South Dakota Magazine Editor John Andrews asks a pointed question about the weekly newspapers in the state that, as he explains, “fill a special niche in our lives even though sometimes their futures seem uncertain.”
“Who will run the paper?” Andrew’s article, featured in the March/April issue of South Dakota Magazine, explores the complex myriad of what a weekly newspaper provides its readers: builds community connections, creates a snapshot in time/record of history within each edition, serves as the local government watchdog, gives a voice to the voiceless.
“John did a terrific job of lifting the veil, showing readers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to publish a weekly newspaper,” said Kristi Hine, Editor/Publisher of the True Dakotan. “I’m honored to be among those he featured to help tell the story of the significance of community journalism and what we are doing as publishers to continue this important work in our South Dakota communities.”
In addition to the True Dakotan, Andrews highlights the Timber Lake Topic, Kingsbury Journal, Reporter and Farmer and Burke Gazette, showcasing not only the benefit these publications bring to their readers and communities, but also the obstacles they face.
“Readers expect to see photos of high school sports, birthday announcements, updates on what’s happening within our elected boards, features of local projects, people and events. And we love delivering on those expectations while continuing to evolve and deliver products in a variety of ways both in print and digitally.” Hine shared.
Increasing costs with postage and printing have created challenges and it’s no secret that newspapers are, and have been for some time, navigating a rapidly changing industry due to advertising and classifieds moving more toward the internet.
“I encourage everyone who values their weekly community newspaper to pick up a copy of the South Dakota Magazine and give this story a read,” Hine said, also pointing out that a good way to show support for community journalism is to subscribe to your local newspaper’s print or e-edition. “In the meantime, readers can rest assured that weekly newspaper publishers across the state are hard at work fulfilling their unique role within the journalism industry: keeping people connected to the places they consider home.”
The March/April magazine issue as well as annual subscriptions to South Dakota Magazine can be purchased by calling (800) 456-5117 or visiting www.southdakotamagazine.com
