Recent Writing
The challenges of everyday decisions
Editors routinely hold their breath in anticipation of reader reaction following in-depth stories that culminate weeks-long investigations. The packages are typically prepared, reviewed and scrutinized again with painstaking care. The reality is that the everyday decisions – and resulting reports – in small-town newsrooms usually generate the greatest kickback.
Report feats, flaws of high school athletes
Worthington High School forfeited its football opener this fall as school officials feared whether an inexperienced squad would be in physical jeopardy against its opponent. The team was shorthanded after “a large number of players” were suspended for drinking.
Suspensions: Student athletes are human, too
By identifying youths, are newspapers really looking out for their best welfare? Yes, though it may not be immediately recognized by students, parents or coaches.
News obits warrant responsible, sensitive reporting
A resident was honored as Good Neighbor by a local civic club. A city employee won statewide recognition for service to community.
Most editors would likely agree that both citations deserve mention in the individuals’ obituaries. Families and readers would expect no less.
Running pro-business letter can lead to disastrous consequences
A letter arrives at a newspaper office, heaping great compliments about the excellent customer service at a local business. Better yet, the business is the hometown grocery store, the newspaper’s largest advertiser.
Don’t hide suicides from your readers
Suicide reports stir the strongest emotions among grieving families and friends. These stories prompt the most strident complaints that newspapers are sticking their nose into personal affairs. Newspapers also face resistance from authorities regarding release of information, even though cause of death is public information under many state laws.
Prep sports suspensions must be reported
Is the suspension of high school athletes newsworthy? Absolutely, and especially when it affects a game’s outcome.
By identifying youths, are newspapers really looking out for their best welfare? Yes, though it may not be immediately recognized by students, parents or coaches.
Newspapers need to print all the news
Star athletes expect to read their names in the local newspaper after scoring three touchdowns or making a game-winning basket. But imagine the shock – to them and their parents – when the community reads about an athlete’s suspension for violation of state high school league rules.
Who is Jim Pumarlo?
Community newspapers, at their best, are stewards of their communities. The news columns are a blend of stories that people like to read and stories they should read. The advertising columns promote and grow local commerce. And the editorial pages are a marketplace of ideas.
Jim Pumarlo understands that energized newspapers are at the foundation of energized communities. His message is straightforward: Community newspapers – whether delivering information in the print or on the Web – must focus on local news if they are to remain relevant to their readers and advertisers.
You’re welcome to reprint these columns with the appropriate tagline:
Jim Pumarlo writes, speaks and provides training on community newsroom success strategies. He is author of “Bad News and Good Judgment: A Guide to Reporting on Sensitive Issues in Small-Town Newspapers,” “Votes and Quotes: A Guide to Outstanding Election Coverage” and “Journalism Primer: A Guide to Community News Coverage.” He can be reached at www.pumarlo.com and welcomes comments and questions at jim@pumarlo.com.