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| The troubles with 'may' versus 'may not' journalism |
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A June 18 story at the top of page one in The Bulletin is headlined "Prineville may gain 600 jobs." The subheadline reads "Construction for new startup - whose name officials won't reveal - could begin this fall." Although we would be ecstatic about a company that would provide at least 600 new jobs during the course of five years, we have a few concerns.
One is that the company may decide not to operate in Prineville. We definitely support his efforts and those of EDCO in bringing in new development, it would have been best for Prineville-Crook County Economic Development Director Jason Carr to have not mentioned anything in an open public Prineville City Council meeting unless the company were in fact moving here. It was stated that the company has "pretty much" chosen Prineville.
OK. Pretty much?
The second is the Bulletin reporting on something that "may occur."
Granted, newspapers and other major media report on what might occur in news developments, but when it comes to new businesses moving to a community, it's best to wait until there is an actual commitment from company officials.
This is also important for Prineville, which has seen timber jobs lost since the 1980s. We have also seen cases in the past turn from "may not" to "will not." Those who are seeking work don't want to hear the words that a company has "pretty much" chosen Prineville or "Prineville may gain 600 jobs." A company that would provide this many jobs is a fantastic development for all of Crook County.
However, we would suggest that everyone waits until "may" turns into "is." |
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