5 Essential Facts About The Times-Journal Fort Payne: DeKalb County's Oldest Newspaper Still Thriving In 2025
Contents
The Enduring Legacy of DeKalb County's Oldest Newspaper
The history of *The Times-Journal* is deeply interwoven with the development of Fort Payne itself, tracing its lineage back to the late 19th century. Its roots provide a powerful context for its current relevance. The newspaper’s heritage dates back to 1878, establishing it as the longest-running journalistic entity in DeKalb County. This longevity is a testament to its commitment to the community, weathering economic shifts and media revolutions. The modern *Times-Journal* was officially formed through a merger in 1959, combining *The Fort Payne Journal* and *The Times-New Era* to create the publication known today. This consolidation ensured a unified and stronger voice for the city. The paper is currently owned by Fort Payne Newspapers, which operates under the umbrella of the Southern Torch Newspaper Group. This ownership structure connects the local paper to a broader network while maintaining its hyper-local focus. In a significant move that underscored its commitment to local leadership, Steven Stiefel was named the publisher of *The Times-Journal* in December 2020. Stiefel, who has a long history with the paper, represents the local expertise driving the publication's editorial direction. The paper’s headquarters are located at 811 Greenhill Blvd NW in Fort Payne, Alabama, serving as the central hub for news gathering across DeKalb County and Northeast Alabama.Current Focus: What The Times-Journal Is Reporting in 2025
Unlike national news outlets that focus on global events, *The Times-Journal* thrives on the hyper-local stories that define community life. The paper's current coverage, extending into late 2024 and early 2025, demonstrates its crucial role in disseminating essential information.1. Crucial Public Safety and Judicial Updates
The newspaper serves as a primary conduit for public safety information, directly reporting on the activities of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office. Recent coverage includes detailed reports on drug-related arrests, end-of-year crime statistics for 2024, and significant judicial actions such as a December 2024 indictment for manslaughter. This level of detail keeps the public informed and holds local law enforcement accountable.2. Economic Development and Business News
Fort Payne is a growing regional center, and *The Times-Journal* is on the forefront of covering its economic expansion. The paper has recently reported on new business developments, such as the completion of the Hwy55 project, providing crucial updates on local infrastructure and commercial growth. This focus on business helps local entrepreneurs and residents understand the changing commercial landscape.3. Highlighting Community and Cultural Events
Local culture and events are a cornerstone of the paper's coverage. In late 2024 and looking ahead to 2025, the paper has been instrumental in promoting major community gatherings. * Alabama's June Jam: The paper covered the return and details of the 2024 *Alabama's June Jam XVIII*, a massive music festival that draws attention to Fort Payne. * Holiday Festivities: Planning and announcements for the 54th Fort Payne Christmas Parade, scheduled for December 2025, have been featured, ensuring high community participation. * Wreaths Across America: The paper has promoted local efforts for national initiatives, such as the Wreaths Across America Day planned for December 2025 in Fort Payne. These stories reinforce the paper's commitment to the social fabric of the city.The Vital Role of The Times-Journal in Local Civic Life
The impact of *The Times-Journal* extends far beyond merely reporting the news; it actively participates in the civic and educational life of Fort Payne. This deep integration is what gives the paper its unique topical authority. The paper regularly covers the Fort Payne City Board of Education, including announcements regarding school closures and key personnel decisions. For instance, the paper recognized the Superintendent of Education in 2017, highlighting the close connection between the paper and the school system. Local government and municipal news, including City Council meetings and decisions by the Mayor, are standard, in-depth features. This consistent coverage is essential for transparency and citizen engagement in the democratic process. Entities like the Wills Valley Recreation Center and the broader history of Fort Payne, including its Cherokee heritage, are frequently documented, connecting modern life to the city's past. Furthermore, the paper provides a platform for local voices through opinion pieces and obituaries, serving as the historical record for families and a forum for community debate.The Future of Local Journalism: Challenges and Opportunities
Like many local newspapers across the United States, *The Times-Journal* navigates the complex landscape of digital media and economic pressures. However, its current activity suggests a strong commitment to adaptation. The paper’s continuous search for new talent, including recent advertisements for a Sports Editor, indicates a healthy operational status and a dedication to maintaining comprehensive coverage across all local interest areas. This focus on local sports is a key component of community engagement. The shift to a twice-weekly print publication, while common for local papers, is balanced by a robust digital presence (implied by the "Southern Torch Newspaper" group's operations) that allows for breaking news updates. The paper's ability to cover both planned events and immediate public safety announcements demonstrates a successful hybrid model of news delivery. The resilience of *The Times-Journal* is rooted in the fact that its content—hyper-local law enforcement news, school board decisions, and community event coverage—is not easily replicated by national media. For the residents of Fort Payne and DeKalb County, it remains the most reliable and trusted source for information that truly matters to their community. Its continued operation into 2025 confirms its status not just as a historical landmark, but as a dynamic and essential service.
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