By FRED SWIFT
The County Line
National Newspaper Week just wrapped up a few days ago. That probably does not mean a lot to most folks, but we should recognize that newspapers are still vital for an informed public, especially at the local level. Local news is most important because it involves matters closest to our everyday lives.
I reviewed some recent issues of the Hamilton County Reporter to see whether it looked as if the Reporter was doing a creditable job. Of course, I would be biased in my opinions on the subject. But, I think the case can be made that the Reporter is the best local publication to bring the reader his or her local news of importance on a daily basis.
Just since the beginning of the month, we have had stories on new highway improvements and new building projects, local residents in upcoming theatre or film productions, the appointment of a new city councilman and school board member, government grants for improved public services and other government news. including announcements of candidates for office.
In addition, the Reporter offers unparalleled coverage of high school sports with results of games before any other publication. The sports department covers every IHSAA sport in every county high school. And, there are opinion columns and letters to the editor where readers may voice their own opinions. And finally, the reader finds complete obituaries from throughout the county.
Sound like we are tooting our own horn? You bet. And, it’s done in an attempt to show the value of your local newspaper just as National Newspaper Week is designed to do. And our readers can help by recommending that friends and neighbors be better informed by reading the Reporter.