Volstead Lounge
'Chronicle' Is Not a Real 'Alternative'
RECEIVED Sun., Nov. 1, 2009
Dear Editor,
Don't be fooled by the term "alternative" media. Its meaning can range from being independently owned to alternative reporting to that of mainstream media. The Austin Chronicle is not the latter. It's important the population be aware of these different definitions. Naturally, we are led to believe that The Austin Chronicle offers journalism advocating dissent, an opposing view from the majority, a disagreement with the government. In reality, The Austin Chronicle time and again advocates more government through endorsement of the status quo, selective reporting, word art, and censorship. The fact that stacks of this publication are now available virtually everywhere, including outlying cities, is no coincidence. There are more than a million people living in Austin, and The Austin Chronicle is still free. Impressive advertising revenue. With a dying Austin American-Statesman up for sale, the hip Austin Chronicle conveniently becomes the leading news publication, its influence spreading like the swine flu. It's dangerous to take one of these entertainment rags to the voting polls.
Don't be fooled by the term "alternative" media. Its meaning can range from being independently owned to alternative reporting to that of mainstream media. The Austin Chronicle is not the latter. It's important the population be aware of these different definitions. Naturally, we are led to believe that The Austin Chronicle offers journalism advocating dissent, an opposing view from the majority, a disagreement with the government. In reality, The Austin Chronicle time and again advocates more government through endorsement of the status quo, selective reporting, word art, and censorship. The fact that stacks of this publication are now available virtually everywhere, including outlying cities, is no coincidence. There are more than a million people living in Austin, and The Austin Chronicle is still free. Impressive advertising revenue. With a dying Austin American-Statesman up for sale, the hip Austin Chronicle conveniently becomes the leading news publication, its influence spreading like the swine flu. It's dangerous to take one of these entertainment rags to the voting polls.
Colette Michalec
