The research in your paper is magnificent

Dear Editor,

I just wanted to write to say I recently decided to subscribe to the Bay View Compass because of the quality of the research and writing I have seen in it. I also have a specific compliment on the [February 2010] issue. I don’t often submit comments, but I feel I must.

Prior to subscribing, I would pick up a free copy from the “freebies” rack at Stone Creek Coffee and Wild Flour Bakery. The first time I read it, I found it had: 1.) stories unique to Bay View that I would not find anywhere else, and 2.) really excellent research and quality of writing on Bay View historical topics of interest.

After a few months, I found myself making a conscious effort to look for the Bay View Compass. The outstanding reporting, research, and writing continued. Finally, I felt I could not miss an issue, so I paid my $25 and subscribed.

The February 2010 issue points this out. Of the many really good articles inside, the one that made my jaw drop was “Three ships wrecked off St. Francis coast” by Anna Passante. Tremendous original research, well written. Just excellent. Even pictures of [similar] ships. Magnificent. I haven’t seen reporting like that in years, and I have two college degrees and grew up in the newspaper business.

I stopped reading the Journal Sentinel long ago because its reporting lacks research, the headlines are poorly written, and the writing style is no longer professional but conversational, which is inappropriate for a serious journalistic publication. I feel uplifted that somebody in America still knows how to actually do research and write professionally. A breath of fresh air, at last.

A good description of a successful restaurant is this: “Good food, good price, good service.” Likewise, a description of a successful newspaper is this: “Professional research, professional writing, subject matter of interest to its readers.” Stay focused on Bay View, stick to the fundamentals, and you’ll continue to grow.

Doug Mintline
Bay View