Many times the loudest voices get the most attention.
That's certainly been true as we look back at The State Worker's coverage of the governor's controversial furlough plan over the last couple of months. We've given plenty of space to unions, lawyers, political spokespeople and, of course, state workers who are upset at the prospect of furloughs.
There are many reasons for this media tendency.
Conflict makes for good storytelling. There are heroes and villains, plot twists, subplots and a sense of suspense as events unfold to an uncertain conclusion.
It's also out of the ordinary, which is one definition of news. You'll never see a headline that reads, "DMV on Broadway opens on time," unless opening on time becomes an unusual event.
Combatants often have a strong message with a point of view..
They're usually eager to be heard , so they'll readily talk.
But when it comes to the furlough story, there's a contingent of state workers who [probably haven't been covered much: The employees who are OK with furloughs. Maybe they see it as a necessary sacrifice in troubled times. Or maybe they value the time off more than the money.
If you're in that group, shoot us an e-mail at jortiz@sacbee.com or call us at 916-321-1043. Even though you're not part of a vocal group, your story deserves telling.
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