Shocking Details About What You Didn’T Know About Obituaries In Nj Atlantic City Press That Will Blow Your Mind
Shocking Details About Atlantic City Press Obituaries: What You Didn't Know
The Atlantic City Press, a staple of South Jersey news, has long been a source for local obituaries. But behind the somber announcements lie practices and economic realities that are raising eyebrows. This explainer breaks down the surprising aspects of obituary publication in the Press, revealing who benefits, what’s changing, when these changes occurred, where the issues are most prominent, and why these practices are sparking controversy.
Who is involved?
The key players in this story are:
- Families of the deceased: They ultimately decide whether to publish an obituary and bear the financial burden.
- The Atlantic City Press: The newspaper, owned by Gannett, sets the pricing and policies for obituary publication.
- Gannett: The national media conglomerate that owns the Press and dictates broader company policies impacting local publications.
- Funeral Homes: Often act as intermediaries, assisting families with writing and submitting obituaries to the Press.
- Local Residents: Rely on the Press for information about community members who have passed away.
- Financial Burden: The high cost places a significant burden on grieving families, particularly those with limited resources.
- Unequal Access: Families who cannot afford to pay may be excluded from publicly acknowledging their loved one's passing in the traditional newspaper format.
- Content Control: Since obituaries are paid advertisements, the Press reserves the right to edit or reject submissions based on their policies. This raises questions about editorial control and the authenticity of the tributes.
- Declining Readership vs. Rising Prices: While newspaper readership is declining, obituary prices have often continued to rise, creating a disconnect between service value and cost. According to the Pew Research Center, newspaper circulation has consistently declined over the past two decades, with a significant drop in recent years.
- Declining Print Advertising: The shift to digital advertising has significantly impacted newspaper revenue.
- Corporate Profit Goals: Gannett, as a publicly traded company, has a responsibility to shareholders to maximize profits.
- Demand for Obituaries: Despite the cost, many families still value the tradition of publishing an obituary in the local newspaper.
- Rise of Online Memorial Platforms: Websites like Legacy.com and Tribute Archive offer free or low-cost alternatives to traditional newspaper obituaries.
- Community Initiatives: Some communities are exploring ways to provide free or subsidized obituary services to low-income families.
- Newspaper Policy Changes: Some newspapers are experimenting with different pricing models or offering free basic obituaries.
- Transparency Advocacy: Consumer advocacy groups are calling for greater transparency in obituary pricing and challenging newspapers to prioritize community service over profit.
- Continued Pressure on Pricing: Families and community groups will likely continue to pressure newspapers to reduce obituary costs.
- Increased Adoption of Online Alternatives: More families will likely turn to online memorial platforms as a more affordable option.
- Potential Policy Changes at Gannett: Depending on public pressure and market trends, Gannett may consider revising its obituary pricing policies.
- Focus on Digital Engagement: Newspapers may shift their focus to online obituaries and explore new ways to engage readers through multimedia content and interactive features.
- Community Partnerships: The Press might explore partnerships with local organizations or funeral homes to offer subsidized obituary services to low-income families, fostering a more equitable access to this important community service.
What are the shocking details?
The most surprising aspect is the high cost of obituaries in the Atlantic City Press. Unlike news articles, obituaries are considered paid advertising. Costs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the length and inclusion of photos. This pay-to-publish model has been criticized for several reasons:
When did this become an issue?
The commercialization of obituaries isn't new, but it has become more pronounced in recent decades as newspapers grapple with declining revenue. Gannett, like many media companies, has sought to maximize profits through various means, including increasing advertising rates. The shift towards online obituaries has also influenced pricing, with both print and digital versions often carrying separate costs.
Where is this most prevalent?
While the issue of expensive obituaries exists across the country, it is particularly noticeable in areas with limited local news options. The Atlantic City Press, as a primary source of local news in South Jersey, holds a significant position in the community. The lack of readily available, affordable alternatives amplifies the impact of its obituary pricing policies. Furthermore, the economic realities of Atlantic City, with its fluctuating fortunes and diverse population, mean that the financial burden disproportionately affects certain communities.
Why is this happening?
The primary driver behind the high cost of obituaries is revenue generation. Newspapers, facing declining advertising revenue from traditional sources, have turned to alternative income streams, including paid obituaries. This is driven by:
Historical Context:
Historically, obituaries were brief, factual notices published as a public service. Over time, they evolved into more personalized tributes, often written by family members. The commercialization of obituaries gained traction in the late 20th century as newspapers sought new revenue streams. This coincided with the decline of print advertising and the rise of digital media.
Current Developments:
Several factors are influencing the future of obituaries:
Likely Next Steps:
The future of obituaries in the Atlantic City Press and similar publications will likely involve a combination of factors:
Ultimately, the story of obituaries in the Atlantic City Press highlights the complex relationship between journalism, commerce, and community needs. As newspapers navigate the challenges of the digital age, finding a balance between profitability and public service will be crucial. The future of obituaries depends on addressing the economic realities of the industry while ensuring that all families have the opportunity to honor their loved ones in a meaningful way.
