History

Daniel Media launched in June of 2022 with Burien-News.com. Founders Martin and Beth Barrett believed that their city, Burien, Washington, a small town of 52,000 was meant to be the “Gem of the Puget Sound” region.  

In 2025 Burien-News saw the need to grow geographically and become a community hub of information and resources to a wider community.   In September of 2025, The Highline Journal was launched, and it expanded to the whole Highline Region, covering five geographic areas: Burien, SeaTac, Des Moines, Unincorporated White Center, and Normandy Park.

At The Highline Journal, we believe our community deserves reporting that is true, transparent, and trustworthy. In an era of noise and division, our goal is simple: deliver news that informs, engages, and connects neighbors together with facts that matter.

OUR VISION:

A thriving Highline region where neighbors, well-informed by local journalism, work together and engage respectfully to create a vibrant, united community.

OUR MISSION:

We deliver trusted news, insightful commentary, and community voices—empowering Highline residents to work together to strengthen and hold accountable our cities and schools.

Become a Writer/Contributor

Tell us about you, your experience and why you are interested in contributing to the Highline Journal? (100 word limit)

Our Commitment to Fairness

We are non-partisan. Our reporters and editors follow strict standards to ensure that every article is:

  • True – grounded in verifiable facts and supported by multiple credible sources. 
  • Unbiased – written with balance and without hidden motives. 
  • Fair – giving voice to all sides of an issue, with respect and accuracy. 
  • Transparent – making clear how we source our stories and acknowledging corrections when needed.

Why Local Matters

National headlines can feel distant, but local stories shape our everyday lives. That’s why we focus on the issues, events, and voices of our community. From city hall to, small businesses to civic challenges, we cover what larger outlets overlook. We delve into larger state and national stories in order to connect how they impact local residents

Our Promise to Readers

We are not here to tell you what to think. We are here to provide the facts you need to make up your own mind. Whether you agree or disagree with the perspectives featured, you can trust that the reporting itself is balanced, accurate, and accountable.

Use of AI Tools in Reporting and Writing

At The Highline Journal, we are committed to accurate, fair, and trustworthy journalism. At times, we use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with: Research and fact-gathering, drafting outlines or summaries; Editing for clarity and style, Safeguards: Every article is fact-checked, edited, and approved by human editors. AI is never used to publish unverified or unedited content. Responsibility for all published work rests with The Highline Journal editors and writers. When AI plays a significant role in an article, we note this at the end for reader transparency. Our goal is to use technology responsibly—always to better inform our community while upholding the highest standards of local journalism.

Get Involved

We see journalism as a partnership with the people we serve. We invite you to share your stories, ideas, and questions. Hold us accountable, challenge us, and help us keep this publication a true reflection of our community.