Co-op News
An Open Letter to Electric Co-op Today Readers
The fact that you are reading Electric Co-op Today shows that you have made a wise investment of your time. Since 1995, this newspaper has strived to bring you, our readers, the latest electric cooperative news, with a focus on accuracy, timeliness and readability. That will not change. But 2010 will bring a transformation in the way that you receive this publication.
Glenn English
In January, the award-winning Electric Co-op Today newspaper will launch a new Web site, www.ect.coop. Rather than wait for the mailman to bring the paper, the same quality writing and variety of articles will be available online.
Not only will you be able to read stories sooner, an Internet presence will also allow the ECT staff to update them immediately. This will increase the timeliness of the articles. And rather than publishing 45 times a year, you can expect the Web site to be updated with news and information more frequently.
Additionally, you will be able to search the ECT archives to find stories from past editions. Separate sections of ect.coop will provide immediate access to special reports, including annual meeting and legislative conference coverage.
When Electric Co-op Today debuted nearly 15 years ago, the Web was in its infancy. In that time, the Internet has grown to be a powerhouse, while the popularity of the printed page has waned.
Over those years, ECT has also seen large increases in its printing and mailing costs. I don’t have to tell you that these are difficult economic times, requiring that some tough choices be made. Therefore, when ect.coop debuts, the print edition of Electric Co-op Today will cease.
This will no doubt cause a period of adjustment for many. But while “the little green paper” may be disappearing from the mailbox, everything that you have come to expect from it will still be available online. In fact, there’s going to be much more to enjoy about ECT online.
On behalf of the staff and management of Electric Co-op Today, thank you for your continued support.
Tags: Co-op News, Co-op Voices