In the beginning... Start the presses! That's the banner headline that appeared in the first edition of the Tri-County Times on April 3, 1994. It was the first time in nearly 40 years that tri-county residents witnessed the birth of a new newspaper, following the demise of the former Tri-County News. The new publication was based on a 40-year tradition of strong newspaper experience. Publisher Rick Rockman, Sr. promised that the paper would provide complete, in-depth coverage of all area news and events. We believe he has not only lived up to that promise, but exceeded the community's expectations by the many additions and improvements not only to the Sunday newspaper, but with the addition of the Times Online edition years ago, and the addition of the midweek publication in September 1999. "This area desperately needs a newspaper with local news," said Rockman in April 1994. "We feel that the hometown paper concept has all but disappeared over the last few years. We'll focus on local news and events that are of interest and concern to the citizens of this area." With that issue over 10 years ago came the return of Rockman's popular "Straight from the shoulder" column and the Hot lines. Over the years there have been a number of changes at the Tri-County Times, all of which have been changes for the good of our readers, advertisers and community.