Editor, The Times:
I visit Clearwater about eight times each year and often have a read through your paper online between visits and before I come to see what is happening in Clearwater.
In the past the Clearwater Times was my main source about what is going in your great town. I would find out about community theater, farmers markets, outdoor events, and other activities of interest.
I've noticed that in the past year I require a subscription fee to read your paper online. It seems strange that a community that is trying to attract tourist dollars to boost its economy is making it hard to access community information.
The companies that advertise on your site are also losing out. They pay you a fee to get their message across and since you have added the subscription charge I am no longer exposed to their message, a big loss for them and a poor return on their investment. I'm sure there are many others like me that used to use this service and have decided to not spend time on your site due to this subscription fee.
A community newspaper (especially the online version) should be free; it should provide residents and visitors with community information. If managed properly, it informs and builds community.
Ben Coulas
Vancouver, B.C.