Hoptown Chronicle is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news outlet committed to covering issues that are often overlooked or misunderstood in our community.
We devote attention to local government, especially in areas that affect downtown business and development. Our journalism aims to advance the public good, promote a respectful dialogue among citizens, raise awareness of business, arts, culture and history unique to Hopkinsville, and support a more sustainable news ecosystem through collaboration. Additionally, our coverage occasionally includes issues related to social justice, education, health and wellness, agriculture and the environment.
Our mission
To provide fact-based reporting that gives local people information they need to make good decisions about Hopkinsville and Christian County.
Our vision
To advance the public good, promote a respectful dialogue among citizens, and to raise awareness of business, arts, culture and history unique to Hopkinsville.
Our history
Co-founders Jennifer P. Brown and Julia Hunter launched Hoptown Chronicle’s website in June 2019 as a new nonprofit newsroom dedicated to fact-based reporting in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. It grew out of an experiment called Hoptown Central, which started on Facebook in November 2018 when Brown reported on a real estate auction where several landmark buildings in the town’s old business district were sold.
Hoptown Chronicle obtained its 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS and became a member of the Institute for Nonprofit News shortly before launching the website. It also established a story-sharing agreement with WKMS, in Murray, and additional Kentucky Public Radio stations across the commonwealth.
Our early emphasis on Hopkinsville’s downtown revival has evolved as we focus on stories that explore crucial issues in the community. We strive to flex our institutional knowledge and provide context and background on stories about economic development, local governance, health, education, the arts and history.
How we’re funded
Hoptown Chronicle relies on donors to support our journalism. As a matter of policy, funders exercise no control over Hoptown Chronicle’s editorial decisions. See who our supporters are.
Our team
Publisher & editor: Jennifer P. Brown
Engagement editor: Julia Hunter
Connect with us
Contact us with questions, feedback or story tips. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and subscribe to our free newsletter.
