Obama merchandise hawked by papers

By: Erin Floro

 

After the recent election of Barack Obama newspapers are trying to make money off this historic event.  Since revenues are down at most newspapers, it sounds like a good idea to me.

 

The Washington Post, The New York Times, and the Los Angeles Times are selling memorabilia such as t-shirts, coffee mugs, and key chains with Obama’s image.  Big items now are reproductions of the Nov. 5 front page headlining Obama’s victory.  A framed edition front page with brass plating can be yours for only $299 plus shipping and handling from the NY Times.

 

After searching the LA Times Web site, I came across other items available for purchase such as buttons, dolls, clocks, and even bobble heads.  This paper reports $686,000 in sales of Obama merchandise.

 

I think this is smart of the newspapers to make additional revenue.  As a consumer I would personally buy an item from a newspaper before I would a t-shirt or souvenir shop.  These items would be of quality material and appropriate.