Kristi Hine, Editor/Publisher True Dakotan
As we begin National Newspaper Week, we want to thank you for your readership, and for the privilege of supporting our community by sharing its stories and documenting its future history.
2023 marks the 83rd celebration of National Newspaper Week, a week-long promotion of the newspaper industry in the United States and Canada.
Whether it’s a news story about taxes and public board meetings, feature stories about a community member, student achievements, or announcing deaths, weddings or births, we aim to make sure Jerauld County area residents are well-informed about what is happening around them. We understand what is important to our audience and aim to foster a sense of community by reflecting the voices and concerns of local people through our coverage.
Just like we appreciate the right to encourage free and open discussion through our reporting, we also appreciate the trust and confidence you show us each week.
And according to a recent national study by independent research firm Coda Ventures, True Dakotan readers aren’t alone when it comes to valuing the role their local newspaper serves in the community.
The study revealed that nearly 220 million American adults turn to their local newspapers regularly for news and information they need to stay informed, feel more connected to their neighbors and improve their lives and communities.
It’s no secret that the term “rapidly changing landscape” and “newspaper industry” have been synonymous for the past few years. And the theme for this year’s week, “In Print. Online, For You,” reflects the many ways newspapers are evolving when it comes to getting news out to readers.
The True Dakotan, much like many other newspapers aiming to continue providing readers quality local news well into the future, delivers news via our print edition, e-edition, website, email newsletters and social media posts. All of this is done with the recognition that more readers are comfortable getting their news online if they can be assured that it comes from a reliable source.
The study by Coda Ventures, based on surveys of 5,000 people, revealed that respondents ranked local newspapers and their websites as the most accurate sources of original news reporting. The results also listed the top five reasons Americans seek out local news – to stay informed, feel connected in the community, decide where they stand on local issues, find places and things to do, and talk to other people about community news.
We feel honored that the True Dakotan is the trusted local news source in our place on the prairie. During Newspaper Week and always, we are inspired to connect, inform and deliver the news that matters to you, your family, your community.
Thank you for your trust, support and readership.