On Sunday I came across an ad in the Las Vegas Review Journal for Las Vegas Newspapers in Education (NIE). I have been aware of the program for years, but never really took the time to understand ‘how’ it works. Basically, there is an opportunity for a business to sponsor the program by purchasing newspaper subscriptions for children in the Clark County School District.
My first thought was ….I am not certain kids read newspapers anymore. Most consume their media online where they get access to more relevant news in a more timely manner.
Then my mind soon ventured to ….. why the Review Journal is still supporting this (and why they would dedicate valuable ad space) in a down economy.
Then the answer hit me….. to try and save some circulation. Perhaps NIE is nothing more than a fictitious way to keep newspaper subscriptions overinflated because they are ‘paid’ for by a contribution (1) Get a business to buy subscriptions in the name of supporting education (2) count those as fully paid subscriptions in future circulation audits (3) Attempt to justify ridiculous ad rates based on circulation.
The amounts solicited by NIE range from $62.50 to $1,000. With the cost of computers coming down so much, would it not make more sense to buy the same child a laptop for $400 and just show him or her how to consume their media online? It would be a one-time investment rather than an ongoing expense.
Or how about a Kindle that would allow the child to download books at little charge. Both of these media distribution systems would last years and years and not have to be renewed.
Just a crazy thought….. Thought I would share.
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