Norris Babin

Norris Babin, co-publisher of The Plaquemines Gazette was elected President of the Louisiana Press Association at its 132 Annual Convention in Marksville on May 5. 

Babin is also co-owner and publisher of The St. Bernard Voice succeeding E.M. Roy, a third generation editor and publisher of the paper who now serves as publisher emeritas. 

The transition of ownership came about after Hurricane Katrina, when The St. Bernard Voice office in Arabi was swamped by several feet of water and the more than 100-year old building had to go through serious renovations before it could be used again. 

Babin and his business partner Dale Benoit— who also own Print All Inc. in Belle Chasse—  extended their resources to Roy, publish The St. Bernard Voice for 2.5 years after Katrina before purchasing the newspaper.

The Louisiana Press Association first formed in 1880 as a trade association between the state’s daily and weekly newspapers, and today it acts as the official trade organization for Louisiana newspapers. Additionally, the LPA provides representation in the legislature as well as educational services to members.

Babin’s extensive work with the Louisiana Press Association began in 2005. He has chaired the Legislative Committee for the LPA for the last four years, and has served on the LPA Board of Directors since 2007. Babin said the newspaper industry has many different concerns going forward. 

“The focus of all our members whether independent small publications or larger multi-publication companies, we need to look at how to continue being the viable news gathering powerhouse that newspaper staffs have always provided.” 

Babin also stressed the need to make sure newer digital media is incorporated into newspaper operations while protecting issues like postal delivery for newspapers and freedom of information laws. “All of these avenues will help provide the public the information needed for a truly free society, and help ensure we have a productive and successful industry for the future.”