I am a true believer in free speech, elections and the power of media. But events today regarding the Emerald and theft of our advertising space leaves me scratching my head at two candidates in the ASUO elections.
Early this morning, staff members discovered the Adam Turcott campaign had stuffed single-page flyers promoting his candidacy into our newspapers in numerous locations around campus, including some stacks of papers inside residence halls. Later in the day, we found that the Toby Piering campaign had stuffed papers at some locations with small handbills.
Apparently they were both unaware that our advertisers pay money to have inserts put into the paper, which means that if anyone does it without paying, it’s theft, and it devalues the service for our paying customers.
Let me be clear about this for other candidates: Inserting material into the Emerald without permission is theft. If we catch anyone doing it in the future, we will press charges. For those we don’t catch, we may just send a bill for services rendered.
Advertising in the Emerald is a wonderful way to get your message out to the campus community. We have representatives standing by, ready to take your call and handle all your campus advertising needs. For ASUO candidates, I highly recommend utilizing the readership of the Emerald to promote your campaign. Call 346-3712, ask for a representative, and we’ll get you all set up.
The incidents today are doubly upsetting because the editorial board endorsed both Turcott and Piering. Given their lapse of judgment, I almost wish it hadn’t.
Nonetheless, I hope students vote, good luck to all the candidates, and please — stop stealing from us.