Take a look at the copy of The Valley Times-News in your hands. It looks a bit different, doesn’t it? Well there’s no need to worry. Despite the facelift, the stories, photos and other content you’ve come to love and enjoy will remain mostly the same.

Sure, there will be a few things that will disappear, some things that will be added but all of this is being done so the news can be delivered to you in a cleaner, more locally-focused package.

Don’t think of it as a change from what you’ve known for the past ten years; think of it as an upgrade to a product that you want to see continue on.

Let’s look at a few of the updates:

A CONSISTENT LOOK

The biggest concern when redesigning a newspaper is making sure everything is consistent, especially when it comes to a daily paper.

The first paper of the week and the last need to stand out on their own, while at the same time being obviously from the same source.

Our new look will provide an updated visual that will remain consistent each day, while also standing apart.

KEEPING THINGS LOCAL

Every newspaper has to have an identity, whether it be as a source for local, state or national news, a sports and entertainment publication, being solely focused on crime, etc.

The Valley Times-News is first and foremost a community paper, covering Valley, Lanett, LaFayette and West Point equally.

Despite all the changes, the paper will maintain this and the look will help with bringing in even more local coverage.

A SIGN OF THINGS TO COME

These, and other changes, have come quickly during recent months and the public has been patient with us.

The entire staff at The Valley Times-News is thankful for that. Change in any way is a difficult process and things are not looking to slow down.

This new look, while the most drastic of recent changes, is by no means the last. We hope the changes that have been used and will be made are positive.

This is a very brief overview of the changes in the paper.

We hope you enjoy the new look, the new features and our commitment to providing the best possible community coverage to the Greater Valley Area.

As always, we look forward to hearing your feedback and hope you continue to enjoy YOUR Times-News.

Steven Thomas is the managing editor of The ValleyTimes-News. He can be reached at 334-644-8012 or by email at steven.thomas@valleytimes-news.com.