Associated Press Feels the Pinch of the Bad Economy

By Paul Bedard, Washington Whispers.

Newspapers, magazines, TV networks, and now, even the Associated Press is feeling the tight pinch of the recession and advertising stall. Long considered by reporters as a safe haven from the economic seesaw of local markets, the AP has cut the price it charges newspapers by $30 million. But that might not be enough for some. Scripps Howard, which has 17 newspapers and a Washington bureau, is in money talks with AP. "We are a member in good standing of the AP as of today," says spokesman Tim King. "I can't tell you what the future holds for the relationship because we are continuing our discussions with them concerning pricing."