WRITE ON: Witnessing the birth of a newspaper

Local newspapers are vanishing in the wake of mega-media ownership, leaving communities struggling for informed coverage. Yet a recent perspective hints that a new publication may be on the horizon, offering hope for local journalism’s revival.

WRITE ON: Witnessing the birth of a newspaper

Jerry Schmidtke

Jerry Schmidtke spent 30 years at The News-Palladium before earning accolades as a Realtor. Surrounded by loved ones, he passed away at home on January 6, 2026, leaving a legacy of commitment and achievement.

SIMPLE STUFF: Doing the obits

A recent visitor to a newsroom discovered how assembling an obituary page is one of those tasks that seems straightforward yet carries great significance. This insight into day-to-day operations shows how deliberate effort and respect for end-of-life stories help shape local journalism.

SIMPLE STUFF: Doing the obits

West Feliciana Parish Detention Center bookings for Nov. 10-16, 2025

Over the course of a single week in mid-November, several individuals were booked into the West Feliciana Parish Detention Center. The Advocate reported these bookings in a piece that remains partially behind a paywall, underscoring the limited but important information currently available to the public.

West Feliciana Parish Detention Center bookings for Nov. 10-16, 2025

When newspapers disappear, transparency declines

Two recent studies reveal that when local newspapers disappear, the ability to access public records declines. News deserts—areas lacking robust local news coverage—are shown to correlate with poorer compliance with Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and public-record requests.

Laura Yamase

The Killeen Daily Herald recently published an obituary marking the passing of Ms. Yamase. While the full article remains behind a paywall, the announcement signifies the newspaper’s dedication to honoring local lives.

Laura Yamase

Sales tax debated

A debated sales tax could be enacted without voter approval, raising questions about how new taxes are introduced. Columbia Gorge News reports that officials and community members are grappling with the implications of such a move.

How the Collapse of Local Journalism Led to the Erosion of Community Trust

Local news once held communities together, providing firsthand reporting on neighborhood stories. As papers vanish and online platforms grow, the erosion of local journalism generates a widening trust gap, causing towns and families alike to feel the impact.

How the Collapse of Local Journalism Led to the Erosion of Community Trust

Defense was key in 1961 Amsterdam softball game – Focus on History

In 1961, Amsterdam’s softball fans saw a game where defense ruled the diamond, and the local sports pages posed a whimsical question: Would the night’s action be a “Highland Fling” or a “Hawaiian Hula?” Now, decades later, the memory still resonates as a testament to the community’s spirited sports culture.

Defense was key in 1961 Amsterdam softball game – Focus on History

Field Hockey: Daily stat leaders for Sept. 25

New Jersey’s field hockey scene took center stage on September 25, with teams across the state showcasing their finest athletes. Though the full statistics remain behind paid access, the day’s leading performances underscore the sport’s growing popularity and competitive spirit.