When I show people this newspaper, one of the first questions asked is, “How do you come up with these articles?”
Include the dirty little secret that I don’t actually live in Skye Canyon and you’d think this is the most difficult part of the job.
Well, actually it’s the easiest.
First off, I’ve been doing community newspapers and magazines for a number of years so I’ve figured out a number of ways to come up with what I hope are interesting articles.
First is the easiest way … wait for people to contact you.
That’s illustrated by our cover story this month on John Valentine and Christina Gruber.
Back in October, John had picked up the first issue of the newspaper and decided to give me a call. We had a pretty good conversation, particularly about the charity event for veterans he was participating in.
He sent me an article to run promoting the event, which I did. But he also told me his story and I thought he was worthy of a feature story.
Add in his fiance’s accomplishments and it was a no-brainer. It took a couple of months to reconnect, but here we are.
Another story in this issue, about the Somerset Academy Skye Pointe cross country team came about because I visited the school about a week ago and introduced myself.
Principal Lee Espin took some time out from his busy schedule and came out to talk to me.
While waiting, I saw a some trophies for cross country state championships.
I gave Principal Espin my information and the next day cross country coach Paul Sheppard called me. We talked briefly and he let me know his track team was having intermural practice the next day at Centennial High.
I went out there, had an interview and took some photos. Then I went home, transferred photos to my computer and wrote the article.
That was a Thursday evening. I sent my cover section (the gloss pages) to the printer the next day with a small track photo.
So, now you know. You can call, text or email me with your great story idea. Or maybe I’ll find out about you another way!
— Kirk Kern
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