"Amazing America" Celebrates 75 Years of Student Journalism

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, March 6th 2026 at 5:58 GMT by Fox 11 News
      Locales: Tennessee, UNITED STATES

Amazing America: 75 Years of Student Journalism and Community Legacy in Pulaski

PULASKI, Tenn. - The ink-stained hands of generations of students have shaped a remarkable piece of American journalism history right here in Pulaski, Tennessee. Amazing America, the student newspaper of Pulaski High and affiliated educational institutions, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this month, cementing its place as the longest continuously published student community newspaper in the nation.

Founded in 1949, in the immediate post-war era, Amazing America began as a modest four-page bulletin, typed on a single manual typewriter and distributed around the school cafeteria. Its initial goal was simple: to provide a forum for student expression and to cover local events, primarily school sports and activities. What started as a humble endeavor has blossomed into a vital community resource, documenting the social, political, and cultural evolution of Pulaski and the surrounding Giles County over seven decades.

Dr. John Smith, the current faculty advisor, emphasizes the paper's unique position. "This isn't simply an academic exercise. It's a living archive, a tangible link to the past, present, and future of our community. Each issue reflects the concerns, triumphs, and dreams of the students who created it, and simultaneously, offers a snapshot of Pulaski at that moment in time."

The 75th-anniversary celebration, scheduled for the week of March 6th, promises to be a significant event. The festivities will kick off with a formal alumni reunion, bringing together former staff members from across the decades. Many are traveling from across the country to reconnect with their alma mater and share memories of their time working on the paper. Workshops focusing on modern journalism techniques, including digital storytelling, investigative reporting, and media ethics, are also planned, offering current students valuable skills for the 21st century. The highlight of the week will be the release of a special commemorative edition, painstakingly compiled from historical photographs, landmark articles, and reminiscences from key figures in the newspaper's history.

However, the longevity of Amazing America isn't merely a matter of luck. It's the product of sustained commitment from both students and faculty. The paper has consistently adapted to changing media landscapes, moving from manual typewriters to desktop publishing, and now embracing online platforms and social media. But its core principles have remained steadfast. Sarah Jones, the current editor-in-chief, explains, "We've always taken seriously our responsibility to report accurately and fairly, even when it meant covering controversial topics or challenging established norms. We understand that a free press is essential for a healthy democracy, and we're committed to upholding those values."

The newspaper's archives reveal a rich tapestry of local history. Issues from the 1960s document the Civil Rights Movement in Pulaski, providing a student perspective on a pivotal moment in American history. The 1980s saw the paper actively campaigning for environmental protection, advocating for the preservation of local waterways. More recently, Amazing America has focused on issues facing young people in the community, such as mental health, college affordability, and career opportunities.

Beyond its journalistic endeavors, Amazing America has also been deeply involved in community service. Students regularly volunteer at local charities, organize fundraising events, and participate in town hall meetings. The newspaper often serves as a platform for local organizations to promote their initiatives and connect with the community.

Looking ahead, Dr. Smith envisions a future where Amazing America continues to thrive. "We're exploring opportunities to expand our coverage, to reach a wider audience, and to provide even more valuable content for the community. We are also hoping to create a fully searchable digital archive of all past issues, making our history accessible to researchers and the public for generations to come."

Amazing America stands as a testament to the power of student journalism and the importance of community engagement. As the paper embarks on its next 75 years, it remains dedicated to its founding principles: empowering student voices, fostering civic participation, and upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity. It's more than just a newspaper; it's a Pulaski tradition - a living legacy etched in ink and bound by the dedication of those who believe in the power of storytelling.