As we celebrate the 85th anniversary of National Newspaper Week from October 5-11, 2025, it’s crucial to acknowledge the pivotal role local journalism plays in shaping informed communities.

By providing citizens with the facts they need to make informed decisions, local reporting empowers individuals to take an active part in their daily lives.

Local news fosters a sense of belonging by highlighting stories that resonate on a personal level. Thriving local media can support small businesses through advertising and partnerships, strengthening the local economy.

To build a better future, it is essential to support local journalism through subscriptions, donations, sharing stories, and encouraging reporters.

Schools, libraries, and civic groups can also play a role in educating the next generation about media literacy and the importance of a free press. We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for your continued support of our publisher, CherryRoad Media, and The Shawnee News-Star.

Your loyalty and trust are what make our work possible, and we appreciate your commitment to staying informed and engaged with your community.

By embracing local journalism, we are not just preserving the past but shaping a more informed, connected, and empowered future.