First and foremost, I want to thank our readers for your responses to our recent survey. Your wonderful suggestions are being considered for future editions.
One of my first assignments as a young lieutenant was with a Cold War era PATRIOT missile battery that utilized state-of-the-art technology for the day. However, the publicly available industry standard was dial-up modem technology. Having experienced 50 years of computer evolution, I understand the obsolescence argument for newspapers.
The sheer volume of information managed by the PATRIOT engagement control center (ECC) team was mentally taxing and we controlled exposure to the stress by limiting the duration of our time on watches. With the inception of data mining, digital media feeds are duplicating the volume of information that I have found to be unhealthy. Consequently, I filter and limit what I choose to consume.
Newsprint information is periodic, predictable, and finite in nature. These factors create a natural and healthy boundary for the stress we expose ourselves to. I just want to relax on Sunday mornings with a cup of coffee while reading a paper without distractions. If the articles are factually applicable to current events, interesting, engaging and mentally digestible, the author will command my attention. The time I invest becomes enjoyable rather than labor intensive.
Balance is the building block for wellness, and I acknowledge that digital media is useful in many ways. The Senior Voice will continue to maintain an online presence. The challenge I have been charged with is to use my experience to bridge print media with digital media in ways that complement the strengths of both formats.
Statewide, the Senior Voice newspaper has a monthly distribution of 14,500 copies and thousands of visitors to the online version. The target demographic is for individuals 50+ yoa, their families and other individuals involved in the quality-of-life issues for the Elders in their lives. Ms. Anne Tomkins remains available to collaborate on your advertising goals. Ms. Paola Banchero is our incoming Editor and wants to hear about your interests.
Thank you in advance for your continued support of the Senior Voice newspaper.
Sincerely,
C. Kelly Joy
Incoming Executive Director
Alaska Older Persons Action Group, Inc.
