With 2008 behind us, we look forward to a new year.

In the newspaper industry, that means change.

Publications all across the country are riding the economic roller coaster and Sound Publishing Inc., our parent company, is no different. Our sister papers transitioned to once-a-week tabloid formats this week. The Central Kitsap Reporter, as well as the Bremerton Patriot, however, already made the transformation to tabloid in June. The Port Orchard Independent, North Kitsap Herald, Bainbridge Island Review and Northwest Navigator are following suit to bring local readers informative news in a reader-friendly format.

While you are used to picking up the CK Reporter Saturday mornings, it’s a new dawn as the Reporter, starting today, will be published every Friday. We have made a switch to Fridays, but we will not change in our commitment to bringing you local, community news every week.

The change is undoubtedly beneficial to our readers, as the What’s Up entertainment section will again be included within the pages of the Reporter. You may remember What’s Up, which was published Wednesdays in the Reporter before we transitioned to a once-a-week publication in June. If you’re not familiar with the section, you are in for a treat. What’s Up covers arts and entertainment throughout Kitsap County, ranging from local plays and bands to fun activities to do with the entire family.

Just as you have told us of your appreciation of the Reporter’s new look through your phone calls and e-mails, we are confident you will enjoy the paper’s new Friday delivery.

The Reporter not only changed its print format, but our Web site was completely revamped this summer. The most recent change to the site, however, was the addition of reader comments following each story. We invite you to share your opinions and feedback at www.centralkitsapreporter.com.

The new Web site also features a wide variety of community stories as well as breaking news, weather, classifieds, photo reprints, comics and more.

We always welcome feedback and news tips from our readers. Feel free to contact us at (360) 308-9161 or by e-mail at editor@centralkitsapreporter.com. Or even better, drop us a note via our Web site.