Celebrating a Century of Community: The News Tribune's Impact on LaSalle

For over a century, the News Tribune has been a cornerstone of LaSalle's community, providing news, information, and a platform for residents to share their voices. Founded in 1918, the newspaper has seen it all – from wars and depressions to local events and milestones. Through thick and thin, the News Tribune has stood the test of time, consistently delivering high-quality content to its readers. In this special edition, we take a deep dive into the history of the News Tribune, exploring its impact on LaSalle and the people who have made it a beloved institution.

Historically, the News Tribune has been at the forefront of covering local events, from city council meetings to high school sports. According to longtime owner and publisher, Jack Biegel, the newspaper's commitment to community has always been a top priority. "We've always tried to be a voice for the people of LaSalle," Biegel said in an interview. "We're not just a newspaper, we're a part of this community, and we strive to tell the stories that matter most to our readers."

Early Years and Growth

The News Tribune was founded in 1918 by Henry W. Smith, a LaSalle resident and business owner. Initially, the paper was a weekly publication, covering local news and events. Over the years, the newspaper has undergone several name changes – from the LaSalle News to the LaSalle Tribune – and has been owned by various families and individuals.

In the 1920s, the News Tribune began to expand its circulation and coverage area, becoming a daily publication. The paper introduced its first electric typewriter in the 1930s, making it possible to produce more copies per hour. During World War II, the News Tribune played a significant role in informing the community about the war effort, printing articles and letters from local servicemen.

Long-Term Community Involvement

Throughout the decades, the News Tribune has demonstrated a long-term commitment to community involvement. The paper has provided extensive coverage of local events, from festivals and parades to charitable fundraisers and athletic competitions. The News Tribune has also supported various community causes, including education and healthcare initiatives.

"For decades, the News Tribune has played a vital role in LaSalle's community by fostering civic engagement, promoting local businesses, and sharing stories of the town's rich history," said Alan Cabs, former LaSalle Mayor. "I've had the privilege of reading the News Tribune daily for over 40 years, and I've seen firsthand how the paper stimulates honest discussion, informs decision-making, and welcomes new voices to the conversation."

Some notable examples of the News Tribune's commitment to community include:

• **LaSalle High School Sports Coverage**: For over five decades, the News Tribune has been the go-to source for LaSalle High School sports news, providing in-depth coverage of the school's teams and athletes.

• **LaSalle's Community Fund**: In 2004, the News Tribune launched the LaSalle's Community Fund, a grant program aimed at supporting local initiatives, events, and charities.

• **Exploring LaSalle History**: The News Tribune has dedicated numerous stories to exploring LaSalle's rich history, including its foundry and industrial past, the city's early settlements, and notable residents.

Evolution in the Digital Age

As the media landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years, the News Tribune has adapted to the digital age. In 2000, the paper shifted its focus to online publishing, creating a website and social media channels to expand its reach and stay engaged with readers.

"We understood that our readers were increasingly digital, and we needed to evolve to meet their changing needs," said Gary Ebeling, former Digital Content Manager. "Our online platform has allowed us to share breaking news, photos, and videos in real-time, while maintaining our commitment to quality journalism."

Today, the News Tribune boasts a robust online presence, with a website and social media following that exceeds 10,000 monthly unique visitors.

Staff and Sources

A dedicated team of skilled journalists, editors, and reporters work tirelessly to ensure the News Tribune continues to meet the highest standards of journalism. The team draws from a wide range of sources, including:

• **Local residents and business owners**: Providing voices and perspectives on community issues and events.

• **Government officials**: Offering updates and insights on LaSalle's municipal policies and decisions.

• **Educational institutions**: Supporting local schools' academic achievements and extracurricular activities.