The Ada News: A History of Local Journalism
For over a century, The Ada News has served as a vital source of information for its community. From its early days of print to the modern era of digital transitions, the publication has evolved through various ownership changes and leadership shifts to remain a cornerstone of local reporting.
The Early Years and Evolution
The newspaper first began publication on March 14, 1904. As the demand for news grew, the publication expanded its reach, introducing a Sunday edition on May 26, 1968. Over the decades, the paper was managed by several entities, including Carlton Weaver & Company. In the summer of 2012, the publication officially adopted its current name, The Ada News.
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Ownership Transitions
The ownership of the newspaper has shifted through several major corporate entities. In 1995, the Thomson Corporation sold The Ada News, along with 11 other publications, to the American Publishing Company, which later became known as Hollinger International.
By 1999, Hollinger International began divesting most of its smaller publications. Consequently, The Ada News was acquired by Community Newspaper Holdings, a company established in 1997 by Ralph Martin.
Modern Leadership and Digital Shifts
Recent years have seen a focus on internal leadership and adapting to the digital landscape. On October 21, 2019, Maurisa Nelson—who had served the newspaper for many years as an advertising director and marketing consultant—was appointed general manager. Her leadership role expanded further when she was promoted to publisher in 2021.
As the industry continues to shift toward new consumption habits, the newspaper announced in November 2024 that it would cease the production of its Wednesday and Friday e-editions (digital versions of the printed newspaper).
Key Facts
- Founded: March 14, 1904.
- Sunday Edition Start: May 26, 1968.
- Current Owner: Community Newspaper Holdings (acquired in 1999).
- Current Publisher: Maurisa Nelson.
- Recent Change: Discontinuation of Wednesday and Friday e-editions as of November 2024.
Publication Summary
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1904 | Publication begins on March 14 |
| 1968 | Sunday edition launched |
| 1995 | Sold by Thomson Corporation to American Publishing Company |
| 1999 | Acquired by Community Newspaper Holdings |
| 2012 | Renamed to The Ada News |
| 2019 | Maurisa Nelson appointed General Manager |
| 2021 | Maurisa Nelson promoted to Publisher |
| 2024 | Wednesday and Friday e-editions ceased |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was The Ada News founded?
The newspaper began its publication on March 14, 1904.
Who currently owns the newspaper?
The Ada News is owned by Community Newspaper Holdings, which acquired the paper in 1999 from Hollinger International.
Who is the current publisher?
Maurisa Nelson, who previously served as general manager, was promoted to publisher in 2021.
What changes were made to the digital editions in 2024?
In November 2024, the newspaper announced that it would no longer produce e-editions on Wednesdays and Fridays.
When did the Sunday edition begin?
The Sunday edition was added to the publication schedule on May 26, 1968.