Page 10 - 01-Jan-Feb-2024

PUBLISHER’S NOTE.
A MEASURE OF THE CITY’S SUCCESS
Just a few days before we sent this magazine to press, I was in conversation with a developer. His company builds really beautiful spaces – most of them rentals
– that are well thought out with places for gathering and socializing. As we toured his newest building and he showed me the city view from the rooftop patio, we talked candidly about our city. We also talked about principled editorial that includes research and fact checking. He spoke about his appreciation for journal- ism and how, even though he’s of a demographic that is presumed to be only digital, he loves to get the print magazine.
We talked about Edmonton and the people we know who apply their talents and leadership to move the city forward. And, I realized I had not been bold enough in sharing my own insight about the role of local journal- ism in a city’s success.
When businesses and organizations choose to invest their marketing and advertising dollars locally — I’m referring to journalism-based publications, here — they achieve more than one outcome. Aside from the value of having a local, engaged audience know about a company’s brand, products or services, the charitable and arts sectors are also boosted. How does this work? Revenue from advertising and sponsored content funds all editorial stories — including those about the arts or socially sensitive topics.
Local journalism holds a crucial mirror for its own community — it reflects the stories of all the things that make up life in the city. That includes the sectors that make our lives richer or safer
— or more compassionate.
Success is not transactional. You can’t count influence in the same way as a digital impression. Awareness, reputation, conversation, experience, loyalty – these are steps on the journey towards community relationships that bring value to everyone.
Trudy Callaghan
Publisher
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