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Why your newspaper, and local Web site, are struggling


Saturday, August 23, 2008 10:51 AM PDT

Comments (143 comment(s))

Newspapers have been making bad news for a year or so now.

Declining circulation and declining advertising revenue have caused newspaper people to lose jobs. At paper after paper, chain after chain, financial reports show negligible profits or losses. It's time to share a not very guarded secret: This newspaper company is not immune to the industry's illness.

We're fighting two wars: the economy and the Internet.

The economy is the more immediate concern.

The economy of Lodi, like everywhere else, is in a slump caused by careless home lending and high oil prices. Many families have lost their homes and/or their jobs. They aren't buying cars and they're buying only necessities at local stores. Real estate companies are selling foreclosed homes at bargain prices and employers, like us, are laying off workers.

All this has caused the worst slump in advertising — not that I've ever seen — the worst my father has seen. And Dad's been in this business since 1949.

But the economy will recover. In the long-run, our challenge is the Internet. The real struggle is to figure out how to produce a news report in the 21st Century.

Why do we give away news on Lodinews.com?

Dad and I have a fight about that three or four times a year. Those who work in family businesses may chuckle now, but it's a serious question.

My answer — the conventional wisdom in the industry — has two parts: 1) People don't pay for news online; 2) Advertising ought to pay the bills for online news just as it does in the newspaper. For the time being, this answer is wrong.

If it were correct, we wouldn't be in this mess.

So what's wrong? If you're still with me, I'll launch into a little Newspaper Economics 101.

From a publisher's point of view, it starts with circulation. If circulation were holding up, newspapers would just do what they always did and keep taking profits to the bank.

There were a couple times back in the late '80s and early '90s when the paid circulation of the Lodi News-Sentinel hit 18,000. ("Paid circulation" is a count of the average number of papers sold of each edition.) We had 15,170 circulation this past June.

Since 1990, Lodi has grown 11,484 in population; Galt has grown 15,024. Obviously, the News-Sentinel is less read by the people in this area than we used to be. But that's just the newspaper. In July, 8,544 people a day visited Lodinews.com. If you believe surveys, there are about two readers per newspaper; multiply the circulation, add it to the online readership and you get about 39,000 readers a day. Our combined publications are as popular as ever.

But back to Dad's question: Why give away news on the 'Net?

Some papers have tried charging for content and they have a fraction of the audience free sites have. Recently, the New York Times gave up $10 million a year in online subscription revenue and began giving away access to its top columnists. The ad revenue surpassed the circulation revenue in a few months.

But is free online news fair to newspaper readers?

I know a newspaper subscription is not cheap, but when you pay your bill of $8.75 per month ($9.25 in the country), it just about covers the cost of delivery and the paper we print on. Advertising pays for the rest — the news department, the health insurance, the rent, the electricity, the paychecks of the people who print, compose and electronically publish the content and, of course, the advertising department itself.

So there are ads in the paper and ads on the 'Net. What's the problem?

It's all about price and volume.

To simplify it, every issue of the Lodi News-Sentinel has 37 to 40 cents of advertising per reader. Every day, Lodinews.com publishes about 7 to 9 cents of advertising per reader. I'd love to push the price of Internet advertising, but there's a ton of online competition that stands in the way.

Can we make it up on volume? Maybe, maybe not.

Lots of advertising that used to be in newspapers isn't there now and won't make an impact on our Web site anytime soon. Costco doesn't advertise; Wal-Mart rarely advertises in newspapers and doesn't in this one. (Note to Wal-Mart headquarters in Bentonville, Ark.: We'd love to have the insert. Thank you.)

If we can build up Web advertising, this business can transition gracefully from being a newspaper to being a news medium with a print publication, a Web site and who knows what.

Right now, we're losing a little money. Not so much that we can't hang on through the foreclosure mess, but …

When you see 16-page papers with a tiny hole left for world and national news, it's a sign of the struggle. When you miss your favorite comic (we cut Beetle Bailey and Marvin this week) or incomplete baseball stats, it's because I'm trying to save a job, a person to serve you in other ways.

We've left some positions unfilled as people have left, and we've even had a couple of lay-offs. We're not in as bad shape as the big chains in our area who all seemed to buy out competitors using wheelbarrows of borrowed money just before the mortgage crisis hit. Sometimes modest ambition works in your favor.

I'll try not to be too self-important here. It is up to each of you to judge what the newspaper industry's trouble means to America, and what our struggle means to the citizens of Lodi and the surrounding area.

I'll just tell you, saving this paper and its sister publication, Lodinews.com, is the most important thing I've ever tried to do.

And if I have any success at all, it will be because that belief is shared by those who threw your paper, set ink and posted to the Internet early this morning. Those who wrote the stories, gathered information for the ads and sent the bills out yesterday did it for a great deal more than a mere paycheck.

We appreciate your readership and your business. So do our advertisers.

Marty Weybret is the publisher of the Lodi News-Sentinel and Lodinews.com.

Reader Feedback

Observer wrote on Sep 3, 2008 2:46 PM:

" Unfortunately the way the legal system works is that you can pay a fortune to show you were right or you can pay very little and make the problem go away. A simple business decision. "

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Observer wrote on Sep 3, 2008 2:44 PM:

" T&C, didn't you follow this story at all? Former City Attorney Randy Hayes came up with the grand idea that the best way to handle the situation is to sue all of the businesses in the impacted area, they would turn it over to their insurance companies and the insurance companies would roll over and pay any amount asked for. One problem....it didn't work. The insurance companies didn't roll over and the cities legal fees mounted. The City finally realized they couldn't win and wanted to settle before they lost everything. At least get the story straight. "

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TANDC wrote on Sep 2, 2008 8:20 PM:

" And if it was those "leaky" sewers, why haven't they been repaired yet? Just maybe they weren't leaking at that location at all and those toxic chemicals were dumped right onto the ground at the back or side door? Fred Weybret should know. "

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TANDC wrote on Sep 2, 2008 8:17 PM:

" And if they weren't guilty, why did they allow their insurers to pay up? Why not fight it in court? If they weren't guilty, their court costs would have been paid by the city, or whoever they sued. Good ol' boys take care of one another, until one gets caught and starts snitching to save his own family name. "

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TANDC wrote on Sep 2, 2008 8:14 PM:

" It wasn't all dumped in the sewer, much of it was thrown out the back door. Maybe some of you young uns' don't remember how chemicals were disposed of in the old days? Quit cheerleading for those who are responsible and chumped their way out because they were forgiven by other good ol' boys for later favors. "

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TANDC wrote on Sep 2, 2008 8:11 PM:

" Weybret's and Katzakian, PAY UP! "

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Lodian wrote on Sep 2, 2008 3:27 PM:

" Cogito and Observer: Good points. "

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Observer wrote on Sep 2, 2008 2:19 PM:

" Cogito, great comments! This reminds me of the DBCP issue the farmers were facing years ago. A chemical that was approved for use and then found to be toxic and taken off the market at which time Farmers stopped using the it. But that wasn't good enough.....farmers were expected to go to great expense to remove a previously approved chemical. It was absolutely ludicrous. Especially something that had fewer carcinogens than a piece of celery. "

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Cogito wrote on Sep 1, 2008 11:04 PM:

" From what I know, none of those chemicals, that were legally put into the city's sewage system, would have polluted the ground if it weren't for the cracks in the city's sewage system. If I were on the jury, the city would be on the hook for the entire amount. That is, as long as the businesses were following regulations. "

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TandC wrote on Aug 31, 2008 10:02 PM:

" Fred, Marty and Rich, if it's sympathy you want, then pay your share of the $50,000,000 ground pollution cleanup tab instead of letting the LEUD ratepayers pick it up. You were the ones that knowingly dumped those chemicals into the ground and your slop sinks at your businesses. That applies to Mr. Katzakian at Lodi printing, too. And the corrupt council members that voted to let them get away with this. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 31, 2008 12:35 AM:

" TandC (10:10pm): Hmmm, maybe this is something we shouldn't forget. "

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voter wrote on Aug 29, 2008 6:36 AM:

" Those are the perks when you are in bed with city hall. "

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WY wrote on Aug 29, 2008 6:28 AM:

" We're not supose to remember that. "

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TandC wrote on Aug 28, 2008 10:10 PM:

" Many Lodians I know have lost their respect for the Weybret's and the News-Sentinel and canceled long ago. When they pulled strings and stuck us Lodi taxpayers with their share of the ground and water pollution of around $50,000,000 and the city council and attorney let them settle for a few paltry dollars from their insurer, they were doomed to be successful. As did Lodi printing, the cleaners, decal company and the others directly for this $50 million boondoggle, they should have been held personally responsible for the pollution. What comes around, goes around. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 28, 2008 5:59 PM:

" Observer wrote "I know Rich and Marty personally and they are good people. We need to support them."

Yes, they are. And, yes, we can support them by being as honest as possible. I'm sure they don't want a bunch of fluff from us when discussing the LNS. That doesn't help anyone. I think more highly of these folks at the LNS then to just kiss their butt. I'm sure you feel the same. After all, they're reporters and newsman/women. They want the truth, right? Let's be totally honest with them so they can make the best decisions possible for the future of the LNS. "

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Mrs. S. wrote on Aug 28, 2008 5:33 PM:

" We've subscribed to the LNS for years in our house. As the years have gone on, we dropped other papers we've received, but we've always taken the LNS, and we'll continue to do so.

Maybe Mr. Weybret can do as a small publisher in another town I know does and claim the entire population of his small towns as "subscribers" in his circulation figures (LOL). I don't think that would work well, though, and it probably doesn't work for that guy, either.

Best of luck, Mr. Weybret. You've got this family as loyal customers. "

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Observer wrote on Aug 28, 2008 5:01 PM:

" It would be a tremendous loss to lose our local newspaper. There aren't many left. The last thing we need is a newspaper who's headquarters are in Chicago. The Weybret's should be commended for staying the course and not selling out as I'm sure the could have in the past. I know Rich and Marty personally and they are good people. We need to support them. "

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WY wrote on Aug 28, 2008 3:14 PM:

" Andrew... I would be more than happy to help out in any way with the RFL I could if you're short handed. I mean it. You would have great photos and a story. You'd have to check my spelling, but really. If I'm going to sit here and bitch about it, I'll help. I think it's that important.

And Thank You for responding about it. I think that was cool! :) "

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TandC wrote on Aug 28, 2008 11:41 AM:

" Andrew, spend half as much time in Lodi as you do Galt and maybe Lodians would get their news on the front page, rather than Galt, merely to sell newspapers. What events in Galt are important and affect out lives in Lodi? 75% of those front page articles are merely the Sentinel making Galt look like the unimportant town it is and the deflection of important Lodi issues that are kept from the citizenry by your owner, his daddy, and your editor. "

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Andrew Adams, city editor wrote on Aug 28, 2008 11:19 AM:

" As the LNS city editor it is my job to coordinate local news coverage. Here is an insight into our coverage of the Relay for Life last year. I received a call about two days prior to the event, but was able to write a brief preview article. On a normal weekend, we have one photographer on call during the weekend and one reporter who comes in on Sunday. I assigned our photographer to shoot the relay, which was one of several assignments he had that day. Because of a miscommunication between the photographer and the Sunday copy desk the photo package did not run. To be honest I was pretty upset. I have several family members who are fighting cancer and I think the relay is a wonderful event. We ran a three-photo package that included the amount of money raised on Tuesday. I am sorry that this coverage did not satisfy some of our readers, but to say the News-Sentinel did not cover the relay last year is incorrect. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 28, 2008 11:08 AM:

" 1 voice: I appreciate your response. We are discussing this for free because it behooves the LNS to do so. It's not just "for fun" for them. They sound desperate now (unfortunately). The paper is hurting and they are digging deep to find out what they can do. Thank goodness they are looking to their public and asking questions. Kudos for that!

The whole RFL event and no coverage whatsoever is a bigger deal than you state. A local paper ignoring such a big event in this town was mind-boggling to say the least. I would really be interested in hearing the reasons why they did not wake up and catch the stories. It's not like it was just a one hour event. I have to compare this "oversight" to some of the other stories on the front page (top fold) that are nowhere near as important or interesting as the RFL story/stories would have and could have been. There is just no excuse for it. I know many that dropped their subscription after that one. "

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1 voice wrote on Aug 28, 2008 10:13 AM:

" RFL is a great event, and there are stories worth telling, but here are some truths about journalism:

1. Coverage suffers when a newspaper cannot afford to keep enough reporters on the payroll. Economic downturns mean less information people want and need to know (but typically don't pay for.) There used to be a health reporter--the person who would've passionately defended RFL coverage--there isn't one now.
2. In a city as close-knit as Lodi, people should constructively interact with the newspaper. Instead of waiting for LNS coverage to disappoint, let reporters/editors know what you want and need to see. Be specific, courteous and, above all, involved in your news.
3. With all the info that comes into a newsroom, it's hard to pick what gets covered and how much. In this case, RFL organizers would do well to give SPECIFIC, unique and compelling stories to catch a reporter's/editor's eye. No health reporter=no dedicated advocate for health coverage.

Journalists are just people trying to figure out what other people need and want to know. No local paper gives this more thought than LNS. The fact we're discussing this now (for free) is a testament to that fact. "

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WY wrote on Aug 28, 2008 7:33 AM:

" Whoa Nellie... Thank you for your comment about the RELAY FOR LIFE. "

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voter wrote on Aug 27, 2008 5:25 PM:

" I think the LNS should make an effort to educate their readers on how national issues affect us locals. We've had some articles about water issues and flood insurance, but there is not enough of this until a real crisis is on our doorstep. Interview the medical community about problems with insurance and treatment of the underinsured and uninsured. How does this affect their practice and the health of Lodi citizens? What do they see as a responsible solution? How many locals are uninsured or underinsured? The list of possible topics is endless, especially in this election year. "

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Whoa Nellie! wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:59 PM:

" As for the lack of coverage of the RELAY FOR LIFE, that is unacceptable.

My family has participated each and every year; Lodi High, Grape Bowl, and at the Festival Grounds. This is a collection of real everyday people who have been touched by cancer.

I have been surprised the people I have seen at the RFL events in the purple SURVIVOR shirts. Everyone has a story, each unique, each warm & fuzzy in a different way.

MARTY & RICH-- dont make the same mistake again this June! "

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Whoa Nellie! wrote on Aug 27, 2008 4:53 PM:

" 1 Voice makes some great points. While I do not, want to, or can belong to tons of community clubs and organizations I can read about them in the LNS. Weddings, births, and deaths are all in the LNS. And, of course, real news like our city, school and county stuff. THIS is what really makes a local paper.

Lodian, I see your point about the bikini bar. BUT, if you lived in Lockeford area you would want to know what the heck is going on there. Real facts, not grapevine gossip.

The death of the LNS would result in the death of a lot of community involvement. And with that we would lose our great town personality. "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:36 PM:

" I think we all want to see to LNS do well . I do. It's part of my home town and would be sad to see it fail. I mean no disrespect. "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:33 PM:

" Hi Billy "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:32 PM:

" Sorry ... RELAY FOR LIFE "

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Billy Rubin wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:10 PM:

" If 1 voice's first name is an anagram of yarn, I have always thought the paper slipped dramatically since your departure. "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:10 PM:

" Lodian... I totally agree. Everyone is touched by cancer "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:09 PM:

" That's just a few thoughts, not all. "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 3:09 PM:

" The RELAY FORM LIFE was HUGE!
Your telling me not one reporter could knock on a door about that one? Come on.... There were people from all over this town that would have told you their story. They made almost 200 THOUSAND DOLLARS!!! It was one of the biggest fund raisers in this area. I guess that's not news. That's just one of many. But you can run over and over and Tell yourself what you need to. The pictures suck for some time now and disrespect the subject for whom they were taken for what?, the sake of a shoddy story. To point the finger at a homeless man, laugh and walk away. Work that for a bit too. On one page you honor a Soldier and his injuries then slap that of the fallen on the next?! screw your the paper! Who are they and why would I support it when that message is sent out while our family and friends fight for freedom of the press? I want to know? I don't say, support the war. I say honor our Soldiers fighting in it. I guess I'm wrong in my thinking as you see it. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:26 PM:

" If the LNS miss the boat on the Relay for Life event again this next year then they are officially and totally dead as a local newspaper. That just cannot be forgiven, again. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:23 PM:

" The constant reporting on the Lockeford bar (how many stories/articles now?) is getting old. Is this really the kind of crap you think we want to read about in multiple articles? Are we not being respected as a public? We can handle more than stories on a strip bar. Come on! "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:20 PM:

" 1 voice: In your opinion, why would the LNS pass on reporting the Relay For Life event and the stories that could have been told? "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:18 PM:

" wtf: Great post! "

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wtf wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:15 PM:

" 1 voice what you write "sounds good" and is how is **used to be** many moons ago; however, the way the "news" has been reported in recent years by the MSM leaves a LOT to be desired. There is too much spin, opinion, "talking heads", "experts" and focus on fluff i.e., Brittainy, Madonna, etc., in other words, garbage, and no real hard news - presented in an objective manner - for people to read and make their own decisions. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 27, 2008 2:10 PM:

" WY wrote: "Oh ... Oh I forgot , the chichi bar gets looked over and writen about time and time again. Hmmm?"

Because they want to do some investigative reporting....you know, have to go there and check it out. ;) "

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1 voice wrote on Aug 27, 2008 12:11 PM:

" Good point. But I ask you to consider LNS's body of work, which HAS included stories that touch people's lives, help them navigate issues, elections and give local perspective on national trends. It's not all ritzy clubs and good old boy glorification. But, yes, in community journalism sometimes you'll have that, too. No one paper or reporter can touch on every single thing that needs to be said, which is the beauty of citizen journalism.
But if you, as a blogger or citizen journalist, knock on someone's door with a camera and a notepad and ask them to tell you the details of the child they just lost, there's a very good chance they will not open the door. Newspapers have a credential that comes from GENERALLY telling accurate facts, to the best of a reporter's admittedly human ability. That gives them more access to people/places and events.
I believe the world needs different forms of journalism--print, broadcast, citizen, online, etc., so am astounded to hear people almost cheering the death of newspapers without discussing the very real service it does provide to the community at large.
Sometimes, you don't know what you've got until it's gone. "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:36 AM:

" Oh ... Oh I forgot , the chichi bar gets looked over and writen about time and time again. Hmmm? Wonder why? Then there are good stories that acually help the lives of others that aren't even touched upon. Call me what you need to. I'm right about some things and you know it as a reporter or a news person. If not you're just as one sided as you blame me for being. "

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WY wrote on Aug 27, 2008 10:25 AM:

" Human stories are right there in the public for the reporters to write on. There are ways to find out what is up in the town, and in other places too. The reporters only reach as far as their arm extends. Photos are crap and stories don't get a second look after writen. Nice try. "

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1 voice wrote on Aug 27, 2008 6:23 AM:

" Wow. I'm amazed at how little perspective there is in the bulk of these comments. I'll be up front-I used to be an LNS reporter. I've also worked at and known many reporters at other SJC papers, so I've been able to compare the "behind the scenes" business of at least 4 local papers. I can say no editorial board considers readers and the quality of information more than LNS. That's not to say LNS hasn't gotten into its share of conundrums--that happens when you commit acts of public service in the same town for generations. But blogs only work as news sources if there's a traditional source to weigh them against. If and when papers bite the dust, not only will half-informed, heavily biased online writers have nothing to bash...they'll have no real news to give you! How will they know what's happening in Acampo, let alone Afghanistan? They won't. And neither will you.
They won't go in people's homes and tell their stories (they can't). They will not announce weddings or pageants. All they will do is give their opinions on topics THEY care about. How will that shape what you think and know about Lodi? "

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OTH wrote on Aug 26, 2008 1:33 PM:

" girard74

Come out, come out wherever you are. I wouldn't have found Opus and Bill the Cat if not for you. "

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WY wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:44 PM:

" Why did G74 stop posting? Did it get heated up when I had things to do? I must have missed something. We all have to step back here and there. Blogging will eat up your time fast. "

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WY wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:34 PM:

" Oh I could never change my handle. You guys would know it was me in a flash by my spelling and the weiner dog. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:22 PM:

" ****It would be great if the paper carriers got minimum wage. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:20 PM:

" TandC: It would be great if the paper carriers to get minimum wage. They work really hard for the wage they receive and they put up with a lot of customer crap. What else gets delivered to your door for $8.75 a month? Nothing! Some people act like they are paying these kids $300 a month for the delivery service. Some people can be so rude. Thankfully, there are a lot of wonderful, and thankful, people out there too. My kids made a lot of friends on their route....so did I! "

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TandC wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:35 PM:

" Perhaps the editor and publisher should be out there delivering their own papers for the paltry, less than minimum wages they pay those little children to deliver their "news". "

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voter wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:04 PM:

" girard, as much as I would have liked to release the flying monkeys in your direction from time to time, you are nonetheless an important part of our online community. Click your heels three times. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 25, 2008 6:40 PM:

" sam wrote: "wtf, I really like G74. He adds a lot to the blogs. He definitely has a style that is hard to miss. I wish him the best."

Believe, or not, so do I and I kinda, sorta, miss his input in a masochistic kind of way. LOL! Put simply, I like messing with him. It's all in good fun. I actually felt kind of lost when he stopped posting. "

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Observer wrote on Aug 25, 2008 6:33 PM:

" The Sacramento Bee announced today that they were offering to buy-out 55% of their employees to reduce payroll. Previously the Modesto and Fresno Bee experienced deep cuts. You think those papers aren't going to change? "

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sam wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:16 PM:

" wtf, I really like G74. He adds a lot to the blogs. He definitely has a style that is hard to miss. I wish him the best. "

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sam wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:13 PM:

" Bulldog, great ideas. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:13 PM:

" Looks like Leonard picked up on it, too on Aug 24, 2008 at 8:00 PM. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:12 PM:

" You noticed, too, huh sam? "

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wtf wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:11 PM:

" Lodian wrote: "It was sure easy to see girard in lodisafeway, wasn't it?"

YES!!! LOL! That aura of self-righteous, huffiness with periodic lucidity thrown in said girard74 to me. :) This made me wonder (for a fraction of a second) if girard was off unemployment and now working at Safeway. LOL!

But keep this under your hat. Shhhh...lodisafeway wants to be "mysterious".... "

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sam wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:08 PM:

" Lodian, you are funny.

Poor G. It is hard for him to hide. He has a definite style. I really like his old name, G74. I wish he would go back to it. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 25, 2008 4:03 PM:

" You're busted, girard! ;-)

(that was a joke) "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 25, 2008 3:35 PM:

" wtf wrote "I thought so, too. "She" reminded me of the "he" who was girard74...which, by the way, I haven't seen on the blogs lately."

wtf: It was sure easy to see girard in lodisafeway, wasn't it? I think it was the most obvious of any handle change I have seen here on the blogs. "

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WY wrote on Aug 25, 2008 1:05 PM:

" I know my grinding away at the photos bug some people but I think it's working. They have improved a little. Not much , but a little. At least people are thinking about their job.

(I have to admit the dude's hand on the boat throttle was LARGE and to close to the camera. Wait for the shot...A photo of Delta wild life would have been a better idea than the motors and the wake, shot out the back of the boat with odd shadows from the bimni. But you can't win them all) "

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wtf wrote on Aug 25, 2008 12:06 PM:

" WY wrote: "A good photograph will draw the eye to an article."

You're right about this and the opposite is true as well. A bad photo will raise numerous questions. I'm remembering the photo of Bush's train stop back when he was campaigning.

I was downtown when this was going on and it ticked me off that the LNS made it sound like 10,000+ people were there to see the chimp when the reality was they were there for the Farmers' Market.

I was over at the train station and there were only about 100-150 people waiting for the chimp; yet the photo in the paper used some kind of fishbowl or curved lens go give the impression there were more people than there really were. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 25, 2008 11:52 AM:

" Ivan Dixon wrote: "I think Ms Safeway is a great addition to our blogs. She is new and yet it feels like we have known her for years."

I thought so, too. "She" reminded me of the "he" who was girard74...which, by the way, I haven't seen on the blogs lately. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:46 AM:

" WY wrote " Lodian... do you still ride you horse? "

WY: ABSOLUTELY! :-) "

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WY wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:21 AM:

" I agree Bulldog... But there is more going on than football and baseball. In the month of June there are dance productions, FFA youth, youth rodeo, Wine Country Classic, cycling. Half the Town walked for cancer and not a word. I'm OK with getting news from Galt, Lckeford, Clements, The Delta area. There is so much to captivate the readers. Who's who in business. Everyone I know reads the paper. (The Paper... not the dot.com). An I have been saying the photos need to improve. A good photograph will draw the eye to an article. But what do I know? "

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Bulldog wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:58 AM:

" Marty,

I feel your pain. I advertise in LNS and you do a wonderful job for me.

A suggestion - expand your local business section. More articles on your local advertising clients (hey - its a partnership, right?). We like to know what our neighbors in business are up to.

Suggestion #2 - expand you local sports coverage. There are 500 kids in local youth football working out at Tokay and Lodi high. One organization won a state championship last year. There are three local HS teams preparing for the upcoming year. A full page on Frosh, JV, and Varsity teams with player profiles would be nice. Throw in Galt and you have a couple weeks of good material.

Suggestion #3 - every local school is now up and running. There are clubs and organizations all over them. What is going on? Look at your binder article and the interest it generated.

In short, be a local paper. Do it well, you will get the readers and the advertisers. "

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SportsGuru wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:45 AM:

" .
And on the lighter side of things ... there will always be a place for the printed newspaper until (a) homes have computer screens installed in bathrooms across America (to make it convenient to read the paper there), or (b) printing the online edition becomes cheap enough for people to replace paper delivery with printing it out themselves. "

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SportsGuru wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:37 AM:

" .
The reality of online exchange is that there are two major types of participants... those that participate to create controversy, and those that participate because they enjoy the anonymous and free exchange of ideas.

The unrecognized reality of those two realms is that they NEED EACH OTHER for the community to remain vibrant and active, despite the objections of the few.

It is the REALITY of the online world, from commenting on articles, to blogging, to having a MySpace profile. "

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SportsGuru wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:34 AM:

" .
The moment you put restrictions on that free exchange, take away people's anonymity, or make it too intrusive to exchange ideas .. the community degrades.

For those that want serious dialogue only, that can be a problem (given there ARE some people who post with juvenile mentalities).

But in the end, the community is not complete without ALL IDEAS being expressed.

There should be rules and guidelines for online forums, but the successful communities police themselves and allow for that free exchange of ideas.

For some, anonymity is REQUIRED in order to share their own points of view. "

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SportsGuru wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:32 AM:

" .
He was impressed when LNS initiated comments for their online articles, but he also felt at the time that they really didn't understand what they were getting in to - and thought that it would eventually be bungled.

When he saw the new posting guidlines go up.. "Effective immediately, we will be reviewing registration information submitted by commenters" he chuckled and pointed out that the bungling had begun.

Online communities are places where free exchange of ideas occur. Some of those ideas are thoughtful while others will be juvenile.

Continued.... "

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SportsGuru wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:30 AM:

" .
I have a very good friend who is a technology professional that lives in Lodi and has been involved in cutting edge web-projects since the early 1990's including online communities. He even had a .COM startup that was funded for tens of millions of dollars.

We have discussed this issue on many occasions and he believes the LNS is making some strides in the right direction, but has not fully recognized what it takes to survive as a media provider in the online age.

Continued...... "

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WY wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:20 AM:

" Lodian... do you still ride you horse? "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:20 AM:

" Leonard: Glad to see you around. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:20 AM:

" WY wrote "All my X's live in Texas!"

Love it! "

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WY wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:07 AM:

" "All my X's live in Texas!" Hi Leonard. is it hot in Texas? "

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WY wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:06 AM:

" Careful safeway... before to long they'll have your square footage. bahahaha just kind'n "

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Jess wrote on Aug 25, 2008 8:00 AM:

" Safeway, you are kidding, right? "

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Gator wrote on Aug 25, 2008 6:04 AM:

" Leonard, Good to see back, Refreshing!! "

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Leonard wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:40 AM:

" Shrug....

As you like. "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:11 PM:

" If "T&C" is indeed "eyewhitie" and he desired that his anonymity be protected, that doesn't say much for anyone who "outs" him. What is becoming lost here is any sense of respect for other people, even though 99.9% of us will never actually know who anyone else is here. I have little time or patience with people who behave in this manner.

While I have absolutely nothing to hide, aside from me no one else knows who I am - anywhere. But it is because I have no reason to trust anyone anywhere on the WWW (with rare exceptions) that I will keep my identity secret. If for no other reason those who feel compelled to reveal the identity of another (either through suspicion or actual knowledge without their express permission), they should keep in mind that just one little slip or smidgen of information just might give someone of unscrupulous motives all they might need to find you. Try a little respect for each other; that is something that never hurt anyone. "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 24, 2008 10:57 PM:

" With changes in technology today, there is little difference in the manner that other countless families and employees have been forced to change their lives through other drastic technological disruptions over the centuries. As an example, think of the many people in our gasoline service industry who were displaced with the advent of "self-serve" and "no-service" service stations. This is simply how society works.

To save a business and the jobs that go with it simply for the sake of saving them and nothing else is foolish and only prolongs the inevitable. Those who are just a little wise would do well to look to the future and find whatever route necessary to prepare themselves for these changes through education, re-training, retirement or other such actions.

One of our real problems in America is the fact that very few of us have really prepared for anything that might occur just a few months ahead of where we are at any given time. Just look at the energy crisis. Are we really just now realizing that fossil fuels will run out one day? Yet many act as if this is all a surprise. "

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Whoa Nellie! wrote on Aug 24, 2008 8:36 PM:

" Lenny, you right. T&C is accused of having multiple IDs. If he wants to go to that much work fine. His writing style is obvious (he's eyewhitie on the stkn record blogs).

As for the person posting as IVAN DIXON, you are funny! FYI folks, Ivan Dixon was the black actor who played Sgt Kinchloe on Hogan's Heros. Everytime I see that blog name I LmyAO. "

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Whoa Nellie! wrote on Aug 24, 2008 8:31 PM:

" Now that all of you "arm chair editors and publishers" have had your say, not only think about the Weybrets family fortune going down the sink, but the many, many LODIANS who work full time for the LNS. Not to mention the great kids (and adults) who deliver our paper 6 days a week. "

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Leonard wrote on Aug 24, 2008 8:00 PM:

" Most people here have a pretty distinctive style that marks their posts as surely as the name that appears above them. Changing your identity involves a lot more than simply changing your blogname.

To be successful, you will have to not only change your writing style but also, to the extent that it is possible, your POV which is, to my way of thinking, rather distinctive.

Personally, I don't think it is really worth the trouble. I have been blogging under this moniker for years and I have come to believe that stability breeds comfort. "

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WY wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:47 PM:

" Good luck... This is our home town paper and it IS of value to us. "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:46 PM:

" Unless those of you who are curious as to my true identity are privy to information that is only accessible to the Lodi News-Sentinel (which will be very disturbing) or are in some way psychic, I can assure you that no one knows me here. I enjoy the anonymity that the Internet provides and will do everything that I can to keep it that way. But if you desire to spend your time guessing about who I may or may not be that of course is your prerogative. However, it is beyond me why anyone would want to spend their time in this way. Frankly, I don't care who any of you are and won't even begin to wonder. "

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WY wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:43 PM:

" There is so much good, along with the bad, that goes on in this town and surroundings. You all just need to get with it and don't think we'll buy the economy gig. We'll buy your paper if it's worth buying. I'm here aren't I. I'd buy again if it was worth it. This is my home town. It's your job to tell me what's going on through your paper. I'll read it. But you have lost respect for the people that live here, that's why you paper isn't balanced anymore. That's just my opinion. But who am I...? "

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WY wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:38 PM:

" Yeah and what OTH said about Paul. My dad worked under him back in the day. "

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WY wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:35 PM:

" Maybe the reporters are out of touch with this town. Maybe they wait for a call on a story instead of going and getting it. Maybe they can't spell, like me. I don't know... But there is plenty to write about. And how about the cost of a AD? A business card size AD was close to 500 bucks the last time I checked a couple years ago. Maybe drop that a bit...? I know I've been down on the paper for some time now. Sorry? "

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WY wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:30 PM:

" I quit buying the paper when my brother went off to Iraq and you guys showed some crap satire about how the President was going to bring home our Troops. What an insult to our young people in uniform that give you paper the freedom to write. No story on how we could support our very own National Guard unit. Nothing on the RELAY FOR LIFE. Maybe no one wants to read the crap you have to send out anymore. And maybe your advertisment would be up if people wanted to be afiliated with you. I don't want to know what Galt is up to on the front page. Let the Herald report that stuff. There is alot of local news that many want to know about, but you do report and if you do, you may or may not follow up on a story. There's more to this town that is just over looked. Plus no one can take a nice photo in your unit. Call it economy... tell yourself what you need to. (ready set point) nice try. I know plenty of people that read the paper in the morning. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:14 PM:

" Ivan Dixon wrote "She is new and yet it feels like we have known her for years."

I think we have known him for quite some time now. "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 24, 2008 7:11 PM:

" As for using the Times as toilet paper, there may be some who find that the majority of the pages of the LNS are good for little else. It is all just a matter of opinion, no? "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 24, 2008 6:44 PM:

" While I certainly need and enjoy reading about local news, I cannot possibly limit my exposure to just what goes on within the borders of our little town. A responsible newspaper provides its readers with a broad wealth of what is going on here and beyond. You aren't suggesting that ignoring national and/or international news will somehow prevent what goes on out there from affecting us here in Lodi, are you?

And thanks for revealing where you will or will not shop although I have no idea what you mean regarding "wrecking your shopping experience." That's rather cryptic. Maybe Mr. Wybret will include that remark on Monday's front page. Oops, it's already 6:44 p.m. on Sunday - we'll have to wait until Tuesday or Wednesday for it to appear in the LNS. However, I don't know how that tidbit relates to either me or the subject at hand - but good for you! "

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Ivan Dixon wrote on Aug 24, 2008 6:41 PM:

" I think Ms Safeway is a great addition to our blogs. She is new and yet it feels like we have known her for years.

Its much like the sensation one gets when, visiting Philadelphia after a long absence one bites into a Philly Cheesesteak from Pat's Steaks. The taste is old, comforting and familiar yet new all over again. "

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El Rushbo wrote on Aug 24, 2008 6:28 PM:

" Also! I`m never shopping at Safeway again! This lodisafeway gal is wrecking my shopping experience! Food for Less it is!!! "

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El Rushbo wrote on Aug 24, 2008 6:26 PM:

" Safeway; Us oldtimers actually LIKE the focus on local matters that the LNS provides. If you really care about the price of tea in China or what Paris Hilton is up to...well you enjoy that A-wipe that is the NY Times! "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 24, 2008 4:00 PM:

" Unfortunately, after the five to ten minutes it takes to absorb whatever "news" is presented in the News-Sentinel there's not much left but the ads and comics.

There is also much to be said about having a news-packed newspaper waiting by the door or in the front yard on Sunday as well. Many of us have become used to the Sunday Morning ritual shared by so many across the nation. I know I have for decades. To satisfy that, I am a weekend subscriber to the west coast edition of the New York Times. True they've been hit with their share of controversy over how they "report" the news, but their Op-Ed pages are second to none in spite of their left-leaning and obviously lop-sided influence that has nearly taken it over.

I suppose I could just pretend that I received the Saturday/Sunday edition of the LNS on Sunday by letting it sit by the door overnight, but I just can't bring myself to do that. And besides, after the five to ten minutes reading just our little rag I'd be left wanting more. "

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sam wrote on Aug 24, 2008 3:05 PM:

" geez... I love a mug of hot cocoa in front of the fireplace on a saturday morning WITH the newspaper. "

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sam wrote on Aug 24, 2008 3:05 PM:

" El Rushbo, I am not a coffee drinker but I love a mug of hot cocoa in front of the fireplace on a saturday morning. The perfect beginning to a weekend.

Heck Marty, raise your rates. "

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El Rushbo wrote on Aug 24, 2008 2:34 PM:

" There is absolutely NO comparison between reading the print version every morning compared to reading the "broken up" version on the web! You get only the very basic sense of whats going on via the web. Paper and coffee in the morning..ahhh.. good times!!! "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:41 PM:

" sam wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:40 PM:

" Lodian, well said. "

Thanks. You too!! "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:40 PM:

" Remember the students that made videos and presented them at the Lodi Cinema? These were the kids from Mr. Pike's video production class. These are the kinds of kids you want! They are writing, filming, editing, directing and presenting some of the most current topics of their day. Get them involved! Hire, intern or invite them to join you on stories and projects. Some of those kids are totally into it and are headed for a career in these fields. Snatch'em up! Also, these kids are so incredibly computer savvy that it would make your head spin! Ask them to help with the tech stuff at the paper. I bet they'd come up with some incredible ideas and then be able to teach everyone how to do it. Okay, I'm sure you've heard enough from me. ;-) "

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sam wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:40 PM:

" Lodian, well said. "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:35 PM:

" ***glued*** "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:27 PM:

" Some here, I think maybe it was sam, suggested you have local students add to the paper. Articles, photos and video clips from students would be awesome! Progress progess progess... think TECH! "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:25 PM:

" ...And for God's sake do not miss out on huge stories, and events, in this town like the RELAY FOR LIFE CANCER EVENT at the Grape Festival!!!!!!! The coverage and stories you could have gotten off of that event would've/could've been amazing! Link more video clips of local events to your site. Just never ever let an event like Relay pass you by again. That was really bad. Thousands would have checked in on those stories. There were some incredible personal stories in this town that would have had your readers clued to the page. SERIOUSLY! Relay should have been front page news! "

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Lodian wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:19 PM:

" The LNS should focus on technology. Always make sure you have reporters that are allowed to "report" the news with uncovered facts obtained and presented. No whitewashing, no tiptoeing and no personal interjections EVER allowed by reporters. Just give it to me straight and let me decide on what I think of the facts and/or information gathered and presented. In my opinion, it is not the reporters job to report on what their personal views are on any given story. And if a paper can't get the ball rolling online they will be dead. I think readership would increase with a better online paper and reader interaction. Add back in the boards where we can start a topic. Keep these blogs ship shape and don't allow some bloggers to completely decimate a blog and keep it down in the gutter for weeks at a time. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Be honest, forthcoming and have a backbone against EVERYONE! Add an option for personal pages on the site...anything to attract the computer set to these pages. It's okay, and should be profitable, to be progressive with technology and still hold on to old honest values. Don't-let-the-LNS-turn-into-some-gossip-rag-where-no-one-sees-the-stories-as-real-news-anymore,-but-only-as-what-we-think-we-are-being-FED. "

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Giovanina wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:55 AM:

" Whoa Nellie wrote on Aug 23, 2008 10:27 AM:

" First, all of us should be worried about the possible death of our lil village tattler.

But, can you imagine all of the anger T&C will have if he's not able to spew his venomous attacks & conspiracy theories?

The old guy with no life with spontaneously combust.. "

Don't worry, T&C, although we don't agree sometimes, if this website goes down, there will be another site for you to exercise you freedom of speech. "

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sam wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:54 AM:

" And, Marty, I need to make this very clear. There is nothing like curling in the morning with some tea and your paper.

We have 7 computers in this household and we ALL prefer to read your hard copy. We thank you. "

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sam wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:51 AM:

" Leonard, great to "hear" you. "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:40 AM:

" Well, the thing is the owner of the News-Sentinel recognizes that they have serious problems. Otherwise, Mr. Weybret would not have published the column.

The solutions of course are going to be difficult to find until the real problems are identified. The Internet has transformed how we get our information to an extent not experienced since the inventing of moveable type. Keeping up with technology that changes at nearly light-speed adds a dimension to the matter of this newspaper's survival that certainly won't be resolved by the few suggestions made here.

Chances are that once the Weybrets no longer desire to operate their family business in the "red," the Lodi News-Sentinel will cease to exist; at least in the form that we see it today.

Because many (if not most) homes now have at least one computer, and with virtually every aspect of the newsprint version available online AND having it updated on a minute-by-minute basis, there is now no need to spend all that they do on presses, ink, equipment and personnel.

If they want to survive at all, they will need to make some drastic (and uncomfortable) changes soon. "

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Leonard wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:22 AM:

" Make that too depressing. "

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Leonard wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:21 AM:

" I subscribed to the Record for a couple of months but I found the continual flow of rapes, robberies and murders to depressing to read on a daily basis.

It is enough for me to know that Stockton is a vermin infested, crime ridden sewer, I don't need the specifics. "

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Leonard wrote on Aug 24, 2008 11:18 AM:

" It sounds like I have a minority opinion but I think that the LNS does a pretty darn good job.

I have lived in a variety of places around the country and I can tell you that most local papers are so bad that they make the LNS look like the NY Times (I'm not trying to be partisan here, if there were a decent right wing paper in this country you could substitute its name here as well).

A good example is the paper of my current home town, Austin, Texas. The Austin American Statesman is a complete piece of crepola. The only way a local story gets covered in this paper is if it makes the AP wire and then they post the wire story in the place of an original article.

When we first moved here the Statesman was giving away free promotional copies on the weekends. After a couple of weeks of reading the thing I called up their circulation office and told them that I would have them charged with littering if they continued to throw their garbage on my lawn. "

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voter wrote on Aug 24, 2008 9:33 AM:

" OTH, you said it all. So true about Paul Zimmerman and Jeff Hood. And as I take the Record and San Francisco Chronicle, it won't be much longer before I give up my Sentinel subscription. I began subscribing to the Record so I could actually get some local news. "

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OTH wrote on Aug 24, 2008 8:44 AM:

" JENN H

I too grew up in Lodi and I remember Paul Zimmerman well. He was a reporter from the old school. He didn't owe anybody anything and was not afraid of anybody.

Sadly a big part of the LNS died with Paul and the difference soon became apparent. I may be mistaken but he was the last "real reporter" I remember them having.

LNS today is so afraid of stepping on someones's toes that it's almost like reading one big comic section. They have reporters who do wonderful fluff pieces if that's what you want to read.

I still take the LNS but I don't know for how much longer. I take the STKN REC as well. Now sometimes they're not much better but it's amazing sometimes how much more factual the Lodi news stories are. It's really too bad Jeff Hood went to the dark side. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 10:01 PM:

" napa valley chef wonderful suggestion at 8:37 PM. I hope Marty reads some of the ideas presented here on the blogs and follows up on them. It would help his bottom line more than he realizes. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 10:00 PM:

" lodisafeway wrote: "Here's what makes a "great" newspaper (in my opinion, of course) - reporters should report the news - period. Get the facts and then dig for the truth. Their biases should be checked at their office doors. If one story leads to another story, RUN with it. Recently I read that the News-Sentinel was attempting to be sensitive to the community's feelings (or words to that effect). Forget that - simply get the story and bring it to us."

Well said! EXACTLY! "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 9:58 PM:

" A perfect example of shill-type post is the one by commonsense1 at 4:54 PM. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 9:57 PM:

" sam you nailed it, too, when you said, "Give us the REAL facts."

BINGO!! "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 9:54 PM:

" T&C you nailed it when you said, "Always the same old argument."

That's **exactly** how the shills expose themselves. Their responses are almost like they all come from the same play book. ;) "

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napa valley chef wrote on Aug 23, 2008 8:37 PM:

" Also, you'll need to use the full power of the Internet if you want to drive traffic to your site. This means more multi-media content. Your writers better learn how to shoot, edit and encode video if they want to step into 2008 (soon to be 2009). "

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napa valley chef wrote on Aug 23, 2008 8:31 PM:

" So, did Wade Heath get canned in the lay-offs? I hope not. Even though I detest his style and I seriously doubt his journalistic skills, he's a writer whom I love to hate (not real hate, of course). His columns get a lot of comments, so I assume his page views are among the highest here. Hopefully, you've kept him around. "

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sam wrote on Aug 23, 2008 6:15 PM:

" 2) Use LUSD high schools, St Mary's, Jim Elliot's, and Lodi Academy's reporters and photographers. Give each high school a page. They will fill it and the families of the high schools will support you.
My kids are grown and gone, but I would read it.

3) want more ideas??? Hire me. Wait, you can't afford me. "

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sam wrote on Aug 23, 2008 6:15 PM:

" 1) Give more local coverage. Do not be afraid of the Lodi CC.. or any political figure. They work for us. We need facts. Coverage like the Record. Give us above and beyond. Challenge our thinking.
Do not pander to the local government. Do not pander to anyone. Give us the REAL facts. "

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sam wrote on Aug 23, 2008 6:15 PM:

" Hey Marty, some of us love what you do and want you to stay in business.
But think about it. You support no growth. No growth means no new subscribers.
If the town does not grow, your newspaper cannot grow.

You are going to have to be creative. Think outside the box. "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 23, 2008 5:11 PM:

" Here's what makes a "great" newspaper (in my opinion, of course) - reporters should report the news - period. Get the facts and then dig for the truth. Their biases should be checked at their office doors. If one story leads to another story, RUN with it. Recently I read that the News-Sentinel was attempting to be sensitive to the community's feelings (or words to that effect). Forget that - simply get the story and bring it to us.

Now, the Op-Ed page is where it all should really happen. The newsprint news will always be a day behind; can't help that. But it used to be that the Editor(s) of the newspaper wasn't/weren't afraid to state their position(s) on the important (and oftentimes disturbing) issues of the day. Although two-newspaper cities have nearly vanished, we still want to know where they stand politically. Take risks and take them often.

As for charging for the news online - print all the news but charge for the opinion. You want to see papers fly off the newsstands? "Tease" on the Op-Ed page so we'll pony up $.35 (or a fee) for the balance. Be courageous! "

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commonsense1 wrote on Aug 23, 2008 4:54 PM:

" t&c, edumacation and wtf......I think what you do is called "talking to yourself", "self-gratification" or more simply put, "playing with yourself". I'm surprised you don't wear yourself out. "

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TC wrote on Aug 23, 2008 4:24 PM:

" wtf, thank you for the compliment, and you're a great contributor, too. There are the same buffoons that mock every blog I make and every day they just sound like shills for the good ol' boys, city council and management and the Lodi Sentinel. Always the same old argument: Sgt. Friday, we want only the facts and proof. As if the good ol' boys are going to snitch on one another or tell us how they manipulate and deceive to achieve their goals. Common, patton, realty, nellie and three or four others are the city cheerleaders and they amuse me so much, it's my humor time each day to read their same old responses to every subject and must really be afraid to lose their positions in the pecking order by getting out of line. And, edumacation, you're right about not getting any respect. What do you expect when they don't give any? The Lodi News=Sentinel has covered for them too long now and it's time for a great blogsite like capitalelector.com to be able to get the real truths about what's really happening. If the above mentioned cheerleaders were the only bloggers, this site is doomed. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 1:52 PM:

" T&C great post at 10:12 AM. ***You*** are part of the reason I still read the LNS - online version. I like to get the "other side" of the story. Keep up the great posts! You're part of the reason I read. I can tell you pay close attention to the goings on in town and I like the way you keep us informed. A big THANK YOU!! "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 1:49 PM:

" Just one example is McCain's recent gaffe about Obama being an elitist; yet McCain is so out of touch he doesn't even know how many houses he owns...or I should say, his wife.

If an "elitist" is someone who can put two words together without mangling the English language, then I guess Obama's an elitist but, the fact is, by calling someone sounds intelligent an "elitist" McCain is giving a virtual slap in the face to the American public.

Not all of us are ignorant buffoons as the neocons would have you believe. Tell the truth. Give both sides of a story in an objective manner and let the public decide.

I'd hate to see the LNS leave us; but some enterprising person would start a website devoted to Lodi news. Best if you and Rich do it first, Marty. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 1:48 PM:

" When all of the "news" papers and stations are reporting basically the same, exact, story with cookie cutter regularity, people know, instinctively, they're being lied to or something else is going on.

Some people have a vested interest i.e., their self image, in having the wool pulled over their eyes...or else they're paid PR shills who are on the blogs to spout the party line and make it appear the masses are in agreement with whatever garbage is being spewed. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 1:45 PM:

" Years ago, I met you and Rich, Marty. At that time, there was a LNS and Stockton Record on the counter. I remember saying, at the time, that I preferred the LNS because it didn't sound like it had watched FAUX "news" the night before and then virtually copied those stories for the paper.

About five years ago, there was a photo-shopped or green-screened photo that ran on the front page of the LNS. You could tell it had been doctored because the depth perspective was off. That was the last time I ever purchased a hard copy of the paper. "

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edumacation wrote on Aug 23, 2008 12:55 PM:

" To T&C: I slightly disagree with you. There is one MORE lust the GOB have! It is not ALL about power, control and money. But what they want, we won't give them. Its respect and a sense of royalty. They want us as serfs to watch them, pout and clean up after their messes. Look at the east side RDA scam. Its for them. The "Kings" and "Queens" and princes and princesses want us to genuflect and bow in their presence.

"I think "I" would like that statue in MY back yard, if no one minds."

Great campaign speech! "

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Jenn H wrote on Aug 23, 2008 11:38 AM:

" None of this comes as any surprise to those of use who grew up in Lodi reading the News-Sentinel every day. In those days, Paul Zimmerman reported the local doings in the little village. Darlene K. presided over Panorama & we all knew who was getting married or had an anniversary. High school sports coverage meant a lot. These days, the Sentinel is full of air and not much more. Even the reporting on local events & organizations is shoddy, if it even occurs. The Good Ol' Boy network not only thrives, but has gotten worse. Marty, welcome to the 21st century! Other news media have been reporting on the loss of readership for years . . . but, as always, the Lodi News Sentinel is late to the party. And it sounds like it just might miss the party altogether. "

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Whoa Nellie wrote on Aug 23, 2008 10:27 AM:

" First, all of us should be worried about the possible death of our lil village tattler.

But, can you imagine all of the anger T&C will have if he's not able to spew his venomous attacks & conspiracy theories?

The old guy with no life with spontaneously combust.. "

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T&C wrote on Aug 23, 2008 10:12 AM:

" Thank you for your comments wtf and edumacation. I see by the newest blog by Marty and Rich just how many supporters they have. I've been trying to bring this to the forefront and I have people like common1, observer, realty, T & C, mad dog and many others calling me a nut and conspirator theory kook. There's so much graft and corruption to be written about in this little town, the Sentinel could fill at least three full pages every day. But then, that'd take up precious advertising space and leave no room for the Galt news, like the council lady trying to contaminate their water supply. The good ol' boys are the major advertisers and don't want their feelings hurt, or worse, exposed for who and what they really are. "

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wtf wrote on Aug 23, 2008 9:58 AM:

" edumacation I agree with you regarding the paper doing some investigative work. I always thought the paper's job was to present both sides of a situation, then let the readers decide for themselves.

A little more objectivity; a little less spin; just the facts and let the people decide. This is why so many are turning to the blogs. People are tired of being lied to; they're tired of seeing and reading "spin" whether on the national level or the local level i.e., the GOB.

Some links for you, Marty:

http://whatreallyhappened.com/WRHARTICLES/blogger.html?q=blogger.html

http://www.antiwar.com/justin/?articleid=13329

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2004/mar/16/uselections2004.broadcasting "

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lodisafeway wrote on Aug 23, 2008 9:26 AM:

" Wow! It's as if Marty has been reading my mind; or my blogs. "

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edumacation wrote on Aug 23, 2008 8:51 AM:

" What attracts readers? Stories about grandma Jones and her new kittens? Or man bites dog. Most readers are inundated with national and local news (including news about Lodi) for FREE! All they have to endure is one more hysterical commercial. I think most readers now believe that ALL NEWS should be free! So how do you increase readership to attract advertising dollars? Do you spend money on investigative stories that have the potential of adversely affecting your ad revenue? The Sacraamento Bee tried that and is still in business. A large Realty company and a few large developers objected about investigative stories involving FBI Real estate investigations and other criminal investigations of prominent local developers. But, Sacramento has a larger reader base, and can afford to lose some ad revenue from the Sacramento Good Old Boys. There is nothing wrong with social networking like the GOB. But when it borders on or subborns illegal activity the local media must decide if it will report on these issues. You can "blame" coverage on Townnews.com who hosts Lodinews.com in trying to support small US newspapers. "

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T&C wrote on Aug 23, 2008 8:49 AM:

" They'd be bankrupt now if they would've paid their share of the ground pollution cleanup they were responsible for, but their city council drinking partners let them off with just a paltry payment from their insurer. As did Lodi Printing, owned by another council member that was excused in the same manner, the cleaners and other businesses that were also forgiven for paltry insurance money alone. Why do you think we took those huge increases in water, garbage, utilities and electric rates to pay that $50 million cleanup tab they should be paying, not us? How do you say "good ol' boys? "

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T&C wrote on Aug 23, 2008 8:44 AM:

" Where else would they find employment except in daddy's business? ROFLMAO "

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observer wrote on Aug 23, 2008 6:34 AM:

" I for one appreciate the fact that we still have a locally owned and published newspaper. There aren't many left in this country. They've all been gobbled up by the big chains and local news becomes less &less. Of course I've had my issues with the local paper but most any time you can walk in the building and find either Marty or Richard and they'll talk to you eye to eye. I would hate to think that day could come to an end. "

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