Herald committed to telling your stories

Dear Readers, Advertisers, and Community Partners, 

As we observe National Newspaper Week from Oct. 5 to 11, I want to take a moment — on behalf of everyone at Hagadone Media Group — to reflect on what this annual event means and why it’s more important than ever. 

This year’s theme, “Telling Our Stories,” is more relevant than ever. In communities nationwide — big and small, urban and rural — local newspapers remain the backbone of civic life, highlighting the truth, amplifying community voices, and capturing moments that shape who we are. At its best, a newspaper is more than just a publication. It’s a guardian of the community’s history and a watchful eye on its future. 

That’s what we aim to be every day at our newspapers across Idaho, Montana, and Washington. The stories we publish — whether a front-page profile of a local hero, an editorial on civic transparency, or a notice of a neighborhood fundraiser — are written with purpose. We report not from afar, but from the heart of the towns and cities we serve. Our journalists are your neighbors. They sit in the same bleachers, shop at the same stores, and attend the same council meetings. That connection, that dedication, is the very reason we exist. 

National Newspaper Week reminds us that what we do is more than just reporting; it's about shaping the world around us. We offer our readers a deeper understanding of their communities and their place within them. Our work strengthens local economies by spotlighting small businesses and connecting them with customers. And most importantly, we serve as a vital public trust — holding power to account, investigating with fairness, and publishing with integrity. 

In a time when information spreads rapidly — and misinformation spreads even faster — local journalism remains one of the last strongholds of trust. However, that trust is not automatic. It is earned each day through tough questions, honest answers, transparent practices, and the courage to report on complex stories. It is also maintained by a relationship with readers who genuinely care about the truth and understand that democracy starts at the local level. 

As publisher, I want you to know that our team is working hard to meet you where you are — on the printed page, on your phone, in your inbox, and out in the community. And I also want to thank you — for subscribing, for reading, for sharing, for advertising, for writing in, and for caring. Your engagement, encouragement, and support make what we do possible. 

This week isn’t about patting ourselves on the back; it’s about recommitting to our mission — journalism matters. Local stories matter. Your voice matters. And our newsroom will continue to show up every day to ensure your stories are told, your questions are answered, and your community is recognized.

On behalf of everyone at Hagadone Media Group, thank you for letting us be part of your story. 

With gratitude, 

CLINT SCHROEDER 

President & Executive Publisher  

Hagadone Communications / Hagadone Newspaper & Media Groups