Three Generations, One Mission: The Jones Family’s 70-Year Legacy in Local Media

In the rural communities spanning western New York and north-central Pennsylvania, local news hasn’t just survived—it has evolved. At the center of that evolution is one family: the Joneses, whose three generations of media entrepreneurship have shaped how small-town information is shared, sold, and sustained.

A Print Pioneer in Bolivar

The story begins in 1953 in Bolivar, New York, when William O. “Bill” Jones founded the Moneysaver Shopping Guide. At a time when television was still emerging, Jones recognized a simple but powerful need: local businesses needed affordable advertising, and residents needed a reliable way to stay informed about their community.

The Moneysaver delivered both. Distributed free of charge, the weekly paper was packed with advertisements, classifieds, and local notices. At its height, it reached more than 13,000 copies weekly, becoming a staple across Allegany County and nearby Pennsylvania communities and building a loyal readership along with a dependable revenue stream through advertising.

More than a newspaper, the Moneysaver established a model—one based on accessibility, community connection, and low-cost distribution—that would prove remarkably durable.

In later years, the publication was run by his son, William “Wily” Jones, who expanded its circulation and helped the paper earn industry recognition and awards. Under his leadership, the Moneysaver continued to grow and adapt before it was eventually sold between 2011 and 2012, marking the end of an era for the family’s print operation.

A Digital Shift in Roulette

Half a century later, as print media began to decline, James B. “Jim” Jones—continuing the family tradition—adapted that model for a new era.

Based in Roulette, Pennsylvania, Jim Jones brought decades of experience in journalism, having worked as a correspondent and publisher earlier in his career. In 2007, he launched Solomon’s Words for the Wise, initially as a simple Blogger site that combined classifieds, community notices, and local reporting.

What began as a digital bulletin board quickly evolved into a trusted, real-time local news source. Covering rural communities across Pennsylvania and New York, Solomon’s Words became known for its timely updates on emergencies, public safety, community events, and obituaries. Residents could submit information directly, allowing news to be shared almost instantly—something unimaginable in the weekly print cycle of the Moneysaver.

Throughout much of this period, Jessica M. Jones was a constant presence behind the scenes, contributing to and supporting the work of Solomon’s Words. Her involvement helped sustain the platform’s day-to-day operation and continuity, providing a direct bridge between her father’s work and the next generation.

Jim Jones’ efforts ultimately bridged the gap between traditional print journalism and the emerging digital landscape, preserving the family’s core mission while modernizing how it was delivered.

A Modern Platform in Duke Center

Today, that legacy continues with Jessica M. Jones, Jim’s daughter, who founded J² Press in Duke Center, Pennsylvania.

Launched in February 2026, J² Press represents the next step in the family’s evolution in local media. In just a few short months, the platform has grown rapidly, building a steady and engaged viewership across the region.

J² Press offers coverage of local news, police and fire reports, school events, obituaries, and community announcements, while also providing affordable advertising opportunities such as yard sale listings and business promotions. The platform blends timely reporting with a strong sense of community connection, reflecting both modern digital standards and the traditions established by previous generations.

Jessica Jones created J² Press not only as a news outlet, but as a continuation of her father’s work and her family’s long-standing commitment to local journalism. Having been deeply involved in Solomon’s Words, she brings both experience and continuity to this new venture, along with an emphasis on truth, integrity, and community dialogue.

In a continuation of that legacy, Jessica is now passing the trade on to the next generation—her six daughters—who are actively learning the business and helping their mother with the work, ensuring that the family’s tradition of local media may continue well into the future.

One Model, Three Eras

Across three generations, the Jones family has adapted to dramatic changes in technology without abandoning their core mission.

• 1950s–2010s: Free print distribution connects communities through ads and notices.

• 2000s–2020s: Early web platforms enable real-time updates and community submissions.

• 2020s–present: Modern digital publishing blends journalism, engagement, and structured advertising.

  
  

What began as a weekly advertising paper has become a continuous digital news presence—spanning more than 70 years.

A Rare Continuity

In an industry marked by closures and consolidation, the Jones family’s story stands out. Few local media operations have successfully transitioned from print to digital, and even fewer have done so across multiple generations.

From the Moneysaver to Solomon’s Words to J² Press, the goal has remained constant: to keep small communities informed, connected, and visible.

In doing so, the Jones family has built more than a business—they have built a lasting legacy of local voice.