As you probably noticed when you picked up your HiLite this morning, the issue looks different. Last spring, the staff decided to undergo some major changes to our print publications and website, the most obvious being a switch from a tabloid format to a mini-tab (shorter and more narrow like a magazine). The amount of content will remain roughly the same; to account for the smaller pages, we increased the number of pages from 32 to 56. We’ve also decided to switch to HiBrite paper: whiter, higher quality paper that will make colors appear more vibrant.

For the past five years, we’ve had the tabloid format and we saw many benefits of switching. The smaller pages allow for more liberal design, full-picture spreads, and a cleaner, more breathable use of space. The smaller magazine dimensions also allow you to stack your HiLites just like any other assignment; you no longer have to fold up an issue to fit it in your backpack.

In addition to the print changes, we are working to revamp the website. As more media companies rely on online coverage to provide news for their readers, the HiLite staff is following this trend by embracing the web more. Check out the website hilite.org and you’ll find a completely changed design with a new theme that allows for a bigger display of pictures, color-coded sections and an emphasis on visual content. Our better use of visuals is meant to capture your attention and help you remember the information we’re providing. Acumen has undergone some major improvements as well, including a new website specifically for Acumen and an expanded print publication.

How is this better for you? We hope that these changes will appeal to you and cause you to become more interested and involved in our newspaper. These fresh designs and cool website are like cheese on top of broccoli, making what’s good for you more palatable.

The HiLite itself has not changed. We will continue to cover everything from club meetings to in-depth, controversial stories and we will continue to maintain our journalistic fundamentals. However, with more reader-friendly services, we are giving you, the reader, a cooler, more visually appealing venue to the news you need.