MISSOURIAN TO RAISE PRICES OF NEWSPAPER

The Southeast Missourian has announced an increase in subscription and newsstand rates, effective Oct. 1.

"Newspapers across the country are experiencing huge price increases in newsprint," said Mark Kneer, director of circulation/marketing. "The Southeast Missourian is no exception."

Citing increases of more than 50 percent over the past 12 months, Kneer explained newsprint is the second largest expense item -- only payroll is a larger budget item.

Carrier Home Delivery subscription rates will increase 20 cents a week. The new rate is $2.70 a week, bringing the average per-issue cost for carrier home deliver to 38.5 cents.

The Sunday newsstand price will increase from $1.25 to $1.50.

Mail subscriptions for six-day, seven-day and Sunday-only are also increasing between 20 and 25 cents a week.

"We have to tighten our belts along with looking at several other options in an attempt to offset this additional expense," Kneer said. "We have no other choice but to modestly increase our rates. We will accept payments at the old rates up until Oct. 1. And, all current expiration dates will be honored."