We recently assigned one of our editorial assistants, Chris Denina, to delve into L.A.’s past one of the better jobs to have on any newspaper.

Chris’ assignment: Go through boxes and boxes of newspaper microfilm and compile a weekly survey of news, data, and selected tidbits going back the last 75 years. The feature will appear at the bottom of page 3 each week.

I envy Chris. The process of leafing through newspapers from years past provides an instant perspective on how the world inevitably changes (an appreciation sometimes lacking among whippersnappers who assume that everything was as it is). As society’s daily chronicler, newspapers are the most obvious place to find out the price of a dozen eggs in 1952 or where the Dow Jones Average stood in 1961.

They also offer a snapshot on business activity and here in Los Angeles, that covers a lot of ground over 75 years. Indeed, the business pages of 30 and 40 years ago look as ancient as the current ones will probably seem in 2028.

And yes, I am convinced there will be newspapers in 2028.

Mark Lacter

Editor