Recently the boards of directors of America’s Newspapers and the America’s Newspapers Foundation met in Galveston, Texas, for two days of focused discussion and strategic planning. It’s always impressive to see the dedication of this group of newspaper leaders who volunteer their time to help tackle some of the industry’s most pressing needs and to guide the future of local newspapers. In the weeks ahead, members will hear more about the outcomes of these discussions and the initiatives we’re working to advance.
We met in Galveston for a reason. The America’s Newspapers board president, Leonard Woolsey, serves as president and publisher of The Daily News, the oldest newspaper in Texas. If you haven’t been to Galveston, it’s worth the trip. It’s a coastal island just outside of Houston that is rich with history and culture. It’s a destination vacation spot with beaches, resorts, amazing dining, a busy port and a growing cruise industry. And, it’s also a vibrant, independent community where local businesses thrive — and where the local newspaper still plays a central role.
Several members of the board had the chance to tour The Daily News and spend time with the team. Walking the halls of the newsroom, lined with historical front pages and community awards, was a powerful reminder of what local newspapers represent. The Daily News has a storied past, but what stood out most were the people.
Some members of The Daily News team have been there more than 25 years and others only a few months. But from advertising to editorial to production, what stood out was a shared commitment. They believed in the work. They understood the role they play in the life of the community. Leonard talked about the importance of being a seven-day news organization for Galveston, no matter the format, and the responsibility that comes with being the trusted news source for the area. It was clear the team takes that responsibility seriously every day.
To learn more about The Daily News, check out the video from Leonard at the top of this article.
But the real reminder of the local newspaper’s impact came as we traveled through town. Across Galveston you’ll find newspaper boxes carrying a clear message: Support Your Local Newspaper. And the message is clear. As we visited shops and restaurants, more than one person, upon hearing we were with The Daily News, made a point to say, “We love the paper.” And you could tell they meant it.
You can see something similar happening across the country. In communities large and small, local newspapers are more than just a source of news — they are essential to the health and connection of the places they serve. Readers, and even non-readers, recognize that. They know their communities would be worse off without them.
Local newspapers are the most trusted media for a reason. They are embedded in their communities. They show up when it matters. Seeing it firsthand in Galveston was a great reminder of why the work of America’s Newspapers — and our members — is so important.
We’re proud to represent more than 1,500 local newspapers that, like The Daily News, are committed to serving their communities with integrity, grit and heart. That’s what this industry is about. And that’s what keeps us focused on building a stronger future together.
