The staff got the news yesterday morning and, in spite of the gloom of the moment, teamed up to put out the final edition. The last cover reads “You’ve meant the world to us.”
Starting tomorrow, it will be a web only publication. Meanwhile, if you feel like getting a little depressed, check out their photo gallery of the last day.
A story on seattlepi.com indicates the “online switch marks the start of a new era.” That new start includes a Website with an editorial staff of 20, down from more than 150. Another 20 people will be hired to sell advertising.
There won’t be specific reporters, editors or producers — all staff will write, edit, take photos, shoot video and produce multimedia. The site will also rely on stories from guest contributors and feature content from various Hearst-owned magazines.
It’s expected the operation will lose money at first, but Hearst Newspapers President Steven Swartz says his goal is to make it profitable. Many will be watching closely to see if this could be the business model to follow.
