I believe Steve will be a great asset to The Alpena News in his new role,” Werda said. “He brings 28 years of experience and has great ties to our community. I know he will succeed and help his team bring outstanding coverage of important local issues to our readers.”

Bill Speer, a longtime former publisher and editor of The Alpena News, also congratulated Schulwitz on his promotion.

“I am so happy to see Steve recognized by everyone for this important position,” Speer said. “As a person who has lived in Northeast Michigan all his life, no one could know our circulation area and all its history better than him. He understands what local people value, how they view life, and the things that matter to them.

“I have had a front row seat to Steve’s growing into first a correspondent, then a reporter, and now an editor. His growth has been so rewarding for me personally, as I have rooted for and encouraged him every step of his journey. You only need to talk with Steve for a few minutes after first meeting him to understand the passion and enthusiasm he brings with him every day to his job.

“Steve will be an outstanding editor for our readers as he understands the role journalists play in recording the history of the region for future generations. It is a duty that was hammered into him by me, and one which I know he has shared with every new reporter that steps into the newsroom.”

Schulwitz thanked Speer, former editor Steve Murch and former publisher/editor Justin Hinkley for helping his growth over the years.

He added that his family and friends have been big supporters of his career, as well.

Schulwitz explained that his relationships with the public has enabled him to provide quality reporting to Northeast Michigan during his time reporting local news.

“I have always depended on the elected officials, local professionals, and residents in the Alpena area to keep readers informed,” Schulwitz said. “And our reporters will continue to do the same moving forward.”

Kayla Wikaryasz can be reached at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.