Editorial: Impact of losing 2,500 newspapers tragic indeed

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Community newspapers are dying at the rate of two per week in the U.S.

Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, Media and Integrated Marketing Communications delivered that sobering news in a report this week.

And it is indeed sobering because newspapers play such a crucial role in our culture, serving as mirrors of sorts that allow us to see ourselves – warts, blemishes and all.

Our nation has lost more than 2,500 newspapers and more than 40,000 journalists since 2005. The result is that some 70 million Americans now live in a county with little or no local news.

That really matters.

Consider what you might look like if you had no mirror to ensure your face is clean, your hair is styled, and your clothing fits properly. Then, consider what your community might look like without a newspaper that provides a clear and compelling look at the good and the bad.

Newspapers are vital. Losing them at such a clip is tragic and the impact is immeasurable.