Goodbye, Colorado
The Rocky
Published February 27, 2009 at midnight
Photo by Rocky Mountain News
The final front page of the Rocky Mountain News.
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to you today. Our time chronicling the life of Denver and Colorado, the nation and the world, is over. Thousands of men and women have worked at this newspaper since William Byers produced its first edition on the banks of Cherry Creek on April 23, 1859. We speak, we believe, for all of them, when we say that it has been an honor to serve you. To have reached this day, the final edition of the Rocky Mountain News, just 55 days shy of its 150th birthday is painful. We will scatter. And all that will be left are the stories we have told, captured on microfilm or in digital archives, devices unimaginable in those first days. But what was present in the paper then and has remained to this day is a belief in this community and the people who make it what it has become and what it will be. We part in sorrow because we know so much lies ahead that will be worth telling, and we will not be there to do so. We have celebrated life in Colorado, praising its ways, but we have warned, too, against steps we thought were mistaken. We have always been a part of this special place, striving to reflect it accurately and with compassion. We hope Coloradans will remember this newspaper fondly from generation to generation, a reminder of Denver’s history – the ambitions, foibles and virtues of its settlers and those who followed. We are confident that you will build on their dreams and find new ways to tell your story. Farewell – and thank you for so many memorable years together.
Featured
-
DNC in Denver
Complete coverage of the 2008 Democratic National Convention.
-
The Crevasse
A five-part series that examines one tragic day on Mount Rainier.
-
Deadly denial
Sick nuclear workers applied for government compensation but most haven't seen a dime.
-
Final Salute
The Rocky followed Maj. Steve Beck as he took on the most difficult duty of his career.
-
'Colorado's burning'
Coverage of the state's worst wildfires.
-
Columbine shootings
Coverage of the April 20, 1999, shootings at Littleton's Columbine High School.
-
The Crossing
Colorado's deadliest traffic accident killed 20 children on Dec. 14, 1961.
-
Osveli's journey
Osveli Sales left Guatemala for a better life. Two months later, he came home in a box.
-
Wake for an Indian warrior
Oglala Sioux bestow a tribute to the first tribal fatality in Iraq.
February 27, 2009
4:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
My_RMN_1 writes:
How sad...
We as tax payers are prodded and poked into paying our hard earned money, which everyday we see evaporating, to bail out banks, or some other enormous corporation. We've learned our money has covered the enormous bonuses the execs from these institutions pay themselves, we've not received any assurance this will even work, and if we look at history, we can see that probably it won't. But still, we pay. Now OUR newspaper can't pay the bills, and there is nothing we can do about it. This was the natural consequence of all this media consolidation. One capital group has no incentive to keep one unit around if it's not bringing profit. Our society, our community here in Colorado has suffered a great loss today. 150 years of tradition, the RMN was more than a newspaper, it was a symbol of our pride in Colorado and an artifact that we could all take part in. I hope it will be back one day. But until then, I want to wish the best to all those who worked there and say that we are sorry too...
February 27, 2009
4:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
TedlyW writes:
Goodbye Rocky; we've loved you. Goodbye to everyone there who gave the paper life and who gave us so much. Thank you and good luck to all of you.
February 27, 2009
5:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
Snapple writes:
I love you Rocky Mountain News.
I am sorry this has happened. You don't deserve it at all.
Thank you for exposing Ward Churchill.
Maybe there could be some place where your writers could stay in touch with all of us.
February 27, 2009
5:21 a.m.
Suggest removal
JonBen writes:
My entire family and I are so sorry about this. This is one of the saddest days in Colorado history. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all your wonderful employees. God bless.
February 27, 2009
5:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
TheBigKlosowski writes:
I'm so sorry to hear the news. The RMN will be greatly missed. Scripps has made a huge mistake here. The RMN staff is full of wonderful and talented people. I wish the staff the best of luck in moving forward. Denver and Colorado will be worse off with the loss of the RMN.
February 27, 2009
5:55 a.m.
Suggest removal
Shadow writes:
A thankyou is do to the Rocky. For demonstrating how the market is suposed to run. When a company is mismanaged and refuses to keep up with inovation and the modernation of an industry. When a news outlet makes itself biased and slants stories from a loose dog to elections. Then the outlet goes out of business.
I have enjoyed the Rocky since I was a kid. It always had the better comic section in it. I could always count on many of the columnist to give me a laugh with their absurd observations.
It is a shame that the Rocky refused to get on board with the internet and market itself properly in this age of tech and immediate access to info.
If only it was not so biased in its reporting as well. There is a differance between op/eds and news.
February 27, 2009
6:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
Superstar writes:
What a sad day. It doesn't seem fair - to the Rocky itself or to all of the Coloradans it served each day. How could this great institution fold up and go away? Perhaps we're all a little guilty because we're all a part of the greed and bottom line that has become our society. Did the Scripps folks come in and drop the bomb then go back to their cushy lives, big salaries, bonuses, whatever? If so, how pathetic. There could have been a way to save this paper. I had hoped someone would come in on a white horse and rescue it. But now, we are all just left in the dust in a one-paper, one-horse town. So long, Rocky, and to all of the great staff, you have a lot to be proud of. Thanks!
February 27, 2009
6:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
Bodacious_Babe writes:
I remember 1971 most of all, your coverage of D. B. Cooper was what hooked me on the Rocky Mountain News. I remember fondly the reporting of that story. It is a very sad day for all who remember and love the Rocky Mountain News in general and for Denver & Vicinity in particular. Back then, you were to news what KIMN was to Rock & Roll music. "The Rock of Colorado" IMHO, you still are and always will be. Thanks for the memories, the GREAT stories, and your unending dedication over the years. I'll miss you. So will millions of others. You will always be much more than a paper. You have always been the great institution that I've known, albeit from a distance for the most part. I used to live in Lakewood. I bought my first Rocky Mountain News in 1969. I wish all of the staff my deepest sympathies in the passing of the very best publication ever. I hope your future endeavors are as great as the Rocky Mountain News has been.
Bye-Bye and may God Bless.
February 27, 2009
6:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
DrQuinnFan2009 writes:
I am a huge Dr. Quinn fan and with the news finding out that the Rocky Mountain News is closing up shop makes me very very sad. Dr. Quinn was set in Colorado Springs right after the civil war and I can't remember if the Rocky Mountain news was mentioned during the show being that I've only seen the show all the way through only once but still it hurts and kind of hits me pretty hard. I am planning to move to Colorado in the future and knowing that a newspaper that was around before the civil war set in Colorado like in Dr. Quinn just makes me very very sad. I realize that I'm repeating myself but I just can't believe someone couldn't bail you guys out..Where is Dorothy Jennings when you need her the most ;)
February 27, 2009
6:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
FirstSGTHoff writes:
The Rocky truly epitomized all that's great as a Coloradan. Your front page was our front door. From the memorable editions of the Hockey Mountain News, to our tragic Columbine loss, the Rocky always was the answer to all our questions. If anything epitomized the Big Sky freedom of being blessed to call Colorado home, it was the daily Front Page the Rocky offered as our blueprint for the day. The Rocky didn't die, for the memories it engrained in every Coloradan's mind will never be replaced. Salute!
February 27, 2009
6:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
eaglehawk writes:
Well done our good and faithful servant! I will miss The Rocky
February 27, 2009
6:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
Radar writes:
My whole family , three generations has grown up with, even myself living away from Colorado i still read it everyday. Sorry to see you guys go.
February 27, 2009
6:28 a.m.
Suggest removal
Lurkers6a writes:
Once again, rich execs fly off in their private jets and leave carnage in their wake. I bet he doesn't have an $18 million of losses in his bank account.
Good Luck to everyone at the Rocky.
A Plague on the Scripps Company and their executives.
February 27, 2009
6:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
Mustangchef writes:
As drifter on the internet who writes food articles,I stumbled on this paper only yesterday. The story hit me hard. My heart goes out to you guys and gals. Keep your chin up, get back in shape, and come back. Reinvent yourself. We are all in this together and I offer you my best wishes.Good writing and Happy Trails.....The Mustang Chef
www.mustangchef.com
February 27, 2009
6:32 a.m.
Suggest removal
V_twinMan writes:
I am truly saddened by the loss of the Rocky, I have been a subscriber for all of my adult life and will miss reading you daily.
Now with only one paper in town we will not be seeing more than one side to any story, the Post certainly is more left leaning in it's views than the Rocky was and I will not subscribe to it's daily paper, I will only recieve the weekend edition.
V-Twin man
February 27, 2009
6:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
NavyChief writes:
If you hadn't turned into a blantant liberal rag over the last decade, you would probably still be in business. When you alientate half the population, you are bound to see your business suffer.
In the far gone days of my youth, the Rocky was the paper that had the most middle of the road attitude. You let your editorial staff ruin what was a very good paper.
I hate to see it go, but it just proves that unbiased liberalism will kill a business faster than anything.
February 27, 2009
6:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
greenleaf writes:
First we lost May D + F, Neustetters, the Denver Dry Goods, Bonfils Theatre, the Frontier Hotel and the Cosmopolitan. We also lost the Cherry Creek Tattered Cover book store, our close in airport, Stapleton and hundreds of charming Craftsman Bungalows and Denver Squares to bloated Mc Mansions. Also gone are the cowboys and farmers living nearby on the vast open spaces that once surrounded Denver. The Rocky reported on these and many other subjects in its nearly 150 years and now, its gone too. One more tread in the fabric of Denver is gone. Certainly new "threads" will take its place but I doubt they will last as long or make the same contribution this fine old newspaper made to Denver and the Rocky Mountain West. I have read by conservative estimate, at least 10,000 editions of the Rocky Mountain News. The world delivered to my doorstep for 50 years. Now my news will come from the internet and that simply isn't the same.
Farewell old friend and thanks and good luck to all of the Rocky's employees. Denver will miss you and remember what you have done for our mile high city.
February 27, 2009
6:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
Normally I could fill up a page with comments, today I can't find the words to express what a terrible loss. To the people of the ROCKY, both past and present, you truly were the best in the business...God bless each and every one of you for your contribution, to a major piece of Colorado history, that many in the future will look back and reflect upon.
February 27, 2009
6:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
I guess my dog will have to settle for the mailman now that there is no paperboy! She's equally sad too and says no hard feelings, just fond memories.
February 27, 2009
7:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
RMThunder writes:
I grew up reading the RMN - and still to date have several memorable copy's.
Thanks for good read throughout the years.
You will be missed.
February 27, 2009
7:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
Milt writes:
Thank you for the photos of the newsroom during the announcement. I could not help put myself in the place of all the people and faces who have now lost their jobs and daily friendships with cohorts. I feel your sadness and wish each of you nothing but the best. God bless.
February 27, 2009
7:06 a.m.
Suggest removal
zivo24 writes:
As a third generation Denver native, I too grew up with the Rocky in my home. I just find it very hard to imagine Denver and Colorado without the Rocky Mountain News. It's just wrong.
My thoughts and best wishes go out to all the employees and their families at this difficult time. We may be losing a cherished local institution but they're losing that as well as their livelihoods.
February 27, 2009
7:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
Denve_Emigrant writes:
My first job was throwing the News back when the paper was thrown from a bike that was carrying up to 140 dailies My mom worked classified at the News and my Dad wrote for the Post. They met for lunch every day. *** I just registered today to post this and your online registration worked flawlessly, even on the last day.This is indeed a sad day for Denver and a sad day for the Rocky Mountains.
Vince in Montana
February 27, 2009
7:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
Dewmik writes:
When I was a a kid in school I had an incredibly hard time in history class. We were studying the 20th century and I was doing lousy.
My Grandma who was an admitted packrat had saved the Rocky from the mid 20s. In fact she had every one from the attack on Pearl Harbor to the end of WW2 and many up into the 70's.and 80's
My Grand ma had me read those newspapers as though what I was reading was happening that day. My favorite cartoon is still Lil' Abner.
As a result of that tutoring from my Grandma and the help of the RMN not only did I pass history with flying colors but the history teacher had me give a report of the 20th century to the school when we graduated.
It is sad that I will not have the RMN to share with my son but it has given me a very fond memory
Good by and goold luck to all that reported and helped me pass highschool
February 27, 2009
7:14 a.m.
Suggest removal
broncosfanatic3 writes:
ive also been growing up reading the rocky. the rocky will always be rememeberd as a piece of colorado history. thanks for the memories. i will miss the rocky
February 27, 2009
7:16 a.m.
Suggest removal
montrealbob writes:
Best wishes to all from Montreal...thats right Montreal, Canada...linked thru another site, I've been reading on-line for years because of your interesting and very talented writing...kudo's to all the reporters, editors and support staff...Very sad to see another piece of history go by the way side...hopefully this will be a brief cancellation, People of Colorado unite and claim back your newspaper, or maybe an on-line edition can stay?..in any case I wish all of you good luck and hope the future is kind to you all!
Cheers,
Robert Lagueux
February 27, 2009
7:18 a.m.
Suggest removal
OmahaConservative writes:
This is what happens when the news is slanted leftward and presented in a biased manner. This is just the beginning of major dailies across the nation folding.
February 27, 2009
7:18 a.m.
Suggest removal
Caleb2001 writes:
Today is a really sad day. This paper has always kept me close to the home I grew up with even when I have lived in different states. I even was a RMN paperboy when I was a kid. This has always been one of, if not the best papers published out of Colorado. My heart goes out to your staff, God bless you (and your families) and may you find employment quickly.
February 27, 2009
7:18 a.m.
Suggest removal
Rhamm writes:
In the first photojournalism class I ever took, my teacher showed "Final Salute." That piece influenced me dramatically to become a photojournalist.
Thank you Rocky Mountain News for doing great journalism.
I wish you all the best of luck.
February 27, 2009
7:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
Backhand writes:
Rocky Mountain adapt or die. You didn't and now you are dead. Not from Colorado and thus don't care. That's life in the U.S.
As released employees in their Toyota Corollas and Honda Accords drive away one last time from the newspaper office, the irony is sweet.
February 27, 2009
7:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
Noah writes:
Sad to see the Rocky go. But you are a victim of your own ideology. Papers that champion the conservative slant like the Rocky really cheered for corporate merger over public interest. Well you got it. When you championed the Telecommunications act of 96 you set the wheels in motion for your own slow death. Mass consolidation of the media into mega corporations. That fired all the local reporting staff left newspapers a hollow shell. RARELY investigating anything because there was few local people or reporters still working in those newspapers. Instead a never ending torrent of AP stories and other things from off the wire. In the case of the Rocky, broken up by slanted news that skewed so far right on occasion that it became a joke. Your OP ed became your news and your real news went away long ago. Sad to see you go, but this is exactly what happens when to few people are allowed to own the media. I hope Obama brings back the rules on who and how much media can be owned by any personal or corporate interest. The fairness doctrine included those rules. You conservatives built your own coffin and nailed it shut. You want the Rocky back or to keep other media alive. Bring back the fairness doctrine and BREAK UP THE MEDIA EMPIRES.
February 27, 2009
7:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
stella writes:
The better paper has folded. It is a sad day. I have many saved Rocky papers (the Super Bowl wins, the day each of my kids were born, the shuttle exploding, etc.) and I guess, now one more. As much as I am a newspaper girl at heart, I can't bring myself to reading the Post. It is nowhere near the caliber of the Rocky.
February 27, 2009
7:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
INC writes:
I find it interesting as to how the decision to allow the Rocky to exist in an on line format... is up to the post?
yet it seems every other line from the JOA bosses is "sad" and " not part of Denvers paper war". But that's exactly what it is. The final death knell for the Rocky comes at the hands of its rival... the post.
BLAH!!!
Besides a lighthouse on the front page of a land locked newspaper (although to be symbolic) Looked stupid.
February 27, 2009
7:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
zivo24 writes:
Hey Omaha...
The papers aren't folding because of YOUR perceived slants. And frankly, the Rocky was the more conservative of the two papers here in Denver, in my opinion.
Papers are folding because more and more people get their news here...online. That's where the advertisers are putting their dollars.
From someone in the know that spoke with, one of the main reasons for the failure of the Rocky and other papers is that the costs of producing and delivering the printed editions of the papers. The monies earned from declining subscriptions to the printed editions were so much less than the costs of producing them. He said that if the Rocky had done away with the printed edition and gone to online only, it probably would have survived.
February 27, 2009
7:33 a.m.
Suggest removal
BroncoDan writes:
I think I will cry...
February 27, 2009
7:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
SandyDunes writes:
I am sorry to hear the news. You did a great job reporting. I hope the best for all of you. Thanks.
February 27, 2009
7:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
Goaltender66 writes:
What a bummer. I grew up with the Rocky, read Gene Amole until he died, and my best friend worked in the Sports section. I'm sorry to see the paper go and wish everyone good luck in the future.
February 27, 2009
7:39 a.m.
Suggest removal
Michael writes:
Too many accusations about political bias and evil executives flying off in private jets after closing the Rocky. Read Temple's article. This is all about ad revenue and the bottom line. Subscription fees do not keep a paper afloat alone, and to a very small degree anyway. With the exodus of classified and sales ads, the internet, the new generation of electronic youth who have no nostalgia or desire for the feel and smell of a fresh paper in the morning with their coffee, the end was sure to come. The world is changing as we so want it to stay the way we liked it and were comfortable with. Almost all of the posts are from people who claim to have read the Rocky for decades - like me. I doubt if there are many under 30 (40?) that care at all about this. Just another failed business to them. They have no skin in this game.
I do not think there was a solution to this. Why would the Rocky employees hock their life savings to buy a failed business model? The paper had been up for sale for months - with no takers. Newspapers are going the way of buggy whip makers, the corner butcher or baker, doctors who make house calls, and maybe the US automobile industry if changes are not made quickly.
God bless and good luck to all the employees and their families and thanks for all the great reading you have given me since 1974. Thanks and best wishes to all my blogger buddies - friends and adversaries alike!! And may the Rocky Mountain News RIP along with Gene Amole.
February 27, 2009
7:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
4shortofa100 writes:
To every moron here saying the Rocky closed because of (fill your bias in the blank), do everyone a favor and shut the hell up.
Where's your humanity? You pieces of garbage. Go gloat at someone else's funeral.
I sincerely hope that each and every one of experiences something like this. Hope it happens to your family. Shame, though, that we won't be able to comment on the result like you, you internet cowards.
February 27, 2009
7:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
sburke writes:
A part of Colorado dies today. Goodbye, Rocky.
February 27, 2009
7:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
HolierThanThou writes:
My best regards to the Rocky Mountain writers and editorial staff. Even if you were a bit too conservative, good people doing good work deserve a good livelihood. Hold your heads up high and head out into the job market with a positive attitude. Your skills and integrity will take you to new and interesting places.
I, for one, will miss all the fun.
February 27, 2009
7:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
areevesclan writes:
It is with a heavy heart that I say thank you to all the writers, photographers and staff who have brought the world to my door each morning. I just can't find the words.....God bless each of you and your families on your new endeavors.
February 27, 2009
7:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
TruthOfDenver writes:
Isn't this situation the exact definition of free market economy? It s-u-c-k-s that a company goes out of business, especially one with a written past, however it only proves yet again that its a survivial of the fittest.
Obviously most of the comments are from pro-Rocky news readers but do they realize in the grand scheme of things they are a minority since their limited readership isn't able to support this floundering paper in this hard industry?
February 27, 2009
7:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
FCCG writes:
This paper very well could have been read by my great-great-great grandparents the day they arrived in Denver. I read it today. A very sad day for Denver and Colorado. You will be sorely missed.
February 27, 2009
7:55 a.m.
Suggest removal
johnnydb writes:
I grew up reading the Rocky. What a great paper. My 95 year old Mother loves the Rocky, and was heart broken yesterday. I can not imagine that Scripps could not have found a way to save the Rocky, but, once again, unlike where it used to be that businesses showed compassion for consumers, it is now only compassion for money. When you get on the Scripps website, they own 10 tv stations, 19 newspapers, counting the Rocky, and also own what they call United Media. Please Scripps, don't tell us there was no you could not have let the Rocky continue. Here is a link, in case any one would like to send the Scripps an email, letting them know how you feel: Click on about us, then contact us:
http://www.scripps.com/index.html
God Bless the many wonderful employees of the Rocky, and thank you for caring.
February 27, 2009
8 a.m.
Suggest removal
Noah writes:
Johnnydb....... just further backed up my point. Giant media that looks at bottom line more than the public good. Look at how much they own in Colorado. Do you really think this is healthy for democracy in Colorado?
Scripps News owns:
19 newspapers: Abilene Reporter-News (TX), Anderson Independent-Mail (SC), Boulder Daily Camera (CO), Kitsap Sun (WA), Corpus Christi Caller-Times (TX), Evansville Courier& Press (IN), Henderson Gleaner (KY), Knoxville News-Sentinel (TN), Memphis Commercial Appeal (TN), Naples Daily News (FL), Redding Record-Searchlight (CA), San Angelo Standard-Times (TX), Treasure Coast News/Press/Tribune (FL), Ventura County Star (CA), Wichita Falls Times Record News (TX), Albuquerque Tribune (NM), Birmingham Post-Herald (AL), and Denver Rocky Mountain News (CO), Scripps Howard News Service (D.C.), Colorado Daily (CO).
February 27, 2009
8:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
navymom writes:
As usual, when someone expresses an opinion on a thread in RMN, people like 4shortofa100 must be rude and offensive. Why should is be any different on the last day that RMN is in existence.
I for one will miss those of you with whom I held some spirited debate this last year.
As a way to send this off with a bang, I will just float the notion that not even Obama's "hope and change" message could keep a left leaning newspaper afloat. I sure, if RMN keeps this thread going all day, I will be the Devil incarnate for saying such a sacrilegious statement. LOL
February 27, 2009
8:02 a.m.
Suggest removal
B300 writes:
Good bye Rocky, I hope all of the staff will get new jobs! Good luck everyone. Its sad to se a 150 year icon go away. I delivered the paper in the 60s as a kid, and I have read the paper all my life here in Denver. I feel the down turn started when they merged with the post. Before that you could put an ad in either paper for 10 bucks. The ad would stay tell it sold! Now advertising costs are much more.
Again, Good luck everyone!
February 27, 2009
8:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
Barbarosa writes:
OK, I'm deleting my bookmark to this page now. I guess that makes it official. (Sniff, sniff.)
It's been a great run; too bad it had to end this way. Thanks, Rocky, for being there for me for the last 35 years.
February 27, 2009
8:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
Onelastgoodbye writes:
I for one am under 30, lived an hour north of Denver, and "grew up" reading the Rocky.
For the last number five years I have been out of state and read the paper online. I plan on moving back to Denver later this year and one thing I actually looked forward to was reading a paper copy of the Rocky.
Its a sad day for Colorado as a whole.
To the staff: Thanks for all the memories, articles, and stories!
February 27, 2009
8:11 a.m.
Suggest removal
glowrock writes:
I'm so sorry to see the Rocky going away. As others have said, while I didn't necessarily agree with many of the editorial decisions made in the paper, there's no question that the combination of BOTH the Rocky and the Post lead to a fairly well-balanced sense of journalism around the Denver area. Sad to see the Rocky go, but I do hope that several of the Rocky columnists migrate to the Post (aka Rebchook, Flynn, etc...), as their local coverage of their particular subject matter was impeccable!
February 27, 2009
8:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
lanceeee writes:
the scripps email address: corpcomm@scripps.com
February 27, 2009
8:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
oldgunney writes:
Whats my puppy gonna poop on now?
February 27, 2009
8:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
lidufour writes:
What a sad day. My heart breaks for you all. May God Bless you.
February 27, 2009
8:15 a.m.
Suggest removal
ruserious writes:
I like many posting here grew-up on the Rocky. I honestly cannot believe it was the paper that would fold. I sure the majority of those in the state wishes the Post would have folded. I guarantee there would not be the same nostalgia if the Post was closing. Goodbye Rocky.
February 27, 2009
8:21 a.m.
Suggest removal
CUEmployee writes:
I've been reading the News my entire adult life and will miss it greatly. Best of luck to all of the employees at this difficult time and RIP Rocky Mountain News.
February 27, 2009
8:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
kristian_r writes:
I was born in 1977 and my parents read the RMN all the time. It was a fixture in my daily life. I read my high school sports stories, even read about my father a Denver Police officer in the RMN over the years. For 28 years until I moved from Colorado to Nebraska I read the RMN.
Since I moved over three years ago, I never knew how much value the RMN had in my life. Since my move I realize how much a good paper means. The people will definately miss the RMN from here on out like I have for the last three years.
A truly sad day.
February 27, 2009
8:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
Shaupeen writes:
Thank you for all of the mornings--from the weekday rushed-breakfasts to the epic Sunday morning sprawls--that I spent with your fine paper on the table next to my food. The last 17 years would not have been the same without all of you who made it possible. From Stanley Cup victories to unspeakable tragedy, yours was the news source I turned to first and most often. Thanks for always being there.
February 27, 2009
8:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
zivo24 writes:
Navymom,
I think it's hilarious that you think the Rocky was "left leaning".
It just shows how far off center you are because the Rocky was definitely the more conservative paper in town.
On one hand you take someone else to task for their comments but you couldn't resist getting in one last dig at our president by implying that his five weeks in office should somehow have changed the course that the Rocky has been on for a very long time.
The truth is that the main reason that the Rocky is folding is because the powers that be there didn't or wouldn't make the tough decision to do away with the printed edition of the paper and go online only.
From a story on Denvernewschannel.com right now:
"Printing copies and getting that paper to your front door are two of the most basic, fundamental services a daily newspaper provides. They're also two of the biggest reasons papers are closing.
The Rocky Mountain News didn't fold because the quality of its journalism was somehow inadequate compared to its Joint Operating Agreement partner/rival, the Denver Post. It folded for basic, economic reasons.
"Newspapers as we know them are at risk," said Bob Taber, managing partner and head of strategic planning for Thomas, Taber & Drazen, a local media strategy firm.
Taber and his company recently finished an exhaustive survey of hundreds of newspaper advertisers across America. The tanking economy was the biggest problem those advertisers faced. But the other big find from that survey should be of the utmost concern to print publishers.
"Yeah, (advertisers) are spending the money elsewhere. And we did this (survey) in October," Taber said. "More importantly, newspapers as a medium are less and less effective, and cost more and more, to reach fewer and fewer people."
By his estimates, printing and distribution costs account for 50 to 60 percent of a newspaper's operating costs.
He breaks down the challenges faced by print media as mass versus class. If papers are to survive they must adapt and target their audience, bypassing the traditional, mass appeal strategy.
"They will become a class medium. It will be older, more educated, higher-income people ... that continue to read the traditional newspaper. But that, again, is a downsizing from where they have been historically," Taber said."
I don't think you're the "devil incarnate" - just a very self-centered, thoughtless woman.
February 27, 2009
8:28 a.m.
Suggest removal
chickenlittle1234 writes:
It's been nice seeing adversaries and allies nearly all line up behind the Rocky Mountain News and equally sad to see it ending its run. It was the first paper I subscribed to as an adult in 1980, and it was the first paper foolish enough to publish my first letter to the editor. I will miss you.
February 27, 2009
8:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
TruthOfDenver writes:
" I sure the majority of those in the state wishes the Post would have folded."
- Umm yeah, considering the Posts readership is nearly 40% greater than the Rocky Mountain.
February 27, 2009
8:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cowboy63 writes:
Goodbye, old friend.
February 27, 2009
8:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
Maxx writes:
Goodbye RMN,
You made a difference and will be missed.
February 27, 2009
8:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
Rex writes:
This reminds me of the first music video on MTV by the Buggles, "Video Killed the Radio Star.
Somehow, I believe that the internet has done the same here.
February 27, 2009
8:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
lilbreckie writes:
I LOVE ROCKY MOUNTAIN NEWS! ITS AWESOME!! YAY!!!
WE WILL JUST MISS YOU SO SO SO MUCH!
YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART!
FOREVER-
BRECKIN JOHNSON
February 27, 2009
8:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
vimbo writes:
Economics, demographics, and a significant evolution from "just the facts, ma'am" to activist journalism each contributed to the News's demise. I've missed my old friend the Rocky Mountain News for at least a decade, but it's always a melancholy time when you realize someone you hadn't spoken to in awhile has gone and died on you. RIP.
February 27, 2009
8:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
Squatch writes:
Thanks RMN & your Staff, I have enjoyed your paper since my childhood and all my adult life. I will miss your paper and will never buy a Denver Post as I have never enjoyed it. I will go to their website to get my local news as I have no other options. I'm sure it will only be a matter of time before they will realize as the only game in town they can charge us online lookers for access to their site.
Once again RMN & Staff you will be missed by me and from the looks of it Thousands of others.
February 27, 2009
8:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
lilbreckie writes:
YOUR AWESOME!
February 27, 2009
8:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
rickg19611 writes:
What a sad day.
Losing the RMN and being left with the Denver Post is like losing a fine wine.... and being left with bottled sewer water.
February 27, 2009
8:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
lilbreckie writes:
kelsey is stupid!
February 27, 2009
8:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cara writes:
You are not alone in the sadness that surrounds the closing of the paper.
In Tucson, our afternoon paper - the 138-year-old Tucson Citizen - is on track for such an awful fate. If a buyer is not found, it will cease publication on March 21.
Thank you for the wonderful goodbye video that is posted today. So rare for new organizations to report on themselves. It was nice to hear the personal stories from people who work so hard for that important mission of reporting on their community.
It's a sad day.
And we are not far behind.
February 27, 2009
8:39 a.m.
Suggest removal
CantFixStupid writes:
NavyChief writes:
If you hadn't turned into a blantant liberal rag over the last decade, you would probably still be in business. When you alientate half the population, you are bound to see your business suffer.
In the far gone days of my youth, the Rocky was the paper that had the most middle of the road attitude. You let your editorial staff ruin what was a very good paper.
I hate to see it go, but it just proves that unbiased liberalism will kill a business faster than anything.
-----------------------
One last time. You just can't fix stupid!
February 27, 2009
8:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
Uno_Cinco writes:
Sad day in Denver, here is one final MILE HIGH SALUTE!! to the finest paper that I ever read!!!
February 27, 2009
8:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
Broncos101 writes:
This is a sad day for media in Colorado. I have been reading the Rocky Mountain News since High School. Best wishes to all RMN staff!
February 27, 2009
8:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
vendari01 writes:
I have agreed and disagreed with the Rocky Mountain News' writers, many times rather loudly, upon these pages. In all of that time, I have enjoyed reading the actual paper, for the depth of its articles, and, of course for such things as the crossword puzzles, cryptograms, and comics. I appreciated the way the paper unfolded, and so many other, little things, and if I thought some of your writing was 'spun' a bit, well, I've seen that often enough, as well. Thank you for your efforts over the years. I truly believe you'll be missed.
February 27, 2009
8:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
TXKATE writes:
My parents met and fell in love while working at the Rocky Mountain News. This is so sad.
February 27, 2009
8:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
megan_j writes:
I will miss you Rocky...whenever I was in Denver you were my paper of choice. I always kept track of you and worried about you. I loved your historical significance. It is a shame that newspapers have gone the way of the family farm and that only big corporations can own and operate you. We have lost an important voice. You will always be in our hearts.
February 27, 2009
8:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
jcin16 writes:
Like many others, I have grown up reading the Rocky, both in print as a kid and online as I've grown older. As a print journalism major about to graduate, this loss both saddens me deeply and makes me acutely aware that no one, or one paper, is invincible.
I can't imagine not having the RMN site to navigate for up-to-date news. It'll be a challenge, I'm sure.
Best of luck to the staff.
February 27, 2009
8:51 a.m.
Suggest removal
InTheJourney writes:
My heart goes out to the staff at the Rocky. Thanks for all of your hard work. I know this must be a really tough time for everyone. I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
February 27, 2009
8:51 a.m.
Suggest removal
Bihl writes:
The News was started about the time our family first settled in Colorado in April of 1859. I know our family has always been an avid reader of the paper since that time and it will be sorely missed by all.
William Byers must be rolling over in his grave....
February 27, 2009
8:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
UNV_ME writes:
Thanks for all the information and entertainment during my work day... everyday... All the best.
February 27, 2009
8:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
davies writes:
I too think the overall content of the RMN leaned a little too much to the liberal side, although not as far as the Post, which as we know continues to survive for now.
In my opinion, people in the business of reporting and commenting on the news tend to end up seeing more of the "what's wrong" side of things, because when something goes wrong, it's "news". Meanwhile much of the "what's going right" side of daily life ends up being unreported and unappreciated, because it's not really news.
So the conservative perspective, which includes a deeper-held appreciation of why society operates the way it does despite the individual misfortunes of some, ends up getting less attention and support from the news media in general.
One last time, so long Rocky Mountain News; sorry to see you go. God bless those who lost their jobs.
February 27, 2009
8:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
Midwester writes:
The death of a newspaper hits home regardless of where one lives. As a 35 year Midwestern newspaper advertising vet, now a buyout retiree, we in the "cash cow" advertising department felt the pain much earlier than our friends on the journalism side of our business. Seeing our 100 page Sunday Jobs section shrink over the past 10 years to 6 pages was an experience not to be believed. As auto and real estate soon followed, the stark realities of a changed media world came into clear focus. A print ad dollar suddenly became a 3 cent online fact and no amount of financial planning could change that arithmetic.
Newspapers, in what can only be viewed historically as overnight, became a medium viewed by our kids as irrelevant. As the father of three married daughters in their early to mid 30's, I can attest to the fact that not one single newspaper print subscription exists between the 6 of them, but they all read newspapers online for free while happily paying $150 a month for their cable TV service. It breaks my heart, but it is what it is and newspaper print subscription prices have had very little to do with the circulation losses.
Major markets that still have the luxury of two metro papers will likely go the way of Denver, and sooner rather than later. Newspapers will survive, but not as a financially attractive career choice for the thousands of starry eyed kids who entered schools of Journalism dreaming of front page bylines. Those jobs that do remain, and tens of thousands will, just won’t be at the same pay grid or longevity as before.
February 27, 2009
9:02 a.m.
Suggest removal
anastacia8 writes:
I cried this morning watching the news coverage on this sad day...so did my husband, I called my mother, she too weeped for the end of an era...she said it was like "losing a friend"...and really, it feels that way.
We love you Rocky Mountain News.
February 27, 2009
9:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
MrYeahBut writes:
Good bye RMN,
I really feel very sad about this and certainly hope that everyone manages to land on their feet.
February 27, 2009
9:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
mnieto writes:
I am extremely saddened by the closing of the only paper I have ever read. The Rocky is the best newspaper in the state and to just throw it away is a shame. The Rocky as well as all the staff members deserve more. I wish you all well and I still have hope that The Rocky will make a come back!
February 27, 2009
9:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
MaverickBrett writes:
Lets all give thanks for their service,and enjoy the blessing of what he had.
Thoughts and prayers go out to the families that are connected to this paper.
February 27, 2009
9:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
WithoutACause writes:
I'm sad to see Denver turn into a one-paper town because I think that you need competition to get the hard stories out. Hopefully the Post will absorb some of the writers but this is not an isolated event. As long as revenue continues to drop, papers are going to close. What will we do when the Post shutters it's doors and we have no one to cover our local news?
February 27, 2009
9:11 a.m.
Suggest removal
meatwad writes:
Great, now I'm forced to read Kiszla? son of a.....
Peace hippies
February 27, 2009
9:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
chrisrose writes:
Ok, Ok, so newspapers are dying. It is still truly tragic when any form of public expression ends no matter the format. Many people so glibly comment that they get their new online anyway and won't miss the newspapers. I can't for the life of me figure out where these people think this online news is coming from. Most newspapers have online editions that post a major portion of the news available online. The online format has yet to show that it can financially support the caliber of news gathering, especially on the local level, that newspapers staffs have and continue to provide both in print and online. The more newspapers that die, the less online JOURNALISM will be available.
February 27, 2009
9:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
KarlCheney writes:
All of these uninformed right wingers blaming this on left wing bias are the same folks that really believe Fox news is fair and balanced. The Rocky will be missed even those who had left wing opinion columns.....
February 27, 2009
9:19 a.m.
Suggest removal
rip_vw32 writes:
Goodbye RMN.. 28+ years of reading you, starting with the best Comics section in the state, and the best classifieds... You will be sorely missed.
February 27, 2009
9:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
citizen509 writes:
Good bye old friend. Good bye Old Friends. I pray all of you find refuge, comfort, laughter, and peace on your continuing journey through life.
February 27, 2009
9:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
knothead writes:
My mother was born in Denver in 1910. It had dirt streets downtown, trolley cars and the Rocky Mountain News. Its all anyone read. I grew up with it, all my friends and family too. My heart is broken. Thanks to Ed Stein for the cartoons and all of you at the News for a lifetime of entertainment, education, and everyday fun with the best little paper in the world. I will miss you. I feel like a friend has passed away.
February 27, 2009
9:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
Triumph writes:
Good riddence you left leaning rag. You went the way of my Democratic Party that took a left turn around 30 years ago. You deliberate news and story blackouts concerning abortion and the promotion of the gay agenda and their irresponsible spread of AIDS in the 1980's and destructive lifestyle. Pro Life marches and Conservative activities were relegated to the back of your paper or demonized. You promoted and endorsed just about every Democratic canidate to come down the pike including Obama. You helped him get elected and gave him a free ride and never reported or scrutinized his questionable past and associations. You never went after his credibility as you did John McCain and especially Sara Palin. As hard as it is to believe the Post is even worse than your paper was and I hope they meet the same fate.
I stopped subscribing to your paper in 2000 after 40 years of inviting it into our home.
My Rocky Mountain News died years ago as did my Democratic Party.
They are finally getting around to burying you.
February 27, 2009
9:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
Jackie_Chazan writes:
The end of an era has come to Denver. The Rocky Mountain News has been a fair and balanced newspaper that will be missed. Or will it?
If the online edition continues with the same great content, then only the format will be missed. I hope the Rocky's human capital finds a way to deliver in an electronic format the great insights, analysis and stories we have come to love and depend on.
This is only the first stage in the evolution of news delivery. As electronic news gathering and publishing, RSS feeds, blogs and social media grow we will see more changes. Those who adapt will survive and I hope the Rocky will be one of them.
February 27, 2009
9:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
KarlCheney writes:
Triumph, Through your hatred did you notice the RMN endorsed Bush twice. Stop whining already.... Obviously you still read it, you seem to know their articles. Now go yell at gay people and threaten planned parenthood you will feel much better....
February 27, 2009
9:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
pbrfan writes:
Thanks, Rocky, and best wishes to every staffer. Your "Goodbye, Colorado" front and design is powerful beyond words and tragic at the same time. We've lost a valued friend.
I feel sorry for the readers who blame this on being liberal. Those readers should pray that the Post survives and thrives, otherwise they (and the rest of metro Denver) will live in a world of their own biases and lack of information.
The Rocky will be missed tomorrow and more each passing day.
February 27, 2009
9:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
skleepit writes:
skleepit writes:
For crying out loud has everybody gone brain dead? It is the natural selection of a free market at work. Let it work, these people will either find a new positon at another paper or move on and find new employment at a new vocation. It really is that simple. If our moronic a-holes in Washington would only allow the market to work nationally we wouldn't be doing this rediculous "stimulus" package. Which is being decietfully presented to us to be a benifet, but is nothing more than the left moving forward with their social engineering agenda. Just look at what we are paying for, the vast majority of the "package" is for social programs, entitlement programs and artsy-fartsy projects. these do nothing to stimulate our economy. Contrarily they exacerbate the problem! Call, write, scream at your representatives!! They are only "working" the system for "their own gains". Trust noone in the political system.
February 27, 2009
9:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
KarlCheney writes:
Is every crazy conservative posting here? They can't leave politics or blame out of anything... This is a sad day, this is part of Colorado history, gone forever...
February 27, 2009
9:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
666 writes:
Goodbye to the only paper in Colorado worth reading.
Goodbye to a user-friendly format and plain-spoken style.
Goodbye to a publication I grew up with, and have read every day of my adult life.
Goodbye to my favorite way to get the news of the day.
And goodbye to annoying sphincter-specters like Triumph, who decided to punctuate what's already a tragedy by spewing ignorant and disrespectful BS at an undeserving target, the RMN. You pack of Rocky-hating miscreants, with your anus-hat accusations of liberal leanings and pigheaded denial of any attempt at a fair presentation of an issue...what will you do, without the Rocky to kick around and blame for all your failings? You'll have to wrap yourselves up in the Pueblo Chieftan to keep warm from now on, and you'll have to direct your right-wing rage at the Boulder Camera from here on out.
I fully expect to encounter blog-goblins like Hogar and MBR693 on the Post's discussion forum, and I'll eviscerate their pseudo-scientific self-righteous crap arguments there just like I did here...but it won't be the same.
RMN, you will be remembered with respect and admiration.
February 27, 2009
9:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
ironmyke writes:
I'm very sorry to see this. We lost "The First Scripps Newspaper" , the Cincinnati Post, Dec. 31 2007, and I still miss it. I have great empathy for your staff and your readers. All the best to the folks who will need to find a new start.
February 27, 2009
9:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
Pauser writes:
I was born in Denver and lived there until I was 10. One of my fondest childhood memories is sitting on my grandfather's lap while he read the Rocky Mountain News. I am saddened at the end of an era. Best wishes to the staff and thanks for the years of service.
February 27, 2009
9:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
meh writes:
I never read your paper in print, though I occasionally stopped by the website. Here's a heartfelt sorry to all the dedicated employees who are losing their jobs today.
February 27, 2009
9:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
cincytee writes:
From the veterans of The Cincinnati Post and Kentucky Post, our deepest sympathies. We never thought you'd follow us to oblivion. What a terrible loss.
February 27, 2009
9:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
RockySupporter writes:
I'm a newspaper junkie. They are an indispensible part of my life everyday. I lived in Colorado for about 6 years, from about 1999-2005. I read them both every day (Post and Rocky). But the Rocky was MY paper of choice all those years. The stunning photography. The bold and dramatic headlines that told stories (All of Colorado is on Fire - or something like that as I recall). The investigations. The Rocky, unlike most newspapers in the U.S., had a personality. With a capital P. I remember the Post as being OK, good reporters too, especially in the Sports section. The paper as a personality? The Post? Not in my view. I just got a sense that the Rocky was always the underdog and thus 'the paper' as a whole worked harder and took more chances and in turn turned out better journalism on a daily basis. With the Post, I sort of could predict what it would look like every morning. I could never say that about the Rocky.
Yea, I realize all the financial pressures on the newspaper business. I get it. But that doesn't make it any easier to see the paper gone. Hell, I feel this way and I don't even live in Colorado anymore. There are a lot of bad papers folding around the country. What makes this different is that the Rocky was not a bad paper, it was a damn good paper based on my experience living and reading many papers from other cities.
Just writing about the Rocky in past tense is sad. Sad for Colorado. Sad for journalism. Sad for everyone losing their jobs.
My hope is someday, when this economic mess is over in the U.S., someone will buy the Rocky and start it up again just as it was. And in true Rocky fashion the first edition will have a blaring headline that reads: "We're Back!" over a giant photo of Temple and other staffers smiling.
Good luck to all the staff. Just know that there are probably thousands of people like me whose lives passed through Denver at some point and who appreciated the product you put out every day.
February 27, 2009
9:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
leatherneck writes:
Goodbye Rocky........
My heart goes out ot the employees that will be on unemployment now...
February 27, 2009
9:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
mt2ri writes:
I'll miss RMN when I'm in town for Broncos games, and my browser will have a 'hole' in it when I'm a couple of thousand miles away...
February 27, 2009
9:50 a.m.
Suggest removal
Coloheart writes:
At 3 am every morning, for as long as I can can remember, the thump of paper bales would hit our porch in east Denver. All 5 of us kids had paper routes from the time we were 6. It was a family tradition of sorts. I still miss folding the Rocky over a cup of hot coco!
Liberal, conservative, we were all here daily weren't we? Some commenting more than others, and entertaining me greatly with my morning coffee. You all, will be missed as well.
February 27, 2009
9:58 a.m.
Suggest removal
jla writes:
Thank you all for doing such great journalism. As a Colorado native and fan of your scrappy, talented newsroom, today's news makes me very sad.
February 27, 2009
9:59 a.m.
rg writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
February 27, 2009
9:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
intothelens writes:
What worries me is the de-valuing of objectivity that is being underwritten by our information-seeking society.
I haven't been in touch with politics long enough to know firsthand what the bloggers here are referring to as the paper's bias. I would ask all of them to prove to me the bias, to provide facts to support their claim, as would any good journalist. But I don't TRUST them to give me straight facts. For instance, a very dear friend, when we debated the Obama's merits prior to the election, presented to me as 'facts' material from the Mike Rosen and MyRepublic.com websites. Unreal. Unacceptable.
The parts of our nation wanting to be informed seem more inclined to tune in with outlets more in line with their already established beliefs -- HuffingtonPost, Hannity, MSNBC, Fox News -- entities not shy about expressing their leanings. It makes the reader/viewer comfortable. It may make them informed. But it does NOT make them enlightened. It's only one side of the story.
The Rocky at least tried to gain our trust. It strived for and upheld journalistic integrity, fairness, truth-seeking. Though no human can reach the virtuous heights of a completely objective machine, you certainly have to respect and appreciate those who have made it a life-long, passionate, professional pursuit of it. More so, of course, than those who were outright champions of an outright agenda. I cast my trust with those who, however imperfect, vow to make my trust their goal, who make objectivity their profession, and who have the awards recognizing their prowess.
Although I always wear a healthy skepticism, I would trust an organization like the Rocky to tell me why it chooses to endorse a particular politician more honestly than would a non-news organization.
If you readers think lies and bias are plentiful now, wait 'til the void is filled by the internet fog, those with dot-com name, who report what they see from behind their monitor and keyboard rather than firsthand from on-scene and in-touch.
That this newspaper has gone under, about that I'm not so concerned. Businesses come and go with the times (notice the most touching and informative work on the site today is not in writing, but video and audio). As my rock band sings, "Changes aren't permanent, but Change is." Instead, I worry about the seeds of mis-information and being planted now, and being fertilized by the less-critical, less-empathetic, less-tolerant members of this society. There is no urge to experience the truth, or what one SHOULD read. Only what one conveniently and comfortably WANTS to read. Objectivity be damned.
Politically, I see an ugly, bitter division that promises nothing short of civil war so long as the extremists driving it care only for their side of the story. Indeed, this melting pot needs to be stirred.
Thank you, Rocky, for trying. Your efforts will always be honorable in my eyes.
February 27, 2009
10 a.m.
Suggest removal
dc1301 writes:
I grew up with the Rocky Mountain News and am very sorry to see you close. I'll miss you and wish you all the very best!!
February 27, 2009
10:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
bigtinda303 writes:
Rocky you were truely the best paper in town. You will be missed by a lot of people who have grown up with your paper. I for one will not be reading or buying any paper the scripps will sell. Trying to read that big @ss post is a pain in the you know what. it is not a paper you can read at the breakfast table, like we did with the rocky every weekend. I wish the best for all of the folks that have worked and support the rocky for all of these years. God bless !!!
February 27, 2009
10:02 a.m.
Suggest removal
jmallinen writes:
The Rocky Mountain News brought my parents to colorado thirty years ago. Because of this paper I grew up in a wonderful state, and feel that I became an educated, well spoken, and passionate person largely in part to the things I read in this paper growing up in Denver. I practically grew up in that building on Colfax, and fondly remember those eccentric news folks teaching me about politics, local sports, and cuss words. The newpaper business in Denver is my family, and I have truely suffered a loss today. RIP, RMN xoxo
February 27, 2009
10:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
chickenlittle1234 writes:
As I read through the threads above, I would like to repeat that so many of us from whatever political perspective hate to see this happen. Except for someone like Triumph, who actaully seems to gloat over a sad situation. May karma run you down you venal and hypocritical piece of crap, Triumph. My apologies to all others for my own demonstration of spleen.
February 27, 2009
10:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
rcwieser writes:
We will be witnessing many more newspapers closing. With the closing of each newspaper, another brick is knocked out of the foundation of democracy.
I encourage you to subscribe to and read your local daily newspaper. Ohhh...encourage your kids to read it too.
February 27, 2009
10:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
YellowCatRedCat writes:
What a sad, sad day. Best of luck to all the Rocky staff.
February 27, 2009
10:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
FriendinKnoxville writes:
Your friends at the Knoxville News Sentinel hold all of you in their hearts and prayers.
February 27, 2009
10:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
ColoradoBound writes:
I too am quite upset that the Rocky is ceasing production. I wish the best for the employees who did an outstanding job producing a top-shelf product. My first copy of the Rocky was back in 1988 while competing in a soccer tournament hosted at the Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs). And, during dozens of vacations to Colorado over two decades, I sought out a copy of the Rocky each and every day. The format of the paper (tabloid style?) was also excellent.
Best wishes.
February 27, 2009
10:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
TDDColorado writes:
Very sad. I wish there was a way to reverse the last 8 years of Bush. Our economy and life would be much better if he was never president.
February 27, 2009
10:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
notso writes:
I'm so sorry. This is a sad day for everyone who values the free press in this nation. I only read The Rocky Mountain News during one vacation to Colorado, so I have no personal attachment. When a newspaper dies, however, a little piece of each one of us dies with it.
My thoughts are with all of you who relied on The Rocky for your livelihood and, especially, with all of you who made it your life.
February 27, 2009
10:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
Aristotle writes:
It is with great sadness that my first posting on the RMN website comes on the last day of its publication. I am a Denver native and have read the News my entire life. I was also fortunate to have worked there for 5 years during the height of the newspaper war with the Post and the comraderie the employees felt was a very special environment to cut my teeth on the newspaper business and advertising business. I also played on the News' softball team and the the game against the Post always drew a huge crowd and several beer coolers as well. We were a family back then and it was actually fun to go to work each day, do your job and then pick up the paper the next to see what you accomplished. My heart goes out to the current employees and to all the RMN readers who have lost a bit of Colorado history today.
February 27, 2009
10:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
Aval44 writes:
I feel like a part of Colorado just died. My hopes and prayers for the employees that they will find jobs.
February 27, 2009
10:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
mdeeble writes:
It's a very sad day in Colorado. I think we just lost an important part of our heritage.
February 27, 2009
10:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
lue80lue writes:
Your paper made me feel at home in Denver when I first moved here. I was in a crappy relationship and I had no support.
I would read it for free at the library on 13/Broadway.
It is amazing the impact this is having on me. I did not realize how important you are. Good luck to all of you and thanks for everything.
February 27, 2009
10:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
666 writes:
NavyChief writes:
"If you hadn't turned into a blantant liberal rag over the last decade, you would probably still be in business..."
- Blah blah blah
"When you alientate half the population, you are bound to see your business suffer."
- You and your fellow bunker-dwelling tinfoil troubadors don't add up to half the population, SquidKid. Count again. Use your toes if you have to.
February 27, 2009
10:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
dbarner writes:
Hi Rocky Mountain News,
I was the chief-editor of my college paper at Babson College in Massachusetts, and worked for the paper for my entire 4 years there. While I was there I shared a vision with a collectively unique group of students who truly cared about the world, and wanted to report on events so that others could see the truth and beauty that this world offers. I can't even imagine having that experience taken away from me.
I hope that you all are able to find jobs that provide for your families, and never lose that creative passion for journalism. My heart is with you today.
Dave
February 27, 2009
10:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
blm69 writes:
I started reading the Rocky Mountain News when i was seven years old. This is a very sad day for Colorado.
February 27, 2009
10:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
stmbtcat writes:
Growing up, there was never a day that the Rocky wasn't on our kitchen table. In grade school, I started with comics, then moved on to Dear Abby, then sports then news. That daily copy of the Rocky sparked an interest that has led to my current career in journalism. Following my MA at CU Boulder School of Journalism, I interned at The Denver Post. It was the first opportunity that came up at a large metro. It was a challenging and very rewarding opportunity that made me appreciate the heart, soul and energy that goes into daily news as well as the way in which competition improves the final product. I will sincerely miss the columnists, photography and in-depth features in the Rocky. I believe the Rocky has helped make the Denver Post as well as the many dailies in Colorado better newspapers. It's all about choice, and tomorrow we will have one less choice. Thank you. My heart goes out to all you editors, reporters, copy writers and all others that put the pieces of this amazing product together every day. May new and rewarding opportunities to highlight your talents be on the horizon.
February 27, 2009
10:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
katielynn5532 writes:
I just wanted to say that it is extremely sad that the Rocky Mountain News is closing. I do not even live in Colorado but rather West Virginia. I go to school at WVU and the Rocky Mountain News has been in my text books hundreds of times,whether it's for writing examples or other things.
--I am so upset that such a huge learning tool will no longer be around.
Katie, (WV)
February 27, 2009
10:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
objective_reporting_is_now_dead writes:
Now were are left with two papers in Colorado, The Post and The Daily Camera, both of which are completely politically slanted and about as objective as Michael Moore or Bill O'Reilly, respectively.
We now have an information vacuum in which the elitist pseudo socialist self entitled d*ckheads at the Camera and the neo-con pandering, right wing religious nuts of the Post will fill with their vapid and completely subjective pseudo-journalism.
F**k you E. W. Scripps . You are purveyors of disinformation and political bias. I hope your greed and economic shortsightedness bites you in the a**.
February 27, 2009
10:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
objective_reporting_is_now_dead writes:
I should qualify my above post as an "opinion piece".
February 27, 2009
10:55 a.m.
Suggest removal
adam1mc writes:
We'll miss you Rocky!
February 27, 2009
10:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
Depressing writes:
What a disgusting day. The Rocky Mountain News was one of the best newspapers in this country, folks. A light in the storm! A protector! A part of the family! Now it's gone. America is to blame for this travesty that has befallen the newspaper industry. This country just gets dumber by the minute.
February 27, 2009
11:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
matthew1344 writes:
There is no doubt that some of my first attempts at reading were in the Rocky Mountain News. My Mom still jokes that the only parts of the paper I read were the comics and the sports. When I return to Denver, I would look forward to sitting down with the RMN and catching up. Though I live several states away now, I still feel the loss of the paper. Thank you for all you've done.
Dave O, MN
February 27, 2009
11:02 a.m.
Suggest removal
HonoringDelight writes:
I am so sorry to hear of this. I lived in Boulder years ago and hope to again soon. Back then, the RMN was the paper I'd reach for when noshing on morning coffee and bagels. I hate what is happening to print media in this country and I feel that we can't and shouldn't rely on the internet to fill that spot. There is so much crap on the internet that people will mistake for journalism.
On the purely nostalgic level, there is just something about the smell of a fresh news paper, the routine of the trip to the local store, the ritual of leaving the change on the countertop and roaming the black and white, turning a page instead of clicking a link. It's just a shame and all wrong to think we could live in a society with out print news media.
Goodbye Rocky Mountain News..
xxx
February 27, 2009
11:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
MoreCowBell writes:
Some of my fondest memories as a kid were delivering the News. Whenever I visit home, I can still remember the houses and the people that received the paper. Thank you RMN for all the memories - you will be missed.
February 27, 2009
11:16 a.m.
Suggest removal
lostnthewoods writes:
This is so sad. Why, oh why couldn't you convert to an online format, Rocky? Why? Your comics were the best, although as the format got smaller and more comics got crammed into those two pages, I needed a magnifying glass to read them. :) Your photos were so beautiful though.
For the past few years, I have sat down at the computer every morning with my cup of coffee and read the news, but the Rocky wasn't there. I, too, grew up with the Rocky, but for me, it went away several years ago. Still, this is like hearing that an old friend has died. Sadder still is that Denver loses such a significant piece of it's history. Goodbye, Rocky Mountain News.
February 27, 2009
11:16 a.m.
Suggest removal
cotemjm writes:
It was a spooky feeling going to pick up that last copy of the Rocky from the driveway today.
I paid my respects at my blog:
http://www.cobizmag.com/blogs/article...
February 27, 2009
11:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
adamkadmon writes:
Good Bye Rocky, and thank you for your excellence in journalism.
You will be greatly missed by most of us.
I guess the rest will have to go whine about "liberal bias" in the Post now.
February 27, 2009
11:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
pstanley writes:
This is not just sad,-- it is excruciatingly painful.
I feel like a teenage boy after the girlfriend he has shamefully taken for granted finally ends it, and the boy is left to wallow in his regret and remorse.
I want to take back every nasty thing I ever said in these forums about liberal bias.
I want to beg you to give me another chance.
I want you back in my life.
Alas, as is almost always the case with the girl, there is no second chance.
The only comfort from losing the girl or the paper is the certain realization that I truly have loved.
I have loved you Rocky, and I love you still.
February 27, 2009
11:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
nrod2007 writes:
Good bye Rocky. Thank you for teaching me how to read every morning with my dad 16 years ago :)
February 27, 2009
11:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
jusee writes:
My family has been reading the Rocky Mountain News since the 1930's and probably longer than that. (The Post was never popular in my family!) I have been a fan of the newspaper for all of my lifetime. I'm so sorry to see you go! Thanks for being such a comfortable newspaper to read (your format) and for being such a great presence in Denver. I have great memories of reading Gene Amole.
Judy S., Colorado Springs
February 27, 2009
11:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
grandmakathy8 writes:
I'm a native of Colorado and for the 50 years that I have been around the only paper we ever had was the RMN. I worked there for several years as well and I can't tell you what a sad day this is today. I'm so sorry that this is happening to you and each of you that are employed there. Denver just won't be the same without you. I wish you all the best!!
We love you Rocky Mt. News!!
February 27, 2009
11:33 a.m.
Suggest removal
RockyWarrior writes:
Note to "Triumph": You are the epitomy of the idiots today who say this newspaper is this or this network is that. You obviously don't have the capacity to formulate your own opinion and must rely on some other source to get educated. Too bad "Hee-Haw" isn't on TV anymore. That's where you left your ability to make up your own opinion! Just read the facts in the stories dum-dum. If you don't agree with an editorial, quit reading it!
As to the late-great Rocky Mountain News: I worked there for over 30 years, and today I'm proud to say I was at least 20% part of its history. We struggled and fought, and eventually became the number one newspaper in the state due to the hard work and dedication of every soul who worked there. It was family, and today we are suffering from it's death.
It's too bad Scripps took a turn for the worse once they heard the siren song of big gobs of money in TV. Old E.W. Scripps himself must have been aghast at how a bunch of "wunderkinds" like Rich Boehne took a proud media giant and turned it into the lifeless form it is today. They gave all the News property to a little coniving creep like Dean Singleton and let him take control right under their feet.
Where was Rich Boehne (CEO of the Denver Newspaper Agency) when Singleton began robbing these properties? Where was Rich Boehne when the DNA took out ludicrous loans for expansion? For that matter, where was any help from Scripps in the past twenty years?
Good bye, old friends. My heart is broken, but my resolve to never read the Denver Post is firm. The only trouble now, in case you haven't found out yet, is that it is virtually impossible to get through Customer Service today. No doubt, many News subscribers are choosing to do what I advised that idiot "Triumph" to do: don't read it if you don't agree with it.
I'm sure Dean has already decreed from his little bitty throne that he will make it hard to get a refund. But that's because he never has had a nickel of his own.
Who and which town are you planning to plunder next, Dean? You're a miserable little human being. And so are the powers that be at Scripps.
February 27, 2009
11:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
formerreporter writes:
I just watched your video on the closing of The Rocky and it brought tears to my eyes. As a former newspaper editor and reporter, I get how much work it takes to produce a newspaper. But even more than that, I get how vital newspapers are to our society. It scares me to see newspapers like The Rocky go down for the count at such an alarming rate. I wonder who will be left to keep an eye on government and corporate entitities, to look after those without power or a voice in society. My heart goes out to the Rocky staff and its readers.
February 27, 2009
11:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
alphillips writes:
Everyone at the Steamboat Pilot & Today has you guys in their thoughts. This paper will be largely missed.
February 27, 2009
11:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
HmmIWonder writes:
What a sad day indeed. It's unfortunate that you missed the headline, it should have read, "Goodbye Old Friends". Even though some of us have physically left the state of Colorado, our hearts never did and never will. I'm a Colorado girl at heart and always will be. I grew up with the Rocky Mountain News and have continued to follow it into my adult life. I understand that business is business, just as in life, sometimes we lose things that we love, but it never gets any easier to see something that is such a huge part of your life be taken from you.
So, this Colorado girl, transplanted to Las Vegas will simply say this, THANK YOU and... UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN OLD FRIENDS!!!!
February 27, 2009
11:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
milehighman writes:
"I'm mad as hell, and I'm not going to take it anymore!"
A little piece of me died today. Anyone who is a Colorado native or lived here for a minute is mourning today. The Rocky deserves a public funeral precession through the streets of Denver and a wake that lasts for three days. Fly the state flag at half mast in honor of our loss. The people of Colorado just lost one of their greatest treasures.
This is truly the end of an era. As if facing this scary world in these unsettling times isn't enough, now we have to do it without the Rocky. The future just got a whole lot scarier to me.
February 27, 2009
11:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
HankReardon writes:
Almost made it to 150...
I'll see you all subsequently.
Peace
February 27, 2009
11:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
A lots been said about advertising revenue drying up, let me shed some light on this from a business perspective. Our 3/4 page ad cost us 4000 dollars a day in the Rocky, we ran it twice a week for 8 grand. The Denver Daily ran a 3/4 page ad and several small ads, along with our ads in the Westword and Comcast cable for under a grand a week, every day of the week. Thus under the JOA they raised their prices so high, without competition, we cut our 3/4 page ad to one day a week and saved 4 grand and saturated other markets. Yellow Pages is the number one answer when I ask customers how the found out about our families many businesses. The free papers were number 2, rarely was the Rocky mentioned. The destroyed their own market by raising prices, and we as businesses reduced our presence there.
February 27, 2009
11:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
missbelladog writes:
Remembering Jackie Campbell on the theatre beat, I felt her love for the theatre community even when I didn't agree with her. (She actually gave me a job tip that changed my life.)
The Rocky was so part of the soul of Denver.
You will be missed.
February 27, 2009
11:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
klarkent writes:
How very sad and painfuil, although I live in San Francisco when in Denver I always picked up a copy of the Rocky Mountain News. Often I checked out what was happening in Colorado on it's web site. Newspapers are the heart and soul of a city, when it shuts down a part of the city is gone. As a die hard news junkie this hurts, my next trip to Denver will not be the same.
February 27, 2009
11:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
SoCalNewsGal writes:
I love you Rocky!
February 27, 2009
11:51 a.m.
Suggest removal
girlthing writes:
This is truly sad. I live in Florida now so have only been reading the online version which will be sorely missed. I'll also miss these blog posts that have usually been quite entertaining. Good Bye and good luck to everyone. (typed with tears in eyes)
February 27, 2009
11:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
LadyBird112 writes:
RMN, you will be missed. I, like many others, also grew up reading this paper--well in my case, only kinda grew up since I didn't move here until I was ten, but either way, I ALWAYS preferred the Rocky over the Post. And I just registered over at the post, that layout is crap.
I wish all of you who worked at the Rocky the best. I know what it's like to go through a closing, so my condolences.
February 27, 2009
11:56 a.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
Competition created a better market for advertisers, the JOA destroyed that competition. Now with one paper left, and no incentive to lower prices, we have to think about a more cost effective way to advertise. 4 grand a day is a lot for a 3/4 page ad. We kept a close tab on the cost verses the return. We got much greater exposure saturating several other papers and cable for a fraction of the cost. Jake Jabs lost his fight concerning his lawsuit over the JOA stifling competition, but today his point is well proven true in that many of us who spent 10 grand a week promoting our businesses found other media formats that allowed us more for less. I will miss the Rocky, and I don't look for any favors from the POST now that they are the only major paper in town.
February 27, 2009
12:01 p.m.
Suggest removal
johnnydb writes:
Louie - the Rocky had nothing to do with the increased advertising rates. Why don't you take your frustration out on the Denver Newspaper Agency. Once they entered the picture, they are the ones who set the advertising rates - not the Rocky.
February 27, 2009
12:02 p.m.
Suggest removal
NativeChad writes:
I hope the nation is watching this. One of the bedrocks of our infrastructure has just fallen. The Rocky has always reported with vigilance and integrity. My heart goes out to the many people who will be affected financially by its closing.
Wishing you all well . . .
Chad, a Denver native.
February 27, 2009
12:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
kpenelope writes:
Rocky, I'm so sad to hear this news. You've been a part of my life from the begining and I'm just so sorry we couldn't have done something to prevent this. Good luck to all of you and thank you for 150 years of journalistic success and a source of pride for us Coloradoans--even when we are abroad.
February 27, 2009
12:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
KCharles writes:
I will miss the RMN. I'll miss all you turds too.
whats the best article or blog anyone remebers?
February 27, 2009
12:09 p.m.
Suggest removal
MorticiaA writes:
For 60 years my Family has had a continious subscription. The Rocky has been a huge part of my daily life. I learned how to read from your paper. From wanting to understand what Charlie Brown and Tumbleweeds were talking about to writting current events for homework assignements you guys were there for us. Dang I am going to miss this. I see some of your folks have Jobs with the Post - Littwin, Griego etc. but what about Mark Brown? He is the best, hands down, when it comes to keeping up with the music scene. What about the teams who wrote the Restaraunt and Movie reviews? There are some really fine people that made this paper special who are going to be out on the street and I will miss them.
February 27, 2009
12:09 p.m.
Suggest removal
jersey writes:
I'm looking out of my window at a dreary, gloomy and overcast day. The weather could not be more ironic in symbolism. Thanks again Rocky and all involved for a personal 28 1/2 year enjoyable ride!
February 27, 2009
12:10 p.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
It's not a frustration JOHNNY, I love the Rocky, subscriber for over 20 years. We have kept our ads running in both papers for over 20 years as an advertiser of not one, but several businesses. A lot of people wrote here about the advertising revenues shrinking because of craigslist, etc., but it goes a lot deeper than that from the business perspective . It's sad to see the Rocky go, that JOHNNY is the only frustration. Have you ever owned a business that ran advertisements in either paper JOHNNY?
February 27, 2009
12:11 p.m.
Suggest removal
DestinyBender writes:
Ad revenue is generated by producing actual readership. When the RMN bent-over to the Left, it began a steady LOSS of readers, not a gain. Building that grand, new palace of a Headquarters recently was another brilliant move for both these rags. Big egos, Big bias, and now Big unemployment. Bye Bye!
P.S. The marketplace of ideas will respond to the vacuum left behind. I look forward to fresh,honest journalism arising from the Rocky's tired ashes.
February 27, 2009
12:15 p.m.
Suggest removal
JohnQAdams writes:
CAPITALISM AT ITS BEST.....
February 27, 2009
12:17 p.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
Last thing JOHNNY, and the Denver Newspaper Agency should pay attention to what I am about to say; we don't get frustrated as advertisers, we look for other formats more suitable for our needs. POST isn't exactly cranking out a profit either. If I had to pick one over the other, the Rocky is a much better paper. I will never subscribe to the POST, we may advertise our businesses, but I won't personally pay for a copy to be delivered at my home.
February 27, 2009
12:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
johnnydb writes:
Sorry Louie, apparently I misunderstood what you were saying in regards to the advertising rates going up.
February 27, 2009
12:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
grollins writes:
The real sad part is the the Denver Post is even more liberal and biased than the RMN. Still the death of a liberal paper is better than two liberal leftist biased twisted propiganda outlet papers in the same town. Good riddence. I hope it gets replaced by a real news outlet for Americans rather than a propiganda machine controlled by gigantic corporations with an agenda. Just a dream.
February 27, 2009
12:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
CowboyBob writes:
I grew up reading the Rocky. Flipping to the back to the comics page, then slowly going through the rest of the "book" is still one of my fondest memories.
Thank you to all the staff and bless you on this new journey.
You'll be missed.
February 27, 2009
12:27 p.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
One thing that Geg Moody said last night on channel 4 is also true, the POST may very well let quality of it's journalism suffer now that it's the only show in town. Secondly, we the people have lost a great watchdog that brought many things to light. It's a sad day either way.
February 27, 2009
12:29 p.m.
Suggest removal
drow writes:
i'll miss the rocky, particularly since i moved out of colorado a decade ago and still relied on it to keep up with news and events there. best wishes to all the staff.
February 27, 2009
12:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
LAwriter writes:
If all the Coloradoans are going to miss the RMN so much, why didn't you actually buy the paper when you had a chance? Community members and subscribers could easily stop the sad death of local newspapers, rather than just showing up at the funeral after it's too late.
February 27, 2009
12:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
sml11 writes:
So sad - RMN was the best newspaper I've ever had the privelege of reading or subscribing to! You will be missed!
February 27, 2009
12:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
johnnydb writes:
Last night, I sent an email to the Post, asking if they would consider offering the Post in either the style it is now, and also the tabloid style so many of us loved with the Rocky. As of yet, no answer to my email, and I may never receive an answer.
February 27, 2009
12:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
RLAllen writes:
It's a sad, sad day. I will miss RMN and wish the staff well. Thanks for giving us so much.
February 27, 2009
12:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
JYP3500 writes:
The denver post is idiotic liberal. The RMN was only goofy liberal. One down and one to go. Liberal bias does not sell, except to a small number of denver district 1 subscribers. If both papers chose to be fair, balanced, honest and accurate, they might have survived. Let's move on.
February 27, 2009
12:43 p.m.
Suggest removal
baseballgary writes:
I have only lived in Colorado since May of 2008. During this time I have learned to appreciate and love the Rocky. I hate to see it go but my prayers and thanks are with the employees.
February 27, 2009
12:44 p.m.
Suggest removal
dcarny writes:
Thank you Rocky for all a great 150 year run of trusted news delivery. The outcome would have been different had the joint operating agreement favored the Rocky for top billing instead of the woefully inferior DP. The fix was in the moment the joint operating deal was signed. How fitting the chief culprits for the demise of the Rocky (Littwin, Johnson and Griego) are all being welcomed with open arms to their rightful place, the leftist DP rag. Their skullduggery worked by running off all the Rocky's traditional astute conservative readership. Heck, we could no longer stand the mounting liberal drivel. Aside from the loss of the paper, my heart goes out to all the good and decent people that are now in search of a new job.
Enjoy the short run you have left DP. The biased reporting and lost classified revenue (craigslist) will soon get you too!
Dan, Castle Rock
February 27, 2009
12:55 p.m.
Suggest removal
rg writes:
I said: "RIP" to the Rocky and my post was removed (perhaps it was the deicide corner that sunk me, but it was scripture with no trigger words in it). Richard Grimes: Deicide.
February 27, 2009
12:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
Hicky2 writes:
Enormously sad! I've read the Rocky since 4th grade - 50 years. While I often disagreed with some of your editorial staff I found the paper both engaging and honest.
February 27, 2009
1:15 p.m.
Suggest removal
andrew_bisset writes:
Hi, Rocky.
I'm a journalism student. As such, it was always an aspiration of mine to join your incredible staff after I graduated. At the photo desk at the Met, we'd toss around names like Semon, Gutierrez, DeHaas. Photographers that we damn near idolized. And a publication that we always aspired to be a part of.
And now you're gone.
I am privileged to say that I was there for the end. I heard the news right before lunch yesterday. I grabbed my camera and rushed to your home, the beautiful DNA building. I watched as John Temple delivered your epitaph. And last night, I had the privilege to watch the last press run of my beloved Rocky get printed.
Colorado will never be the same. Your effects were great and far-reaching. And I only wish that I could have had the opportunity to add my voice to the collective one that helped craft what Denver and the state of Colorado is today.
Goodbye, Rocky.
-Andrew Bisset, photographer, The Metropolitan
February 27, 2009
1:18 p.m.
Suggest removal
williamB writes:
The sadness we feel is truly akin to the loss of a loved one.... Thank you for 149 great years of news and history. Thank for helping making Denver a part of what it is today. I will miss you on my doorstep.
February 27, 2009
1:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
KarlCheney writes:
What is the problem with these conservatives? Every paper is too liberal? No wonder Rush and Fox News are the only source of information for the Con's. Any paper, TV Channel or radio show with an article or opinion piece not in lock step with their beliefs is too liberal. The wingnut label is shining brightly today....
February 27, 2009
1:21 p.m.
Suggest removal
chickenlittle1234 writes:
JYP3500 - "Thanks" for your idiotic, uninformed and unfounded opinion. Apparently, under the rock where you reside, you missed the part where people are losing their jobs due to secular changes in the news business, which, incidentally, have absolutely nothing to do with politics, but do have to do with changes in the way media is delivered and consumed. You're quite the sphincter muscle.
February 27, 2009
1:40 p.m.
Suggest removal
mosleyjackson writes:
Thank you Rocky, to all of you.
Remember when they announced the JOA? And some of us said
JOA=DOA. Some folks put it on their cubes, if they had one.
And they were right.
We will miss you, all of us. Best wishes, everyone.
February 27, 2009
1:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
PvtIdaho writes:
I can't believe this is happening! As a native of Colorado, but now living in northern Idaho I read the Rocky daily even a thousand miles away... You will be missed and I keep asking myself "is this real"?
May all of your staff be blessed, we will miss all of you even way up here in the inland northwest..
February 27, 2009
1:58 p.m.
Suggest removal
joebreck writes:
Pray for the staff and families of the News. May the good lord provide a time of peace, retreat and introspection. While one door has closed may another present itself. Thank you.
February 27, 2009
2:04 p.m.
Suggest removal
Gonzopozo writes:
Just another part of "good old Colorado" going away. I could list a hundred things and places that have disappeared over the years that I wish were still around - I'm sure most of us could.
At least we have a chance to say goodbye to this one.
Goodbye.
February 27, 2009
2:06 p.m.
Suggest removal
HAPPY writes:
A sad, sad day in the history of Colorado. I never dreamed I could have tears over the demise of a newspaper but that's where I am today. Time marches on but I wish with all my heart the Rocky wasn't one of its casualties.
Thank you Rocky for all the good reading you have brought to me since my move to Denver in 1971. I have loved you and will miss you every morning when I have my coffee.
February 27, 2009
2:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
ou8one2 writes:
Only the good die young. RIP RMN. (Music: taps)
February 27, 2009
2:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
sundaychild67 writes:
That documentary on the front page was VERY well done!
February 27, 2009
2:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
sunshinestate writes:
The Chamber of Commerce will no doubt miss you....weather reports were interjected with a certain unfounded positive spin and illusion.
We don't need you any more- we have am radio and the church bulletins!
February 27, 2009
2:48 p.m.
Suggest removal
tjpatriot writes:
I wonder if the Post is going to use the same picture of Littwin. Every time I see that there's a split second when my eyes are still focusing when it looks like a picture of some old lesbian.
February 27, 2009
2:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
adamkadmon writes:
How sad...
A great newspaper goes down, and people like grollins and JYP3500 use it as an excuse to go off on some nonsense rant about "liberal bias".
I trust that they are not representative of conservatives in general.
February 27, 2009
2:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
Dinty writes:
Last August, after the blatantly biased coverage of the Obama campaign and convention, I cancelled by RMN subscription after 35 years. I wrote an email to the paper and told them I couldn't stand to read their Liberal propaganda any more. The likes of Littwin, Johnson, Griego, Campos, etc disgusted me, as well as the "news" coverage. I also told them I didn't see how they could continue to operate a viable newspaper catering to the Liberal constituency. What we NEED is an objective Conservative newspaper for balance. After all, we already have that Liberal rag, the Denver Post. Also, I couldn't even pick up a Sunday Denver Post without getting sick of it. Well, who's sorry now? Not me!
February 27, 2009
3:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
glycerine831 writes:
Sad, Sad, Sad. Goodbye Rocky! I hope that maybe.. just maybe in a few years you will return.
February 27, 2009
3:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
dragonfly writes:
I wish I could offer more than a moment of silence for your total silence. You'll be dearly missed.
February 27, 2009
3:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
rjnova writes:
I am from St. Louis area but have been coming to Denver/Breckenridge summer and winter since 1976. I had the good opportunuty to live in Denver for 4 yrs but the company sold and I could not accept the new owners and returned. They shut the company and moved back to Tenn. within one year when the backlog ran thru. But I developed an affection for the RMN when I first started visiting and reading your paper.
Scripps seems much the same type opportunist with about the same staying power. Big talk, plans, ideas and big promises but bailout when things get tough. Money was cheap easy and available and hot shot companies like Scripps, Tribune, etc. thought they could borrow and pay any price and reap the benefits of synergism. Had you remained locally owned you would still be here. That is hind sight and ignores of course the economics and financial conditions of the times.
When you went online I welcomed the chance to visit your site and keep up with Denver. So I will truly miss your paper and regret the demise of a truly enjoyable paper. I gave up on the liberal biased STL Post Dispatch 10 yrs ago (so will not be visiting their clone the Denver Post). Being a newspaper reader I subscribe to the WSJ and take the local paper but have always appreciated the color and insight the RMN offers.
So I sadly watch the passing of a truly great and readable newspaper. Best of luck where all you folks go.
February 27, 2009
3:23 p.m.
Suggest removal
IndependentSpirit writes:
RIP RMN. Best wishes to all employees and their families. I'm sad to see this newspaper die. DPO's days are numbered too, but I won't miss them nearly as much as I'll miss you.
February 27, 2009
3:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
ifyem writes:
RIP RMN..Your comment board will be sorely missed!
February 27, 2009
3:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
onolan writes:
The rocky is taking a part of denver with it... this is a sad day for those of us who like to read quality and easy to find news. thank you for years of accurate and important news....
February 27, 2009
3:39 p.m.
Suggest removal
Who_Me writes:
Quality news? Oh please.
February 27, 2009
3:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
Woody writes:
How about this for a suggestion;
Have the RMN staff retain a hub, & work out the necessary points to engineer an online paper, (like the one here).
Buy the URL, (or a site name very similar, so it can be Googled).
In a nutshell, continue the paper, online, & sell yearly subscriptions say, $50/yr.
Online advertising could also be supplemental.
You could even raise subscription rates to block out ads, similar to other website practices.
If 500,000 - 1,000,000 subscribed, ,,, could an online newspaper make it on $30-$40 Million/yr.?
As the old saying goes, the only ones who fail are those who don't try.
btw, the San Francisco Chronicle was given notice by the Hearst Corp. of an impending similar fate. Even shorter timetable.
The powers that be have downshifted into overdrive to accelerate the dumbing down of America. 1984 is staring us in the face, people. It's up to the Common Citizen to take it back, now.
NOW being the operative word.
February 27, 2009
3:50 p.m.
Suggest removal
sopriscreek writes:
I have always had a sense of belonging to this paper for over sixty years because I grew up with it. Even today I live in Atlanta and the first thing I read every morning is the "Rocky". You will all be greatly missed!
February 27, 2009
3:50 p.m.
Suggest removal
Hicky2 writes:
We receive both the Rocky and The Post. At this point I am inclined to let the Post subscription expire, just forget the whole thing.
As to the 'liberal bias' nonsense - I wish you neocons would get a life - or better still, crawl back in the bunker with Cheney.
February 27, 2009
4 p.m.
Suggest removal
DragonInTheSky writes:
I grew up with you.. I always liked to read you.
I will miss you Rocky Mountain News...
February 27, 2009
4:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
KarlCheney writes:
I'm sure the paper folded because of Dinty canceling their subscription. If it isn't all Mike Rosen it's liberal. Reading these conservative posts gives you a good idea about the humanity of these people....
February 27, 2009
4:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
chickenlittle1234 writes:
KarlCheney - I'll give the nod to many of the posters I know are conservative but who have also shown their humanity. I found it very encouraging that nearly all of us want the same positive outcomes, even if we argue like Irish brothers trying to decide how we should best get there. And that was the power of the online version of the RMN and our little (often misanthropic) community, and what I'll really miss. So I won't generalize about "conservative" or "liberal" posters, just the specific nitwits who are the moral equivalent of Ward Churchill and the "blame the victim" game.
February 27, 2009
4:23 p.m.
Suggest removal
DragonInTheSky writes:
I find it disgusting that our government has bailed out the most serious offenders, and yet leaves the innocent bystanders there to die. I'm pissed! I want my Rocky to be here when I wake up in the morning! This is so wrong, and so very sad. It's not fair..they gave you no time! You needed more time.
I will miss you so much...
February 27, 2009
4:42 p.m.
Suggest removal
davies writes:
Thank you chickenlittle1234. That is, assuming that I am among those conservatives whose humanity you may have recognized.
If this is not the case, then DIE A SLOW TORTUOUS DEATH YOU PASTY-FACED RETARDED COMMUNIST WART ON HUMANITY!!!
I just had to make one more really stupid mischeivous post ;-)
February 27, 2009
4:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
chickenlittle1234 writes:
davies - absolutely, and I wouldn't have had you post any differently. Heck, I may even raise a toast to my poster of Marx (Groucho) or Lennon (John) in your honor! Take care, amigo.
February 27, 2009
5:11 p.m.
Suggest removal
mevantin writes:
Thank you for all the memories, Rocky. We are building a house and plan to place your final edition in a time capsule before we seal the walls. You will be missed, as you are quintessentially Colorado.
February 27, 2009
5:53 p.m.
Suggest removal
justiceisblind writes:
Goodbye beloved RMN. You were and always will be a class act.
February 27, 2009
5:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
WarrenJimmyBuffett writes:
I'll miss reading all the great articles. Best of luck to everyone. Thanks for everything. There will be a hole.
February 27, 2009
6:12 p.m.
Suggest removal
Hicky2 writes:
What would Gene Amole do?
February 27, 2009
6:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
OmahaConservative writes:
This is what happens when the news is slanted leftward and presented in a biased manner. This is just the beginning of major dailies across the nation folding.
February 27, 2009
7:24 p.m.
Suggest removal
boardbike writes:
Good bye Rocky. Today Denver lost the best news outlet online and in print. You will be forever missed!
February 27, 2009
8:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
LarryB writes:
I was a paperboy for the Rocky when I was in junior high. That was about a half century ago.I remember later, as an adult, my uncle and I, each with our Rocky open at the morning table, enjoying it over a cup of coffee.
With the Rocky goes a piece of my heart and life. I feel as if a friend has just died. I love you, Rocky. I will never forget you . . .
February 27, 2009
8:12 p.m.
Suggest removal
homeradam writes:
So long ole friend. As much as I talked bad about this newspaper, I never thought it would come to this. I've got fond memories of reading Dentry and his outdoor articles before he retired. You will be missed......................
February 27, 2009
9:24 p.m.
Suggest removal
mgordon86 writes:
So the RMN is going away? Keep it an online paper. ? Sell advertising and rentals. Free car and junk ads. Those classifieds rarely made it to the house. Most of my neighbors tossed it in the trash before going in. All those bait and switch BS ads from car dealerships. Come on. How about an honest job search site? RMN missed the boat but, big BUT, they could be Macintosh of the 90's. Dead until iPod. Come up with an idea. I know that's hard and you can't think outside the box but pull it out. Don't let Scripps win. Get a real mind and get this going!
February 27, 2009
9:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
mgordon86 writes:
I really feel bad for all these people but I have to think that they saw it coming and didn't come up with ideas to keep it going. If you are on a sinking ship, do you just watch the ankles get wet, the knees, the waist, the chest... before you step up and say hey we need to adapt? The model failed but no one was trying to change it before it failed. Can you just sit by without bailing? All of the writers are doing what they do. They write. Management let them down and kept them in the dark age. Just like we are all reading this and posting, they needed to stay in tune with the world.
February 27, 2009
9:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
Fred1 writes:
I agree with one of the other comments. The greed in corporate America that has driven executive salaries so high is taining a companies ability to make an honest profit. Honestly, is one person (or persons) required to make so much money just to do their job? The board of directors of companies should be as ashamed of themselves as Congress should be. God Bless the Rocky!
February 27, 2009
10:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
RockyMts69 writes:
Dear Rocky Mountain News, I just want to say "thank you" for being you! I really enjoyed what you did, and you will be sorely missed!
May the roads always rise to meet you...
February 28, 2009
1:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
dandelion writes:
I haven't cried so hard in quite some time. The Rocky Mountain News has helped shape my world since my high school sweetheart showed me a column Bill Johnson wrote in 1997. I was hooked then. I bought it for myself on the way to school in the mornings. I started off almost every day in college doing the crossword puzzle from my apartment in Boulder, then skimming the news on the SKIP on my way to class, and reading columns by Bill Johnson, Gene Amole, Mike Littwin, Tina Griego and many, many others between classes. I fell in love with food reading first John Lehndorff and then Lori Midson, and I don't know how I'm going to survive on the Post's restaurant-capsule commentaries. Marty Meitus and the Wednesday food edition of the Spotlight helped round out and further cultivate my love for culinary arts. I could count on fellow Rocky readers to balance out my Boulder liberalism with dyed-in-the-wool Republican speakouts on a daily basis, and to keep me on my toes. The Rocky even published a speakout I sent in on gay rights, I think because I used the phrase "xenophobic drivel" very well. My mom still brags about that, and it was almost ten years ago.
I'm writing this as tears continue to well in my eyes and slide down my face. They just don't stop coming. This end seems, to me, ignoble, abrupt, cruel. I am grateful for the tremendous contribution the Rocky has made to my life for so many years, and I know I will continue to grow and learn from these experiences, these opportunities. Thank you, staff of the Rocky Mountain News. I wish only the best for you. God bless you all.
February 28, 2009
1:55 a.m.
Suggest removal
dandelion writes:
Regardless of where we all fall on the political spectrum, it is a testament to the quality of work delivered daily in the Rocky that so many posters here have their knickers in a twist bickering about how left or right they deemed the Rocky. Subscriptions have been cancelled, angry letters sent, personal protests mounted. The Rocky has done Colorado proud. We will all sorely miss this paper.
February 28, 2009
3:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
toddmccalla writes:
I am sorry to see you go! I enjoyed your news and coverage and hope somehow the staff comes back together and does it online. No one needs the print edition.
Todd
Creative Director
http://www.vailco.com/
February 28, 2009
6:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
jwbeuk writes:
OK, I am a conservative and the "liberal" comments about the Rocky are sad. Note to all of you, Littwin is an idiot but he is also a columnist.
We did not stop receiving the RMN, not due to any liberal bias; but to make a point to the Denver Newspaper Agency when they forced us to receive the Sunday Post. We still bought the daily RMN because it was a great paper. Denver will never be the same again. The decision to close the Rocky will be looked back on as the death of the newspaper business in Colorado. The Denver Post, in the current format will not survive.
February 28, 2009
7:56 a.m.
Suggest removal
clr2sea writes:
Yesterday was a very dark day. It's such a shame. I still cant believe it.
February 28, 2009
9:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
Coloheart writes:
Oh how the pain of yesterday has increased today.
February 28, 2009
9:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenGirl writes:
RMN was my favorite paper. I liked its manageable size, then the Denver Post followed. The stories were compelling, controversial and thought provoking. I hope the RMN team all the best in moving forward!
Excellent video...
Thank you Rocky Mountain News!
February 28, 2009
10:39 a.m.
Suggest removal
jctf writes:
It is a shame because the RMN was the better of the two papers in trying to be unbiased and trying to have journalistic integrity.
You have been a part of the community the begining and I remember as a kid spending many early mornings delivering your paper.
So long RMN hopefully you will find a way to rise up from the ashes...
February 28, 2009
3:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
bmb527 writes:
I moved to CO 9-25-89 to go to Colorado Aero Tech. The first paper I read was Rocky Mtn News. After I graduated and moved on to my career, I kept a subscription because I loved the paper and my adopted home of Denver. Years later, as well as 4 states, all the while keeping my subscription, I married and found myself with the option of moving back to Denver. I found my house in the RMN. Now, I am once again, living away from Denver and now, for the first time in 20 years, I will not have my newspaper to keep up with what is going on in my family's adopted hometown. Sure there is that other paper...that Post thingy, but it doesn't hold a candle to my Rocky Mountain News. It is where I learned of many many things in our world, and is where I announced the birth of my daughters, in 2004 and in 2008. I honestly feel that we all are poorer as is the city of Denver and the country in general that this great paper is gone. It may be gone, but it will never be forgotten!!!
Bill Bolton
February 28, 2009
3:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
stlusa writes:
The Post and RMN are (were) liberal with very little different point of veiws. I cancelled the Post after a columnist railed the founding fathers as bigots and racist. I did enjoy the blogs over here and the format way better than the post. I think they could have down sized to keep the internet going possibly.
With Griego and Littwin going to the Post I validate my point.
February 28, 2009
9:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
Hatch writes:
It saddens me knowing that the Rocky Mountain News is going out, i learned to read flipping through the pages when i was only 4 years old, ever since then i was getting up early just to read a little before i had to go to school. My best wishes go out to all the staff.
March 1, 2009
7:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
Compass writes:
I quit taking the RMN several years ago, when everything - including "news" articles, which should have been straight unbiased reporting, seemed to have a liberal slant. Wonder if it would have survived longer without the left-leaning tendency?
March 2, 2009
9:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
KCharles writes:
Thank you to all the dedicated employees of the RMN, from the press room to the printing press. This was more than a newspaper it was an institution...
I remember delivering the RMN when I was a kid.
I remember cutting out Bronco pictures and headlines to tape on my bedroom wall.
Orange Crush.
I remember hearing the paper hit the sidewalk on early Sunday mornings.
I remember reading the funnies.
Bloom County and Peanuts.
I remember hearing the obituaries read at funerals.
I remember reading soon-to-be-history.
Big Thompson, David Thompson, Columbine, 911, Obama.
I remember agreeing with the story.
I remember disagreeing with the story.
I remember saying, "I'll never read this paper again!"
I'll always remember never reading this paper again.
March 2, 2009
10:14 a.m.
Suggest removal
chizman69 writes:
Why would a company ( Scripps) close a great newspaper, but, keep a terrible newspaper(Post) open. It boggles the mind. I will NEVER EVER read the Post. I'll get my news from USA Today, and, the net.
March 2, 2009
9:01 p.m.
Suggest removal
LadyBird112 writes:
It was so weird to get up and go to work today and not have my Rocky to distract me when things slowed down. GAH.
March 3, 2009
12:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
Share writes:
A plague on the Rocky Mountain News from the Denver Indian community. We never forgot your sparkling endorsement of Chivington's Cowards who slaughtered peaceful Cheyenne and Arapahoe children, mothers and fathers in Sand Creek in southeast Colorado, 1864.
One woman hid herself in side of a small bluff next to the cottonwoods, smothering her infant to death so that its cries would not betray the position of her other 2 children. Meanwhile, Chivington's "men" ran up and down the creek slitting women open and slamming babies against rocks.
RMN also supported the KKK gatherings of the likes of Speer and Stapleton on Table Mountain, Golden, near the present site of Coors, Adolph, what a total asshole/bigot.
RMN, you are redundant and a mouthpiece for bigotry.
Go to hell and good riddance, watsichus.
March 3, 2009
4:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
fromItaly writes:
My girlfiend and I knew RMN last summer, during our trip through Colorado. It saddens us knowing that the newspaper is going out. We wish only the best for you. Good bye, Rocky.
March 3, 2009
12:48 p.m.
Suggest removal
Triumph writes:
Share
I totally agree with your post. The RMN was also always printing bigoted stories and columns in the 1950's against Mexican Americans and Spanish Americans who were here in Colorado long before the Rocky ever printed one word 150 years ago. It finished out it's last years as a liberal rag endorsing political canidates that supported abortion and homosexual agendas and other destructive un- American causes. The chickens finally came home to roost. The Denver Post should also meet with the same fate considering they are an even worse liberal leftwing rag.
March 3, 2009
4:02 p.m.
Suggest removal
Steve_In_Denver writes:
You had an awesome thing going with your online site. The post now is trying to mimic the Rocky's Online site...but it's just not the same. If the post really wanted to lure the Rocky readers and bloggers they would switch the post to a tabloid format and make their website exactly like this one.
Goodbye....
March 3, 2009
10:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
Eli writes:
Thanks to the Rocky for some great threads. Spencer, "Spencer Jr.", Charles_B, HolierThanThou, Leftside, CL, John II, everybody else...and especially Mytwosense...hell, even jay...I'll miss all of you. Some of you have greatly increased my respect for different political views (MTS), some of you have made the other side sickening, subhuman and not worthy of any respect (jay)....overall it's been a good and enlightening experience. My gratitude to RMN and all who post here.