A look back at 2024: The stories you loved

As 2024 comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the stories that captured our communities' attention. Using website traffic data, we've compiled a list of the most-read stories from each month. This data not only reveals what resonated most with our readers but also helps us, as SAM publishers, identify emerging trends and areas of interest within the Summerland region.

It's worth noting that the most-read articles aren't always the top news stories of the year. Sometimes, lighter features or unexpected moments garner more attention than major events. By analyzing online engagement, we gain insights into what truly connects with readers and how those preferences evolve over time.

We hope you continue to support the Advocate-Messenger by reading, sharing and providing feedback on the stories we publish. Your engagement helps shape the content we bring to you, and we deeply appreciate the role our readers play in guiding our focus. Thank you for being part of our community and for making 2024 an incredible year for storytelling.

By month, the top stories included:

Jan. 18: Summerland patrons, staff invited to complete superintendent search survey

Feb. 14: NSP investigating double homicide in Bloomfield

March 20: Clearwater Fire & Rescue donates smart socks to local daycare

April 17: GNAC details finalized, details released

May 22: From near-death experience to lifesaver, Thiele makes blood donation a priority

June 26: Sweethearts of the rodeo: Three vie for Miss Clearwater Rodeo title

July 17: Benefit planned for Adam Kester

Aug. 21: Blooming business: Floral artist opens shop in former Ewing school

Sept. 4: Clearwater Public Library welcomes new director

Oct. 30: Game film: Bobcat seniors share favorite football movie

Nov. 27: Guess who's coming to Thanksgiving dinner

Dec. 25: Celebrating tradition and talent: Summerland Elementary's "North Pole Revue" Shines Bright

More top stories from 2024 include:

Feb. 14: Clearwater Rodeo reveals 2024 concert performers

Jan. 18: Wheeler County Sheriff's Office investigates rural Elgin death

April 10: Benefit planned for infant diagnosed with rare lung disease

Feb. 7: Two Bills Steakhouse to redefine dining

April 24: Chamber kickstarts fundraising for veterans park

April 24: ColdType Publishing acquires regional magazine

Aug. 7: Cornerstone to purchase Bank of Orchard

June 19: Rodeo: Saturday night sounds

March 6: Holt County law enforcement, NSP execute search warrants

March 27: Bobcats recognized for academic excellence