Welcome! In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the Standard Examiner, a familiar name in Northern Utah journalism. If you’ve ever wondered who they are, how they came to be, and what role they play in today’s media landscape, you’re in the right place. We’ll explore the history, evolution, strengths, and future of the Standard Examiner — and by doing so, highlight why it remains relevant for readers, advertisers, and the community.
Throughout this article, you’ll see the keyword “Standard Examiner” used naturally to reinforce our focus. We’ll also use a variety of related phrases such as “Northern Utah news source,” “local daily newspaper,” and “digital journalism in Utah” to support SEO and help readers understand the broader context.
Origins and Early Years of the Standard Examiner
The Standard Examiner’s roots run deep into Utah’s press history. Its story begins with earlier newspapers that served the Ogden area long before the internet age.
The Beginning
The first edition of the Ogden Standard was published on January 1, 1888. A rival paper, the Ogden Examiner, came into existence in 1904. On April 1, 1920, the two merged to create what we now know as the Standard Examiner.
Growth and Local Impact
From that merger, the It became a key daily morning newspaper serving Northern Utah, including Weber, Davis, Box Elder, and Morgan counties. Over time, it developed a reputation for reliable local reporting — covering community events, civic issues, sports, and business stories that mattered to Utah residents
Evolution in the Digital Age
Like many legacy newspapers, the It has had to evolve rapidly in the face of digital disruption.
Transition to Morning Publication & Print Changes
In the early 2000s, the paper upgraded its printing press and transitioned to a morning publication format to align with changing reader habits. This marked a significant operational shift and allowed for fresher daily news cycles.
Embracing Online & Real-Time News
The Standard Examiner was one of Utah’s early adopters of digital journalism. It reorganized its newsroom around a “real-time desk” — a team focused on breaking news and continuous online updates. This move helped the paper maintain its relevance and immediacy in a fast-moving information environment.
Print + Digital Hybrid Model
Today, the Standard Examiner operates as a hybrid platform, combining its print edition with a strong digital presence. Its website features multiple sections — Local News, Business, Sports, Lifestyle, Opinion, and more — allowing readers to stay informed anytime, anywhere. This hybrid approach bridges generations of readers while keeping local journalism accessible.
Coverage and Community Focus
One of the defining strengths of the Standard Examiner is its deep community focus.
Geographic Reach
The paper serves as Northern Utah’s primary regional news source, especially across Weber, Davis, Box Elder, and Morgan counties. Its coverage area extends beyond Ogden, reaching the greater “Top of Utah” region — a term the newspaper itself helped popularize in the 1990s.
Variety of News Sections
The Standard Examiner covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Local News: Government, housing, infrastructure, and community events.
- Business: Updates on local companies, job markets, and economic trends.
- Sports: Coverage of high school, college, and regional athletic programs.
- Lifestyle & Culture: Food, health, family, and arts.
- Opinion: Editorials, columns, and letters to the editor.
- Public Notices & Obituaries: Essential community information.
This broad coverage makes the Standard Examiner more than just a newspaper — it’s a local information hub.
Role as a Civic Watchdog
The Standard Examiner plays a crucial role as a civic watchdog, holding local institutions accountable and giving voice to community concerns. By covering city council meetings, public debates, and regional policies, it ensures residents stay informed and empowered.
Business Model, Ownership & Challenges
Ownership History
The Standard Examiner has seen several ownership transitions throughout its history. It was once owned by Sandusky Newspapers, Inc. and later became part of the Ogden Newspapers Company in 2018. These changes reflect broader trends in media consolidation across the United States.
Revenue Streams
Like most local newspapers, the Standard Examiner relies on multiple income sources:
- Print subscriptions and advertising
- Digital subscriptions and online ads
- Sponsored content and community announcements
This diversified model helps the paper sustain operations despite industry-wide challenges.
Key Challenges
The Standard Examiner, like many regional outlets, faces several modern challenges:
- Declining print readership
- Rising competition from social media and independent blogs
- Pressure to reduce costs without cutting journalistic quality
- Shifts in advertising models toward digital platforms
Maintaining Sustainability & Trust
To maintain sustainability and public trust, the Standard Examiner focuses on credibility, accuracy, and transparency — the cornerstones of modern journalism. Upholding these values helps ensure compliance with Google’s E-E-A-T principles: Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness.
Why the Standard Examiner Matters Today
Even in a digital era dominated by national media, the Standard Examiner remains indispensable for Utah residents.
Local News Relevance
National outlets may overlook local developments, but the Standard Examiner keeps communities informed about local government, schools, housing, and business issues that directly affect their daily lives.
Community Engagement
The newspaper fosters dialogue through opinion pieces, guest columns, and letters to the editor. This engagement strengthens civic participation and community identity.
Trust and Credibility
With over a century of consistent publication, the Standard Examiner has built lasting credibility. Long-time readers trust it for fair reporting and reliable updates on local affairs.
Lessons for the Industry
The Standard Examiner’s journey from print to digital demonstrates how regional newspapers can adapt while preserving journalistic integrity — a valuable lesson for local media nationwide.
Looking Ahead – The Future of the Standard Examiner
Digital Innovation
Moving forward, the Standard Examiner’s growth depends on its ability to innovate digitally. Expanding its mobile experience, introducing local podcasts, and embracing interactive data journalism could attract younger audiences.
Audience Engagement
To thrive, the paper must connect deeply with its audience by offering:
- Personalized newsletters
- Social media-driven community discussions
- Opportunities for reader-generated stories
Diversified Revenue Opportunities
The future sustainability of the Standard Examiner may include:
- Hosting local events or community workshops
- Launching tiered memberships for premium content
- Partnering with schools and nonprofits for educational programs
Preserving Local Focus
Despite evolving technologies, the heart of the Standard Examiner’s success lies in staying true to its roots — delivering authentic, local journalism that reflects the character and needs of Northern Utah.
Conclusion
The Standard Examiner stands as a cornerstone of Utah’s journalistic tradition — a publication that has evolved with time while keeping community service at its core. From its 19th-century origins to its modern digital presence, the Standard Examiner continues to shape civic life and uphold the value of trustworthy local reporting.
