Gannett newspaper machine spins off another publisher

The Gannett newspaper machine has spun off another publisher, this one at his Newark post only four years, according to the newspaper's account.

The publishers of yore, the Spencers, for generations poured their personal fortunes and sweat into making the Advocate a thing of value to citizens, as well as themselves. It was about more than profit; it was also about giving to the community.

The Spencers and Gannett are as different in approach as the old Newark Telephone Company and the Windstream conglomerate which makes you go outside and test your phone before it will answer your call for help with a bad connection.

Not to detract from whatever accomplishments and community endeavors Bob Robbins accrued in his four-year enlistment in Newark, but I think the Gannett shuffling of publishers is an indicator of depth of interest in local affairs, local people, and local government the corporation expects from the newspaper operators it ships to Newark from afar.

They expect just enough to sell subscriptions and advertising, enough to milk for the very last nickel. Since this is a skill that can be taught, it doesn't matter who it is so long as he's good at milking.