Last Thursday, the people of Smithville came out and supported their newspaper.

We read a lot in this day and age about the future of newspapers – or lack thereof.

I know that these decisions are not made lightly. My heart aches every time I hear about “suggested” early retirements or just plain layoffs at any newspaper.

But I’m a realist and I know that if we want to stay alive, like any good business, we have to make changes to keep up with the times (no pun intended!).

But you don’t need me to tell you that Smithville is a totally different place. And when Smithville citizens felt the fear of losing their beloved Smithville Times, well, they got busy.

I’d like to give credit to a few movers and shakers here who really stepped up and made sure that the powers that be came to realize how far Smithville is willing to go to show their support and love for their newspaper, but there are just too many to name.

Many of you wrote letters and signed petitions. You pledged to support your paper in various ways. And I have to tell you, you got the attention of some of the senior management.

Last Thursday, you did more than write letters and sign petitions. You actually came out to a meeting and asked the right questions and gave valuable suggestions as to how we can make the Times a better and continued prosperous business.

That says a lot about the people of Smithville. Thanks.