The Rockaway Times’ incredible reach continues to grow. Last weekend, riding a surge from nor’easter coverage, our Facebook followers surpassed 60,000. That number is second only to the popular Friends of Rockaway Beach group (63,500). It is more than the combined followers from Rockaway’s six elected officials.
In the media realm, The Rockaway Times has more followers than QNS (52,000) from Schneps Media, the largest source of borough-wide news. In Rockaway, our following is more than five times larger than any other local news provider. Building on more than a decade of success, the RT’s Facebook audience has grown by 1,000 followers per month since June 1.
The Rockaway Times’ social media success is not limited to Facebook. Our Instagram now stands at 27,230. The RT YouTube channel is nascent but growing, too.
“I still love reading the local papers, but electronic media are incredibly important today,” Paul King, co-publisher of the RT said. “People in every generation are always on the move. They need access to the latest information. They need the short take – a blurb, video or photo. Our team is doing a great job of providing that. And, our newspaper and website are always available to provide the rest of the story.”
The Rockaway Times website saw a dramatic jump in usage after its June 4 reboot, increasing in users by 20% per month since.
Last weekend’s nor’easter demonstrated the importance of having a dedicated local team and excellent electronic channels. As the storm wreaked havoc on activities and shorelines, The Rockaway Times was able to use its platforms –including the Rockaway Time app– to provide updates on events, videos of street flooding and shore erosion, photos of residents dealing with the impacts, and up-to-the minute nor’easter news. One post achieved more than 400,000 views.
As one Facebook user commented, “This is better reporting and coverage than Ch 2, 4, 5, 7, 11. Well done!! Thank you!” You are welcome. And thank you to all our loyal readers (print and online) for putting your trust in The Rockaway Times.
