We're only getting started, but our circulation since the sale went through is up at least 7 percent. That's a show of support that means something solid.
And the more I see of our new owner, Michael Schroeder, the more I believe we're going to see those numbers rise even more, perhaps much more.
The man is out there in the community talking to people who haven't seen a publisher in 15 years. He's friendly. He listens. He cares.
I can't quite convey how important that is both inside the paper and out in the world. But it is absolutely crucial.
There are still a lot of unknowns in this -- heck, I'm not even sure what I'm getting paid -- but my faith that we're heading in a better direction is growing. I hope that our readers will do their share by getting subscriptions and that business owners recognize the value of advertising, too.
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Copyright 2009. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
10 comments:
Congratulations Steve! Are you still working out of the old Press building? What are the plans for a new office or store front?
Too bad he doesn't return phone calls!
7% in this economy is a good thing. I hope it all works out. It has been nice to see more local coverage and editorials. When is the Press going to get rid of Sound Off?
We're still in the old building, but Schroeder's been looking at other office space all over town. He didn't buy the building and is eager to move out.
Take your pick of buildings - a good deal of empty ones in Bristol.
It is good to see a new owner.What has to be done is when the paper is
delivered to a resident the paper is tossed and not delivered properly into a paper box etc.This is why I will not purchase the paper.
Poster 8:13 is right. I have to admit that we stopped delivery years ago when an dult started delivering that paper and would drive down our driveway and toss the paper out his window. It woudl be in the flowers one day, the driveway the next, often times it was soaked. We didn't even know who this guy was until Christmas time when he dropped a card in our mailbox with his address on it with an envolope. He knew where to deliver that envolope, that's for sure. I know I may be nostaligic, but I really much prefered a paper boy or girl to the adult. I know collections could be a pain, but the paper carrier kind of brought the neighborhood closer. LOL.
Look's like people want to see if the Press will improve. Hope they're not disappointed or circulation will just go back down.
Why doesn't the new boss respond to efforts to contact him?
Why doesn't he publish his number?
You can phone him at the paper at (860) 584-0501.
I don't know about whether he's responding to calls and emails quickly, but I can say that I know he's insanely busy.
He's got to figure out where to move both the New Britain and Bristol papers, get new equipment to work on, find out where to print the papers, fix a decimated advertising staff, continue working to improve delivery and so much more. The number of big, difficult issues on his plate is astounding. In the weeks ahead, though, it should ease up as he makes the necessary decisions.
So I guess what I'm saying is to give him a break and give him some time. He's going to be much more open and available in the not so distant future.
Meantime, he's getting out there and meeting people. I know he's attending meetings and such all the time. I'm frankly blown away by how often people tell me about talks they've had with him.
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