The Herald-News is announcing a new technology to keep readers better informed of news alerts across Rhea County.

Readers will now be able to receive news alerts via text message, in addition to e-mail alerts and updates posted at rheaheraldnews.com.

"We are pleased to announce this new medium for our readers to take advantage of," Herald-News Publisher Sara Jane Locke said. "Keeping up with evolving technology allows us to continue to serve the needs of readers as the best and most up-to-date source for local Rhea County news."

Those interested may sign up for the service by texting the keyword "HN" to the number 62447. A reply will be sent informing them that they have signed up for the service, along with further instructions for future use.  Any time a news alert is sent out by The Herald-News, the user will receive the text message.

The Herald-News administers the service in conjunction with Magi7, a fellow subsidiary of Jones Media, Inc., which is the parent company of The Herald-News.

The Herald-News does not charge for the alerts, but standard text message fees will apply. Those with questions about those fees should check with their cell phone carriers.

Supported wireless carriers for the service include Sprint/Nextel PCS, 
AT&T/Cingular, Verizon, 
T-Mobile, 
Boost, Virgin Mobile, Dobson/Cellular One and
AllTel.

The Rhea County Fair, planned for September, will be offering weekly updates through The Herald-News. Those who sign up for fair updates will also be eligible to win several prizes to be given away at the fair. To sign up for the giveaways and weekly fair updates, text the keyword "RCFAIR" to 62447.

Also, Dayton Chamber of Commerce members have an opportunity to win an advertising package using the technology. By texting the keyword "DCCTC" to 62447, members can enter a drawing set for Aug. 10. The winner will get six months of free text message advertising with The Herald-News, using the technology.

For more information on how to sign up for alerts or text messaging contests, call The Herald-News at 775-6111.