5 Key Facts About The Ely Times: How Nevada's Longest-Running Newspaper Survived A Near-Death Experience In 2024
The Ely Times, the cornerstone of local journalism for White Pine County, Nevada, has undergone a dramatic transformation in the last two years, solidifying its place as the region’s most vital news source. As of today, December 19, 2025, the paper is not only surviving but thriving, a remarkable feat following a 2024 crisis that nearly saw the century-old publication cease operations entirely.
The paper’s recent history is a compelling story of survival, digital evolution, and a celebrated return to its traditional roots. Its acquisition by Nevada Central Media in January 2024 and the subsequent, much-anticipated return of its print edition in July 2025 are the biggest headlines in its long and storied history, proving that independent local news still holds immense value in rural Nevada.
The Dramatic 2024 Rescue and New Ownership
The beginning of 2024 marked a pivotal, near-fatal moment for The Ely Times. The paper, along with The Eureka Sentinel, was owned by Battle Born Media, which announced it was putting the newspapers up for sale with the possibility of ceasing operations if a buyer wasn't found.
The threat of the longest-running newspaper in White Pine County shutting down created a local outcry.
Nevada Central Media Steps In
In January 2024, a lifeline was extended. Nevada Central Media, LLC, a media company based in Alamo, Nevada, purchased The Ely Times and The Eureka Sentinel.
The company is owned by local journalist Ben Rowley, who operates from rural Alamo.
This acquisition was instrumental in saving the paper and ensuring that local journalism continued in Ely, Nevada. The new ownership was dedicated to revitalizing the paper and honoring its lengthy heritage.
- Acquiring Entity: Nevada Central Media, LLC
- Owner: Ben Rowley, a rural Nevada journalist
- Previous Owner: Battle Born Media
- Acquisition Date: January 2024
- Sister Publications: The Eureka Sentinel, Lincoln County Record, and Mesa Valleys Progress
A Century of Service: The Ely Times Biography and History
The Ely Times has been the steadfast community news voice for Ely, Nevada, and the entirety of White Pine County since its founding in 1920.
It holds the distinction of being the longest-running newspaper in the area, having documented over a century of significant local history.
From Digital-Only to a Celebrated Print Return
Following the 2024 acquisition, The Ely Times initially focused on digital content and subscription growth.
However, acknowledging the importance of a physical paper to the community, Nevada Central Media announced a major milestone: the return of the print edition.
The print edition made its highly anticipated return on July 4, 2025.
This move was a powerful statement about the commitment to traditional local journalism in an era where many rural papers struggle to survive in the digital landscape. Subscribers now have the option for a print edition delivered monthly, both in-county and out-of-county.
What The Ely Times Covers Today: Local Journalism in White Pine County
The Ely Times prides itself on being an independently-owned, local news source that provides essential information to its thousands of readers weekly.
Its content is a deep dive into the specific events, issues, and people that matter most to the residents of White Pine County, Nevada. The paper’s focus on local journalism and community news ensures it remains relevant and necessary.
Key Topical Authority Entities and Coverage Areas:
The paper covers a wide range of subjects, from local government decisions to the daily activities of law enforcement and the unique challenges faced by the region's ranching community. Recent coverage highlights the paper's dedication to current and hyper-local issues:
- Law Enforcement: Regular publication of the White Pine County Sheriff's Office Report, providing transparency and local safety updates.
- Agriculture and Ranching: Reporting on modern agricultural techniques, such as the use of virtual fencing by Nevada ranchers to manage cattle and protect rangelands.
- Local Government & Civics: Coverage of the White Pine County Official Website news and events, including county commission meetings and local ordinances.
- Community Events & Tourism: Highlighting significant local happenings like the Legacy Racing Baja Nevada race coming to Ely, the grand re-opening of Cave Lake, and events at the Nevada Northern Railway.
- Competitors: While The Ely Times is the longest-running, another key local news entity is the Bristlecone Tribune, which is also locally owned.
The paper’s continued existence and recent revival underscore its crucial role in the civic life of Ely and White Pine County. The commitment of Ben Rowley and Nevada Central Media to both digital accessibility and the cherished tradition of the print edition ensures that the Ely Times will continue to hold history and inform its community for decades to come, fighting the trend of local newspaper closures across rural America.
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