My first paper route took me about 90 minutes to complete, peddling around the base on my 1982 Schwinn Super Sport 15-speed before classes started at Fort Knox High School at 0-dark-30.

Forty-two years later, I find myself driving more than 600 miles with 11 hours of windshield time to compete my modern day, eight-newspaper route several times a month. For giggles, I clicked on the bicycle icon on Google Maps to see how long the route would take on my trusty Schwinn. It was 65 hours.

Back then, I slung copies of the Elizabethtown News Enterprise from my canvas bag to neighborhood porches. Today, I manage eight Carpenter Media Group newspapers, including the Danville Advocate-Messenger, The Interior Journal, Jessamine Journal, Winchester Sun, Middlesboro News the Harlan Enterprise and Claiborne Progress and my home base, the Bowling Green Daily News.

These communities, though hours apart, are all united by the stories we share and the connections we build. Each town and city we serve has its own unique character and challenges, but what remains constant is the importance of local journalism. In an era where digital and social media dominates, we proudly continue the tradition of delivering news that matters directly to you.

Running newspapers spread across such a vast geographical area of Kentucky presents its own set of challenges and rewards. It requires me to stay attuned to the heartbeat of each community, to understand the issues that matter most, and to celebrate the victories, big and small. From the bustling streets of Bowling Green to the mountainous landscapes of Harlan, our teams works tirelessly to bring you stories that inform, entertain and inspire.

In today’s deeply divided political climate, where opinions often feel more like entrenched battlegrounds than points of discussion, the role of local unbiased journalism stands as a crucial beacon of clarity. As someone deeply committed to the principles of fair and balanced reporting, I believe there are compelling reasons why it is essential to present both sides of political stories, news and opinions, even amid heightened partisan emotions.

Our core mission is to inform the public. To achieve this, presenting multiple perspectives on any given issue ensures that readers are equipped with a comprehensive understanding. By examining different viewpoints, readers can form their own informed opinions rather than being subjected to one-sided narratives that may perpetuate echo chambers of belief.

Our commitment to local journalism goes beyond just reporting the news. We strive to be a voice for the community, to spark conversations and to foster a sense of belonging. Whether it’s covering local events, highlighting the achievements of our neighbors, or shedding light on important issues, we are here for you.

I am reminded of the impact that newspapers can have on shaping a community’s identity and unity. From the excitement of breaking news to the joy of seeing our readers engaged with our content, every moment reaffirms our dedication to serving you.

As we continue this journey together, I invite you to join us in celebrating the power of community and the importance of local journalism. Whether you’re in Bowling Green, Tazewell, or any of the towns in between, know that your support fuels our passion for delivering the news you need and deserve.

Together, we will continue to write the next chapter in the story of Kentucky’s vibrant communities.

– Daily News Publisher Joe Imel can be reached at (270) 783-3273 or via email at joe.imel@ bgdailynews.com.