I felt like I should write something explaining the upcoming political season and some declaration/warning that we will be publishing political ads. But I kind of feel like the only people who really care – the ones unable to see a political ad and understand that’s how we keep the paper alive and bringing you the news, and if it annoys them to keep turning the page – have already canceled their subscriptions.
Rudely.
I got called a Nazi. Actually, the person said they were glad to know I cared more about the bottom line than the state of our country. And then said they look forward to seeing my next ad from the American Nazi Party. Except for the part where they won’t be seeing the paper ever again.
Dear God. I remember when the LVN used to run the Bunny Ranch ads on the high school sports page, for Pete’s Sake.
I did check in with some of my peers to see if I’m off base here. They all, overwhelmingly said, “take the money.” Sam Shad actually said he takes all the political money he can. “My family has to eat, Rachel.” He said as long as it's not racist or uses foul language.
“Opposing opinions are allowed too but let them all pay. Newsprint ain’t cheap,” said Sam.
Preach, brother. If you can even get your paper off the boat in Long Beach right now.
The critics both said they couldn’t understand why I would take money from “those” people. Which is interesting to me. I’m supposing none of them are responsible for making sure there’s money every Friday to pay the people slogging in the trenches with you. And the Credit Union for your truck. They’re super nice and helpful over there, but they get a little twitch if you don’t send the truck payment.
One of the complainers even went so far as to say he didn’t believe the advertiser actually paid for three whole pages. Seriously. You think I’m going to give away prime real estate??? Also, there are pretty strict guidelines governing political ads. Pricing and payment, etc. Politicians actually have to pay in full for their ad before you can run it.
I’m going to take their money All. Day. Long. And make no mistake we will be selling ads to all sides – our residents need to hear from those who are running for office. All of them.
And then I’m going to find a graphic designer and hire her, and then I’m going to find a front desk person/assistant and hire him, and then I’m going to find a real-live advertising person and hire the heck out of him. Or her. And THEN, you just wait and see what we’re going to do with this outfit. You think it’s a great little local, community paper now – wait and see what we can do when we finally have some RESOURCES.
We’re going to have a morning read on Alexa and a weekly talk show and a podcast, and in the morning, we’re making WAFFLES!
And while we’re putting it out into the universe how awesome this little paper is going to be as we grow our revenue streams and magnify our calling – we’ll still be right here…
…keeping you Posted.
Rach
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