Guest Speaker Rosemary Goudreau

Throughout Rosemary Goudreau’s speech there were several points made about the importance of the editorial ages to the community. Even though I have read many editorials over the years, it never truly occurred to me what they were written about and for whom.
Goudreau explained how the editorial page is the guide for the community and the voice of leadership. Editorials are not to a specific interest although political views are generally understood by the newspaper. Goudreau used the example of political understanding when the Tampa Tribune did not endorse George W. Bush for re-election. This act outraged many Tribune readers as well as enthused many others. The Tribune went against its general backing of Republican candidates yet still did not endorse Kerry.
The editorial pages ask for the attention of public meetings. Many times editorial pages have helped members of a community fighting for a cause to be put on the public agenda. Goudreau also remarked that the editorial pages help to capture and amplify conversations. They allow for people to talk about a common interest whether it is for or against a subject.
Goudreau also explained how being unpredictable is a value in the editorial pages. Also, adding photos or cartoons to add to the appeal to the story is beneficial. The photos or cartoons help sell the story to the readers. These tactics help to overcome the initial challenge of engaging readers past the first couple sentences.
When prompted with the question of online editorial pages Goudreau replied that she feels there is no place yet that can reach the people like an editorial page. This made me think because growing up in the information age the internet has been the resource or answer to many of my questions. She made the point that online is more personal rather then overview of citizen concern.
I have learned the importance of the editorial pages to the community as well as the importance to keep things different and interesting.