how to increase your circulation

 John K. Harman at Editor and Publisher thinks he’s got the answer for newspapers suffering the same decline of readership: put Oprah on the cover of everything. Every day.

Set aside your top left column of your front page and devote it all to America’s Everywoman.

Report on the content of her latest television program.

Report on the latest issue of her latest magazine.

Report on the new contents on her web site.

Report on her latest book selection.

Report on her physical fitness and nutrition initiatives.

Report on her latest cause.

Report on her travels.

Don’t forget to report on Oprah’s personal life and the latest gossip about her.

Why?

Why should editors throw out the rule book about what belongs on the front page and devote precious space to someone best known as a celebrity entertainer? The reason is because Oprah has a better handle on the pulse of the people than you do. …

because she is strong with four groups that [editors] have trouble reaching: women, minorities, young adults and youth.

By Jove, I think he’s got it: Oprah is the Queen of Infotainment.

Which, by the way, I mentioned in my very first blog post, “As the Page Turns.”