by Peter Weinberger

Running a community newspaper and website in 2026 is not for the faint of heart. Every week brings new challenges — from revenue challenges and shifting reader habits to rising costs that show no signs of slowing.

That’s why I’m pleased to share some important news about the future of the Claremont Courier.

After more than two years of working diligently as our advertising director, Anna Hoy has been named the first-ever general manager of the Claremont Courier. Yes, she will continue to sell Courier advertising. But she will also partner with the publisher to help keep the Courier publishing.

Anna Hoy has been named the first-ever general manager of the Claremont Courier. Courier file photo

This work has not been easy. The local media industry continues to experience downturns in both readership and revenue, pressures that intensify each year. Despite this, Anna has consistently looked for ways to streamline the business, and has reached out to literally hundreds of businesses while leading Courier marketing efforts to strengthen our print edition, website and brand.

First the first time in seven years, in 2025 the Courier recorded an increase in our largest revenue vertical, display advertising. This is no small feat given the current media landscape. Much of that progress stems from Anna’s positive, can-do approach and her ability to work closely with others.

From a business standpoint, Anna’s instinct was to step in wherever help was needed. When the Courier’s mailing crew lost its longtime location and we experienced near-total staff turnover, she helped stabilize a critical operation. She played a key role in hiring new leadership for the mailing team, securing a new workspace, and ensuring that the Courier continued to land on doorsteps every Friday without interruption.

When staff changes required temporary coverage in other departments, Anna took the lead in developing detailed backup plans to keep things running smoothly.

Her reach hasn’t stopped there. Anna has helped organize and staff major community events such as Village Venture, the Claremont Farmers Market, and other Courier-hosted events, often bringing in talented interns to help support the workload. She also made key hires that reshaped how the Courier presents itself online, leading to growth in our social media presence and visual storytelling.

Looking ahead to 2026, Anna and I will work closely to expand the Courier’s revenue base through partnerships, donations, grants, digital marketing, and audience growth beyond Claremont’s borders. As general manager, she will oversee the business operations of the Courier, allowing our newsroom and staff to remain focused on what we do best: providing fact-based, local journalism our community can trust.

As you can see, Anna’s initial role as advertising director had already evolved into a general manager position — so why not make it official? From my perspective, it’s clear she was meant for this role.

If you would like to congratulate Anna, or have a question about the Courier, her email is: anna@claremont-courier.com.