English History, Core Issues on Tap for Conference by Jeremy Condliffe Ers

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Published by the Institute of International Studies, Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, MO Volume 36, No. 1 • February 2011 English history, core issues on tap for conference By Jeremy Condliffe ers. Stratford-upon- ISWNE president A note of caution: Warwick is geared up Avon, which is for business conferences, which means a only about 15 This year’s conference is promising lots of slicker conference, and the rooms are all minutes away. We English history as well as interesting dis- en suite and with carpets. The downside is hope to visit to cussions on issues that lie at the core of that it’s not child-friendly, for insurance some of the ISWNE. reasons. Teens and older kids will be OK Shakespeare museums — Ann The conference is being held at the but will have their own rooms (adjacent to parents) and cost the same as adult Hathaway’s cot- University of Warwick, Coventry. The tage is very pretty. venue was chosen for practical reasons: delegates. Smaller children might be a the campus is in the centre of England problem — email if you’re thinking of There should be (Meriden, for hundreds of years said to be bringing youngsters. time to wander: Jeremy Condliffe the dead centre of England, is close by) Around noon we’ll be welcomed to walking by the and handy for all transport. England by Bob Satchwell, executive river is nice, the director of the Society of Editors and a for- Shakespeare Theatre has just reopened The motorway system (three lanes, high after a multi-million refurb and speed) runs close by, it’s a £5 taxi ride mer Greenslade Bursary recipient. The society has more than 400 members and Shakespeare is buried in the parish from Coventry station and Birmingham church, which is free to enter. Stratford International Airport is close to. (If you fights for the importance of a varied news media in a democratic society, the promo- has some good pubs selling English real can fly into Birmingham that’s fine, but ale — one version of events has it that Manchester and London are accessible by tion of press freedom and the commitment to high editorial standards. Billy Shakespeare died a rock ‘n’ roll train — please note that at the winter death after going out on the lash (as we board meeting in January, flights from We will also be joined by Geraldine say in England) for his birthday, so be the States to Dublin and then Birming- Allinson, chairman of the Kent Messenger careful! ham were said to be the cheapest option). Group. The KM Group goes back to 1859 We’re going to be dining with Albert The programme itself is filling up well — and was taken over by Barham Pratt Boorman in 1890, after its owners, the Scardino, ISWNE member, who is very we’re all used to meeting deadlines at the kindly sponsoring the conference. We’re last minute, so there’s nothing to fear by Masters brothers, were jailed and were forced to sell. Barham was succeeded by still working on this day — the conference the gaps still to fill, particularly given the is costly for members as it is, so we’re see- quality so far. his son, Henry Pratt Boorman, in the late 1920s. In 1960 he presented ISWNE with ing what we can get for free. For early arrivals and board members, some of the regalia we still use today as a Thursday, 7th July starts in the lecture the conference starts on Tuesday, 5th July token of friendship between ISWNE and theatre, when we look at freedom of at the conference venue, the Rootes England’s Newspaper Society, when information and press standards. Centre on the campus (there are photos Henry was its president. on the ISWNE Facebook page). We hope The first morning session will look at to arrange a trip out somewhere in the Edwin, Geraldine’s father, took over as Freedom of Information. Speakers include evening. chairman in 1986 and was succeeded by Maurice Frankel, a nationally known fig- Geraldine in 2005. By happy coincidence ure and director of the UK Campaign for The conference proper starts on she is this year’s president of the News- Freedom of Information, and a Kent Wednesday, 6th July with registration, the paper Society. Messenger staffer with experience of chal- reception desks being staffed by the uni- In the afternoon we board coaches for lenging public bodies over the release of versity’s professional conference organis- information. continued on page 3 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors

By Jeremy Condliffe Congleton, Cheshire, England English newspaper industry in state of flux One of the problems with organising this company invested heavily in a Manchester newspapers in the UK, and owned by Gannett. year’s ISWNE conference is that the newspa- television station. It was forced to sell its flag- Like MEN Media, Newsquest closed a number per industry in England has been in a state of ship paper the Manchester Evening News, which of its local offices; one of titles, the closest to flux for some time. it had owned for the best part of a century, to us, is the Knutsford Guardian. Previously a qual- When I started planning 18 months ago, Trinity Mirror, another regional publisher. ity weekly, its news pages are now apparently many people had no idea whether they’d It also sold its weekly titles, the closest to us in written, subbed and laid out by one person — have jobs by 2011 and companies had no Macclesfield, 10 miles north, as well as others which means a typical page might have one spare cash for sponsorship; truth be told, I was in towns across the Manchester area, a story, a single column photo blown up to three reluctant to even ask people to help, as they sprawling city. To save money, GMG had previ- columns and a massive headline across all six had weightier issues to deal with. ously closed down most of its local offices and columns. You’ve only got to travel a few miles from our the new owners moved the staff out to It’s all a bit sad though doubtless in a few office to see how recent years have hit the Oldham, even further away and upwards of years time some bright spark will have the industry. 30 or 40 miles from the towns they served. fantastic idea of having offices in the towns Thirty miles might not seem much if you live newspapers serve. To the north of us we have the Manchester- out in rural America but it’s a long drive based Guardian Media Group, or at least did across a crowded city. Readers in Macclesfield It’s not all bad news: Newsquest had a free have, and its struggles highlight the problems have no newspaper office. title in Congleton that closed and thus benefit- of the newspaper industry. ed us slightly. Last time I looked, the company, now known In many ways it’s an admirable company; it as MEN Media, was sending its staff over to And we’re now increasingly seen as different. prints the national daily newspaper The Macclesfield for a weekly surgery at the town We’ve got an office in the high street! We still Guardian and the national Sunday paper The library. All of you with offices in the high street cover council meetings! We still get letters! Observer, the country’s only serious liberal/left will know how many stories come in as people Revolutionary. wing national newspapers. It’s also pushed drop by with a snippet of gossip or even push Mind you, doing nothing is something we’re hard for free Internet access to news and its notes through the door. This might explain good at — a few years we back were compli- website has proved very popular if unprofit- why the Macclesfield Express now only has a mented on having a black and white mast- able (though new predictions say that it’s los- handful of letters each week, mostly circulars head, which stood out well against all the red ing the hi-tech high ground to Rupert from charities and the like, sent to all papers and blue mastheads of the corporate papers. Murdoch’s pay-walled Times and the Daily in the country (though to be fair last week it All we’d done was not change anything while Mail, soon to be the world’s most popular had four proper local letters). everyone else developed matching corporate newspaper website) (apparently). They’re not alone: adjacent to the area for- front pages. The company is ultimately owned by a chari- merly covered by GMG’s weekly, we have table trust; one clause of the trust states that, another big company, Newsquest — the sec- Jeremy Condliffe can be contacted at come what may, The Guardian has to be pro- ond largest publisher of regional and local [email protected] duced. But The Guardian loses money, and the

2 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors

English history, core issues on tap for conference from page 1

The second morning session will look at Complaints Commission, which sets the England. ethics. We’ve got Guy Black, Lord Black of ethics code for newspapers and investi- About four miles out, in Baginton, is the Brentwood, executive director of the gates complaints. Lunt Fort, a reconstructed Roman fort. Telegraph Media Group and a Conser- During his time there he was responsible The Midland Air Museum is situated just vative member of the House of Lords. He for tightening the Code of Practice in the within the perimeter of Coventry on land is a former director of the Press wake of the death of Diana, Princess of adjacent to Coventry Airport and near Wales, and for putting in place the Baginton. arrangements to protect the privacy of Another major visitor attraction in Princes William and Harry. We also have Coventry city centre is the free-to-enter Martin Moore, the Golden Quill judge, Coventry Transport Museum, which has and director of The Media Standards the largest collection of British-made road Trust, formed in 2006, to address con- vehicles in the world. The most notable cerns of a deterioration in journalistic exhibits are the world speed record-break- standards. ing cars, Thrust2 and ThrustSSC. Officers of the International Society For both sessions we hope to have panels of Weekly Newspaper Editors: The city’s main police station hosts a and open the debate to the floor, rather museum of Coventry’s police force. The President: Jeremy Condliffe than just having single speakers talking to museum, based underground, is split into Congleton Chronicle an audience. two sections — one representing the histo- Congleton, Cheshire, England In the afternoon we board coaches to ry of the city’s police force, and the other

Vice President: Kris O’Leary Warwick Castle, one of England’s best compiling some of the more unusual, The Star News preserved and finest castles, built by interesting and grisly cases from the Medford, Wis. William the Conqueror in 1068 and now force’s history. The museum is funded owned by the Tussauds Group. You’ll be from charity donations — viewings can be Executive Director: free to wander the impressive castle for made by appointment. Dr. Chad Stebbins, Director, Institute of the afternoon. When the castle closes In the evening is the traditional banquet International Studies, Missouri Southern there’ll be an hour to examine the pubs State University, 3950 E. Newman Road, and Golden Quill presentation, which is Joplin, MO 64801-1595 of Warwick before we return for a medi- in the conference centre’s own banquet- Phone: (417) 625-9736 eval banquet in the historic underhalls of ing suite. Fax: (417) 659-4445 the castle. E-mail: [email protected] Sunday, 10th July sees the traditional con- Friday, 8th July is the day of the editorial tinental breakfast before delegates Board of Directors: critiques. In the morning we hope to run depart. Goodloe Sutton sessions on law and on editorial writing techniques. In next month’s newsletter we’ll provide The Democrat Reporter answers to some questions you might Linden, Ala. Speakers include Tony Jaffa, a top media have (and all this will go on the Facebook Paul MacNeill lawyer, described as the “doyen of region- page) but if you’ve got any queries, email The Eastern Graphic al media libel experts’” and “an absolute [email protected]. Montague, Prince Edward Island authority in the field.” We also have Neil Chris Wood Benson and Paul Horrocks, two well- Wisconsin Web Offset, Brookfield, Wis. known regional editors. ISWNE silent auction Kelly Clemmer Saturday, 9th July will see the ISWNE Anyone attending the conference in the Star News Inc. annual meeting and we hope to present UK might want to send silent auction Wainwright, Alberta another speaker, possibly on the decline items in the post, particularly books, etc., Cheryl Wormley of the independent press in the UK, fol- which add weight to suitcases when flying The Woodstock Independent lowing which there’s a free afternoon. (most airlines allow around 20kilos / Woodstock, Ill. As well as shops, attractions in Coventry 44lbs per person). Gary Sosniecki include St Michael’s Cathedral, Coventry’s Post them to Jeremy Condliffe / 11, High TownNews.com, Moline, Ill. best-known landmark and visitor attrac- Street / Congleton / Cheshire CW12 1BW Immediate Past President: tion, which was largely destroyed by / England. Jim Painter West Valley View German bombing during World War II. At Mark the envelope “silent auction” (or Avondale, Ariz. 303 feet high, the spire is claimed to be “Vicky and Jan’s secret Santa”) the third tallest cathedral spire in

February 2011 3 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors

Laakaniemi’s handbook for weeklies has new life Starr teaching journalism in Mississippi The Weekly Writer’s Handbook — the best selling reporting manual for ISWNE member Douglas Perret Starr, who retired in July from beginning reporters on weeklies — is back and it has ISWNE all over teaching agricultural journalism at Texas A&M University, began it. teaching a journalism course at Mississippi College in January. The The book was written by ISWNE member Ray Laakaniemi, and has course is a general overview of the field with an emphasis on writing sold more than 5,500 copies. It was given a big boost even before its and reporting for newspapers and the Internet and for radio and first printing by a favorable review in Publisher’s Auxiliary by ISWNE television. member Garrett Ray. “I am excited about returning to the classroom,” Starr said. “The But over the years direct marketing became more difficult, and the school is small — 5,000 students all told — but has a full journalism book has sold only a few copies in the last few years. But now it is department, including a school newspaper and a school FM radio available again, with a new chapter on writing for the web, co- station.”. authored by ISWNE member Gary Sosniecki of TownNews.com. It is being reprinted by none other than a weekly newspaper, The Herald Journal in Winsted, Minn., with new technology making it possible. And two websites will “herald” the availability of the book. The primary site for ordering is weeklywritershandbook.com and a companion site with more detail on specifics on the book is being developed. Laakaniemi has worked on weeklies and dailies and is retired from the journalism faculty at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, currently living in Mayer, Minn.

Will Ortman and Jeremy Waltner (right) starred in Greater Tuna. Waltner stars in local production of Greater Tuna ISWNE member Jeremy Waltner starred in the Freeman (S.D.) Area ISWNE member George Brown, editor of the Ponoka News, makes a point dur- Community Theatre’s production of Greater Tuna on two weekends ing the wrap-up of an ISWNE-style editorial-page critique Jan. 29 at the Alberta in January. Weekly Newspapers Association Symposium in Edmonton. Pictured in the background are (from left) Shauna Burke, a reporter for the St. Paul Journal; Glenn Greater Tuna is a play set in Tuna, Texas, that goes inside Radio Cook, editor of the Saint City News in St. Albert; and Kelly Clemmer, editor of Station OKKK and a host of people who live in — and love — their the Star News in Wainwright. Clemmer, an ISWNE board member, and Brown small town. The show is unique in that just two men play the 20 led the two discussion groups. Gary Sosniecki, an ISWNE board member from characters featured in the script, from naive radio show personali- LeClaire, Iowa, was moderator. ISWNE member Stewart Salkeld, editor of The ties to troubled teens to elderly women to an over-zealous preacher Mountaineer Publishing Co. in Rocky Mountain House, was among the 10 par- to even a loud, shrill dog. ticipants in the critique. All participants received ISWNE brochures and copies of Along with Waltner, the play featured Will Ortman and was under the newsletter. Sosniecki also spoke to the symposium about “Web Solutions for the direction of John Koch; all are from Freeman. Community Newspapers.”

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President Jeremy Condliffe called the meet- 8. The board approved a motion that the ing to order at 9:05 a.m. 2013 ISWNE conference be held in Calgary, 1. The minutes of the June 23, 2010, board Minutes Alberta (Clemmer/MacNeill). Clemmer meeting in Richmond, Kentucky, were International Society said he had enlisted the assistance of approved (O’Leary/Painter). George Brown, Frank McTighe, and Stu of Weekly Newspaper Editors Salkeld and had an RTF from the University 2. Stebbins reported ISWNE had of Calgary. He anticipated having the $16,276.56 in its checking account and a Board of Directors Meeting, awards banquet at Banff National Park, CD worth $28,000, for a total net worth of January 15, 2011 with attendees taking the gondola up the $44,276.56 as of Dec. 31, 2010. ISWNE had Memphis, Tennessee mountaintop. Visiting the Royal Tyrrell a net worth of $40,392.06 one year earlier. Museum in Drumheller is also a possibility. From Jan. 1, 2010 to Dec. 31, 2010, ISWNE In Attendance: 9. Tim Waltner, who heads ISWNE’s edito- had a net gain of $3,884.50. Stebbins also Jeremy Condliffe Chad Stebbins reported that the ISWNE Foundation had a rial critiques, provided an update by tele- total net worth of $51,782.28 as of Dec. 31, Kris O’Leary Paul MacNeill phone. He said “the maiden voyage” 2010 and showed a net gain of $5,983.83 Cheryl Wormley Chris Wood would be the next week, when he and MacNeill lead an ISWNE-style editorial cri- during the year. The financial statement Kelly Clemmer Gary Sosniecki was approved (O’Leary/Wormley). tique session at the Quebec Community Goodloe Sutton Jim Painter Newspapers Association’s “Editorial Day” 3. Stebbins reported ISWNE had 243 paid in Pointe Claire, Quebec. “We can use it as members in 2010, an increase of 13 from a springboard for some additional market- 2009. Wormley suggested the organization ing to other state and provincial press asso- could better market its Hotline service to ISWNE would be receiving $1,243.15, with ciations,” Waltner said. Sosniecki said he increase membership. Stebbins said ISWNE would be doing “an unauthorized critique had received a record 31 Hotline questions Eastern Kentucky University and the Institute for Rural Journalism and session” for the Alberta Weekly in 2010 but that the mechanics of sending Newspapers Association in Edmonton Jan. out the questions still needed to be Community Issues dividing the other half. The board recommended that Condliffe 29 with the assistance of Clemmer and improved. He said every time he emailed a George Brown. question to the membership, at least one send thank-you letters to EKU and the person responded by asking to be removed IRJCI. 10. Clemmer said he had talked to a repre- from the distribution list. Sosniecki said 6. Condliffe updated the board on his sentative of Bennett Gallery in El Dorado, some members cannot “Reply All” because plans for the 2011 conference in Coventry, Calif., about a less-expensive statue for the of their email systems. MacNeill said there England. He said Birmingham was the Golden Quill winner. ISWNE spent $761.25 had to be a technological fix for the prob- closest airport and that a taxi ride to the for the bronze statue in 2010, and $2,095 lem. University of Warwick campus would cost for the statue mold in 2009. Clemmer said £20. Delegates also could fly into London a pewter statue would be considerably 4. Stebbins reported that Missouri Southern cheaper. MacNeill suggested plating the State University no longer was able to host and take a 90-minute train ride to Coventry; for fares and times, see www. award in bronze, and asked if ISWNE the ISWNE website on its server and that owned the bronze mold. “We need to get TownNews had agreed to host it, at no thetrainline.com. Sutton said he would explore traveling by freighter to a port city. something in writing from them,” he said. charge. The board recommended that Clemmer said he would obtain additional Condliffe send a thank-you letter to Marc Condliffe said he had received a £1,000 sponsorship from ISWNE member Albert information from Bennett Gallery and Wilson, general manager and founder of email the board. TownNews. Scardino and a £2,000 sponsorship from the Telegraph Media Group arranged by 11. The board discussed a proposed new The board discussed whether ISWNE executive director Guy Black, who will design for the Golden Dozen certificates should start accepting advertising on its speak at the conference. The board agreed and a new logo for ISWNE, submitted by website and in its newsletter. Stebbins said on an April 1 early bird registration date. Max Gilchuk, a graphic designer for when the website was hosted by MSSU, Wormley suggested that Condliffe develop Clemmer’s newspaper in Wainwright, advertising was not permissible but would a list of tips and recommendations for trav- Alberta. The board liked the new Golden be now. MacNeill said the website had eling in the U.K. and include it in the news- Dozen certificate design, but Painter said become “static” and the board should letter; board members were to send him he wanted to see other options for a new explore enhancements and other options. suggestions. logo before selecting one. “We shouldn’t Stebbins agreed, saying that that the 7. Stebbins read a brief email from Frank take the selection lightly,” he said. Wood design had not changed since it was said ISWNE needed to use the logo in the launched in the fall of 1999. The board Garred assuring the board that everything was still in order for the 2012 ISWNE con- same fashion every time. “It’s a brand,” he approved a motion that “ISWNE explore a said. “We use it inconsistently in the news- partnership with TownNews to explore ference in Bellingham, Washington: “Food service, lodging, transportation, meeting letter; we need to always use it in the same website services in exchange for advertis- format.” The board approved a motion ing” (MacNeill/Sutton). Sosniecki asked the facilities, and Quill judge all are committed. When we sign the Western Washington adopting the new logo (MacNeill/ board to email him ideas of what they Sosniecki). The board instructed Clemmer would like to see in a new website. University contract next November we’ll have the per person value set and can to ask Gilchuk to develop some different 5. Stebbins said the 2010 ISWNE confer- share that with members.” color schemes for the certificates. MacNeill ence earned a profit of $2,486.31 and that said the certificates should be matted but

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February 2011 5 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors SeilerSeiler wrotewrote somesome 5,0005,000 editorialseditorials inin hishis careercareer Al Seiler wrote his own obituary upon being ing, photography and investigative report- American artists diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October. ing. In 1985 he was president of the were Thomas Hart International Society of Weekly Newspaper Benton, and Allan A. Seiler, 93, of St. Louis, Mo., and Editors and in 1987 president of the Illinois George Caleb formerly of Pittsfield, Ill., died Jan. 3, 2011, Press Association. In July 2000 at the sum- Bingham. He at his residence in St. Louis, Mo. mer conference of ISWNE in Victoria, enjoyed all kinds British Columbia, he was awarded the 25th of museums, wher- He was born Oct. 2, 1917, the son of the annual Eugene Cervi award for “a career of ever they were late Walter and Maude Virginia Eldridge outstanding service through community located. He was a Seiler. He married Virginia Morris of Des journalism.” political “junkie” Moines, Iowa, on June 13, 1942, in Boise, and closely fol- Idaho. She died on May 28, 1992. He served eight years on the Pike County Board, two years as chairman, when the lowed politics at Al Seiler Surviving are two daughters, Anne Petty- county’s budget was balanced for the first all levels of gov- grove of Des Moines, Iowa, and Elizabeth time in the previous eight years. He ernment. “Betsy” Garibay of St. Louis, Mo.; seven appointed more women to various commit- Although he never attended a major horse grandchildren, Allan Goodin of Knoxville, tees, boards and commissions than any race, he placed a modest bet every year at Tenn., Sarah Bigelow of Chesterfield, Mo., previous chairman in the county’s history. the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Kate Slayden of Martinsburg, W. Va., Molly Following his retirement from active news- Belmont events, sometimes winning but Scott of High Springs, Fla., and Alex, Emily more often losing. He was a fan of the St. and Adam Garibay, all of St. Louis; and 12 paper publishing, he continued to write a column of commentary on a wide variety Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals great-grandchildren scattered around the baseball teams. globe. of subjects. He estimated his total career output of editorials at somewhat over After selling his home and leaving Pittsfield He was preceded in death by his parents; 5,000. in 2004, he lived for a while in St. Louis wife; and a brother, Robert Seiler. Mr. Seiler was an advocate of continuing and Des Moines, moving to Webster He spent his early childhood in Chillicothe, adult education and took several courses Groves, Mo., in April 2010. He was living Mo., later moving with his parents to through John Wood and other colleges. In with his daughter Betsy receiving hospice Joplin, Mo., where he completed high his spare time he studied Italian and care in her home at the time of his death. school. He graduated in 1939 from the Arabic. He possessed a home library of A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, School of Journalism at the University of more than a thousand books, even after Jan. 29, at the Airsman-Hires Funeral Missouri. He worked for the daily newspa- selling and giving many away. His favorite Home in Pittsfield. Private burial will follow per in Des Moines, Iowa, and for Piper authors were Shakespeare, Mark Twain, in Oakwood Cemetery in Pittsfield. In lieu Aircraft in Lock Haven, Pa., until called into H.L. Mencken, and O. Henry. He enjoyed of flowers, memorials may be made to military service as a reserve officer in 1942. operatic music, especially the works of International Society of Weekly Newspaper He served four years in the U.S. Army Air Puccini, Verdi, and Mozart. During one of Editors or to Oakwood Cemetery, both c/o Corps, attaining the rank of major. his five trips to Italy he attended a concert Airsman-Hires Funeral Home, Box 513, Following his return to civilian status, he at the famed La Scala opera house in Pittsfield, Ill., 62363. Condolences may be was with the Bee and Herald newspaper in Milan. He collected inexpensive art and sent to the family online at www.airsman- Jefferson, Iowa, and later was managing enjoyed the more notable work of Monet, hires.com editor of the Hancock County Journal in Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir. His favorite Carthage, including the year it won the Illinois Press Association sweepstakes award as the best weekly newspaper in the state. In December 1960, he joined the Pike County Republican newspaper in Pittsfield as its editor and publisher when Paul Findley, its owner, was elected to Congress. In 1963, Mr. Seiler purchased the Pike County Democrat-Times from John H. and A.B. Caughlan and James McHose. He continued its publication, along with the Republican, until April 1968 when the two papers were combined as the Pike Press and published under the name of the Pike Press, Inc., of which Mr. Seiler and Mr. Findley were joint owners until its sale in 1990. He won numerous state and national Al Seiler and his grandson, Adam Garibay, visit with Garrett and Nina Ray at the 2008 ISWNE conference in awards for editorial and feature story writ- Detroit.

6 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors FormerFormer owner,owner, publisherpublisher ofof PikePike PressPress diesdies inin St.St. LouisLouis By Beth Zumwalt Throughout his tenure with the Pike Press, good, very fair employer.” Pike Press Seiler’s main focus was the future of the Seiler’s compassion showed through in his Pittsfield, Ill. area and what was best for its citizens. He love for animals. He could frequently be Jan. 5, 2011 tried to stay in touch with the needs of the seen walking his bloodhound around town. citizens, once vowing to attend at least one It was the same dog that rested by his desk Allan Seiler, the man credited with merg- service of every church in the county. in the Pike Press office while he worked or ing two Pike County newspapers into the “The thing about Al was he had ideas. He rode with him in his trademark convertible. Pike Press, has died in St. Louis after a battle had big ideas,” said Kent Hawley, associate Pike Press editor and publisher Julie Boren with cancer. He was 93. dean of transfer education at JWCC in began her career working for Seiler. Pittsfield. “He had ideas about what was Seiler was publisher and owner of the Pike “Al hired me as a reporter in 1975. I took a Press for a number of years after coming to good for the people of Pike County. Whether it was smaller government or a pay cut to work for him and I’ve never Pike County at the behest of then newly- regretted it,” Boren said. “Al taught me, not elected U.S. Representative Paul Findley. health and fitness center, he had ideas on what would make Pike County a better so much the mechanics of journalism, but “He came to my rescue in 1960 when I was place to live. He wasn’t afraid to put his the heart of community journalism. He was elected to Congress, agreeing to leave his ideas out there and work toward them. He fiercely independent and dedicated to secure position as editor of the Hancock was the type of person we need in Pike being fair, no matter what the cost. He County Journal and take a chance on my County. Those that have vision.” believed in holding government account- political fortunes,” Findley said. “He head- able and his editorials cut right to the ed The Pike County Republican in its location Rick Conner, who served as an alderman point.” on the Pittsfield City Council and two terms next to the county jail for several years Boren recalled that, while Seiler often before purchasing the Democrat-Times and as mayor, said Seiler frequently covered council meetings. appeared gruff in his interactions with the arranging for its consolidation with the public, his staff knew him to be a man of Republican as The Pike Press with the two of “He told me one time he might rub people kindness and great good humor. “We went us as partners. Simultaneously, as I recall, the wrong way but his job was to report to great lengths to surprise him on his he shifted from hot type publication to off- what government was doing to the people,” birthday. I’ve seen him laugh so hard that set printing and moved the newspaper Conner said. “He could ask some tough tears ran down his cheeks.” plant to its present location in a building questions whether it was to a U.S. Senator he designed. or the mayor of a small town like me. He Kevin Dyer, who appeared in the Pittsfield didn’t care. He was the check of the check Theatre Guild’s production of “1776” with “He maintained The Pike Press as one of the Seiler, also remembers his wit. nation’s outstanding weeklies. His death is and balance system. My thoughts and a great loss to me. I was fortunate to have prayers go to the family.” “He did a lot of stuff with the Theatre Guild him as a partner and friend. We were busi- Conner also served with Seiler on the coun- before I got involved,” Dyer said. “But the ness partners for more than 30 years.” ty board. thing about Al was his sense of humor. He came across as this sober, solemn person Seiler will be remembered by most for his “We were both on the finance committee,” when he was hilariously funny. The things journalistic talents that included not only Conner said. “By then we were comfortable he would say would crack you up and the his coverage of Pike County events but also with each other and with Jim Sheppard, wit was always there.” his contributions to legislation affecting the other member. Sometimes we had dif- newspapers. He served as president of the ferent opinions but Al was willing to com- The Pike Press is now owned by Campbell Illinois Press Association and the Inter- promise if you could show him facts. If not, Publications. Campbell Publications presi- national Society of Weekly Newspaper he stood by his convictions. His fingerprints dent Bruce Campbell said he, too, had Editors, where he was honored with the are on a lot of projects around the county learned a lot from Seiler. Society’s Eugene Cervi Award for “outstand- just by his promotion of them in the paper.” “I’ve known Al for decades and appreciat- ing service through community journal- Former employee Nanci Belt remembers ed his wisdom and insight into being a ism.” her years at the Pike Press fondly, and attri- community newspaper publisher,” A graduate of the University of Missouri butes those fond memories to Seiler. Campbell said. “He was a mentor who School of Journalism, Seiler also studied at always had time to share his vast knowl- “You’ll hear a lot of people say he was a edge with me. Al and I visited at the Red Detroit University and took several classes one-of-a-kind individual and he was,” Belt at John Wood Community College, where Dome a few months ago and we remi- said. “He had a very big heart. If he cared nisced about Pike County and the Pike he also led discussion groups and taught in about you, you knew it. He was a very the literacy program. Press. I’ll miss those conversations.”

February 2011 7 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors A man of TheThe faceface ofof communitycommunity journalismjournalism many talents By Julie Boren let the times pass Pike Press Publisher and editor him by. Pittsfield, Ill. Pike Press Following his years Jan. 5, 2011 Pittsfield, Ill. of commentary on Jan. 5, 2011 the successes and Al Seiler was a man of many facets, blunders of local among them: The world lost a champion of individualism units of govern- • He worked for Piper Aircraft in Lock this week with the death of former Pike Press ment, Al in his Haven, Pa., then served four years in editor and publisher Al Seiler. retirement years the U.S. Army Air Corps, attaining the Seiler was one-of-a-kind, an example to all was able to use his rank of major. who value the leadership and enlightenment wealth of experience as a member • In the Pittsfield Theatre Guild produc- possible through the practice of community journalism. Seiler made it his business to and chairman of Julie Boren tion of “1776,” he portrayed John the Pike County Hancock. know the ins and outs of Pike County and in his editorials he spoke the truth without fear. Board. There he never forgot the principals • As county board chairman, he journalists hold so dear, including a govern- appointed more women to various Al loved many things — family and friends, ment that operates with openness for the committees, board and commissions an intriguing idea, golf, theater, dogs, a cup benefit of the people it serves. than any previous chairman. of his favorite brew — but for many in Pike County, their enduring image of him is a Although Al Seiler moved from Pike County • During his career, it is estimated that tall, imposing, white-haired figure, striding in 2004, he maintained his ties here and he wrote more than 5,000 editorials. through the courtyard, camera in hand, in continued to offer commentary through the • He studied Italian and Arabic and search of the perfect photo of the latest editorial page of the Pike Press, the same traveled to Italy five times, attending a young resident crowned queen. He was as place which had been his strong pulpit dur- concert at La Scala in Milan. He enjoyed good with the camera as he was with his ing his years as editor. opera, especially Puccini, Verdi and typewriter. It is fitting that this tribute conclude, as his Mozart. And when the typewriter yielded ground to editorial always did, with the traditional • He possessed a home library of more the computer for newspaper production, Al newspaper symbol for “the end;” he would than 1,000 books including favorite was right there, taking notes, learning to have wanted it that way. authors Shakespeare, Mark Twain, H.L. transfer his thoughts to a small, gray screen. Al, you will be missed. Mencken and O. Henry. At the age of 93, Al’s wit was sharp as ever as • He described himself as a “political he continued to write columns for the Pike Julie Boren can be contacted at junkie” and closely followed politics at Press, sending them to us via email. Al never [email protected]. all levels of government. He won numerous state and national awards for editorial and feature story writing, photography and investigative reporting. He was named a Master Editor by the school of journalism at Southern Illinois University, earning a spot in the Southern Illinois Editorial Association Hall of Fame. • He once wrote a Pike Press “help wanted” ad containing the following para- graph: “Congenial group of fellow employees, except for grumpy boss.” • He founded the Pike Press All-County Scholars Banquet, which honors top academic students from all Pike County high schools. • He was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Washington Nationals baseball teams. Al Seiler and Clyde Wills share a moment at the 2006 ISWNE conference in Norman, Okla.

8 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors ThoughtsThoughts aboutabout AlAl SeilerSeiler

By Paul Findley as editor of the Hancock County Journal. room, just right for Pike Press As the years rolled by we became partners. his typewriter and Pittsfield, Ill. He organized the consolidation of The a small bed. Jan. 12, 2011 Republican with the Democrat-Times under the Always slender, he name The Pike Press and designed the new was very thin. Editor’s note: Paul Findley, 89, is a former U.S. building where it now flourishes. It became Right off, he told representative from Illinois. A Republican, he one of the nation’s best weeklies. me he was waiting served from 1961-83. to die and said he He was one of the most skilled and efficient approached that journalists of my long acquaintance. He day with no anxi- God threw away the pattern after he made seemed to have complete sentences and ety. Al Seiler. He was one of a kind. Never the paragraphs in mind before he started to back-slapping type, he won elective office — type. His first draft rarely needed any chang- We chatted for over Paul Findley membership on the County Board — because es. an hour, discussing mainly the career of his court-reporter father he called each issue as he saw it, and his He was an avid reader, focusing mainly on supporters knew he would always stand by who traveled with Republican Governor Alf history and biography. Our conversations Landon of Kansas in 1936 during the gover- his convictions. Behind his brusque manner almost always centered on religion or a new was a soft heart. Who can forget Al strutting nor’s unsuccessful bid to defeat the re-elec- biography he had read. He was a stout tion of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. as marshal at the head of the dog parade he defender of libraries and furious at proposals organized in Pittsfield or the anguish he to rename them media centers. His interests As Pike Press readers know, his editorials were described when his four-legged friend died. reached far beyond county lines. He was a always brief, pithy, and entertaining. He Or his pleasure when asked to judge beauty director of the International Society of could pack a lot of wisdom into a few words. contests. Weekly Newspaper Editors and served a term I occasionally urged him to start a syndicat- In 1960, Al helped me out of a tight spot. as its president. ed column that, I believe, could reach a large national audience. He made no move After my election to Congress, he showed Our last meeting was two months ago in St. amazing confidence in my political future by in that direction, content with his loyal and Louis in the home of Betsy, one of his two avid audience in Pike County. agreeing without hesitation to move to daughters. His other daughter, Ann, worked Pittsfield so he could manage my Pike County for him on The Pike Press before taking a posi- His death is a great personal loss. We were Republican in my absence. This meant leav- tion with an organization based in Des partners for more than 30 years and friends ing Carthage where he had a secure future Moines. At Betsy’s house he occupied a small for nearly 50. CharlieCharlie GayGay livingliving lifelonglifelong dreamdream inin ParisParis

ISWNE member Charlie Gay has been living thousand photos and trying to improve his Monsieur Gay will in the Latin Quarter of Paris since the begin- French language skills. His first Christmas leave Paris at the ning of September, fulfilling a dream he’s season in Paris was particularly colorful and end of June and had since he first laid eyes on France when delightful. Those who have a strong stomach return to the States, he was 24 years old. He vacationed in France for puns and would like to read what he is but not before he 13 times between that initial 1977 visit and writing may request “Adventures in Paris” at attends the 2008, but his obligations at his family’s [email protected]. He lives in a ISWNE’s annual newspaper in Shelton, Wash., never allowed 180-square-foot garret on the seventh floor conference in him to live in France long-term. Then the of an 1880s building a block from the well- Coventry, England, sale of The Shelton-Mason County Journal in known shopping street, rue Mouffetard. He in July. His trip to 2008 allowed him to pursue a long-stay visa climbs 108 stairs to the apartment, where he England will be the and take advantage of an opportunity few has to ascend a ladder to the bed and must shortest distance have. sit on the toilet in the tiny bathroom because he has ever trav- Charles Gay Gay has been exploring the city on foot, writ- he cannot stand to do his business due to the eled to an ISWNE ing about his observations, taking a few slanting mansard roof. conference.

February 2011 9 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors LettersLetters policypolicy returnsreturns toto requiringrequiring signaturessignatures By Tim L. Waltner United States, Canada and the U.K. are we’ve taken as well Publisher sharply divided on this issue. Some as some aspects of Freeman Courier applauded our decision; others were criti- our news reporting Freeman, S.D. cal. in the past six Jan. 5, 2011 The challenge of anonymous speech in months. We hoped general is far from being resolved. people who dis- The grand experiment is over and we’re Newspapers of all sizes — as well as some agreed or wanted going back to our policy of requiring in the online community — are struggling to offer a counter- authors of letters to the editor to have their with just how to deal with online com- point would use names printed when the letters are printed ments in which authors can make bold the opportunity to in the Courier. accusations and hurtful charges while hid- write us and take ing behind screen names. advantage of the The six-month exercise that began in July chance to remain Tim Waltner was designed to test whether allowing let- Quite frankly, we can see both sides on the anonymous and ter-writers to have their names withheld matter of allowing anonymous speech. continue a public dialogue. from publication by request would increase There is no question that it’s been a part of the dismally low number of letters submit- our national tradition and part of our pub- We were wrong. ted for publication in the Courier. lic discourse going back to the founding of And that, ultimately, is why this failed It didn’t. these United States. But there is something experiment is so disappointing. Public dis- to be said for accountability, responsibility course is an important element in sustain- There was virtually no increase in the num- and credibility that are diminished when ing and building community. That’s why ber of letters from July through December comments are hidden behind a wall of we devote this page to opinion. We share compared with previous months. We secrecy. our opinions and those of other newspa- received three letters in which the authors pers, as well as our regular columnists, in requested that their names be withheld The reaction to the three letters that were published in the Courier in which the hopes of stimulating thought and discus- from publication. While none of those sion. three letters were on topics that might be names were withheld during the past three considered controversial or on which the months is instructive. We didn’t hear a sin- We continue to encourage letters from author had reason to be concerned about gle comment about the content of the let- readers whether they point out citizen con- recrimination, we granted the request. ters; instead everyone was asking who the cerns on virtually any issue or challenge or author was. support comments that have been printed Quite frankly, it’s a very disappointing end on this page. We welcome both criticism to a trial that we hoped would spark a The most frustrating part of the failed experiment is the fact that people didn’t and affirmation of our editorials — and flood of letters that would force us to make those of others — and we welcome observa- a difficult decision about whether to take the opportunity to weigh in on issues that we know are of concern in this com- tions about actions taken by local, state change our long-standing policy of requir- and national elected officials. ing printing the names of those submitting munity and on which authors might have letters for publication. legitimate reason to request anonymity. While we are reverting to our policy of asking people to have those comments signed, Our decision — news editor Jeremy One example is the matter of dogs in Freeman. People living near homes in we are open to finding a middle ground Waltner’s and mine — to drop the require- when warranted. If you have a concern ment as a six-month experiment came in which residents allow their dogs to bark at any and all hours of the day and night that you feel needs to be addressed but, response to a discussion at the June 2010 because of fear of retaliation, are uncom- conference of the International Society of have complained bitterly to us about the lack of city enforcement of animal control fortable having your name printed, contact Weekly Newspaper Editors about anony- us. We’ll explore ways in which we might mous speech. ordinances. We’ve urged them to write letters, visit with city officials or attend city be able to bring that issue into the arena of The discussion among newspaper editors, council meetings. The most common public discussion so that members of the publishers and professors was about the response is “I don’t want to upset my larger community can read, think for growing practice of newspapers allowing neighbors; I don’t want them to be mad at themselves and, hopefully, respond public- anonymous online comments while still me.” ly. requiring letters to the editor to be signed. We fully expected that, given that concern, That’s exactly what this page is for. And The arguments for allowing unsigned let- while our most recent experiment failed to ters include the historical tradition of anon- we might just get a letter or two to the editor on the subject, in which the author stimulate the public discussion we’ve ymous speech, the changing social and cul- hoped for, we remain committed to encour- tural media influences in a digital age, and requested that his or her name be withheld from publication. aging it and we’ll continue to look for ways the suggestion that content or commentary to build it. is more important rather than authorship. We were wrong. Tim L. Waltner can be contacted at Our friends who publish newspapers in the We’ve been criticized for editorial positions [email protected].

10 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors WikiLeaks raises questions about treason vs. liberty By Jim Painter upsurge in digital media such as Web blogs, risk of losing our Managing editor Twitter and social networking Web sites, the freedom and will West Valley View definition of “journalist” has become harder eventually end up Avondale, Ariz. to pin down than ever before. Among the being ruled rather Jan. 7, 2011 definitions of journalism is “writing charac- than governed. terized by a direct presentation of facts or No doubt legal Do a Google search for the words “Assange description of events without an attempt at experts will eventu- traitor” and you’ll get more than 1.6 million interpretation” (Merriam-Webster). By that ally decide whether results. What does that tell us? Mainly, that a definition, Assange and WikiLeaks are or not any of the whole lot of people, including at least one engaged in journalism. That’s key to wheth- documents U.S. congressman, Republican Mike Rogers er Assange should be prosecuted or not. released by of Michigan, who called for the arrest and In the past, the Justice Department has pros- WikiLeaks were execution of Julian Assange as a traitor, ecuted government employees who leaked bona fide state Jim Painter don’t know the definition of the word “trai- sensitive material to the press, but because of secrets, but it’s tor.” First Amendment constraints, has refrained already clear that many of them were A traitor is a person who betrays his own from prosecuting the journalists or news marked secret not to protect national securi- nation. Assange, the director of WikiLeaks, is organizations that published that material. ty, but rather the reputations of government an Australian, so he could never be prosecut- It has been the nature of rulers since the agencies. ed as a traitor to the United States. dawn of civilization to try to exert their Information — and the truth — are vital to The real debate should be whether Assange authority in secrecy, hidden from the scruti- maintaining our liberty. is a legitimate journalist and WikiLeaks is a ny of those being ruled. However, the found- In a Dec. 10 interview on Fox Business, Texas news “publication” and whether the recent ers of the United States had a different model Rep. Ron Paul, a Republican, defended release of thousands of secret U.S. govern- in mind — they wanted to create a state that WikiLeaks by saying, “In a society where ment documents actually caused serious governed rather than ruled. In order for that truth becomes treason, we’re in big trouble.” to succeed, the government must be much harm to our national security or merely seri- Amen to that. ous embarrassment to our government. more transparent than previous models. Unfortunately, we’ve seen a trend toward In recent years, with the decline of tradition- more and more secrecy in our federal gov- Jim Painter can be contacted at al “legacy” news media such as newspapers, ernment in recent years, and if the trend [email protected]. magazines, radio and television, and the continues unabated, we Americans run the ISWNE Foundation Contributors since Dec. 1, 2010 (does not include donations to Past Presidents' Scholarship)

Stringer ($10 to $99) Deborah Givens Steve Andrist Editorial page editor ($300 to $399) Ellen Albanese Tom Wills Mo Mehlsak Carter and Sarah Newton Managing editor ($400 to $499) Al Cross Donald and Deborah Brod Cub reporter ($100 to $199) Editor in chief ($500 to $999) Robert E. Trapp Robert B. Trapp Vickie Canfield Peters Publisher ($1,000) Anonymous Burt and Ursula Freireich Mary and Tim Waltner Donald and Nancy Smith Named scholarship ($10,000) Copy editor ($200 to $299) Gary and Helen Sosniecki Total raised: $3,225 Kris O’Leary Jane Steinmetz

February 2011 11 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors Hey!Hey! What’sWhat’s soso (not)(not) funny?funny? By Dick Crockford salutes and jaw-dropping sight gags. prise that folks Publisher Yes, there was some really funny stuff. And who are accus- Dillon Tribune no — most definitely — not everyone was tomed to the usual Dillon, Mont. laughing. I glanced down to the left of Arts Council fare Nov. 24, 2010 where my spouse and I were seated and — fiddlers, classi- noticed one older couple staring straight cal pianists, folk So, what did you think of that program the ahead. He had a thin smile, the kind one dancers and yodel- other night? wears whilst trying to maintain composure ers — would find the shock-depen- That was the question posed to me more in the face of dire adversity. She exhibited a stone-faced countenance. In short, their dent antics of The than once over the past week since the Second City to be appearance here Nov. 15 of The Second general demeanor was less than medically defined shock but far from relaxed hilarity. absolutely mind- City — Chicago’s Legendary Comedy blasting. Dick Crockford Troupe — and its Fair & Unbalanced act. They sat without clapping for most of the evening, seemingly waiting for some It has been said that the use of coarse lan- The question was specifically posed to me redeeming moment in the presentation. guage and crude gestures is indicative of a because the Dillon Tribune was one of the lack of self-control, that it reflects thought sponsors for the show, which was held in Meanwhile, others in the crowd were howl- ing with laughter and giggling with every processes that are immature. Yet, the inclu- the auditorium at Beaverhead County High sion of such devices in the humor reper- School. suggestive nuance. Clearly, the crowd, in general, seemed to like what it was hear- toire of The Second City is certainly deliber- Anyone who was in the audience that eve- ing. On the other hand, I had a feeling ate and well thought-out, purposeful in its ning likely knows where I’m heading with that others in the auditorium were feeling intent. this. For those who were not in attendance, the same as the afore-mentioned couple. I In truth, I am inclined to say that the I’ll do my best here to provide a short — took it all in, and was not surprised by the group’s vocabulary, body language and and tasteful — summary. comments made to me during the week fol- direction are the foundation of a very The Southwest Montana Arts Council, a lowing. pointed satire of Americans’ lack of self- local organization that has a long history The show itself reminded me of an incident control across a broad spectrum of our soci- of providing fine, cultural entertainment at my high school some 41 years ago when ety. There are too many “real life” instances that usually involves music, sometimes we, as juniors, lampooned the soon-to-be in which we, as Americans, carry ourselves dance, and, from time to time, comedic or graduates at the spring Senor Night awards in truly abhorrent fashion and expect the dramatic offerings, brought the Second assembly, mixing in a hefty dose of not-so- rest of society to put up with us. City to Dillon. subtle satire based on the highly popular Nonetheless, it would probably behoove As my lovely wife and I settled into our Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In comedy tele- the Arts Council to — in the future — make seats, a look around the auditorium vision show. sure the “package warnings” for such revealed a typical audience for Arts Council The irreverent Laugh-In pushed the enve- shows are considerably more explicit: events here in Dillon, boasting a broad lope as far and as hard as it could for Material may not be suitable for children demographic cross-section of the communi- broadcast in those days. It was a pre-cursor under the age of “X.” That way, at least, ty. Also on hand were a somewhat larger to today’s Saturday Night Live. We loved it folks would have an idea that the content than usual number of college students, no and incorporated the humor into our own is generally geared to mature audiences. doubt in attendance because the Montana skits. The night, which cost a few of my One other thing — I was bemused by the Western Associated Students was among classmates (at least one of whom was sen- fact that The Second City folks were ada- the sponsors, and card-carrying students tenced to construct a flower bed in front of mant that there be no photography of any were admitted free. the building as part of his penance) some kind, with or without flash, during the Down in the front, in the left-hand section detention time, is still recalled today. show, presumably for artistic copyright rea- of seats, two or three grade school kids took I know there were those in the audience at sons. (Editor J.P. Plutt clearly drew the ire of up positions that ensured they wouldn’t BCHS who were reliving their rebellious, at least one performer as he took his cus- miss a thing. youthful years, and the college crowd was tomary photos during the first half of the I was looking forward to some off-the-wall definitely on board with Second City. show, and an announcement of the photo ban was made at intermission.) The irony comedy by a highly acclaimed comedic So how does this relate to Dillon, Montana? cast. I expected it to be quirky and a little is that this was a program that flies in the Well, in defense of the Arts Council, some face of censorship, not to mention the fact over the top, and certainly wildly funny. of the advance publicity did warn that the (That’s why I had signed us up as a spon- that the show was performed in a publicly show was “PG-13,” whatever that means. financed venue. sor, after all.) In truth, such a footnote does not carry Holy cowabunga! Within what seemed like much weight when it comes to defining the We ran the pictures anyway. seconds of the opening lines, the air was parameters of objectionable material. Not taking on an azure tinge as “F bombs” and all the posters — even the bigger ones — Dick Crockford can be contacted at other expletives flew fast and furious from carried the warning. It comes as no sur- [email protected]. the stage, punctuated by middle-digit

12 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors OurOur newsnews policiespolicies guidedguided byby what’swhat’s bestbest forfor readersreaders By David Phillips that “we believed, and still do, that the Others have Publisher milestones of one’s life — birth, marriage, modified policies. Bluff Country Newspaper Group death — deserve complimentary coverage. For example, one Spring Valley, Minn. We often did extensive obits, on both the newspaper charg- Dec. 21, 2010 ‘prominent’ and not so prominent. Every es its normal life has a story.” advertising rates The times are a changing and so are news- He also had a personal story as his mother only if the family papers, including this one. One change recently died and at that time of grief it insists on having that has become a popular trend for news- seemed heartless to him when one newspa- specific wording, papers is charging families to place obitu- per charged more than $350 for a small rather than edit- aries of loved ones. We have resisted that obit and a larger daily wanted more than ed to the paper’s change as we still publish obituaries, along $1,000. news style, which with photos of the deceased, as a free ser- is the case for free David Phillips Another editor noted that “people read a obituaries. vice to residents of our area just like we paper because, hopefully, the editorial staff always have. is choosing the best stories for their readers, A more extensive system was set up by a Our newspaper is in a minority and I have not selling out its services to the highest Wisconsin newspaper. It had a lot of dis- been asked, and have considered, going bidder. A paper serves the reader. The ques- gruntled families that didn’t like the edit- with the trend of charging people to pub- tion should always be, how does this serve ing to conform to standard news style, so it lish obituaries in our newspaper. I’ve never my reader? Is it a good story? Is it impor- adopted a three tier format that provided understood why the change happened, tant to the community? Should my readers free obituaries written in standard news except that newspapers, like many indus- know this stuff?” style, a paid tier to allow some add-on fea- tries, have been struggling and this is one tures and another paid tier that allows An Arkansas editor said obituaries “are wording exactly as the family wants it. way to gain revenue for something that such a part of the news of our small county, does have a cost, even if the newspaper that it seems akin to charging to run sports It isn’t just obituaries or certain sponsored doesn’t recoup it from the family of the photos or school news. Most obits are for news that is paid. Some daily newspapers deceased. people we knew and loved. It’s just a part now charge for wedding announcements, The lack of a good reason is why I’ve resist- of the small community experience. We engagements and anniversaries. They still ed this change. I’m not against change in have to help each other as much as we have the look and feel of news items, but general, as I have made many, but I need a can.” are now paid by the people wanting this news published. justification to do something differently. I Of course, some newspapers do charge to know some newspapers are in peril and run school news or other types of news. The problem with this is that I still like to feel that charging is one way to keep their They don’t charge the schools, but rather see a clear difference between paid adver- doors open, but if our newspaper were in find sponsors to pay for the news. tising and news. In our newspapers, when such dire straits, I would prefer to find people see news, they know it is not paid other ways to raise revenue to ensure our That also bothers me. It makes news a com- for by anyone, whether it is an obituary, an survival. modity to be sold, not information that a anniversary or an announcement of a new newspaper publishes because it is impor- business. Although sometimes it seems like our news- tant to readers. The content is dictated by papers are the only ones publishing obitu- the institution and the timing is dictated by That doesn’t mean people can submit aries for free, we aren’t alone. The concept finding the sponsors willing to pay for its whatever they want and we will publish it was a recent discussion, through e-mail, by publication. for free. We do have guidelines and stan- members of the International Society of dards. A story on a new business opening is Weekly Newspaper Editors and many of the Sure, we publish advertiser-supported news. Information on a business sale is editors explained why their newspaper con- salutes to sports and academic teams, but generally advertising unless editors feel tinues to publish obituaries free of charge. we provide school, church and other com- there is some newsworthy component to munity news throughout the year that is An editor from Maryland wrote: “Think the sale. And we like to see thank you edited to our guidelines and published in a wording in our paid thank you notices. about the community history that’s lost timely manner so that the public can keep because obits have become ads. Many peo- informed about community happenings. It may be an “old school” approach, but we ple’s lives have been boiled down to a That makes the priority or our news geared still think our readers are our top priority name, age, hometown and date of funeral toward the readers, not toward advertisers and I don’t see that changing with the — two or three sentences tops. Why? providing a new revenue stream for us. times, at least not in the foreseeable future Probably because these families don’t have and not without a good reason. Now, that the money to capture their loved one’s life. Not all weekly newspaper editors agree. doesn’t mean we won’t continue to inno- That’s a sad delineation and a loss for his- Some do charge for obituaries. Others have vate, but our guiding principal will focus on tory. If your paper insists on money for exceptions. For example, one newspaper what is best for our readers; after all, they every obit, you’ll actually be preventing the only provides free coverage of deaths if the are truly the ones that ensure our survival. community from knowing anything about person is local. However, there are times certain deaths. It will be creating, in effect, when interpretation of local is questioned. a separate system for people with money His newspaper doesn’t provide a paid David Phillips can be contacted at dphil- and those without.” option, it just doesn’t run the obituary [email protected]. unless it is of a local person. Another editor from New Mexico noted February 2011 13 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors Role,Role, responsibilityresponsibility ofof editorialseditorials By Jim Pumarlo They might be controversial, and they might are off limits unless challenge people and institutions. involved with an The complaint is frequent and directed at They should not, however, be positioned as issue that enters nearly all newspapers: Your editorial is the “right” or “sole” opinion on an issue. the public arena. “biased.” Indeed, letters to the editor written in • Editorials should The complaint misses the point that editori- response sometimes can be more persuasive not unfairly ridi- als, by definition, advance a singular point than the original editorial. cule or tarnish a of view. In a way, editorials are similar to Many readers appear almost mystified by person’s reputa- courtroom arguments. Opposing attorneys editorials. The policy of signed vs. unsigned tion. may begin with the same set of facts but are editorials is often at the center of that confu- • Editorials should selective in what they use to try to persuade sion — a policy that itself is debated among not distort facts to jurors to reach a certain conclusion. newspapers. Unsigned editorials represent purposely mislead Jim Pumarlo Editorials and columns often are poorly the perspective of a newspaper as an institu- the public by creat- understood by readers. That, in itself, is why tion in its community. At larger newspapers, ing a false impression. they require a great deal of care and it’s common for editorial boards to form a Most important, a newspaper’s opinion page research by writers. The process begins with position, and then an individual or individu- should be a forum for all opinions. It espe- what often is the biggest misstep among als craft the actual words. In smaller news- cially should encourage and welcome opin- opinion writers. The editorials of strongest papers, one or two individuals may be ions contrary to the newspaper’s stated posi- foundation will present the issue, identify the responsible for nearly all editorials. tions. To that point, newspapers may well facts and opposing viewpoints, and then Do editorials reflect the view of the entire specifically seek and publish commentary reach a conclusion. newspaper family? Absolutely not. Just as let- contrary to its editorials in order to spur com- Presenting all sides of an issue is sound prac- ters to the editor submitted by an organiza- munity discussion. tice for writing any story. But it’s doubly tion do not reflect the opinions of their entire The mission of an opinion page is to create a important when writing editorials that advo- membership. forum for all opinions. A lively exchange of cate a call to action on a particular commu- By no means, however, is there universal ideas is at the heart of a vibrant community. nity issue. The individuals and organizations agreement on unsigned editorials. Many scrutinized, and maybe even taken to task, newspapers, whether large or small, are Jim Pumarlo writes, speaks and provides training will be justifiably upset if editorials do not signed by the author. on Community Newsroom Success Strategies. He present all perspectives from firsthand sourc- However they are presented, editorials in is author of “Votes and Quotes: A Guide to es. many respects are — and should be — held Outstanding Election Coverage” and “Bad News Editorials are intended to focus attention on to a higher standard than news stories. From and Good Judgment: A Guide to Reporting on an issue of public significance. They may an editor’s perspective, that underscores Sensitive Issues in a Small-Town Newspaper.” He address something already in the news or some basic dos and don’ts. Among them: can be contacted at www.pumarlo.com. may bring facts to the surface for the first • Editorials should stick to public issues. time. They can be complimentary or critical. Private businesses and individuals typically

Board Minutes from page 5

kept at the standard 8x10 size. The board (POD) was the way to go. “We need hard from 1998-2000. Stebbins explained that approved a motion to pay Gilchuk $50 as a copies of Vickie’s work,” Wood said. this was due to the transition of the ISWNE token of its appreciation (MacNeill/Sutton). 13. Under new business, MacNeill suggest- headquarters moving from South Dakota 12. Vickie Canfield Peters provided an ed instituting two-year terms for the ISWNE State to MSSU. Stebbins added that if the update by telephone on the ISWNE history president and requiring that presidents be “working journalist” requirement had been project. She said she was up to 1993 and “working journalists.” Sosniecki said some in effect, ISWNE would not have had the anticipated completing the writing by members might not be interested in serving services of “two of its best presidents — March 1. ISWNE member Phoebe Baker a two-year presidency; MacNeill said it Harry Hix and Don Brod.” has volunteered to do the proofreading. would be voluntary. “I’m just trying to spur 14. The board voted to increase the annual She estimated she will have 200 pages, a little discussion of where we want to take stipend for Stebbins by $250 during its in without including any pictures. “We’re very the organization,” he said. Aside from Hous camera evaluation of his performance. appreciative of your work,” Wood said. The Waring in 1955 and 1956, when ISWNE The board adjourned at 12:05 p.m. board discussed printing options for the was established, the only person to serve a book and agreed that printing on demand two-year presidency was Elliott Freireich

14 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors ThisThis isis nono timetime toto squelchsquelch rightsrights toto freefree speechspeech By Kim McCully-Mobley That all sounds good; but, it makes me ner- has everyone in Springfield (Mo.) News-Leader vous. Any time we start changing inflamma- such an uproar Jan. 15, 2011 tory speech in classic books or telling folks may be unstable. what they can and can’t say, we need to be His family is dev- In the wake of the senseless shootings in extremely careful. Some nut named Adolf astated by his Arizona last weekend and the target being a Hitler felt this way once upon a time and actions. But if we Democratic Congresswoman, who remains started burning books in the streets. Once we squelch our right hospitalized fighting for her life, several folks start taking rights away from people and to free speech on began to chime in to point the finger and putting the measure of those rights into the paper, television assess blame. hands of a powerful few, someone is likely to or the radio air- get trampled. I don’t want it to be you. I waves at a time Flags are at half mast. Congress is stepping don’t want it to be me. when we need to back to take a deep breath, while members The truth of the matter is this: Our nation call ‘em like we Kim McCully-Mobley are talking about tighter security and more see ‘em, we could rigorous controls. United States President was founded on vitriolic dialogue some 200+ years ago when some gutsy, brazen forefa- be going backwards in a nation intent on Barack Obama traveled to Arizona to speak progress. to those affected by this senseless crime. The thers realized that being soft-spoken and funerals have already started. gentle was getting them nowhere. There is a Thomas Payne. Thomas Jefferson. Ben time to stand up and be counted. There is a Franklin, Harry Truman. Ronald Reagan. A young man with serious problems remains time for strong rhetoric and effective adverbs They are all rolling over in their graves. charged and locked behind bars for his spo- and adjectives. Luckily, we had leaders who radic shooting spree that left hundreds of knew the power of words and the stamina it “It was the best of times, it was the worst of people’s lives changed forever, while we took to stand behind them during World times.” remain focused on preventing this from hap- War II and the Cold War that followed. Ultimately, we must each choose to stand for pening again. I wish this was possible, but something. At some point, we must each we don’t live in Utopia and bad things are They risked life and limb for something better. They didn’t run. They didn’t hide. They choose to shout our beliefs from the rooftops going to happen. It’s how we handle them — before someone takes our collective voices that truly matters. didn’t tone down their rhetoric — even when everyone told them they should. Ronald away. We need to help each other, not point The blame game is just human nature. We’re Reagan was the only one who had the guts the finger. We need to do the right things all fixers by nature and “pointers” by choice. to trump everyone around him in Berlin and when people aren’t looking, not just in the It’s much easier to point the finger than it is tell the Communists it was time to get rid of pure light of day. We need to dig in our to be individually accountable in this day “the wall.” heels and avoid censorship at any cost. and age. Life is messy. Things are complicated. We need to find the balance between respect “It’s the vitriolic dialogue from talk radio…” Relationships require work and politics are and going nose to nose about everything. “It’s the gun symbol on Sarah Palin’s website…” harsh, colorful and sometimes downright But some things are worth a good fight. I mean. believe in the human spirit and I believe this “It’s the school’s responsibility to follow up and senseless shooting can’t silence the voice of make sure its students get the psychological eval- “If we can’t stand the heat, we need to get Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords uations requested.” out of the kitchen.” or the voices of the millions of us praying for “The parents should have known something was That doesn’t mean we go out and condone her recovery in a vitriolic world. wrong.” shooting people anymore than we condone “Stronger gun controls and restrictions on auto- burning witches at the stake. One of my Kim McCully-Mobley is a Missouri educator, edi- matic weaponry will make it harder to reload…” favorite mantras is: WE LEARN WHEN WE tor/publisher, writer, historian and storyteller “His friends knew he was unstable…” SQUIRM. I tell students and friends, and any with a passion for politics, folklore, stories, the stranger who will listen, that if we learn to “Someone should have seen it coming…” Sunshine Law and the First Amendment. She is stand up to the charge and meet things head working on a book called The Road Home: A Any time tragedy strikes, people seem eager on, as opposed to smoothing everything over Seasonal Journey. She can be contacted at to assess blame. Others begin preaching and running away when things get a little [email protected] or by calling about compassion, respect, love, tenderness dicey, there are huge payoffs in the offing. 417-229-2094. and a softer dialogue in the political arena. The perpetrator of this shooting spree that

February 2011 15 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors OverrideOverride vetoveto aa seriousserious mistakemistake By Jay Dickerson of county employees who worked underneath man. And Wisconsin Editor this administrator shared their concerns with does not have the Galena Gazette the Gazette. They alleged this administrator same personnel Galena, Ill. was misusing his position, and making it diffi- exemption that Dec. 8, 2010 cult for other employees to serve the public. He Illinois does. was fostering an environment of distrust. Incidentally, a physi- Like knowing your tax dollars are being spent People were concerned about their continued cal altercation with wisely? You’re in the wrong state. employment. an alderman also Performance evaluations of all public employ- After learning of the troubles with this employ- should not be exempt ees in Illinois are now exempt from public dis- ee, the county board did act. The county board from public scrutiny. closure under the Freedom of Information Act gave the administrator a list of goals to accom- I believe taxpayers (FOIA) after both the House and the Senate plish, and ways to improve. When the Gazette have the right to voted to override Gov. Quinn’s amendatory tried to receive the goals through the Freedom know how their tax Jay Dickerson veto of House Bill 5154. Quinn’s amendatory of Information Act, the Gazette was denied: the dollars are being veto narrowed the exemption to law enforce- Gazette was told the list of goals was personnel- spent. I believe you have the right to know how ment personnel. related, and therefore, exempt to public scruti- people paid with those same tax dollars are ny. The Senate voted Dec. 1 to override the gover- doing their job — at the very least, if they are nor’s veto, making all evaluations of public A list of goals for a public servant to accom- meeting their goals. employees exempt. The House also voted in plish, but the public is not allowed to know We live in a state of entitlement, where some favor of the override, on Nov. 16. what those goals are? It doesn’t seem right. public servants feel their actions are above Taxpayers should be offended that goal-setting public scrutiny. The Illinois Press Association (IPA) still believes is considered a personnel issue. that the evaluations of all public employees We live in a state that has seen four governors whose salaries are funded entirely by taxpayer This was more than just a “routine employ- in the past 35 years see prison time. dollars should be accessible to the public. ment matter,” as the Illinois Municipal League might argue. This was about openness, and We live in a state where we need transparency, Before the override veto, the FOIA stated, “The now more than ever. disclosure of information that bears on the transparency. This was about a public servant public duties of public employees and officials misusing his position. We don’t need another level of secrecy. shall not be considered an invasion of personal Only weeks later, this individual was fired by The public needs to know that an employee privacy.” the county board, but not before each county paid with tax dollars is doing his or her job In arguing that all evaluations of public department head spoke to the county board in effectively. This override took away that right employees should be kept from the light of a closed session. The Gazette also learned that from every taxpayer in the state. public scrutiny, the Illinois Municipal League this administrator had a history of difficulties wrote, “Performance reviews are simply not at his previous job in Wisconsin as well, culmi- Jay Dickerson can be contacted at documents that are designed to be distributed nating in a physical altercation with an alder- [email protected]. to a broad audience…these reviews are rife with personal and private information that could be harmful to individuals if disclosed.” ISWNE new member The Illinois Municipal League also wrote that the Freedom of Information Act “reduces the Greg Duncan, executive director of the Quebec Community use of performance evaluations as a tool for Newspapers Association (QCNA), has been dedicated to com- the efficient management of communities. munity newspapers for 20 years. Communities need the ability to communicate He has worked in a variety of capacities that span the scope honestly and openly with their employees con- of the community newspaper business beginning in sales to cerning job performance. This need outweighs eventually becoming owner and publisher of one of Quebec’s the need for the public to review routine oldest community weeklies. His newspaper, The Stanstead employment matters.” Journal was consistently recognized by QCNA for its editorial I disagree. So should you. excellence. I believe that government should be transpar- In 1995 Greg was the recipient of the Lindsay Crysler award ent. And so should you. as an individual judged to have made an outstanding contribution to community Claiming something is a personnel issue gives newspapers and their success. He served as a director and as president of QCNA dur- far too wide of an exemption that may be mis- ing that time. used. You don’t need to look any further than He has a love for the written word and carries deep appreciation and respect for com- this county for an example. munity journalism. Greg is also a seasoned writer; his columns and editorials have In Jo Daviess County, several years ago, there been published in weeklies and dailies across Quebec. Greg completed the Canadian was an issue with a county employee in an Society of Association Executives certification program in 2005. administrative position. At the time, a number Greg describes his ongoing efforts in support of community newspapers and excellence in journalism as a mission that is essential to the well-being and vitality of society.

16 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors WeWe areare allall partpart ofof somethingsomething largerlarger By David Giffey er charter school for male students proposed stantial share of Home News for next year. the education mar- Spring Green, Wis. Last week, the River Valley School Board ket,” said the study. Dec. 15, 2010 signed a contract and agreed to hire two The phrase “educa- teachers for the River Valley Elementary tion market” has a Last week’s reading fare included, as usual, Studio School, a charter being readied to troubling ring to it. periodicals and daily newspapers. It was open in 2011. The only opposing vote came It debases the egal- heartening to find that important issues cov- from a board member who supports the itarian aspect of ered in some large publications last week charter school idea but couldn’t justify the public education. were also reported on the pages of small timing, with $1.2 million in budget cuts in Running public weekly newspapers like the one you are the offing. schools as though reading. That reasoning was exactly duplicated in they are corporate David Giffey Local news reporting, from the ground up, is Madison, as a school board member was enterprises under- often apace or several steps ahead of large quoted as saying, “I’m sold on the concept; mines the media entities in recognizing real events with I’m not sold on the budget.” Constitutional requirement to “promote the general welfare…” real impact on real people. When large Despite the growing charter school move- newspapers, magazines, and television net- ment — 41 states have nearly 3,000 charter Yet there is general agreement that school works spend large amounts of time and schools enrolling 685,000 students — valid reforms, not in funding alone, are needed, money on a single topic to report in-depth, questions about fundamental principles of and charter schools might lead the reform it’s called “investigative journalism” and democracy, equality, diversity, and effective- effort. qualifies them for Pulitzer Prizes. ness remain. Those questions, because of the The school debate was covered last week in At the grassroots level of weekly newspaper huge variety from charter to charter, may be The Nation magazine. Pedro Noguera wrote: journalism, where the conduct of local gov- answered only with time and thoughtful “Forcing a change in education policy and in ernments and school boards is covered as a analysis. our flawed but indispensable public schools, matter of course, it’s called “our job.” The National Conference of State the only institutions that serve all children In order to interpret local news reporting, Legislatures, in an overview of charter regardless of background, will be difficult recognize that the River Valley, or any com- schools this year, wrote: “Advocates contend and complicated — but it can be done.” munity anywhere, is a microcosm of activi- that charter schools are appealing to many It can be done right here in the River Valley. ties simultaneously occurring in many other parents and teachers because they are typi- We have confidence in the charter school places. That should encourage us to pay cally smaller than traditional public schools. founders, and we have confidence in the close attention to local news, and to weigh However, critics of charter schools question school board. There is evidence of growing local events on a large scale. Are we comfort- how well charter schools are monitored trust between the two bodies. able realizing that the same things taking when it comes to academics and student It was encouraging to realize that the school place here might well have indirect influence achievement.” board’s acceptance of the proposed charter across the U.S. or even globally, that we are That should be kept in mind as the River school seemed not to be based on an “educa- part of something larger? Valley charter school is developed. tion market” mentality. There was talk about An example of news from the ground up A very readable study produced in 2004 by how a charter school might attract new stu- might well be local opinions about public the Robert La Follette School of Public dents and thereby boost state aid, but the education, school funding, privatization, and Affairs, at the University of Wisconsin, noted applications being filed for enrollment are charter schools. that the major political parties called for mostly from students already in the district. Last week, I read in a large daily newspaper increasing the number of charter schools. By voting to go ahead with the charter that school board members in Madison are That must have occurred before gridlock. school even though it might not immediately having second thoughts about supporting The study went on to report that the result in increased funding, the school board two proposed charter schools. One would be Wisconsin Association of School Boards and proved that it wasn’t about the money. It’s an agriculture-themed school for 50 sixth- the teachers’ union also support charter about educational principles, experimenta- graders, which — for reasons not entirely schools, the latter with the caveat that the tion, and reform. That’s another story. explained in the story — would cost more teachers be union members. than anticipated. Depending on that “Charter schools have progressed from being David Giffey can be contacted at school’s fund-raising ability, the Madison rare experiments to now capturing a sub- [email protected]. school board may or may not support anoth-

February 2011 17 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors OurOur locallocal newspapernewspaper isis inin goodgood steadstead By Dick Crockford as how whatever we’re reporting is expected — and the numbers Publisher to affect the populace in both the short and are still going up. Dillon Tribune long terms. Like everybody Dillon, Mont. During the past year, we here at the Tribune else, we have no Dec. 22, 2010 have traveled a rich and generally progres- way of being abso- sive variety of paths, telling stories about our lutely sure about Yes, it’s that time of year again, so here we Southwestern Montana community and its what lies ahead in are…hmmm, let’s see, where to begin? people — you folks! Using our pages, our terms of health Well, there’s the usual stuff that goes into advertisers — mostly local “folks” with a real and prosperity. We our traditional Christmas letters — the newsy stake in what happens here — have been can say for certain tidbits about our kids, where we traveled sharing “news” about services, products and that we will be here during the year, who came to see us and prices regarding everything from groceries to to serve (and, yes, Dick Crockford how well we’ve been faring on the health real estate to doctoring. entertain) you in front. We always include open invitations to One of the questions I’m asked from time to your dual roles as readers and advertisers. all the recipients to stop in and see us when- time is how are things in the newspaper The coming year marks our 130th as a local ever they’re in town. After all, we have plen- business? It’s a “health-related” query. Of business and a cornerstone of the community of room for guests. course, that’s usually posed with the idea ty. We treasure that role, and will do our best that the Internet and all of its gazillion news to make sure it continues. An essential part (When you stop to think about it, we must of that lies in our commitment to all of you. think our houses have expandable walls with outlets have sucked away all our readership never-ending capacity, and that we possess and eaten up our advertising base. Well, it We welcome your visits — both via our week- infinite supplies of patience and understand- ain’t so, or at least not for us. Interestingly, in ly publication and in person to our office — ing for those times when the legions of visi- these times of globalization and world econ- and can assure you that our house does tors might arrive. God forbid that all these omies, the local newspaper — the one that indeed have pretty flexible walls. We thank folks should descend upon us all at once.) focuses on local folks and local happenings you for all you’ve done for us and look for- — is in good stead. By keeping our eyes and ward to seeing you again and again in the It’s sort of like that in the newspaper busi- ears tuned to you, our readers and advertis- coming year. ness, too. Of course, with the newspaper, ers, we have held our ground during the past Merry Christmas to all. we’ve been providing the newsy tidbits all year. In fact, our readership base has along in our regularly published editions increased dramatically over the past 18 during the year, explaining what’s been hap- months, with an estimated 225 families (at Dick Crockford can be contacted at pening in the community and why, as well last count) signing up for new subscriptions [email protected]. BasicBasic copy-editingcopy-editing rulesrules forfor weekliesweeklies By Richard McCord • Don’t write run-on sentences you’ve got • But conversely, Santa Fe, N.M. to punctuate them. don’t use com- • Avoid unnecessary redundancy. mas, that aren’t necessary. • 1, never start a sentence with a numeral. • Mispelled words are never acceptable. • Only Proper • Subjects and verbs has to agree in num- • A preposition is not a good thing to end a ber. Nouns should be sentence with. capitalized. • The passive voice should not be used. • Use hyphens in compound-words, not just • a sentence must • And don’t start a sentence with a con- in any two word phrase. begin with a capi- junction. • Don’t use no double negatives. tal letter and end • Don’t overuse exclamation marks!!! • Never use a foreign phrase if there is a with a period • Remember to never split an infinitive. suitable English quid pro quo. • If you reread Richard McCord • Mixed metaphors are a pain in the neck, • But if you must use a foreign phrase, it is your work, you and should be thrown out the window. de rigor to use it correctly. can find a great deal of repetition can be • Do not abbrev. • Avoid irregular verbs that have creeped unrepeated by rereading. • Its important to use apostrophe’s correct- into our language. • Last but not least, avoid cliches like the ly. • About sentence fragments. plague. • Double-check to be sure you didn’t any • carefully to use adjectives and adverbs If weekly newspaper people follow these words out. correct. simple rules, it will result in a gooder kind of journalism. • Each pronoun must agree with their ante- • In letters compositions reports and things cedent. like that use commas to keep a string of items apart. Richard McCord can be contacted at [email protected].

18 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors AlbertaAlberta HealthHealth ServicesServices boardboard members:members: irreplaceable?irreplaceable?

By Stu Salkeld ing themselves is: why not let these appoint- with the roof col- Editor ed board members walk away? What have lapsing are only The Mountaineer these three, and the other members of the one problem. If Rocky Mountain House, Alberta AHS board, done for us? Have they done stel- Rocky Mountain Dec. 7, 2010 lar work? Are they irreplaceable? House has this The reason Duckett was sacked in the first problem, doubtless- It may have come as a surprise to the jaded place was linked to the emergency room cri- ly, many, many political watcher that cookie-crunching sis occurring virtually everywhere in Alberta other Alberta com- bean-counter Stephen Duckett was sacked right now. The crisis in Alberta’s health care munities are facing from his post as bureaucratic head of Alberta sector should be the subject of discussion, not the same issues. Health Services. After all, political figures, the dismissal of a bureaucrat or the temper The list of problems whether they realize they are political figures tantrums of appointed board members. in Alberta’s health Stu Salkeld or not, make gaffes all the time. Feet are Board members who, by the way, are sup- care sector could go always being inserted into mouths in posed to be concerning themselves with on to fill space many times that which this Edmonton, including the incident which saw Albertans and their health care, not engag- article fills (H1N1 debacle, extended care Duckett forfeit his cushy job: shoving a cook- ing in turf wars with the Minister of Health. beds, etc.). But perhaps you’re starting to see ie in a reporter’s face rather than simply say- The crisis isn’t limited just to ERs though. the point this writer is trying to make. ing, “Sorry, I cannot comment at this time.” There is a great demand for health services Judging by the state of health care in Almost immediately, three AHS board mem- in Alberta, and it seems not enough service Alberta, maybe it’s time for new blood on bers resigned, apparently enraged over the to go around. There are waits for doctor the AHS board. If Bontje, Franceschini and fact Health Minister Gene Zwozdesky had a appointments which drive people crazy. Hohol were part of the board which appar- hand in Duckett’s fate. Locally, the situation isn’t as bad. The Rocky/ ently can’t make any headway on these issues, then it’s best for Albertans that those Gord Bontje of Red Deer, known locally as a Clearwater Physician Recruitment and Retention Society has done a good job of three walk away and let someone else try developer, walked away first, followed by their hand. Tony Franceschini and Linda Hohol a few finding physicians for this community, so days later. Bontje blustered that Duckett’s wait times are tolerable. A famous quote comes to mind, Oliver dismissal threatened health care in Alberta, However, as soon as you leave the communi- Cromwell’s words on dissolving Charles I’s while the other two stated something to the ty, especially to see a specialist, you better disastrous “Long Parliament” circa 1640: fact that the minister had no right interfer- bring a good book with you. It’ll be weeks, if “You have sat here too long for any good you ing in AHS business, how dare he sack our you’re lucky, to see a specialist, and possibly are doing. Depart, I say, and let us have employee, who does he think he is, etc. months. done with you. In the name of God, go.” Now, you can listen to all the reasons you Another problem is aging infrastructure, Couldn’t have put it any better. want explaining why these people walked which AHS doesn’t even want to hear about. away. That’s up to you. The Rocky Healthcare Centre desperately Stu Salkeld can be contacted at What any rational Albertan should be ask- needs to be replaced. The recent problems [email protected]. HuckHuck BoydBoyd CenterCenter andand NNANNA issueissue CallCall forfor ProposalsProposals The Huck Boyd National Center for research that is relevant to community news- cate it is a proposal for Symposium XVII. The Community Media at Kansas State University papers with less than 50,000 circulation or acconpanying one-page proposal should and the National Newspaper Association that are considered niche publications. include only the title and the proposal itself, have issued a Call for Proposals for the 17th Possible topic areas are: encouraging com- and the text must be double-spaced on 8 annual Newspapers and Community- munity involvement through the newspaper; 1/2- by 11-inch paper. Building Symposium, which will be at the enhancing readership among specific E-mail or FAX a one-page proposal with sep- NNA convention Sept. 22-25, 2011 in groups; addressing a diverse audience; using arate title page in MSWord document or PDF Albuquerque, N.M. new technology; and solving advertising, format to Gloria Freeland, [email protected], The deadline to submit proposals is March ethical and legal issues. FAX: 785-532-5484. 10, 2011. The proposals will be evaluated in a blind If you have questions, contact Gloria The purpose of the symposium is to bring review. Please send a separate title page with Freeland, director of the Huck Boyd Center: journalism educators and newspaper owners the title of your proposal, your name, [email protected] or call her at 785-532-0721. and publishers together in a forum that address (including university or professional encourages discussion about current affiliation), phone and e-mail. Please indi-

February 2011 19 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors AA foragingforaging forfor thethe futurefuture

By Byron Brewer The Forager founders utilized beginning Christmas holi- Frankfurt, Ky. J-classes for our first issue, a group that days were welcomed the opportunity to have its work approaching, published. We also decided that each issue what more natural The first story I did as a journalism student (since we would produce three, four tops in cover than a child at the University of Kentucky for its publica- a year) would have a theme. The first one and a senior citi- tion, The Kentucky Kernel, was one of my was easy: campus life. I must say we got a zen visiting Santa? best, I thought. It was not trapped into a ton of copy, but we found that the still-com- Believe it or not, public meeting format and had a hook mon notion that writers write and editors everything fell into that was unusual: a teacher who actually edit existed. Writers should file as clean, place and we had listened to and cared about his students. readable and grammatically-correct stories our best issue of Unfortunately, after I submitted it to the as possible — with words spelled correctly. the entire Forager editors who had welcomed me with such This seemed to be a foreign concept to the run! What a great Byron Brewer enthusiasm those few weeks ago in August UK J-Classes of 1978. Most of the work fell way to begin my 1976, it didn’t run, then it didn’t run, and on the small Forager staff that first issue. junior year then it didn’t run again. What was great were the slice-of-life photos Christmas holidays, the last thing before It took awhile, but finally I got clued in. we got from young camera clickers, some leaving campus for me being the OK-ing of You get your point (and story) across not by of whom were not in J-School but had the final pages for press. sitting in your dorm by your typewriter but heard about our publication. Unlike The As a young journalist, there will never be a by hanging around the newsroom. So I Kernel, we rejected no one’s efforts. We just better feeling than the time I held The hung around the newsroom. Folks got to wanted quality material, and that was Kernel with my first byline, story, headline know my name, or versions of it. (Yep, the what we received. and photo in my hand. But I am so proud “Brian” deal.) But that was OK. Sooner or Of those writers and photographers submit- of my work with and creation of The later, the call came and my first non-high ting to Issue #1, we took what we thought Forager, which honed other skills of the school journalism story was published in were the best and started flexing our news- trade I would use much in the years and The Kernel! paper budgeting muscles. The second issue decades to come — and I still am. That was the beginning of many stories to concentrated on senior citizens, and we run in that publication. But not all made specific assignments. We had a defi- Byron Brewer can be contacted at J-students were as successful at scaling the nite cover image in mind: since the [email protected]. Kernel “wall” as I was, and I saw my classmates in need of examples for future jobs. That is when I teamed up with others (the News and Times’ own Jayna Oakley includ- 2011 Sustaining Members ed) to create an in-house journalism prod- uct called The Forager. With this vehicle, we In addition to paying their $50 ISWNE membership dues, these indi- offered journalism students who could not viduals have donated $50 more to the Society. We appreciate their break the “wall” a chance to get clips. It generosity! was very successful, I must say, and I am proud of the few issues we did produce in a Robert H. Estabrook Donald Q. Smith year. Thomas V. Ward Larry Atkinson The idea really began with one of my most Allan A. Seiler Mo Mehlsak knowledgeable professors, a real hands-on Sandra George Don Brod newsman named Robert Orndorff. He was Frank Garred Phoebe Baker in charge of the computer lab, where those Tom Mullen Vickie Canfield Peters journalism tools of the future (typewriters Elizabeth Laden Kris O’Leary were still the norm those days) were actual- Gary & Helen Sosniecki David Burke ly being put to use! Having seen more Barbara Mussman Albert Scardino advanced computers, at the time I thought Guy and Marcia Wood Steve Andrist Bob’s machines were kind of Mickey Robert E. Trapp Robert B. Trapp Mouse. They used a paper tape system to Bradley A. Martin Barry Wilson transcribe info. After I reached The Graphic Dick and Mary Jo Lee Jack Sigvaldason in 1980, I would’ve given my left arm for Bruce Valpy Marcia Martinek just one of Bob’s Mickey Mouse computers! Frank McTighe Paul MacNeill Jeremy Condliffe

20 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors REGISTRATION FORM 57th annual ISWNE conference

Tuesday, 5th July to Sunday, 10th July 2011

University of Warwick, Coventry, UK

Conference organisers: Jeremy Condliffe / Pat Mountford General queries: [email protected]

Name______

Newspaper/Company______

Mailing Address______

______

State/Province/County______Country______Zip/Postal code______

Email address______No. in party______

• Mail completed registration forms to Chad Stebbins, Missouri Southern State University, 3950 E Newman Road, Joplin, MO 64801-1595, fax 417-659-4445. Checks payable to ISWNE 2011.

• Alternatives: to pay electronically into a US bank account, to make payments via credit card to the UK or to pay sterling to a UK bank, email registrations to [email protected] (registrations only - use [email protected] for general queries). Payment details and a PDF of this form will be emailed to you. English fax: + 44 1260 280687.

• Full cost: $650 (£408). This includes all accommodation, meals and activities from Wednesday registration until departure Sunday morning. Tuesday arrivals: add $76 (£48) room only, or $96 (£60) for bed and breakfast. All rooms are single and en suite. A limited number of double rooms are available upon request and will be assigned based on need - email [email protected].

• Registrations received before 1st April qualify for a $100 ISWNE-funded rebate.

Special needs: Please indicate any dietary or other special requests or requirements.

Editorial critique: You are strongly recommended to take part in the critique. Please tick:

___I will participate and have my newspaper included. (Instructions for sending papers will be provided to participants when the group assignments are made)

___I will participate, but I do not have a newspaper to include. ___ I do not wish to participate.

Total payable and tax

Your total payable is number of people x $550 if booked before 1st April, number x $650 after 1st April. Add $76 or $96 per person if arriving Tuesday.

Sterling: x £345 before 1st April, x £408 after that, plus £48/£60 for Tuesday arrivals.

Tax at the rate of 20% is included in the cost. Non UK residents should be able to claim this back from the UK government. Customs and Excise forms and explanatory notes will be emailed out to all those giving email addresses at the time of booking - good luck but we can’t promise!

February 2011 21 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors

CALL FOR Newspapers and Community-Building PROPOSALS Symposium XVII

Papers accepted for Symposium XVII will be presented at the National Newspaper Association’s 125th annual convention Albuquerque, NM Sept. 22-25, 2011

The Huck Boyd National Center for Community diverse audience; using new technology; and solving Media and the National Newspaper Association will advertising, ethical and legal issues. host the 17th annual Newspapers and Community- The proposals will be evaluated in a blind Building Symposium at NNA’s annual convention review. Please send a separate title page with Sept. 22-25, 2011 in Albuquerque. The symposium the title of your proposal, your name, address promotes research relevant to community newspapers. (including university or professional affiliation), If you can offer insight about “Newspapers and phone and e-mail; please indicate it is a proposal Community-Building” in any of its aspects, we invite for Symposium XVII. The accompanying one-page you to e-mail or FAX a one-page proposal with proposal should include only the title and proposal, SEPARATE title page in MSWord doc or PDF format and the text must be double-spaced on 8 1/2- by 11- by March 10, 2011. inch paper. We seek research and case studies relevant to Nine proposals and three alternates will be newspapers with less than 50,000 circulation or those selected. Completed papers are due July 15 , 2011. that target specific niche markets. Presentations will be 10 minutes each. Please keep Possible topic areas are: encouraging community in mind that a majority of the audience will be owners involvement through the newspaper; enhancing and publishers of community newspapers. readership among specific groups; addressing a

E-mail or FAX your one-page proposal and SEPARATE title page by March 10, 2011: Gloria Freeland, Huck Boyd National Center for Community Media, A.Q. Miller School of Journalism and Mass Communications, 105 Kedzie Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-1501 Phone: 785-532-0721 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 785-532-5484

The Huck Boyd National Center for Community Media The National Newspaper Association

The Huck Boyd National The center encourages The National Newspaper NNA represents member Center for Community Media journalism educators to Association is the nations’s newspapers before all branches is in the A.Q. Miller School include a community media oldest and largest newspaper of government, publishes of Journalism and Mass perspective in their teaching; organization. Publishers’ Auxiliary and helps Communications at Kansas fosters research that benefits Founded in 1885, it has keep its members up to date State University. The center’s community media; and 2,200 weekly and small on developments affecting the mission is to strengthen local helps provide development daily community papers as newspaper industry. media to create better, stronger programs for them. members. communities in America.

22 February 2011 The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors

February 2011 23 - -

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@mssu.edu c 64801-1595 Newman MO - 625-9736 659-4445 E. - FIRST CLASS Dr. Chad Stebbins Dr. Director & ISWNE Executive Editor Studies of International Institute Director, the Institute ofProduced by International Studies Missouri Southern State University 3950 Joplin, (417) (417) stebbins- Steve newspaper is the onlynewspaper prints nearly 2,000 copies prints nearly American Journalists is a member of the Native co-publisher and editor. “Our co-publisher and editor. 1992. The Eastern Door The Eastern com in the source Mohawk news printed Quebec. Kahnawake, of munity “The our geo ‘Eastern term to Door’ refers as the nation easternmost position graphic which Confederacy, thewithin Iroquois said nations,” other includes five Bonspiel, right are next we population is 8,000 and of Montreal.” the big city to Door The Eastern that and runs on topics each stories week sports interest and human current events, local politics, from range the arts.to opin encourage and we voice and firm a vibrant editorial have “We through op-eds and let guest argument all sides of every ions from said. Bonspiel the editor,” to ters Door The Eastern Association and the Newspapers Association, Canadian Community Association. Newspapers Quebec Community purchased the paper in July co-publisher, Deer, Bonspiel and Tracey the paper in who founded Deer, Kenneth publisher former 2008 from International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors - Institute of International Studies Missouri Southern State University Joplin, MO 64801-1595 E ISWN the

, the society’s quarterly journal, countries., the more in still society’s quarterly

. ISWNE headquarters were at Northern Illinois University at Dekalb from from at Dekalb . ISWNE at Northern were headquarters University Illinois -

- and Independent bout are the are own Grassroots Editor Grassroots (Colo.) will be 156 years will be 156 years A newspapers newspapers in Littleton Littleton Bob Martin

Mason County Democrat Democrat Mason County The Mason County Democrat and

This publication will be made available in alternative formats upon request to Chad Stebbins 417-625-9736. Chad Stebbins to upon request formats in alternative This publication will be made available reporting and to encourage strong, independent editorial voices. The society seeks to fulfill its purpose holding seeks by fulfill The society its to voices. independent editorial strong, encourage reporting and to are exchanges. There international and encouraging issuing publications, awards, presenting annual conferences, Japan. Zealand, and New Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, Canada, the United States, ISWNE membersthe in United subscribers are There to 1976 to 1992, at South Dakota State University in Brookings from 1992 to 1999. Missouri Southern State University University 1999. Missouri Southern 1992 to from State in Brookings University State 1992, at South Dakota 1976 to became the in 1999. headquarters in Joplin and news writing of editorial standards improve to press in the weekly ISWNE’s help those purpose involved is to The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors (ISWNE) was founded in 1955 at Southern Illinois University in 1955 at Southern (ISWNE) founded Illinois University Editors was Newspaper of Weekly Society The International then R. Waring, and Houstoun Department Long, then at Carbondale, of Journalism chair of SIU’s Howard (SIU) by of the editor ISWNE new members new ISWNE small advertising route of her own. route small advertising what is going on in the“It with in touch trenches with helps me keep she said. the advertisers who support our newspapers,” Over the past 37 years Wendy Martin has served as editor for one or for Martin as editor has served Wendy the 37 years past Over the for writing to In addition both. and sometimes the paper, other the departments advertising and has apapers, she also oversees grandmother and packing a camera with him everywhere he went went he him everywhere and packing with a camera grandmother in 1973 hyper-speed into went up throughout high school. Growing accident, and Bob killed in an automobile was when his father became publisher at the age 22. of old this year and has always been in the family. same has always and old this year country other many publishers, up in the Bob MartinLike busi grew papers his with addressing later floorsness, sweeping as a youngster, counties. and has this old year will be 162 years been in and out of the same family. Democrat The Fulton Havana and Lewistown, Ill. and Lewistown, Havana the are estab oldest The newspapers lished businesses in their respective Wendy ers of the Democrat Fulton