by Pete Edwards

February 2006 marked the start of the 9th year of publication for The People News of Bradley County.

2003 was a year of astounding growth for this small newspaper, highlighted by the first online edition (www.thepeoplenews.com) in April.  This was followed by the development of an online Cleveland Bradley business showcase and directory dedicated to promoting local merchants and service industries. This website www.clevelandbradleybusiness .com is designed with the consumer in mind, with easy navigation and return links. It features directory listings, an alphabetical listing and showcase links  to individual businesses.

The site became operational in May 2003, is free for the consumer and needs no passwords or logon information for access. Additionally, the directory listings and alphabetical listing are free to all local

businesses large and small and if desired, a dedicated showcase site can be designed and maintained for a small monthly fee. This is ideal for companies and retailers that are unable to maintain their own website.

Also during 2003 saw The People News begin totally digital file transfer to the printing image setter in Chattanooga. This new technology allows the paper's computer generated master copy to be downloaded over the internet directly to a commercial printing plate output device. Just six years ago an exact paper master of every page had to be hand delivered to the printing company for photographic reproduction.

2004 saw an explosion in reader participation with increased paper copy readership and the addition of internet interest with website visitors from all over the world.

This month also marks the 8th Anniversary for many of the newspaper's writers and columnists, who's work is now being stored on the publication's internet archive. Without the hard work and dedication of these exceptional individuals The People News would not have achieved the success and reader support it enjoys today. Their work is offered to our readers each month, free and without obligation because of the financial support of the paper's advertisers, so if you like what you read please give your support to those who make it possible.

2006 will again witness improvement to the Cleveland Bradley Business website www.clevelandbradleybusiness.com to include a more complete business listing, residential and commercial real estate listings, tourist information, local government and emergency services information and recreational schedules. The site will also include a historical and cultural section that will appeal to those in other states and countries wishing to learn what Cleveland and Bradley County has to offer.

With the continued help and support of its readers, advertisers and writers, The People News look forward to another exiting year of service to the community.
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