On page 13 of today’s MyCity Logan, you’ll see an advertisement which encourages you to have your say about your local newspaper.
The survey wants to know what your local newspaper means to you, what you like about it, and what you feel would lead to improvement.
In our short existence over the past two months, MyCity Logan has built a loyal following. Quite a number of you have called with encouragement, thoughts and ideas. And I thank you.
Most importantly, you’re telling me that what we’re doing is important to Logan. You’re taking ownership of your local newspaper, as well you should.
Newspapers are a voice for the community, a curated environment for community groups to have their say, where information can be shared, politicians and spin doctors are held to account, and opinions are aired.
As an agent for change, I embraced digital journalism.
However, when looking to launch a news service into Logan, people demanded that we print a newspaper.
I think it is fair to say that people had taken their local newspaper a little for granted. When it was taken away, people missed the service it had provided for more than 100 years.
The survey at localnewsinnovation.org talks about securing the future of local newspapers.
But it’s much more than that. It’s about honesty, integrity and trust; being able to produce something which provides a nest of information to dissect, think about, argue and engage with.
Journalism cannot be replicated by community Facebook pages, although they are a valuable service to the community. Journalism is not the production of a leaflet filled 95% with advertising. Journalism is a commitment to our communities, to sharing information which makes our home a better place to live.
I was guilty of moving with the digital movement. But I now know that the digital news model does not stack up at a regional level. Nor can it provide local business a strong connection with the community.
For the present, a newspaper was the only feasible option.
Just as radio is making a resurgence, I believe newspapers too are re-discovering their feet as a trusted vehicle for the community’s voice.
So, if you too think journalism is important to your region, fill out the survey and have your voice heard.
