The Advocate-Messenger’s online presence gets a makeover starting today, with a brand new website designed to be simpler and more user-friendly.

“Our new website makes it easier for readers to find what they’re looking for. Plus, it’s built on the powerful WordPress engine, meaning news posts and updates show up much faster than before,” Advocate-Messenger Editor Ben Kleppinger said. “We’re particularly excited about the new ability to create community calendars that users can help contribute to, so that anyone who wants to know what’s going on tonight or over the weekend can find out with a quick glance.”

In addition to the new look, The Advocate-Messenger is getting a new e-edition — which will be free for anyone to use for one week — and a new app that will allow subscribers to view each day’s newspaper in high resolution right on their smartphone or tablet.

“These new and improved services will make local news even more accessible for readers,” Publisher Larry Hensley said. “We invite you to try out the new e-edition for yourself and let us know what you think.”

Current subscribers will be quickly transitioned to the new e-edition service and should not see any interruption in the arrival of their newspapers thanks to the week of free access.

The new website is online now at www.amnews.com. Questions, comments and suggestions can be emailed to advocate@amnews.com.