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The rural weekly newspaper industry rooted in traditional geographically bounded U.S. communities was long thought to have been shielded from industry dilemmas—revenue and circulation—at larger mainstream daily newspapers. However, recent data show a shift in these rural community journalism trends, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Using normative theory and diffusion of innovations, this study examines how rural weekly newspaper publishers perceived, nearly 18 months after the onset of the pandemic, how COVID-19 impacted their newspapers' advertising, news, technology, and community involvement. Survey results reveal short-term and long-term content and financial challenges plague U.S. rural grassroots information sources with circulation less than 3,000—indicating the end of the "golden era" of weekly newspapers. Despite the constraints, publishers remain optimistic and dedicated to their audiences, albeit reluctant to swift change, as they perceive themselves as the only reliable information source for their rural communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the role news organizations play in disseminating information and shaping public response to the crisis. This study adopts an ecological approach in examining Russian regional journalists' adaptations to the pandemic. Based on in-depth interviews, the study found that a worsened economic situation has increased dependence on state subsidies. Journalists avoided questioning authorities' response to COVID, with some publishing government information and others focusing on practical tips for readers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-market journalists occupy an important role in keeping local communities informed. This research examines the job-related stressors post-COVID these U.S. small-market newspaper journalists face that impact their stress and anxiety and how the support provided by their news organizations also contributes to their sense of well-being. Interviews with 17 journalists in the Southeastern United States indicate that key aspects of organizational support may have a significant impact on well-being and job satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]