Writing

Podcasts

Writing

Seven Common Grammar Gaffes

A self-professed grammar nerd, Brenda Dunn, talks through some common mistakes that writers make and how to fix them.

Andy Johns

November 28, 2022

Blog

Consumer Education, Pioneer News, Writing

A Writer’s Wish Come True

We're thankful for utility storytellers like our former magazine editor, Curtis Condon. Have you read his story about crawdads, community and rural electrification? Learn how his storytelling style has shifted and why he believes sharing co-op stories matters.

Jennifer Paton, CCC

November 15, 2022

Blog

Branding, Consumer Education, Marketing Campaigns, Writing

How to Find and Share your Brand Story

Stories are critical for connecting with consumers. How can utilities use proactive communications and engagement strategies to reach their audience? Get four steps to help strengthen your brand's story, then join our Nov. 2 webinar to build your story in 2023!

Megan McKoy-Noe, CCC

October 20, 2022

Blog

Consumer Education, Magazines, Member/Consumer Experience, Writing

Seven Ways to Keep Reader Trust

Our readers trust us. But it’s a relationship that cannot be taken for granted. Leon Espinoza, with a nod to Hollywood classics, shares seven ways to use thoughtful editing and solid storytelling to stay in your readers’ Circle of Trust.

Leon Espinoza

August 16, 2022

Podcasts

Writing

Writing Tips for Myths, Folklore and Utility Magazines

Camilla Mortensen, a University of Oregon journalism instructor and editor of Eugene Weekly, defines "solution journalism" and shares storytelling tips for utility communicators from the world of journalism and folklore.

Andy Johns

August 11, 2022

Blog

Pioneer News, Writing

Drawing a Career with Stories

As our utility member needs grow, our communications co-op has grown, too. We asked one of our new recruits, Associate Editor Valeri Pearon, to share her story. Learn how poetry, a fascination with the moving parts of storytelling and carving pumpkins(!) sparked her career.

Valeri Pearon

August 9, 2022

Podcasts

Magazines, Photography, Writing

What Stories Resonate With Your Readers? With Michael Rovito

Michael Rovito, of the Alaska Power Association, explains the role of photography and finding your focus in storytelling. He’s watched Alaskan utility storytelling in Ruralite magazine evolve from a focus on utility news to shining light on more compelling stories about the people and programs connecting rural Alaskan communities.

Megan McKoy-Noe, CCC

August 1, 2022

Blog

Writing

5 Ways to Strengthen Email Engagement

Have you ever noticed there are some emails in your inbox you instantly gravitate to and others you quickly scroll past? There are 5 simple ways to create emails consumers want to open.

Sarah Lancaster

February 23, 2022

Blog

Content Planning, Magazines, Writing

Five Places to Find Engaging Stories

Does it ever feel as if you need a crystal ball when you’re planning content? Effective planning takes work, but designing a great publication does not need to be daunting. It can even be fun, if you think of it as a chance to tap into your creativity. Here are five places to find and plan for engaging stories.

Noble Sprayberry

February 15, 2022

Blog

Magazines, Writing

Five Memorable Ruralite Features

Through the past year, our writers have taken readers on many journeys. Here are five of my favorite Ruralite local stories from 2021. I’m willing to bet there are similar stories to be found in your service area if you know where to look.

Mike Teegarden, CCC

December 14, 2021

Blog

Writing

Pulling Pull Quote Punches

Readers can be drawn to many things, the narrative of course, but also interesting imagery, informative graphics and cool design. Headlines, subheads and bullet points are primary hooks to reel in a reader. Each should be baited with care. But what about the pull quote?

Leon Espinoza

November 2, 2021

Case Study

Magazines, Writing

Webinar Archive: Writing Headlines that Hit Home

Leon Espinoza