It seems like this time of year is packed with observances and holidays, but we have one more we’d like you to add to your list: National Newspaper Week.

We’re observing National Newspaper Week 2019 this week, Oct. 6-12 – and not just us but newspapers across America. 

This 79th annual National Newspaper Week is a recognition of the service of newspapers and their employees across North America, and we’re proud to be among their number. The annual celebration is sponsored by Newspaper Association Managers.

This year’s theme is “Think F1RST – Know Your 5 Freedoms.” It’s why we have been promoting the First Amendment among the pages of this publication, reminding you of the enduring importance of your “F1RST” rights – the freedom to speak and to assemble peaceably, the freedom to petition,  to be involved in religion and – our favorite – the freedom of the press. 

We are fortunate the Founding Fathers saw fit to name and protect this right as a core principle of a stable country, governed fairly and openly among the people. 

This is also a great opportunity to focus on the value this local newspaper brings to our local communities. The news, sports and event coverage the Franklin County Times provides is content you won’t find anywhere else.

We, and our fellow newspaper reporters across the United States, are covering local government, local schools and local people like no one else.

Whether it’s the Dream Girl Pageant or the Every Light a Prayer for Peace ceremony, T-ball or twirling, road problems or school problems, county votes or municipal actions – you will always find us right there in the middle of it. It’s why we’re here. 

We’re your newspaper, so feel free to reach out to us with your ideas or suggestions, this week or any week. 

We hope you’ll take a moment to celebrate National Newspaper Week with us. If you don’t subscribe, now is a great time. If you don’t follow us on Facebook or Twitter, now is a great time to do that too. Keep up with what’s going on in Franklin County and continue to look to the Times to share the news of the day and the stories that need to be shared.