We, leaders and residents of St. Paul and the East Metro Area of the Twin Cities, are concerned about the future of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, a highly valued institution here for 155 years.

We do not want the sale of the Pioneer Press to lead to a smaller, less ambitious newspaper.

Without an experienced news-gathering and advertising sales staff, the quality of the newspaper's coverage and effectiveness as an advertising tool would be diminished.

Without vibrant, in-depth reporting of life in St. Paul, the East Metro Area and Western Wisconsin, residents and workers will not be as well-informed or have the information they need to engage fully in civic life.

Without a civic-minded owner, many civic, cultural and charitable groups could lose a major financial supporter.

We encourage all potential new owners of the St. Paul Pioneer Press to preserve its excellence and learn of our community's expectations for its daily newspaper.

Your name, organization and any comments will appear on the web page. Save the Pioneer Press may contact you in the future to draw on your support. We will make clear that the name of your organization is for identification purposes only and does not imply the organization's support.

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