ABOVE PHOTO: Mark Cohen (insert)
By PNA President Mark Cohen
Today marks the start of National Newspaper Week. It is a time to celebrate the impact newspapers have on their communities, and to recognize the dedicated individuals who work diligently so that you, the reader, receive the news and information that you want and need, day in and day out. A free press is more important than ever, and newspapers have always been at the forefront of serving our communities.
No media works harder than newspapers to provide you with credible information about what matters most to you – news about local people, local government, local happenings, and local businesses — all captured by members of the local community.
These people are your friends,your family, and your neighbors, and they care about what you care about. From the reporters and editors who gather news, write content, and verify sources so the news you read is accurate, to those in advertising who help local merchants promote their goods and services so you can plan your shopping. Also, to the men and women who lay out the paper and keep the printing presses running, and the digital properties updated so your news is ready when you are, to the delivery folks who ensure that you receive your newspaper – we are grateful for all that you do for us.
In this era of increasing media consolidation and fragmentation, we are pleased to say that the number of Pennsylvania’s print-based publications has not changed much in the last 10 years.
Pennsylvania newspapers maintain very strong readership, with nearly 8 in 10 Pennsylvania adults reading a newspaper, in print or online, each week.
The Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association has the distinct honor of representing Pennsylvania’s news media organizations, including 76 daily newspapers, more than 175 non-daily publications, college newspapers, business journals, and a number of online-only news sites.
As we observe National Newspaper Week, we would like to acknowledge and thank everyone who helps produce the “daily miracle” that informs and inspires us, as well as the loyal readers who validate the importance of this work by engaging with — and subscribing to — these news publications.
We appreciate your continued support of the fourth estate. We are proud to serve our local communities and are excited about our future.
Mark Cohen is the President of the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association. He can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at (717) 703-3076.
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