Newspapers play a very critical role in community awareness.


First it is important to understand that newspapers are in business to sell papers. It is done largely through advertisers and in a smaller part through subscribers. Although some publications do have a bias, they will be reluctant to be unfair. Alot of it is hinged on the aptitude and professionalism of the reporter, and eventually the editor. It is irresponsible to assume the reporter is going to thoroughly investigate every detail and every quote they hear or report.There are people, and yes occasionally a politician or two, that count on that oversight. When you are working towards correcting a problem your message must be factual and very clear.

As with all matters it is imperative to make the facts available to the reporter. This can be done several ways.

If you speak at a public meeting or event, beside presenting your speech and back up documentation to the board ( and in some cases the audience) your information should always be made available to the press. Sometimes when speaking one can make a mistake, miss a line of text or accidently reverse a number that can undermine the strength or credibility of your message.

 

At the beginning or end of a meeting if you have some information to pass along or a point that you would like to make it is acceptable to politely introduce yourself and ask if you could give the reporter some information. It is more likely to be printed if you give permission to use your name with the quote although not necessary. In the same way you can, at your own risk, make a comment, suggestion,information or tip off the record and ask that your name not be included. Most importantly be factual and polite. Sometimes if a reporter senses the accuracy and reliability of your information they may seek you out for comments.

There is never any guarantee or assurance your input or information will be used. But by the same token they can never assert your position or information was not provided.