Tribune changes won't affect the AFN

The East Valley Tribune announced a major shift in strategy Monday, but the changes being made will have no effect on the Ahwatukee Foothills News.

East Valley Tribune Publisher Julie Moreno said the Tribune will cut back its coverage in the East Valley to four days a week and circulate papers in Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert and Queen Creek.

Ahwatukee Foothills News Publisher Renie Scibona said the newspapers and Web sites serving Ahwatukee Foothills, Ocotillo and Maricopa will continue to cover their communities as they always have.

"We will serve readers and advertisers in the same way we have for years, providing complete local news coverage for readers and effective service to our advertisers," Scibona said.

Moreno said Monday's actions were necessary if the Tribune is to remain a part of the East Valley.