Small Town Community News Organizations Are The Heart And Soul Of Our Society

By Dorothy York, President and CEO of North American Precis Syndicate (NAPS) Taking the road less traveled can lead to some innovative approaches to successful news sites. Some fiercely independent news organizations have opted for their own unique style and hyperlocal flavor, instead of the cookie-cutter designs that are available from the usual providers. Their strong sense of individualistic identity has helped differentiate them from others, and carve out a niche that serves an unmet need. Rather than going where everyone else does for news coverage, you might want to get off the beaten path and try researching publications in the 10 least populous states, who have some of the most interesting sites, with a long history and fun, innovative designs. Some of the least populous states have some of the most affluent and influential community newspaper readers.

Montana: 13-Local Rag Here is their mission statement, and more fun stuff: “The Local Rag provides you with the localest content available! We do not cater to tourists and visitors (although they’re welcome, of course!). We’re here for YOU: our locals! The Local Rag is locally owned and locally operated. Note for the Humor-Impaired: The staff of the Local Rag would like to offer you a friendly reminder that when you see something labeled Believe it or Not, it’s a good idea to bet on “not.” Disclaimer: No interns or squirrels were harmed in the production of this newspaper. Our computers run on 100% recycled electrons.” South Dakota: 14-The Courier/ Second Century Publishing, Inc. In addition to The Courier, which is family owned, publications of this publisher include The Dakota Action Rocket, which is a supplement to The Courier and 18 other weeklies in southcentral and southeastern South Dakota; and The Area Wide Connection, which is mailed to boxholders and rural routes in a 25-mile radius of Freeman, with a distribution of about 6,700. 15-Clark County Courier This extremely user friendly publication, nearly 150 years young, serves over 2,000 people in five municipalities in Clark County and has a detailed FAQ section which anticipates and helps answer nearly every issue. North Dakota: 16-McKenzie County Farmer Based in the largest county in North Dakota, this publications serves 10 cities. News of local sports, events and businesses are prominently displayed on this site. 17-The Herald Press This publications serves 18 communities and the site includes a section devoted to veterans of Wells County. Alaska: his local family owned newspaper includes a beautifully illustrated visitors guide on the site with this important statement: “Sitka prides itself as a center for education and health care and as a world-class fishing port. Add to that the historic heritage from the two eventful centuries since the Russians came, and from untold centuries of Native culture. It is a town where neighbors watch out for each other. We care about visitors, and we care about the impression they will take away from our town.” 19-The Skagway News This newspaper serves the gateway to the Klondike. Situated on a picturesque street in the historic district, the office is in the 1899 restored building as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park. The site includes some great photos and a dining guide. Wyoming: 20-The Ranger This family owned publication includes photos of about 20 people on the staff with this message: “We proudly publish our phone number! Call us! Or, stop in and say hello!” There is a button for the opinion section front and center on the home page. These charming sites are just a few of thousands more like these, nationwide, making up a vibrant patchwork of American communities. Small town publications like these are the backbone of our civilization. If you can get attention for your message in these trusted local news sites, you can more easily win people’s hearts and minds. For more information or a free proposal from our experts