Background-Late last year, the U.S. Commerce Department imposed tariffs of 30% on newsprint in response to claims by North Pacific Paper Company, a single paper mill operating in the Pacific northwest, owned by a New York based equity company. The rest of the U.S. paper industry opposes the tariffs.

Because of the 30% increase in the cost of paper we have no choice but to raise our rates. We held off as long as we could in hopes of a reversal of the decision.

Paper is not the only expense in producing a newspaper. But this means an immediate 10% increase in costs. Newsprint is still being purchased from the same companies, it just costs 30% more now.

We have to make the following changes effective August 2:

The single copy price will be $1.25

Out of state subscriptions will increase to $45

In state subscriptions will increase to $39.

We are lowering the cost of an on-line subscription to just $18.

All print subscribers have on-line privileges, contact us for information on how to start.

An appeal is scheduled for July 17^th before the International Trade Commission.