This has been a historic two weeks at a history-rich newspaper. The Deseret News was created 160 years ago to inform and to share ideas that matter for our readers. From the beginning, accuracy and reliability have been hallmarks of our reporting. We also recognize the values-based perspective in our coverage that sets the Deseret News apart.
While we unveiled a plan for our future, we also realize that this was a difficult event for many employees and their families who were affected by the layoffs. These individuals have contributed so much, not only to our paper, but also to our communities. We honor their contributions and recognize the loss, brought about by permanent changes that have happened to newspaper economics everywhere.
We are also grateful for your continued readership and confidence. Our goal remains to deliver a newspaper each day that helps connect you to the community and the world in which you live.
A Distinct Voice
The feedback we have received from our readers has been clear. They want more than just facts and information; they want deeper insight from a perspective that reflects their values.
Accurate factual information will always be the bedrock of our reporting and commentary. But in a media climate full of skepticism and negativity, the Deseret News also seeks to be a positive voice for our readers' values. This perspective allows us to focus on stories and insight that you can't find anywhere else. We recognize that others will disagree and find fault with our efforts, but our journalists have the grit and confidence to have their voices heard.
Readers should expect to see a continued emphasis on the news that matters so much to them. They will see familiar columnists, including Dick Harmon, Brad Rock, Lee Benson, Doug Robinson and others. We will continue to lead in our coverage of high school sports, and of course BYU, Utah and the Jazz. Moreover, we will continue our emphasis on Utah schools, state and local government, and other issues of community importance.
Additionally, you will see a renewed focus on topics that readers have said matter to them, including family, financial responsibility, excellence in education, care for the needy, values in the media and faith in the community. The Deseret News has a distinct perspective. We believe the fabric of our community is strengthened when we engage on these topics. Our audience has rewarded that commitment. Because of you, the Deseret News has the fastest-growing print readership in the country, and deseretnews.com is the most-visited newspaper website in Utah. Thank you.
A Plan for the Future
The newspaper industry has changed forever. The Internet allows the Deseret News to reach many more people than ever before, but it has also permanently changed the economics of print media. While many newspapers have responded by simply cutting costs, the Deseret News has a plan to innovate and lead.
This month we launched several new initiatives, including:
Integrating our newsroom with KSL-TV and KSL Radio, creating the largest news-gathering force in the state. The foundation of our newspaper will still be news — local news and information upon which you can continue to rely.
The creation of Deseret Connect, a new resource that allows us to gather contributions from experts around the country who will complement the stories from our newsroom.
A new, diverse editorial advisory board with rich experience and credentials to help guide our perspective.
The Deseret News has a great heritage, but it also has an exciting future. Even with change, our values remain constant. While these values are embraced by our owner, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe that they are universally shared with people of diverse religious affiliation in our state and around the world.
We invite your continued participation as we move into this exciting new era. We want to hear from you, as well. E-mail us and let us know how we are doing at feedback@desnews.com.
Respectfully,
The Deseret News Leadership Team
Clark Gilbert, president and CEO
Rick Hall, managing editor
Paul Edwards, editorial page editor
Chris Lee, general manager, Deseretnews.com
Tad Walch, city editor
Gerry Avant, Church News editor
Matt Brown, assistant city editor
Kent Condon, sports editor
Greg Kratz, online editor
Brian West, assistant city editor
Chuck Wing, photo editor
Heidi Perry, design editor
Dave Schneider, production editor
Mitch Wilkinson, wire editor