2009.06.09
OK, bridge fans, we hear ya
We began this month with a few changes to our comics/puzzles pages lineup. One of them included dropping the Goren on Bridge column and replacing it with a new logic puzzle called Kakuro. Our reasoning for the changes included the fact that the bridge column had received notably lackluster feedback on a reader panel we conducted earlier this year. We've also seen growing interest in mind-challenging puzzles such as Kakuro and Sudoko.
When we made the change, we left the door open and said we'd evaluate reader feedback over the next six months. But we've already heard enough: Since June 1, we've received more than 300 calls, e-mails and letters. We've even been hand-delivered a few petitions passed around at bridge clubs and nursing homes. (Actual subscription cancellations number less than a dozen.)
The bridge fans have spoken, and they'll be happy to hear the column is coming back. We expect that to happen with next week's editions, with the column moving to its new home in the classifieds section.
If you're reading this and know of a disappointed bridge fan, please spread the word.
And if you like Kakuro, let us know as well.
Thank you very very much!! I am happy for the good response.
I do think the Kakuro puzzle should be in the classifieds instead of puttingthe Bridge column there. The Bridge column should have squatter rights in Extra! Where will the Bridge column be on Sundays?
I am a mathmatician but I do not like the Kakuro puzzle - it takes too much time to work.
Comment by A. Vance — June 11, 2009 @ 7:23 pm
Thanks so much! Reading the bridge column was one idle pleasure I enjoyed most days in the Roanoke Times, was sad to see it go, and delighted to see it's coming back! I suspect there was probably a bit of a disconnect between those who replied to the comics survey and total readership with respect to appreciation for the bridge column. Thanks for listening to reader feedback!
Comment by David Scheim — June 17, 2009 @ 11:33 pm