Single-copy Standard to cost 75 cents every edition

Electric bills are rising. Gas costs more than ever. And the price of newsprint continues to soar.

With expenses climbing in every direction, the Standard will raise the price of single-copy newspapers to 75 cents on Wednesday and Friday. The newspaper already costs 75 cents on Sunday.

“We’ve held prices to 50 cents as long as we could,” said publisher Ron Fryar. “Prices are going up everywhere. All our services are more expensive. We’re suffering from the same increases as everyone else.”

The price increase goes into effect Oct. 1.

In addition to single-copy sales, the price of a one-year subscription is climbing from $69 to $72. Six-month subscriptions increase from $35 to $37, and three-month subscriptions increase from $20 to $23.

For seniors, the new prices will be $64.75 (one year), $33 (six months), and $20.75 (three months).

The Standard encourages everyone to extend their subscriptions for up to one year at our current rates until Oct. 1.

A subscription is the best way to take some of the sting out of the price increase. People with a one-year subscription can have the newspaper delivered to their box 156 days a year for just 46 cents an issue. That price is just 41 cents an issue for seniors.

“In relation to other services, the Standard is a bargain,” said executive editor Patricia Zechman. “We have award-winning news stories, the best local sports coverage you can find anywhere, and Sunday extras like coupons, comics and American Profile. That’s a lot for around 40 cents if you’re willing to buy a one-year subscription.”