I think it would be fairly time-consuming and somewhat spendy to clean up the Google results when people search for his name. Is it possible? Sure. But it might cost more money and take more time than Chick wants to invest.

As far as locally, it may be too late now, but I think he should’ve immediately made a public apology for his comments to the paper, and very delicately explained his side of the story — just lay out the facts in a non-combative way. I think he also should’ve gotten involved with the group of volunteers who fixed up the yard and helped them out personally, with his time and/or money. (If he did that, I missed the news.) He might consider going to a different media outlet (say, the local TV stations) and offering to do interviews in which he would offer an apology, explain what the impact has been on him personally (death threats) and professionally (loss of business?) since the incident, and ask for a second chance. We’re Americans. We love to give people a second chance when they’re sincere.

Hope this helps.

That said, how would one go about mopping up after a mess like this? Is their business and reputation irrevocably harmed? It seems like any apology or explanation at this point would be seen as sour grapes or given the actual circumstances, an attempt to smear the Jensen’s name.

Obviously, the ideal would have been to answer the initial contact with TCH’s reporter with calm and cool intellect. In talking with Mrs. Edwards, however, Mr. Edwards was a bit blind-sided by the call (Lt. Jensen’s lawyer sent the correspondence directly to the TCH and according to the Edwards, they did not receive the “original” letter until Saturday, several days after the reporter had it and was already in contact with Mr. Edwards.) I can understand his initial anger, especially being provoked by a very combative and accusatory reporter.

A cautionary tale, to say the least. In this day and age, it seems that absolutely everything about us can be discovered somewhere on the internet.

Again, my apologies and I would definitely pass along any feedback you or your audience may have in the area of reputation repair.

Whether or not the paper got the story straight or not is immaterial to my post. He said what he said, they printed what they printed, and now Mr. Edwards’ reputation is probably irrevocably damaged, as is his business, it would seem (judging from the public outcry and comments left online).

My post isn’t about him or the homeowners. It’s about how the internet changes everything for small business owners. Too many small biz owners have told me they don’t need to worry about online reputation management, and my point is that they do. And this story — right or wrong — proves it.

Thanks again for commenting, and I welcome you back anytime if you’re interested in topics related to online marketing for small businesses.

When asked to confirm that statement on the Bob Rivers Radio interview, Chick did. In today’s climate and view of our troops and the role they serve, Chick’s comments were truly dispicable.

As far as anyone perpetuating lies and half truths, this blog is only highlighting how easy it is to set off a “fire storm” and how important it is for all of us to be mindful of our words and actions.

Ryan Rose