Fixing Local News
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Fixing Local News

Reimagining and Restoring Local Media

About the Book

Embark on a transformative journey with 'Fixing Local News: Reimagining and Restoring Local Media' as we delve into the urgent challenge of revitalizing local journalism in the face of widespread news deserts. In this insightful exploration, we confront the critical issues plaguing communities devoid of information, painting a vivid picture of the consequences of a disconnected society.

This book is a comprehensive guide, meticulously researched and enriched with case studies and statistics, offering a roadmap to address the crisis and breathe life back into local news ecosystems. Uncover the root causes of news deserts and explore innovative strategies to engage communities, promote media literacy, and leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence for sustainable local journalism.

'Fixing Local News' is more than a diagnosis; it's a prescription for action. It presents a compelling vision for a future where every community is empowered by a thriving local press. Join us in the call to reimagine and restore local media, as we plant the seeds of information and cultivate a renewed era of vibrant, community-driven journalism. This book is an essential guide for journalists, policymakers, and concerned citizens – a rallying cry for the collective effort needed to ensure the resilience of our local news and the strength of our democracy.

About the Author

Ken Buckler
Ken Buckler

I have lived in the Washington County, MD area my entire life.  I graduated from Mount Saint Mary's in 2006 with a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science. For 15 years worked as a federal contractor for multiple agencies, performing cyber security and information assurance services. I now analyze the cyber security industry and write about my research full-time.

I am an advocate for local small business, as well as empowering local residents in Washington County to better themselves, and create better lives for themselves and their families. I also love local history in Washington County, and am the producer of "History Hub Hunters", a show focused finding lost pieces of local history.

Table of Contents

  • Legal
  • Introduction: The Decline of Local News
  • The Ramblings of a Data Nerd
  • The Challenges Facing Local News Outlets
  • The Ripple Effect: Impact of Buyouts, Downsizing, and Mergers on Local News Outlets
  • The Rise of "News Deserts" in Rural Communities
  • Chapter 1: The Importance of Local News
  • Defining the Vital Role of Local News in Communities
  • The Evolution of Local Journalism
  • Chapter 2: Understanding the Causes
  • Corporate Influence and its Impact on Local News
  • Looking at the Financial Challenges of Local News Outlets
  • The Evolution of Consumer Habits
  • Chapter 3: Looking at Successful Local News Models
  • Thriving Local (and National) News Outlets
  • Community Supported Journalism Initiatives
  • Innovative Solutions to Sustainable Local News
  • Chapter 4: The Role of Technology
  • Leveraging Digital Platforms
  • The Crucial Role of Social Media and Community Engagement in Local (and National) News
  • The Opportunities of AI in Empowering Small News Teams
  • Chapter 5: Building Community Partnerships
  • Collaborative Endeavors Between Local News Outlets and Community Organizations
  • Engaging Local Businesses and Institutions in Local News
  • Creating a Network of Support for Local Journalism
  • Chapter 6: Empowering Citizen Journalists
  • Training Programs for Community Members in Local Journalism
  • Guiding Citizen Journalists with Best Practices
  • Chapter 7: Advocacy for Policy Change
  • Exploring Policy Solutions to Support Local News
  • The Government's Role in Empowering and Preserving Local Journalism
  • Grassroots Movements and Advocacy Campaigns for Local News Empowerment
  • Chapter 8: Sustainable Funding Models
  • Diversifying Revenue Streams for Sustainable Local News
  • Exploring Nonprofit and Community-Supported Models
  • Chapter 9: Entertainment and Journalism
  • The Dance of Information and Entertainment: Navigating the Digital News Landscape
  • Leveraging Live Entertainment Events for Audience Growth
  • Strength in Unity: Partnering with Other Local Independent News Organizations
  • Chapter 10: The Future of Local News
  • Future Horizons: Anticipating Trends in Local Journalism
  • Adapting to the Changing Media Landscape
  • Charting the Future of Local News
  • Conclusion
  • Nurturing the Seeds of Local Journalism: Key Takeaways
  • Inspiring Action for Individuals and Communities
  • The Power of Readership: Nurturing Local News Support
  • Appendix: Resources for Action
  • Appendix: References

Causes Supported

Electronic Frontier Foundation

Defending your civil liberties in a digital world.
https://www.eff.org/

Based in San Francisco, EFF is a donor-supported membership organization working to protect fundamental rights regardless of technology.

From the Internet to the iPod, technologies are transforming our society and empowering us as speakers, citizens, creators, and consumers. When our freedoms in the networked world come under attack, the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) is the first line of defense. EFF broke new ground when it was founded in 1990—well before the Internet was on most people's radar—and continues to confront cutting-edge issues defending free speech, privacy, innovation, and consumer rights today. From the beginning, EFF has championed the public interest in every critical battle affecting digital rights.

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