By Walter Boomsma
207 343-1842
Communications Director
Give us a bite!
Well, what I mean is “give us a sound bite,” except that’s not exactly correct, either. “A sound bite is a short, catchy piece of video, audio, or speech chosen to give the essence of what you are saying and arouse interest…” While we’d love a video, we’ll take a written snippet (a small piece or short extract.) Let me explain.
We did something like this when the website was first launched, listing them as Member Benefits. Since the site was launched over ten years ago, it’s time to update and expand what people love about the Grange. We can’t do this without you.
Brevity is the soul of wit.
William Shakespeare
Shakespeare would likely be able to work effectively with the media today–he understood the value of “short and sweet.” It’s important to remember that you are trying to capture interest, not cover “everything you need to know.” In my work with the media, I’m always amazed when a reporter covers an event and shoots over an hour of video. After editing, the story is told in 2-3 minutes. As someone prone to rambling, I have to remind myself to stay focused when being interviewed. In journalism, we are reminded to “write tight.”
Why do you love the Grange? We need your answer in a short, catchy way. I know, there’s lots to love. Think of your contribution as a “teaser” or testimonial designed to make people curious about the Grange. Another prompt might be, “What’s the one greatest benefit you receive from your Grange membership?“
We’ll take your answer in writing. Don’t worry about grammar and spelling–I’ll edit and correct (with your permission) if necessary. I’m making it as easy as possible by creating a short form you can fill out. This also makes it easy for me because filling out the form ensures that I’ll have all the information I need.
Visit the “I love the Grange” post for the form. (For those reading this in the printed Bulletin, there will be a form at the end of the Bulletin you can complete and mail.) And, yes, you can submit more than one.
It’s not just Grange members using the website. Let’s tell website visitors what’s great about the Grange. While I will be updating the Member Benefits page, I also hope to be using your answers in several other ways. Stay tuned!
► FACT: 530 people visited the Maine State Grange Website in July.