Average response 1.5 . The intended purpose of this question was to provide a baseline with which to compare the other responses. Several comments were made to support that point of view. Examples of good layouts, good use of photos, as well as 'guild' type articles can only help fledgling reporters and editors. Games should not be published for their own merit.
People can go to various levels of chess publications to find games.
They can find journalistic support in very few places. The Chess Journalist and CJA should be where people look first for help in chess journalism. Likewise, support of editorials on political thought carried with it comments of an instructional nature by many. Counterpoint or debate can be very helpful and can build interest. Leave personal attacks to the tabloids.