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Local Purpose Driven Exchange
Above all the primary goal of local programming should be to supply populations with necessary information that helps them in making the best possible life decisions for themselves and the collective as a whole.
Communities, Cities, Societies depend on it.
Facing The Future Of Local Journalism . . .
Over the last decade, local journalism has experienced immense disruption both financially and in terms of communal reach. There has never been a question of the necessity of local news reporting. Basically, everyone agrees that journalistic investigations serve to hold both corporate and governmental institutions accountable and provide a check at every level of society.
By design, local TV programs and city papers have historically provided in-depth coverage for regional municipalities. While national news may be of universal interest to the country as a whole, a zoning board hearing in Philadelphia may be of little consequence to someone in Atlanta. The proposition of local media has always provided a great deal of value, not only to communities but to local business advertisers as well.
The nearly 200-year-old business model has always been to provide information of civic interest, and the resulting assembly of readers or viewers is then consequently available to local advertisers. In the new digital marketplace, there is simply not enough revenue to pay for the public service journalism to which communities have historically been accustomed. In the old days news gathering organizations boast of having very specific protocols in place, involving a host of research, authentication, and verification procedures. With the public now being convinced that such safeguards are unimportant, we've seen the rise of misinformation programming, podcasts, blogs, and other non-credentialed information sources. It also seems to have ushered in an era of purposeful public distraction through disinformation.
Pivoting from the core mission of journalism: to inform the public, media corporations now operate with profit as their primary motive. A focus on maximizing profits prioritizes high audience engagement metrics, accomplished by concentrating on sensationalism and click-driven journalism. Frustration and dissatisfaction with this direction is driving some journalists to pursue independence, where they can follow stories with greater freedom and develop profit structures around their work. We believe this will inevitability become the future of journalism.
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Journalism is not just about reporting facts; it involves intuition, critical thinking, creativity, and a contextual understanding that is intrinsic to human intelligence. It is this type of thinking that leads us to examine and question assumptions that challenge prevailing narratives. Intellectual agility and the ability to weigh and quantify the value of new information will always make real journalists indispensable.
The Real Power Of Positive Journalism . . .
Redefining the populations’ concept of news may be the first step in reestablishing public trust. The current concept of reporting negative occurrences of the day at 6 and 11 plus sports and weather has proven less than ingratiating. Positive journalism focuses on stories that highlight progress, innovative solutions, and acts of goodwill.
Changing the perception of the news media to one of a helpful, constructive public service may assist in countering the unfavorable view that has been long festering with the presentation of traditional news. Philanthropic support for positive journalism can create an environment where hope and optimism flourish, encouraging individuals to take positive actions in their lives and communities. Re-imagine the news media as an exchange mechanism where citizens don’t simply “tune in” and passively watch but are requested and required to take an active part in problem solving.
Imagine eliciting public participation by admitting we don’t have all of the answers, that life is complicated and we honestly have no slogan as a solution. Positive journalism nurtures critical thinking and a deeper understanding of complex issues. Investment into this type of programing contributes to a more informed public. Producing local programing that enfranchises people to make community-minded decisions and actively participate in civic matters by engaging in meaningful dialogue to address societal challenges can go a long way in solving America's civility crisis.
Successful local reporting initiatives should inspire other independent production companies and news organizations to follow and build upon those successes. Philanthropic backing of positive journalism can help to foster a culture of proactive problem-solving which is critically necessary to address pressing local and global challenges. Encouraging, optimistic, forward-looking news can make a very real difference in the lives of everyday people. The growth of this type of media can have transformation potential by energizing a more engaged population, and by re-enforcing and strengthen democratic principles where collective progress and the desire to make a positive impact become the norm.
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Democracy Now Looks To Philanthropy . . .
The institutions of American democracy are facing challenges from many different directions. One of the primary missions of the free press is to expose social and systemic loopholes that create opportunities for corruption. In the current capital-rich climate of "If you can't beat 'em, buy 'em," it is difficult for an independent press to stand alone. For most U.S. citizens, it's nearly impossible to imagine a future without the accountability that the press has always fought to provide.
As traditional business models for journalism face challenges, philanthropic support has helped to ensure the sustainability and survival of many local media organizations, enabling them to continue their vital work in providing essential news coverage to communities. Philanthropic assistance to local news organizations strengthens democracy by ensuring access to reliable and diverse news sources, with editorial integrity, free from commercial pressures or political influence.
Endowments, charitable trusts, and other types of philanthropic organizations are often the brain trust of exceptional individuals who feel a deep sense of gratitude for their own successes and wish to use their resources to uplift those who may not have had the same opportunities or privileges in life. They recognize the disparities that exist in society, where some individuals face significant disadvantages and barriers due to circumstances beyond their control. These disparities may be rooted in socioeconomic status, access to education, healthcare, or other basic needs, as well as systemic inequalities and discrimination.
By supporting independent journalism, funding organizations are advancing the ranks of those on the front lines of addressing these issues. As a mass communication medium, independent reporting has the power to amplify the potential impact of philanthropic investments. Although the news industry is still adapting to the digital world, we have no doubt that the future holds robust, self-sustaining independent digital news platforms. Until then, philanthropic support may well serve as one of the strongest pillars safeguarding democratic society.
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Recognizing Journalist Burn-out . . .
In an era of multi-platform, multi-device digital media consumption and 24/7 news cycles, journalists face mounting pressure to produce more and more content quickly and continuously to keep up with demand. The constant corporate push to maintain a competitive edge leaves personnel working long hours with the expectation of always being available for breaking news. This 'always-on' culture can be consuming and leave little time for a personal life.
One burnout factor that may be difficult to quantify is the emotional toll of reporting on traumatic events. For the journalists who frequently find themselves covering disasters, conflicts, and tragedies, the regularity of witnessing and documenting adversity and misfortune up close over time will eventually take its toll. For some, the impact of the job can lead to a sense of secondary trauma and overall mental fatigue. There is also the pressure to present the appearance of an 'unaffected objective observer,' in the face of obvious untruths and misinformation. Journalists, anchors, and newsroom personnel are left feeling that they must walk the line between their personal and professional integrity and their assigned job responsibilities.
There is also the acute recognition of a shifting industry facing near-constant consolidation, which inevitably leads to layoffs and downsizing. Large media corporations acquire smaller ones and employ additional cost-cutting measures in the name of further streamline operations. As a result, journalists may find themselves grappling with increased workloads, as they are required to cover more beats and stories with fewer resources. Seeing the industry in such flux only adds to the worry and stress of job insecurity.
With rapid technological advancements in the industry, journalists are expected to adapt quickly and learn new skills. The fear of falling behind or not meeting performance expectations can add to the already mounting pressure.
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According to analysis of recent economic data from the Motion Picture Association. The American film and television industry includes 2.4 million workers as part of a nearly $186 billion entertainment economy
U.S. DOMESTIC BOX OFFICE
What Is News?
Commercial news outlets measure success in terms of ratings. With slogans like "If it bleeds it leads" it's evident where the priorities lie. Television news looks to capture the viewer's attention by highlighting stories of violence, crime, disaster, and conflict in order to benefit from the reactions that they naturally evoke.
As a result audiences are constantly exposed to large amounts of distressing and depressing news and we are beginning to see signs that it is taking a toll on the nation's overall mental health. The press should more seriously consider the responsibility and consequences of what is being reported. We all depend on television news to play a crucial role in
providing useful public information, but the focus on reports of division and social unrest instead leaves everyone on edge and overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of problems. This can lead to feelings of powerlessness and a national mood of collective despondency.
A negative media erodes optimism and reduces public engagement. This is obviously antithetical to it's stated mission. By fixating primarily on the negative, television news falls short in delivering an accurate picture that balances the complexities of everyday life. Positive news and information are essential in maintaining a healthy social outlook as we all interact in our day to day lives.
Advantageous Exchange
Most unaffiliated journalist have the storytelling and reporting skills, but lack the infrastructure of their network counterparts. We look to provide independent journalist and freelance reporters with a physical media space and professional production capabilities to assist in producing programs for broadcast on a variety of platforms.
Technical assistance is also made available as well as editors, sound and graphics volunteers from contributing members of Georgia's flourishing film industry. Of course program underwriting and business support is also welcomed.
We recognize a journalist for a network or local affiliate may not have the editorial sanction to report or even comment on many issues of public consequence. In fact in some cases it may actually be contractually prohibited.
So many stories go unreported because of lack of platform or fear of reprisal. We also can't help but notice the replacement of veteran journalist with younger reporters to fill the newly defined job description of "read the prompter, don't make waves". Local news is becoming supercilious to corporate profits. Maybe it's time for a new outlet.
Constructive Contributions
Public interest programming should be viewed as customary and essential to communal life. In the past local newspapers employed journalist and field experts to offer legitimately useful information concerning issues commonly faced within their municipal sphere and in doing so they became the focal point of many cities.
Productions developed for independent stations without the usual commercial pressures to achieve national network ratings, like newspapers have the potential to become an indispensable part of local economies. In fact, it is this type of synergy that allowed early media to flourish.
The key to stemming the tide of media trust erosion may start with the obvious, journalist that are an active part of the communities that they cover. They are more likely to be trusted as having the best interest of the population at heart.
Citizens must feel that media plays a constructive role in their lives. Let's start with local programs that are expressly produced by community-native broadcasters, designed to deliver information and narratives to help citizens advance and succeed. That may begin to restore a measure of trust in the media mission and where and how it fits into our lives.
Building For The Future
When citizens believe the medias' mission is to act as a positive force on their behalf, they are more likely to depend on such outlets for accurate information. We must develop "a place" where viewers feel information is safe from commercial influence.
The role of journalism should go far beyond simply reporting events. Nowhere has this become more evident than providing direction for youth and student populations. Technology is profoundly re-shaping just about every sector of the economy and the new labor force has yet to catch up.
We feel a journalistic responsibility to help expose students and young people to the careers of the future. Industry and business leaders are eager to share but we must provide a platform for doing so.
A collaboration with both business and educational partners to uncover a wide range of career paths (beyond those commonly known), not only benefits individual students but also contributes to the growth and innovation of the broader economy. Without the limitations of ratings and competitive commercial controls we can be a powerful force of positive social influence, filling a void in many areas.