Blakemore speaks, entertains at monthly chamber luncheon

Publisher stresses value of local newspaper

By Larry Briscoe

Correspondent

Membership of the Lake Tawakoni Regional Chamber of Commerce was briefed on the importance of local newspapers and was entertained to boot at last week’s monthly meeting.

Brad Blakemore, publisher of The Quinlan-Tawakoni News, spoke on “The Value of Your Local Newspaper” and accompanied himself on the guitar with a humorous selection.

The newspaper hosted the luncheon, catered by Dennis Simmons of Black Bear Crossing.

Blakemore reviewed his career in journalism that began at The Houston Post in 1979 and included time at The Dallas Times-Herald on the road to his current position as publisher of Van Zandt Newspapers. In addition to The Quinlan-Tawakoni News, the company owns the Wills Point Chronicle, Van Zandt News, Van Banner, Canton Herald, Mabank Monitor, Malakof f News, Kerens and Cedar Creek Lake Area Leader as well The Shopper in Paris.

Blakemore noted billionaire Warren Buffet who owns 70-plus newspapers sees the value in community newspapers. Buffet has said there is no substitute for a local newspaper that is doing a good job.

The local publisher cited the need for advertising support of local newspapers and said it was critical for their survival.

Executive Director Debi Darter reminded of the chamber auction on May 9 at Peninsula Ranch. Tables for eight are available for 4175 or individual seating is $25. Donations for the auction were requested as well as donations bottles of wine for a wine-pull event.

Chamber Director Tiffony Upchurch welcomed those attending, reminded of upcoming events and recognized new members Manna Basket Ministries and Hometown Laundromat and Car Wash.

Photo by Larry Briscoe
Simmons and crew serve lunch The Quinlan-Tawakoni News hosts the monthly membership meeting of the Lake Tawakoni Regional Chamber of Commerce. The meal is catered by Dennis Simmons and crew of Black Bear Crossing. In the serving line, from left, are Constable Kent Layton, Dr. Gene Hamil and Justice of the Peace David McNabb.

Photo by Larry Briscoe
‘Support your local paper’ Brad Blakemore, publisher of The Quinlan-Tawakoni News, accompanies himself on the guitar with a humorous selection. Blakemore spoke to the Lake Tawakoni Regional Chamber of Commerce membership Thursday at its regular monthly luncheon. His topic was “The Value of Your Local Newspaper.”

Photo by Larry Briscoe
Tiffony Upchurch, Quinlan Independent School District Director of Community Relations welcomes those attending Thursday’s membership meeting of the Lake Tawakoni Regional Chamber of Commerce.