Newspapers seeking membership in the Association of Alternative Newsweeklies can now obtain application forms and instructions, either online or from the AAN national office.
The application deadline falls three months earlier than usual this year, on Dec. 31, 2004.
To qualify, applicant newspapers must be general interest publications that demonstrate public service through journalism, editorial distinction and excellence; provide an alternative to mainstream journalism; strengthen the character of the association; and have ownership that reflects the values of the association, including editorial independence and integrity.
The Membership Committee — comprised of AAN editors and publishers — reviews each application and makes a recommendation regarding the applicant’s qualification for membership. Its recommendation is then presented to the general membership at the beginning of the annual convention. The members vote on each application during the annual meeting, which will be held next year on the Saturday morning of the final day of the convention. The 2005 convention will be held June 16-18 in San Diego.
Download the Membership Committee’s guidelines for admission by clicking here. Download a membership application form by clicking here.
Application materials can also be obtained by contacting AAN at 1020 16th Street NW, 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20036-5702, (202) 822-1955.
To apply for membership, papers must submit a package that includes the following:
- A completed membership application form
- 12 copies each of issues published the weeks of Aug. 23 and Nov. 15, 2004; and 12 copies of any other issue published after July 5, 2004
- A non-refundable check of $150 payable to AAN for the application-handling fee
The AAN office must receive all membership application materials by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 31, 2004. No membership applications will be accepted after that date.
