In what might be the first example of a single blog
turning into a print newspaper, The Cincinnati Beacon has announced
that it will enter the "old media" effective June 1st.
The project
includes Jason A. Haap, who has been blogging under the name "The Dean
of Cincinnati" for several years; Justin P. Jeffre, a multi-platinum
recording artist from the group 98º and former Cincinnati mayoral
candidate; and Richard D. Hines, an experienced newspaper veteran and internet entrepreneur.
This move marks a reversal of what many considered a trend in
electronic media.
Recent years have seen traditional newspapers
imitating online innovations brought by bloggers -- and many
newspapers have renovated their online presence to become more like a
blog.
But while everyone keeps talking about the power of the "new
media," fewer have explored what power still exists in the "old
media."
"Whatever people say about the future of news, it can't be denied that
print still maintains an aura of permanence and credibility," said
Haap. "If we are not the first, single blog to move our operations to
print, we are certainly the first to do so in the region."
For Justin Jeffre, the move from international entertainer to local
media publishing is just another chapter in his growing interest in
grassroots activism.
"We believe in giving a voice to those who
usually don't get their stories told. That's the point of an
alternative and independent media," he said.
Rick Hines believes The Cincinnati Beacon print edition can really
make a difference in Cincinnati's political climate. "The online edition is already informative and cutting edge and that will carry over to the print edition with even more stories and more in-depth features."
The newspaper will be distributed to stores, restaurants and other locations throughout Cincinnati's intown neighborhoods, and you'll also be able to read the print editon in pdf format at the Beacon website.
In what might be the first example of a single blog
turning into a print newspaper, The Cincinnati Beacon has announced
that it will enter the "old media" effective June 1st.