On 12-15-2004 , 1:43 PM (by BillS) I want to echo the support you give veterans. You are also a big supporter of the local service organizations. I want to thank you for spending time with us and reporting what we do for the community. Go Lions!
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:55 PM
Thanks, Bill. Lions clubs have been super community supporters for many years and blessed with an early meeting with Helen Keller, continue to do so much for people with sight and hearing impairments. Thanks for writing.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
On 12-15-2004 , 1:36 PM (by Patti1562) One more question, what is the leadtime required for press releases? and is this a preferred format.
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:42 PM
I do prefer a press release (right term and preferred format) as soon as you have it, but not later than 10 working (M-F) days before the event. Reason is, I do write columns a week in advance (most of the time) and when I'm planning a day off or a vacation, early copy is helpful. I should say, a press release is not necessarily information in a formal, on letterhead way, but information at least clearly printed (or typed) that answers the who, what, why, when, where and how questions and always a full name and phone number(s) where a person can be called either day or evening.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
On 12-15-2004 , 1:34 PM (by Patti1562) It seems like you're a busy woman - how much leadtime do you need to attend an event?
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:49 PM
Good question, but hard to answer. My pocket calendar is full. Sometimes I can pick up events if they are close to where I am scheduled. For example if I am covering a meeting but passing a restaurant where another group is having an event, I can run in for a quick photo. It's never too early to post something on a calendar, but it is often too late to cover something if the request comes within a week of the event. Still, you never know when something has been cancelled and my day is open. I'm flexible.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
On 12-15-2004 , 1:26 PM (by dubois) I just wanted to say that your support for the local Veterans is oustanding. Please know that people involved with the Vets recognize you support and thank you for it.
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:32 PM
I'm not ashamed to say I favor our veterans for the service they've given our nation and for the benefits I enjoy as a free American living in a democracy. We are blessed to have so many veterans organizations in our readership and most recently the Orange County Veterans Coalition which has wonderful leadership and lots of clout. Thank you for your words in support.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
On 12-15-2004 , 1:23 PM (by Patti1562) What kind of news items catch your eye for your column?
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:29 PM
Good question. It's hard to tell. The joy in writing this column is that it has a large base and involves lots of people, places, and things. People helping people with or without picture opportunities seem to be the most used. Service clubs and their good work, veterans groups always, young people, etc. and etc. My work deals primarily with the nonprofit community and its volunteers, but there have been numerous items from the business community. The Chambers of Commerce and profit-making concerns who assist the nonprofit community are plentiful these days and welcome.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
On 12-15-2004 , 1:08 PM (by MitchHinton) Would you happen to know if the AHRC finished the 'yellow brick road'at the Jean Black Center? I may have missed the follow up story since I only read on line now. I didn't find anything in the archives. Thanks
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:11 PM
I don't know if the yellow brick road is finished. You might give Maria Ingrassia at call at AHRC. I don't recall anyone mentioning a completion date, therefore I think it might still be an active program.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
On 12-15-2004 , 1:05 PM (by BillS) Hi Barbara, Just wanted to tell you that I think you do a great job. Your column is the first thing I read in the paper. Have you considered an expanded column on the weekends? Any why don't you have an assistant?
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:09 PM
Thank you. The Sunday column is an "expanded" - full page and in column. I wish I had time to have a full page every day, but it is time consuming and I just can't do it. An assistant? Thanks my friend. I'm just a poor journalist and we don't have assistant, even in our dreams. thanks for being a loyal reader.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
On 12-15-2004 , 1:05 PM (by Patti1562) Are digital pictures preferred?
Response from Barbara Bedell [ADMINISTRATOR] at 12-15-2004, 1:15 PM
I don't want digital pictures at all unless we have talked in advance. Ideally I prefer my own pictures and if ones are sent to me, the choice is for 35mm for a variety of reasons. Digital pictures are used by our Community News team. To query about a photo you can call Eric Stutz, editor of Community News. By phone he's 346-3707. By e-mail its estutz@record.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------