By Laura Adrian
From 2005 to 2019, social media use by U.S. adults has grown from 5 percent to 79 percent. The Park Bugle recognizes a need to meet readers on these digital platforms.
In December 2021, I was hired by the Park Bugle as its first social media specialist. While the Bugle is well-known for its print newspaper, people are still discovering our presence on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
It’s inspiring to see people connecting and supporting each other through social media engagement. For example, when the Como High Girls Basketball team went to state, I found it uplifting to read the comments of fans cheering on the girls on the Park Bugle Facebook page.
Or on #throwbackthursday, an archived Park Bugle photo of kids ice skating 40-plus years ago struck home with one of our readers: He recognized himself in the photo!
Through social media, there is a unique opportunity for interaction and reader generated content. Community members can contribute more easily in a timely manner to the neighborhood happenings and events. In addition, the digital media offers interaction with community members through polls, photo sharing opportunities and conversation threads.
On Fridays, we’ll begin sharing pets of Bugle-land through one of our new initiatives, #furryfriendsfriday. Readers are invited to send the Bugle photos of their pets—via my contact info at the end of the article—with a short description and story.
On Fridays we’ll share submissions through our social media channels. Won’t it be fun to know more about Rosie the Golden Retriever as you come across her on your walks around the neighborhood!
Through these social media outlets, I’m sharing opportunities for community members to contribute, connect and get involved. My vision is that social media increases opportunities for people to contribute and engage with the Bugle-land community, storytelling and news.
We invite you join the community on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ParkBugle . Also contact me by direct message for things you’d like to share, such as furry friends, events, photos and short video clips on the social media channels or at laura.adrian@parkbugle.org. I’m excited to grow this community with you!
Laura Adrian is the social media specialist for the Bugle. She owns her own business, Whole Life Elevation where she leads mindfulness and nature classes and retreats.
