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Parkersburg News and Sentinel Announces Holiday Publishing Schedule

Source: A Thanksgiving note to News and Sentinel readers (2025-11-26)

This Thanksgiving, the Parkersburg News and Sentinel will pause its print edition, joining a nationwide trend among local newspapers to adapt to modern readership habits and operational efficiencies. While the print version will be unavailable on Thanksgiving and other federal holidays—including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, and Christmas Day—the newspaper’s dedicated newsroom staff will remain active, ensuring that breaking news, local sports, and obituaries continue to be promptly covered and published online. This strategic shift reflects broader industry trends emphasizing digital engagement, cost management, and the importance of real-time news delivery. In recent years, many local newspapers have transitioned to digital-first models, recognizing that over 80% of readers now access news via smartphones and computers. The move by the News and Sentinel aligns with this shift, aiming to provide timely updates while reducing the costs associated with print production. Additionally, the newspaper has introduced enhanced online features, including a user-friendly e-edition, which allows subscribers to access the full newspaper digitally, ensuring continuity of service during holidays and beyond. Furthermore, the decision underscores the importance of community engagement through digital platforms. The News and Sentinel has invested heavily in its website and social media channels, which now serve as primary sources for breaking news, community updates, and local sports coverage. This approach not only meets the evolving preferences of modern readers but also supports local businesses through targeted advertising opportunities online. The industry-wide trend toward digital-first publishing is supported by recent data indicating that digital advertising revenue has surpassed print for the first time in many markets, including West Virginia and Ohio. This shift is driven by increased mobile device usage, with over 70% of adults in these regions accessing news via smartphones daily. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital news consumption, prompting newspapers to reevaluate their operational models to remain financially sustainable and relevant. The News and Sentinel’s holiday schedule adjustment also reflects a broader commitment to community service. By maintaining a staffed newsroom during holidays, the paper ensures that residents stay informed about critical local issues, emergencies, and community events. This dedication to timely, accurate reporting is vital for fostering informed citizenry and supporting local democracy. In addition to operational changes, the newspaper has announced plans to expand its digital content offerings, including podcasts, video reports, and interactive community forums. These initiatives aim to deepen engagement and provide diverse content tailored to the interests of residents in the Parkersburg area and surrounding regions. The paper also encourages readers to link their subscriptions to the website and e-edition, facilitating seamless access to news across multiple platforms. Looking ahead, industry analysts predict that local newspapers will continue to evolve, emphasizing digital innovation, community-centered content, and sustainable business models. The Parkersburg News and Sentinel’s proactive approach exemplifies how traditional media outlets can adapt to the digital age while maintaining their vital role in local journalism. As the media landscape shifts, the paper’s commitment to serving its community remains steadfast, ensuring that residents stay connected, informed, and engaged—especially during holidays when community bonds are most cherished.

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