By Erron Franklin SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) —After 50 years of covering the art, entertainment and notable events in Central New York, the Syracuse New Times will cease publication on Wednesday, June 26.
The organization provided insight into the decision in a statement released this week:
“We are incredibly disappointed to have arrived at this decision, but see no options remaining to press onward in our current format. It is clear the public is comfortable and more interested in using other platforms to keep informed of events and activities in our community.”
The paper had operated as a free weekly alternative publication since it in started on the campus of Syracuse University back in February of 1969.
In March of this year, the paper’s publisher announced a switch to subscriptions and a news stand sales business model. A decline in advertising and market pressure from the technology sector prompted the change, according to a statement.
“It was no longer economically viable to continue to produce the paper. Sad day for us and a hard decision but clearly the right one,” Publisher William Brod Said.
Its sister publication, Family Times, will continue its “promotional leadership” role for major events that they cover: the annual Street Painting Festival, Arts Week festivities and the Best of Syracuse Awards.
The New Times website will remain active with updated information on the community calendar, however, news and editorial content will not be published anymore. Employees will make a shift and work on the other in-house publications.
