The Phoenix Media/Communications Group owner and publisher, Stephen Mindich,

announced today that, with the issue dated October 17, the Providence Phoenix — the 36-

year-old alternative news and arts weekly — will cease publication.

“It is unquestionably sad to see the Providence Phoenix cease publishing and realizing

the void it will leave,” said Phoenix Media/Communications Group COO Everett Finkelstein.

“I’m, however, somewhat gratified, knowing we’ve left an indelible mark on our loyal

readers who for 36 years have turned to us for our unique coverage of the rich culture,

politics, and lifestyles of our community. But the unhappy reality of today’s media world

is that the continual shrinkage of print advertising revenue and the increasing costs of

producing an award-winning newspaper such as the Providence Phoenix made this no

longer economically viable.”

The Providence Phoenix’s Farewell Issue will look back at the paper’s history, with

comments from past writers, editors, and other luminaries. The issue will also include a

portfolio of longtime Phoenix photographer Richard McCaffrey’s best shots, and more.

Below is the full text of Mindich’s statement to Providence Phoenix staff:

“About a year and a half ago when the decision to shutter the Boston Phoenix

was made, it was my deep desire to keep publishing the Providence Phoenix and keep its

extraordinary legacy alive.

“Sadly, after making massive budgetary adjustments in order to trim the costs of

operations to a level where we could at least financially break-even, while also ensuring

we could keep the paper’s editorial quality at the exceptional level we all demanded – the

raw reality of continued losses month after month finally had to be confronted. After an

enormous amount of analysis looking for resolutions and growth opportunities, along with

profound personal soul-searching, I have made the difficult decision that the time has come

to close the Providence Phoenix.

“There is no adequate way to thank everyone here today, and all of those who over

the years have devoted their efforts and amazing talents to this marvelous enterprise and

to our Phoenix family.

“When the final issue is put to bed, printed and distributed and we thank our

many readers and advertisers, the City of Providence, and the State of Rhode Island – we

do so with great pride in knowing that during the decades we have been here we made a

difference, and for that we should all be truly proud.

“Again, my deepest gratitude and sincerest thanks to each and every one of you.”