There are times I’m asked to define “hyper-local” – our brand of journalism and, unapologetically, our north star. While credible state, national, and international news are important parts of any media diet, The Chronicle focuses on where people can make the most difference. It’s why we cover your family, friends, and neighbors in communities like Springfield, Cottage Grove, Creswell, and Pleasant Hill.
Demonstrated behavior and real-life examples are always better than a definition. Here are a few ways The Chronicle is engaging with its readers and communities:
• We’re currently helping organize a “Watch-O-Rama” for the Dec. 9 Monday Night Football game that features a simulcasted, animated version being played in The Simpsons’ Springfield.
Of course, we know we’re that Springfield!
Jason Martorano has offered to host the watch party for the game at Prime Time Sports Bar & Grill in Springfield. Chris Rohaney – better knows as Chris51 and an expert in all things Simpsons, tattooing, and heavy metal – is all in, including serving as the emcee for a night of intense football and fun. On top of the good times, we’ll be raising money for nonprofits in Lane County.
• The Chronicle has been a proud sponsor and partner with the Mayor’s Revue, which this year features legendary musician Curtis Salgado.
Proceeds from the event support the programs of the Emerald Art Center and the projects of Springfield Rotary.
The Chronicle is committed to supporting the arts community, including EAC and the Richard E. Wildish Community Theater through coverage and promotional opportunities.
• Our bi-annual coloring contest this past October drew more entries than ever. This includes children from Springfield, Cottage Grove, Creswell, and Pleasant Hill. We also have a Spring coloring contest each year. A special thanks to the local organizations and businesses supporting the contest: Willamalane, Mr. Ice Cream, Copy Rite Printing, The Bookmine, Rosebud Consignment, and Main Street Sweets.
• Working closely with Audrea Shelley, the athletic director of Springfield High School, The Chronicle helped create the North Star Volleyball Jamboree – a first-of-its-kind hyper-local volleyball event. Pleasant Hill “won” the jamboree, and maintained a No. 1 ranking in Class 3A through most of the season. This event was an opportunity to support and shine a spotlight on girls athletics. Jennifer Richardson, an entrepreneur and community leader, addressed the players before the games began, stressing the importance of kindness in our daily lives and the value of keeping “teammates” around you throughout life.
• “Ghostly Golf” at Camp Putt in Glenwood – part of Willamalane’s annual Halloween festivities – saw participation levels higher than ever this year. The Chronicle has been a proud sponsor of holes on the course each of the past two years. (Please, no jokes about a skeleton reading the newspaper.)
• The Springfield Block Party gets better every year in terms of bringing the community together in a festive, open-street party. The other day while eating lunch at Plank Town Brewing Company on Main Street, I overheard two people talking about how fun it was that September day. The Chronicle has been a proud sponsor of the event the past three years.
There are many other organizations and events we’re fortunate to cover – and support. There’s no conflict in providing credible news while also trying to uplift and edify our communities.
That’s really the definition of hyper-local.
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