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An internal memo at the Santa Barbara News-Press lays out owner Wendy McCaw's version that everything that has happened to her paper — the mass resignations, complaints about her ethics, firings, bad PR — has been orchestrated by the Teamsters union. The memo, printed today at the Santa Barbara Independent's blog, also claims the News-Mess is doing fine. Excerpt of the Q-A given to staff:
9. Why is the News-Press portrayed so negatively? Because of lies, misinformation and spin. The goal of the Teamsters efforts is to pressure and disparage any business and any employer who will not play ball. The more frustrated the Teamsters become, the more pressure they try to bring upon their target....10. Is the News-Press financially viable?
Yes. Our readers and advertisers have been incredibly loyal and understanding during this period. They prefer not to be involved in issues such as this, as their priority is running their own businesses. They recognize these series of unfortunate events for what they are – a concerted campaign by the Teamsters.
The Independent posted an audit last week showing a "fairly steep" decline in News-Mess circulation.