In today's modern world, online shopping has become overwhelmingly popular, and as a result, we are receiving more boxes at our doorsteps than ever before. This increase in demand for cardboard has caused paper factories to shift their operations towards cardboard specifically, which has led to a significant rise in paper prices. At WHRO, we are also feeling the impact of this trend, with a 40% increase in our paper costs, including the cost of producing our member-exclusive monthly publication, Dimensions.
To adapt to these changes and to better serve our members, we have decided to transform this publication into a quarterly impact statement. Rather than providing the monthly program guide, the new Dimensions magazine will showcase the positive impact that WHRO is making in the community every day with your support. The new, quarterly Dimensions print magazine will land in your mailbox in August. There will not be a July issue.
We are excited about this new direction and hope that you will enjoy it too. The great news is our TV guides are online at whro.org/tvguide For those who still prefer a printed version of our TV schedule by mail, you can make that request at whro.org/tvguide or by calling our Member Services Team at 757-857-8499. Additionally, later in this issue, you will find an FAQ section that will answer questions related to the future of Dimensions.
We've always had pride at WHRO. June is Pride Month, and we are a proud sponsor of the 2023 Hampton Roads PrideFest, happening on June 24 in Norfolk's Town Point Park. PrideFest is the largest annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) festival in Virginia and the City of Norfolk's largest one-day festival. Join us for a day of live entertainment, vendors and fun activities for all ages. Did you know the event also has the only PrideFest Boat Parade in the United States, underlining the region's connections with the 300-year maritime history of our port cities? WHRO has been a presenting sponsor for many years, and we can't wait to be present at this year's PrideFest. Visit the WHRO booth to play games and pick up some public media swag. We hope to see you there, and please, come say hello if you do decide to attend.
As we also celebrate Father's Day in June, I would like to take a moment to express how grateful I am for the joy that my children, Jillian and Bertel, bring to my life every day. Wishing all the dads out there a happy Father's Day.
Lastly, our next TV membership drive happens this month from June 3–11. We have an exciting lineup of programs for you. I hope you will join us for these great shows and continue to support the content that you love. Without you, we would not be able to continue all the work we do. Thank you for your support!
Bert Schmidt President and CEO