Searchlight switches off!

What is the atmosphere like in a newspaper production workplace on the final day, not of regular work, but the end of the road of publishing the paper?

For the small work team at Lower Kingstown Park where the SEARCHLIGHT Newspaper office is located, Thursday, September 24, 2026 was like any other regular day – the computers lit up as the pages are competently put together; telephone and front desk conversations being conducted as client engagement take place; and the occasional laughter as staff interacts. This has been a feature of the workspace at this newspaper over its lifespan, and even as staff now have to face the prospects of starting afresh.

Challenging in the early years; a learning experience; very interesting; and good overall, are just a few of the comments from staff asked to sum up their time at the company. The challenges encountered have been wide-ranging- from health scares, to encounters with bandits, and threats from persons angry with seeing the truth on our pages. But there has been fierce loyalty among staff who have cemented genuine friendships that remain through the years, and support provided in times of difficulty, hardship, or merely having a tough day.

The organism that is Searchlight indeed, has shone a light outside, as well as within its own doors providing a start for staff to grow on the ladder of its internal labour market, or as a stepping stone to careers outside of the organisation, some not necessarily media related. The tales of staff encounters and experiences that you have never read about on our pages, will continue to be replayed by individuals who have worked at Searchlight, no doubt generating much mirth in the replay.

Today, as we switch off Searchlight, our sincere thanks are extended to all who have helped to keep us alert, active, and alive in business over the past three decades plus one.