It’s important to know when to get out of the way so that someone else can do better. Forty-one years ago, Nick Petrangelo at age 59 figured that would be a couple of
recent graduates in their mid-20s (myself and the late Kerry Ashmore). I started by working with Nick as editor and ad rep, training in for a few months.
After 41 years, at age 65, it’s time for me to pass the torch. Vince Brown is the new publisher of the Northeaster. Vince has 17 years’ experience as production and office manager at the paper. In Northeast, we’re known for growing our own. Vince lives close enough to the office to walk to work and is tuned in to the Northeaster community. He has my full confidence.
After years as an advisor privy to many of our tough decisions, Vince is ready to be in charge day-to-day. “We’re going to continue to engage our readers with high-quality content that connects them as individuals to their larger community,” Vince said. “We will be trying new methods of keeping the paper relevant through design and coverage down the road.”
Vince is on the advisory board of the Northeast Chamber and, with me, committed to the Minnesota Newspaper Association’s (MNA) Editors & Publishers Community Leadership Program, continuing our participation beyond the printed page. Vince is also on MNA’s Journalism Education Committee.
I will stay on in various capacities to affect a smooth transition. As Vince seeks a new team member to take his traditional duties, the two of us will continue to support each other through our familiar roles.
Geographic media are important to stewardship of place and to democracy. Thank you for the relationship we have had over the past many years; with your help the Northeaster will continue serving.
How you can help:
1.) Advertise to grow your business and encourage businesses to advertise. Invest now so that this resource will be there for you and others in the future. The more businesses advertise, the more affordable it remains for those who do.
2.) Spend money at businesses that advertise and let them know you saw their ads in the Northeaster.
3.) Read, react, send news ideas and letters to the editor.
4.) Donate. Though not tax-deductible, the community benefits are great.
5.) If you have people skills and graphic production skills, consider applying for the part-time office/production position at the paper (see below).
Again, thank you,
Margo Ashmore, Publisher Emerita