WITH OVER

The original measure supported by the startup expanded the definition of “legal newspaper” to incorporate publications with at least 200 paid online subscribers and “an associated (weekly) print edition” with a minimum circulation of 500 copies.

Newspapers meeting those criteria would qualify to publish notices “regardless of whether the print edition is made available to the public for a paid subscription or for free.”

The South Dakota Newspaper Association (SDNA) argued the bill undermines key principles in the law defining legal newspapers, including authenticated circulation, local presence and demonstrated publishing viability.

The legislation was killed, but The Dakota Scout’s founders formed an independent press association, hired a lobbyist to press for new legislation. That second bill was turned back but “much of the discussion in favor of the bill was aimed at criticism of the Sioux Falls Argus Leader, Aberdeen American News and Watertown Public Opinion.” All three newspapers are all owned by Gannett, which has sharply cut their staffs and news gathering capabilities.

Sneve emphasizes that The Dakota Scout supContinued on Page 6

Counties, cities have cash for tourism

Regional ads bring visitors

When you are looking for ways to bring in new revenue, spend a few minutes learning how your WNPA co-op ad network can help your bottom line.

Now that the pandemic is mainly behind us, people are itching to get out and mingle and community events are once again filling the streets.

But after two years of relative inactivity, extra effort is necessary to let people know your town is open for business and welcoming tourists.

Online advertising is an option, but with ad blocking software and distrust growing over social media, it isn’t the solution it used to be. In this changing environment, trusted community newspapers across the state serving a highly educated, affluent and involved readership are a perfect place to get a message out.

Every ad salesperson knows it is wise to identify the entities in your community with fat ad budgets. At this moment in time, don’t overlook the folks with hundreds of thousands of dollars to spend – your local governments!

Every city and county in the state has a pool of money generated by local lodging taxes, and that money is supposed to be used to reach beyond local markets and bring people to town.

If you have not already, you should ask your city and county governments (each has separate

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