By Guy Chapman – Navarro County Gazette
Yes We Can
Starting a new and ongoing publication has given me a unique opportunity to see what sort of content resonates with people. To date, regular features range from submissions businesses want to share, “need to know” events, and in several cases, pure experimentation.
Behind all the images and writing people see, I’m studying analytics through reader feedback and “clicks.” It gives me an idea of some of the things people like and want to know about, though I understand people always want more.
I was reminded recently why I started the Gazette: Last year was such an uncertain time. In many respects, the biggest takeaway from the last year was that no matter who you were, what you did, or what you believed in, everyone needed a helping hand. Everyone needed to be kept in the know. And at some point, everyone needed a little extra support. Being informed keeps us together.
I’ve been thinking a lot about where to take the Gazette from here. Ultimately, the goal remains to deliver “Anxiety Free News.” The concept seems humorous until you realize how much we’re bombarded by social media and standard news outlets on a daily basis. I’ve always seen this site as a “mental break.” I plan to keep that aspect.
That said, I think there’s more that could be done. I’d like to evolve the Gazette into a all-around community resource. One of my favorite quotes is “There is no knowledge that is not power,” a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson (or the attract screen of Mortal Kombat 3 – We get our inspirations from strange sources sometimes). But it’s true: Knowledge is power. There’s a lot to learn from the world directly in front of us, ranging from local history and events, and more simply, how things work. I want to better answer the questions people have. I’m going to be looking into more informative “How To” pieces.
I’d also like to start developing some features into more regular columns. I personally have enjoyed sharing “Outside the Circle,” especially since day trips are more feasible again this year, and “Texas in Film,” as there is a sizable collection of cinema history not just around the Lone Star State, but in our hometown as well. I’d like to add further concepts to help alleviate the question of “What is there to do.”
Of course, we’re keeping history, pets, art, and food.
I write a lot of these messages to be transparent. For the most part, it’s two guys and a handful of gracious supporters trying to “do good” for a place that gave us our own starts. We’ve got plenty of ideas for the future, but if you ever want to know more about a subject, or how to make things better for yourself and the community, let’s explore that together.
In the meantime, what would you like to know today?
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