The help wanted advertisements continued today in the Wellsville Daily Reporter. Every since reporter Brian Quinn jumped ship and headed north, the 'local' newspaper continues to hunt for a replacement. Sadly, it's an entry level position. I understand local newspapers can't afford big league salaries. When large companies scoop up smaller newspapers like the Wellsville Daily, it's not because 'corporate' thinks the Texas Hot is cool. The goal is to maximize profits and minimize costs (biz 101, I guess). But the Daily Reporter is more than just a revenue generator...it is part of a mechanism that keeps a community and county informed. Now, admittedly, I smirk every time I scoop the newspaper - Hell, with Quinn (and John Anderson) gone, I've had quite the ride. But the Daily Reporter has a staff...and to be fair, six out of ten times, they'll have stories I could never cover.
Chris Potter is the new Regional Editor. I wish him nothing but success, truly. I don't envy his job. Fancy titles mean nothing when a pissed off customer, government official, cop, prosecutor, business owner or others are displeased (been there...).
I've noticed online, people take joy at slapping the Reporter. After a 36 hour nonstop run on Election Day and after for the markets I cover in four states, I knew there was no way in Hell I could attend the Burrous Building meeting in Wellsville on Wednesday. I did know, however, that the Reporter would be there. They were, and I was glad.
I realize new media like Wellsville Regional News can make for uncomfortable moments for traditional media. However, since I operate an ad-free site, I don't think corporate should be too alarmed. They should, however, consider providing reporters a fair wage.
