Editors notebook: Pushing onward and upward

It’s an interesting experience to be the news.
Several weeks ago, the Tracy Press, the Press-Banner’s parent paper, declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Without going into great detail, that means the company has a chance to reorganize and negotiate its debt while keeping its doors open.
I am happy to say I am still here at my desk, pounding away on the keyboard and cashing my paycheck.
It was disconcerting, however, to hear about the headline on the local TV news, “Banner bankrupt.” While catchy and not completely false, it gives the impression that we emptied our pockets, kicked a can and locked our doors for good. That’s not the case.
Our operation in Scotts Valley has undergone no significant changes because of the bankruptcy, except that the company is unable to pay for its employees’ health insurance.
We are still reporting as best we can on the news that takes place in both the valleys, and we are still working with our advertisers to provide them with a great way to reach every nook and cranny in Scotts Valley and SLV.
My understanding is that the purpose of Chapter 11 is to allow the company to change and stay open. Chapter 7, by contrast, requires a company to close its doors to pay its debts. I personally am hopeful that the Tracy Press and the Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley Press-Banner will make it through the bankruptcy, helped by the communities that have supported these newspapers for generations.
Peter Burke celebrated his first year as editor this month. Previously, he spent two years as a reporter and sports editor for the Press-Banner.