RochesterNHnews.net, also known as The Rochester Post, is now available in paper form at select municipal locations.
The two-sided, newspaper-style takeaway is a free paper featuring story highlights that originate from RochesterNHnews.net. The paper is published around the 15th of every month and is available in limited quantities.
Matt Wyatt, the City of Rochester’s Public Information Manager, states that the paper will be more accessible to those without internet access or a computer.
“There are many people that don’t have access to the internet or they prefer a physical paper,” said Wyatt “This is a great way to get the news out there and spread the word about everything happening in Rochester.”
RochesterNHnews.net first premiered online in September 2020. The website features news stories in several categories including business, arts and culture, municipal, recreation, community, and more. The site also includes links to the city’s weekly podcast, social media pages, and YouTube channel.
The paper companion is available now in the lobby of City Hall. It will soon be available at Rochester Public Library and Community Center.
“We’re not going into the print business by any means,” Wyatt continued. “This is about an alternitive free option to public information.”
With the accelerated disappearance of traditional newspapers over the past several years, public information has become increasingly difficult to obtain. Most local journalism has moved online and free access is often limited, forcing many to rely on social media for their information.
“I don’t think Facebook is the place to get news,” said Wyatt. “When the story link requires a subscription, it forces the majority of readers to rely on comment threads, which fuel rumors and misconceptions. When headlines are written to generate clicks, it often misleads readers.”
City Manager Blaine Cox also emphasizes the benefits of free public information and the ability for community members to contribute content to both publications.
“There are no advertisements or costs associated with our paper or website,” said Cox “Both versions are completely free to the public. We also encourage businesses and nonprofits to send their press releases, news story ideas, and event listings.”
To submit a press release or community event, visit www.RochesterNHnews.net and select Submit from the main menu.