Timeless Tools and Treasures

Last week one of the best resources I had for finding tool sellers just died. There was a group of local newspapers including one that was 90% advertising, This paper (Weekly Flea) was very popular and if  you didn’t pick it up within a day of its weekly distribution, there would be none left. We found it entertaining to read – everything you could want was listed (a low-tech Craig’s list) from home decor to office equipment to trucks. And, I got calls almost every week responding to my ad “Cash for Old Tools”. The paper reached into eastern Vermont, central and southwestern New Hampshire. I had many fun adventures going to see people all over the area who called from this ad. Now I will be limited to people I meet at the Sunday antique show in Peterborough and those who read the local paper. Occasionally someone sees my ad in Unravel the Gavel which reaches throughout New England, but only people who are interested in antiques are going to see it there.

No matter how much information is on the internet, there is still a place for the community newspaper with a staff that collects announcements from the citizens and goes out to all the local events to report on them. It’s a cost-effective way for small businesses to reach their geographical market; a way for nonprofit groups to build a base of support; a forum for residents to comment on their town government; and a vehicle for notices of every description.