Local Newspapers Still the Best Source for Community Information

The struggles of the nation’s newspaper industry have been well documented. With new electronic media sources emerging on what seems to be a regular basis and an economy that continues to struggle, the print media has certainly taken some hits over the last couple of years. The ability for them to adapt to these changes is undoubtedly the biggest challenge facing newspapers today. The good news is that the public’s demand for information has remained unchanged.

The recent announcement that three communities in the Farmington Valley will be receiving a new weekly newspaper, which will cater much of its news towards local issues and community information, is one way the industry is changing. Being the inaugural issue of the Avon News, Canton News and Simsbury News, I want take this opportunity to welcome these newspapers to each of their respective communities and extend my best wishes for a long and prosperous future.

One of the things we continue to hear is that small businesses are the engines that will power our nation’s economic recovery. These businesses rely heavily on local clientele and the best way for them to market themselves is through community based publications. Thus, I encourage you support local businesses, many of whom advertise in this newspaper.

There is a lot going on at the state capitol these days with the state budget continuing to be the number one priority. This newspaper will give me the opportunity in the upcoming weeks and throughout the 2010 legislative session to inform you about the budget and some of the important issues being discussed at the legislature and their affect on our towns. To quote Bill O’Reilly, my column will embrace a “no spin” approach based on fact and honest opinion.

With every column I will provide my contact information should you have questions or concerns regarding any topic or issue. I am grateful to everyone for their thoughts and perspectives on issues facing the state.

We have a great deal of work to do in the upcoming year and I am very hopeful that we can accomplish the tasks that will have a positive affect on all of Connecticut’s residents.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to all!! Kevin Witkos