KBIA Local
(2008-09-03)
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COLUMBIA, MO
(KBIA) -
It seems another paper in addition to the Columbia Tribune has taken an interest in entering into a business agreement with the Columbia Missourian. The Missourian, which has operated at a deficit for most of its 100 years, is being pressured by the university to balance its budget. A partnership with another paper is one of the ideas being considered KBIA's Sara Wittmeyer has the latest.
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The Missourian has been in informal talks with the Columbia Tribune for months about a possible partnership. Now the Jefferson City News Tribune is also expressing an interest in The Missourian. Missourian Senior City Editor and Associate Professor Scott Swafford says the University plans to send out a request for proposals asking for bids.
I think anytime you have more than one party expressing interest in a partnership that puts us on a little bit stronger ground because those people in essence start competing with each other for the opportunity, which in most circumstances competition is a good thing and that gives us more options to explore.
It's unclear if the Missourian will enter into a partnership with any paper though. There are several options that a committee of faculty, administrators, and representatives from the Missouri Publishing Association are considering. The committee will present its short list next week to the Missouri Publishing Association Board. That board will ultimately decide the future direction of the paper.
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