Newspapers have survived the advent of radio, TV and the digital age because it is in print that political figures and issues of the day are most stringently investigated and evaluated.
That message was carried by Frank Perea II, new publisher for The Dalles Chronicle, to the staff at an introductory meeting Monday.
“You will see politicians referring to endorsements by newspapers and people quoting facts from a newspaper to back up a point of view,” he said. “That’s because we are trained and vetted journalists.
“We go behind the scenes, check the facts and hold the feet of officials to the fire about what is true and what is not. We are the record keepers and diary keepers of the community.”
With that said, Perea briefed not only reporters but advertising, composing, sales, circulation and office staff about changes to come under his leadership.
He is planning a new look for the front page and expanding the Chronicle’s social media presence.
“Watch for it — we’re going to have some fun!” he said. “The Dalles Chronicle has been a vital part of the community for well over 100 years and it is an honor to be one of the stewards of our time.”
Perea is taking the place of Marilyn Roth, who is assisting with the transition in leadership until Dec. 31, when she will retire after 29 years on the job.
The new publisher’s resume includes more than 12 years as a newspaper executive, including positions with Lee Enterprises, Yellowstone Communications and Country Media, Inc.
He has lived in numerous states and comes to The Dalles from Lincoln City, where he was publisher of the News Guard, a weekly publication.
Perea has served on many boards and committees over the years, including nonprofits such as United Way, as well as chambers of commerce, downtown merchants, economic development and tourism boards.
“Understanding and capturing the diverse societies within Wasco County and advocating for good governance are things we will not take lightly,” Perea said.
He believes that newspapers not only play a vital watchdog role in a community but can be advocates for change and rally the community behind a common cause.
“We have an office here, we live here, we pay taxes here, we shop here,” he said. “We are locally invested and we care about our communities.”
Going forward, Perea intends to expand local coverage by inviting more guest columns from citizens, churches, government leaders and civic organizations alike.
“I want to get as many other voices involved as I can,” he said.
Toward that end, he said the Chronicle will be seeking correspondents from Maupin, Mosier, Dufur and other outlying areas.
“Staying relevant is the key to the survival of a community newspaper so, going forward, we will also be increasing our niche publications, special sections and social media,” said Perea.
“What people want from their hometown paper is a good read that is hyper-local — we are going to give them that.”
His focus is to have reporters continue informing and educating people about political, economic, sports and business issues every day, as well as finding the feature stories that people will not see anywhere else.
Advertising staff will be not only selling the printed newspaper but offering businesses a greater audience through technological platforms, said Perea.
“Readers might not always agree with what stories we choose to cover but I can honestly tell you that, with a small, dedicated staff, we will do our best every day to give the best coverage that we can.”
Perea plans to be a familiar face at public meetings in the area and looks forward to getting to know government leaders, business owners and citizens alike.
“I want to get feedback on coverage that is important to people,” he said. “We are here to inform, stimulate and entertain readers.”
Perea is pleased and proud to now call The Dalles home. He is the father of two grown daughters, Meghan, 24, and Kelsea, 22.
“I think people can look forward to a new look and feel with the Chronicle,” he said. “In turn, I am looking forward to settling into this community and learning more about what it has to offer.”
Perea can be reached at 541-296-2141 or via email at fperea@thedalleschronicle.com.
Commented
Sorry, there are no recent results for popular commented articles.