Clarksville, TN – Richard Stevens, the general manager of the Leaf-Chronicle appeared on WJZM’s the “Bone Show” Thursday morning to talk about the newspaper’s new subscription plan for it’s online content and other products, that’s been the talk of the town in recent weeks. The Leaf-Chronicle, owned by the Gannett company, has introduced it’s “Full Access” plan if you want to view it’s product online.
The decision has been met with a variety of emotions locally. Especially since most of the news and information consumers are wanting is available for free. It’s a bold decision being made by the newspaper industry, but something that industry experts feel is what the future holds for news organizations, like the Leaf-Chronicle.
Stevens said, “I take that as a challenge. I’ve been a journalist for 32 years, and there’s always been a segment of our readership that makes those comments. We take pride in our work, and we correct our mistakes. But, this community has a special relationship with our newspaper, and they have expectations that we have to deliver.”
Stevens explained that readers of the Leaf-Chronicle don’t have to pay for the online access to read the news. Subscribers can still have their newspaper delivered seven days per week, and not even turn their computer on.
Stevens addressed some of the questions about the changes in a front page article on Thursday, saying:
“A newspaper subscription automatically includes access to all of our digital products. Subscribers must go online to activate their digital account. A subscription entitles you to two sign-ons, so you can assign one of them to another member of your household. Enterprise accounts are available for office settings. Also, if you enjoy only the print edition, you can assign the digital portion of your service to a family member or friend who would use our online products as a gift from you.”
To hear the interview, visit this link: WJZM Bone Show Podcast 06/14/12
