Coffee, newspapers, the radio and Mr. B

The continuing decline of local newspapers
Two newspapers in southern Illinois, The McLeansboro Times-Leader and The Mt. Vernon Register-News will cease operations this week, according to a published report, continuing the sad demise of print newspapers. 

The Mt. Vernon newspaper published its last edition Feb. 6, and the Times-Leader will end its run Feb. 8, according to the report. The owner of the publications said local economic conditions forced the decision. Technology, consumer preferences, and other elements push newspapers from the marketplace. It's simply the nature of business. 

I understand and accept it all. I worked as a print reporter and news editor for more than 30 years. I can recall seeing hints of the coming demise in the early 1980s, so the decline of the newspaper industry did not occur overnight. However, watching a newspaper close its doors is a little like saying goodbye to an old friend, at least it is for me.

A friend on the radio
Marnie Mamminga, author, essayist, and fellow Batavia resident, was featured on Northern Public Radio's Perspective series this morning. Marnie recalled "A Winter Walk in the Woods". It's a brief item. Take a few minutes and listen to Marnie share her memories. I always enjoy listening to Marnie, and it was a delightful surprise to hear her on the radio this morning. 

From the Nearly Forgotten Hits file:
Feb. 7, 1995: Simple Minds releases the album “Good News from the Next World,” featuring “She’s a River”. The song and the album enjoyed limited success in the U.S., but the album reached No. 2 in the UK (No. 5 in Canada), and the song peaked at No. 9 in the UK. Pour yourself another cup of coffee and allow Jim Kerr and the boys to explain how she’s a river.

– Thank you for reading. Email comments to kbottswrites@gmail.com. Take one day at a time, and enjoy the coffee.