It's all in the perception
James Meier's letter in the Jan. 3 issue of the Marion County Record has drawn comment from far and wide. Many of those comments are printed in the "Your Turn" column on this page. David Colburn also makes some valid points in response to Meier's letter.
Regardless of whether you agree or disagree with Meier, here are a few things to consider:
The newspaper merely reports the news. How the public perceives that news is out of our control.
For example, in last week's issue, we reported on the front page that city employees were receiving a four percent raise. The reactions to this piece of news were varied.
Some readers were incensed to know that city workers were getting raises when city services (like trash bags) are being cut.
Some thought the raises were well-deserved.
Some were apathetic, and quickly turned to the Docket Page to see who got arrested.
But how many actually considered this a good thing for the local economy? If city workers get a four percent raise, it might mean they will spend that additional money in Marion.
It's all in the perception.
A couple of other items in the "Your Turn" column deserve comment.
Many commented on the newspaper's lack of adherence to policy about the length of letters to the editor — meaning Meier's letter was too long.
Yes, your editor can count. Meier's letter contained 1,392 words. However, we did a bit of quick research and found that in the past two years, not one single letter was turned down for being too long — and there were many, many letters that exceeded the word limit.
This editor is not in the habit of favoring one side of an issue by only publishing certain letters. Look at "Your Turn." The negative comments about the newspaper were not "edited" out. They're right there for everyone to see.
As for "Your Turn," agree or disagree, that's your right. But also realize the newspaper is merely providing a forum for people to voice their opinions — sort of like a referee in a sporting event. And just like a referee, we reserve the right to call foul if comments get out of hand.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
