When I’m out and about meeting people in the community, I’m always hearing great stories I believe should be shared in our newspapers.

If there is interest, we are looking at the idea of creating reader advisory boards to discuss each of our communities and what news and information is important to print.

Yesterday at VIP, I learned that Dowagiac dentist Dr. Cripe utilizes a new technique to provide a patient with a crown in just one visit.

And I just got done getting a new agonizing crown.

If I only knew of that new procedure! Is that a story in your mind?

I also had a chance to meet the Jim Kramer, new owner of the Wood Fire in Dowagiac. He seems like a great guy.

Based on stats since the beginning of the year, we know based on page views what sections and stories were the most popular on www.leaderpub.com.

Obituaries are our most-read section followed by Dowagiac news, Niles news, Berrien County news and sports in general.

When we see that a specific individual has passed and hundreds read the obituary online, I believe this person must have touched many lives and deserves a feature story, “A Life Remembered.” Do you agree?

When it comes to the top five stories of the year, stories of tragedy dominate.

Our top five stories read online were: 1. “Teenager takes his own life;” 2. “Niles wrestling coach and wrestler pull man from burning car;” 3. “Miss Niles relieved of duties; 4. “Niles student with beef jerky punished for having look alike drug;” and 5. “One dead in early morning accident.”

As a publisher, the most vocal readers are those who complain they are tired of reading bad news.

Yet the stats show what readers want most is bad news.

This year’s top-ranked “good news” story came was the 10th most read: “Niles woman loses 100 pounds in a calendar year.”

Still, I believe we have done a decent job of highlighting the good happening in the community.

And many of you do enjoy that information.

 

Michael Bennett can be reached at michael.bennett@leaderpub.com or (269) 687-7700.