The Cottonwood Journal Extra has launched its own Facebook page. The page aims to bring to our readers the news and photography of our print edition and our website through the vehicle of one of the world’s most heavily trafficked social media platforms.
The page will highlight stories from our print newspaper as well as photo galleries that we simply do not have the space to fit in our print newspaper, allowing other Facebook users to tag themselves, friends and family in photos shot around Cottonwood and the Verde Valley.
“As publisher of the largest and most read newspaper in the Verde Valley, we are constantly looking for ways to improve and expand our news coverage and reach new audiences,” General Manager Kyle Larson said. “With our new Facebook page, we will be able to meet the growing needs and wants of our readers.”
Larson Newspapers staff used the Facebook page of the Cottonwood Journal Extra’s sister newspaper, the Sedona Red Rock News, to bring readers up-to-the-minute information about the 2014 Slide Fire, posting photos and maps showing hourly patterns of the fire’s growth, and allowing users to post their own photos and comments about the massive blaze.
“Social media is a different type of animal to traditional print and online media, but allows users to interact our news staff to interact with our readers in real time, especially on breaking news stories,” Managing Editor Christopher Fox Graham said.
Should a story about a wildfire, flood or an accident strike, the Cottonwood Journal Extra’s , Facebook fans can share their own photos and personal stories.
Likewise, if a story about a Mingus Union High School sports team victory, a local teen’s academic accomplishment, a nonprofit’s good works or community event spur conversation, users can share their comments with each other through the page.
