National Newspaper Week is Oct. 5-11

            One day last month, newspaper stories shone a light on the troubles, triumphs and transformations happening in communities across Pennsylvania.

            In Erie, readers followed fundraising efforts to save an injured dog named Dopey. In Harrisburg, people gathered at a vigil for a teenager whose life was cut short. Philadelphia buzzed after a hard-fought Eagles win and as the Phillies closed in on the National League East title. In Sharon, a father confronted the sentencing of the person who killed his son. And in Greater Hazleton, plans emerged for the region's largest data center.

            Together, that day's stories show why newspapers matter. They connect us — celebrating victories, mourning losses, exposing challenges and keeping watch over those in power. They are part of the ties that bind us as neighbors and citizens.

            Whether we read on a smartphone, laptop, or in print, local journalism is a service we depend on every day. National Newspaper Week, Oct. 5-11, reminds us of the vital role local journalism, and journalists, play in shaping our political and cultural landscape, encouraging civic engagement and strengthening our communities.

            Pennsylvania newspapers also contribute significantly to the commonwealth's economy. They generate more than $1 billion in economic impact, employ nearly 7,300 people, contribute more than $40 million in taxes and volunteer more than 65,000 hours in local boroughs, cities and townships. Reporters, editors and staff are not just covering the news — they are part of the neighborhoods they serve.

            Newspapers also function as watchdogs by holding government officials to account. They publish public notices, not just in print as required by law, but also on their websites and on a statewide site, publicnoticepa.com, maintained by the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association, all at no additional cost to taxpayers.

            The association supports House Bill 1291, legislation that would strengthen transparency by requiring newspapers to publish notices on their websites in front of paywalls as well as on the statewide site. Expanding access encourages citizen participation in government and extends the reach of public notices while helping local journalism thrive.

            Our newspapers help us all be better citizens by keeping us informed about candidates for office, proposed zoning changes, school construction projects, business openings and closings, community fundraisers and more. They provide the connection that ties us to our communities, whether through reporting, investigative work, letters to the editor, or forums focused on issues of public interest.

            So this National Newspaper Week, and every week, consider subscribing, sharing or simply saying thank you to your local journalists. They are not just reporting the news; they are helping write the story of Pennsylvania and your community.

By William M. Cotter, President & CEO, Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association