It seems that News Hits may have some stiff competition. Or maybe just a kindred spirit.
The fledgling online publication, the-real-scoop.com, delights in taking pot shots at those who wield power in metro Detroit. And, like yours truly, it has a similar wit, edge, and charm, if we do say so ourselves.
But scoop reserves its gossipy tone mostly for the black elite, including Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, council member Kay Everett, businessman Mel Farr and many more. So far, it seems that readers are eating it up.
“We are really surprised at the response in such a short time. It’s really phenomenal,” says Chuck Bennett, Scoop editor-in-chief.
The site, which launched last year, had about 9,500 visitors in December, says Bennett.
“The numbers have gone up a little each month,” he says.
That doesn’t surprise News Hits. Scoop is the much-needed stiff drink Detroiters deserve. It’s hilarious, searing, and often right on the mark.
When Scoop first started, its target audience was affluent African-Americans.
“But it has gotten a lot wider since then,” says Bennett. “We’re trying to keep it fun and light, though we burned a few people in our gossip section.” Scoop also gives plenty of props to the deserving, with its “You’re looking fabulous” and “Extraordinary People” columns.
Bennett and Scoop publisher Martin LeFlore created the publication. LeFlore nudged Bennett, 49, to head the project since he has covered the Detroit scene for the Detroit News, Detroit Monthly and other publications the past two decades. LeFlore, 32, finances the site with his Web-design and computer-network company, LeFlore Industries. Advertisements also bring in revenue.
“No one has moved into a new income bracket, but we’re making a little money,” says Bennett.
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