Embracing local journalism for a brighter future

If you are reading this, you are someone who understands the value of local newspapers. That means you are most likely invested in our community and curious about what is happening at government meetings, with public safety, at area events, in athletics and myriad other things throughout Johnson County. 

And we are grateful for you.

This week marks the 85th celebration of National Newspaper Week – a week-long opportunity to recognize the role that newspapers play in an active and healthy democracy. For us here at The Buffalo Bulletin, it’s more than a celebration; it’s a reminder of the responsibility we carry every single day.

In Buffalo and Johnson County, as elsewhere, the stories that most affect our daily lives are not found in the national headlines. They are found in the details of school board decisions, city council debates, neighborhood events and the quiet but remarkable work of our neighbors. 

Since the Bulletin’s founding in 1890, our purpose has been to see, know, care about and understand our community and then share what we find. We preserve the history of Johnson County as it unfolds, one edition at a time. We shine a light on local government decisions, celebrate the achievements of our students and athletes, and highlight the organizations and individuals that make a difference in the lives of our friends and families.

In an era when anyone can post anything online, knowing where your news comes from is more important than ever. 

Polling data shows that only 18% of Americans say they trust news on social platforms, and fewer than one in four trust cable networks. But nearly two-thirds say they trust their local newspaper – more than double the confidence placed in most other outlets. 

In fact, three in four adults in Wyoming said that local journalists are in touch with their communities. And four in five adults in Wyoming (87%) read newspapers each week in either traditional or online formats. 

A strong community depends on a strong local newspaper – one that can tell stories with depth, accuracy and courage. By reading, subscribing and supporting businesses that advertise in the Bulletin, you help ensure that Johnson County continues to have a watchdog, a record keeper and a trusted storyteller.

Thank you for choosing to read and subscribe.