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Discover Mid-America — September 2009
Calendars on my mind
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A few years ago I stopped having a freelance writer compile our calendar listings and started doing it myself. On average, it takes me about eight hours to bring together emails and faxes from our readers and advertisers, and the research I do on the Internet, into a file that Tim (Nord), our art director, can layout for our upcoming print and Web editions.
Though time consuming, I really don’t mind it that much. Knowing what’s out there in terms of shows, festivals and other events gives me a loose feel for what’s going on regionally, and signals a kind of ebb and flow to the antique/collectibles/historic tourism business. Some months bring lots of offerings to those willing to wander the Midwest, other months, not so many. Of course the time of the year and price of gas come into play — and the economy. And I learn as I pull together the information — however briefly and in minute quantities — about a town or area in the Midwest.
With my head in the calendar listings, I’ve roughly figured out what “old” or “tired iron” means, what locale “fin and feathers” pertains to, the meaning behind “Chautauqua” and knowing of scores of other special phrases and titles people attach to their town or organization’s event, both to help promote it and as a nod to something or someone tied to the show or event, or as a historical reference.
Admittedly, it would take me less time pulling together the listings if I didn’t find myself going to a particular web site to read more about an event or town or region. However, curiosity remains an attribute in this business.
In this issue, it took me double the effort I’ve gotten used to. The show and state calendars grew from a third to two to three times from August in all states we list. It wasn’t because I was particularly adept at my calendar-compiling skills. And, admittedly, though I know this time of year means many more happenings going on as school starts and fall season begins, I just wasn’t expecting the onslaught.
Maybe the down economy had lowered my expectations. For the year leading up to September, our business, and my work as calendar person, had been flat — not much change. This month is different, as you should notice.
I’m not going to say the growth is indicative of an improving economy. Maybe in some areas. But most of rural and small town America remains hard-pressed and anxious. As for the antique business — most of us are riding it out.
Another thing: With the lengthier calendar listings, you might notice we’ve gone to a bright white paper throughout the book. (Better to have your ad stand out, my dear.)
Starting in October, we’re going to do even more to help our advertisers. Print ads in Discover Mid-America also will start appearing on our web site, www.discoverypub.com. No extra charge.
Sure, we’re in a hunker-down mode because of the economy. But like bringing together the calendar listings, we’re still thinking of people and places we reach.
Bruce Rodgers can be contacted at publisher@discoverypub.com.
> Refurnished Thoughts Archive — past columns
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