Athlon Media Group sponsors Heath’s postal work for 2015

Feb 16, 2015

FRANKLIN, TN—Athlon Media Group has agreed to sponsor National Newspaper Association Postal Chair Max Heath for his expenses representing the National Newspaper Association for the seventh straight year, through 2015.

Heath is a postal consultant for Athlon and Landmark Community Newspapers LLC. Athlon’s sponsorship means that he will continue to represent the two groups in his work on behalf of community newspapers and NNA members. The expense agreement includes meetings of the Mailers Technical Advisory Committee in Washington, plus other meetings such as the Periodicals Advisory Group, which works on rules changes.

The annual National Postal Forum, regional Periodicals Focus Groups concentrating on service issues and MTAC work groups may also be included, as needs demand. Heath is the only newspaper representative serving on some of these groups, giving community newspapers a seat at the table on decisions affecting them.

Athlon publishes four newspaper magazine supplements: Parade and American Profile, semi-weekly; Relish, monthly; and Spry, monthly. Each contains news and advertising, which count accordingly in postal advertising calculations.

“We believe this is an invaluable resource provided by NNA,” said Jerry Lyles, senior vice president, newspaper relations for Athlon. “We’re happy to continue to sponsor this service for our partners and the industry at a critical juncture for the U.S. Postal Service, which has resulted in a variety of pressures on newspapers, unfortunately.”

Heath said, “NNA members owe a debt of gratitude to Athlon for making it possible (for him) to continue representation of community newspapers before the Postal Service, and helping the NNA budget, as well.” Athlon, through its strong backing of community newspapers, went above and beyond by agreeing to pay additional expenses once covered by NNA. This helps NNA expenses at a time when associations across the country are struggling during the current economic weakness. “I continue to consult for LCNI in return for the company providing office space, equipment and administrative help. Helping LCNI informs my work in Washington.”

Heath was executive editor of LCNI for 21 years, and circulation director for 23 years. He is semi-retired and cutting his travel schedule. He also does webinars for NNA. 

Heath can be reached at maxheath@lcni.com.