The News and Observer ran a story this morning about rival newspaper The Carrboro Citizen asking for a small business loan from the Town of Carrboro. In the online version of the story, the newspaper’s name is mentioned (emphasis mine):
The Carrboro Citizen’s plans buck two trends. Across the U.S., newspapers are printing fewer copies as circulation and advertising revenues decline. At the same time, many recoil at the suggestion of government aid such as that granted to other industries.
In the print edition, that paragraph reads as follows:
The newspaper’s plans buck two trends. Across the U.S., newspapers are printing fewer copies as circulation and advertising revenues decline. At the same time, many recoil at the suggestion of government aid such as that granted to other industries.
Another instance. Online:
Publisher Robert Dickson says The Carrboro Citizen has room to grow beyond its 160 news racks, and he bristles at any suggestion he would sacrifice integrity by accepting public money. Dickson likens it to The News & Observer and other media accepting advertising from politicians and sports teams that they cover.
And the print edition:
Publisher Robert Dickson says his paper has room to grow beyond its 160 news racks, and he bristles at any suggestion he would sacrifice integrity by accepting public money. Dickson likens it to The News & Observer and other media accepting advertising from politicians and sports teams that they cover.
Interestingly, the editor left one mention of the paper in both the print and online editions:
In 23 years, the loan program has provided economic boosts to nearly 30 businesses, and has lost money just twice: once when a business owner died, and once when a business went bankrupt, said James Harris, Carrboro’s economic and community development director.
The Citizen is a good loan candidate because it can expand the town’s business profile, Harris said.
What might have been an attempt by the N&O to snub its rival has instead buoyed it with this controversy. I’d love to hear how N&O Executive Editor John Drescher will explain this one.
(h/t Paul Jones)