I BELIEVE IN NEWSPAPERS

A new chapter has begun in the long and noble history of the newspaper industry. Yet, sometimes a story doesn't begin at the beginning, no.  It begins later, after several chapters have been written to set the scene.  And for those who love the printed newspaper — and in the best interest of all local communities in this great nation of ours, let's hope this story ends well.

The politicians are busy electioneering right now, talking about releasing their tax returns, the state of the economy, and what's best for America.  However, there has yet to be talk of a newspaper stimulus package and certainly no talk of a newspaper bailout.  This inflames me, as I hope it does you.  Our politicians easily forget that their role in government and history is judged by the Fourth Estate. 

Running a newspaper today is more than reporting news, it's about overcoming depressions, recessions, increased competition, changing marketplaces, and facing obstacles far more threatening than ever before.  Some have shifted from afternoon publication to morning, some are struggling with post office closings, and all are feeling the rush to go digital.  Change is a given, and we're used to it.

Despite it all, newspapers have survived, and will continue to do so. When you walk into the building of your local newspaper, it's alive:  You can hear the fast and rhythmic clickety-clack of the keys and the hustle and bustle of the employees as they dig-in to an honest days’ work. And though today's keyboards are not nearly as loud as the old typewriters used to be, that heart and soul is still there; newspapers represent the pulse of a community.

That clicking you hear is the heart, and that pulse is you and me.  Newspapers are a living, breathing part of our society.  And it is because of you and I that they are still signing paychecks, still paying bills, and still making a profit.  So don't pull the plug on us yet.

I say, for the small price I pay for my subscription being delivered to my door each morning, it's an honor that I can help a mighty and principled tradition to continue. There is NOTHING like a daily newspaper. It is a welcome visitor to my home; it assures that I will have a First-Class morning with an old friend that I can count on each and every day. 

Like you, I have a passion for community newspapers. I believe they play a critical role in educating and engaging the citizenry in the ongoing process of their daily lives. I will never give up my printed newspaper. And despite the continuing challenges, I pray the presses keep rolling. This is my promise: I will keep subscribing, as long as you keep printing. Fair enough?

Chris Howell, NewspaperMan
CEO of NewspaperCallCenter.com
Chris@NewspaperTelemarketing.com

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