Raise the Hammer

While I might be accused of wearing my skinny jeans with the following comment, out of fear I might be flip-flopping on the issue...I'm merely seeking some clarity on the issue, and I appreciate your patience in educating me :)

Perhaps where I am confused is what constitutes "media" as it relates to the issue of access to items earmarked for the "press" (as in the "press gallery" that Ms. Chapman refers to in her comment). The undersigned letter to City Hall includes signatures from bloggers. While I too am a blogger (more of a hobby than a career), I have never considered myself as "media". If there are issues that I want to blog about, I go a huntin' for the information just like any other citizen. I don't use my website as a status seat above those who do not.

Now for the tear in my skinny jeans: I find it incomprehensible that the City would issue any information to the "press", which wasn't as easily available to the general public. (Navigating the City's Website is not exactly an easy task). The perception (real or implied) that City Hall is creating a hierarchy with respects to access to information is insulting to all Hamiltonians. Also, respect must be given to those Hamiltonians who give of their time (read: volunteer) to educate and inform others via either personal blog sites or interest-group sites. To harbour indifference based on whether one has a boss or not, is insulting.

The City has the resources to challenge bloggers and journalists alike in situations when questionable reporting occurs. Whether it be through legal or direct contact, misrepresentation of facts can be fixed. The question comes down to whether the City trusts it's decisions, and can be open to criticism. The City also needs to trust those who utilize social media to educate others...and again, take action if something is posted inaccurately.