Resources page

MDDC supports its members through industry representation, resources, career opportunities and more. Read more about our member benefits below. Become a member.

The Journalist’s Guide to Maryland Courts

Media Guide to Covering the Census Bureau

Vaccine Policy Playbook

Members have a strong voice in legislative initiatives affecting the news media. Issues include freedom of information, public notice advertising, and business concerns. We connect members and legislators through events and one-on-one meetings.

Media law experts from Ballard & Spahr advise members on access and other legal issues relating to the news media industry.

Transparency in government is essential to trust in government.



Public records are critical tools to shine light on government and public bodies and provide transparency in the democratic process.  Journalists are among the many requesters of public records. The MDDC Press Association has gathered useful links and information to help requesters navigate this often confusing process.

Best Practices

Based on our work with public records, we feel there are best practices that should be put in place. 

Helpful Links

MDDC has compiled helpful information and resources for each of our member jurisdictions, including an overview of each jurisdiction’s open records and open meetings law, training opportunities, remedies for complaints and press clips. Please click on the link of the jurisdiction of interest.

Maryland

Delaware

District of Columbia

National

Sunshine Week

Members advocate for the public’s right to know, from keeping public notice in newspapers to shining light on public records. MDDC maintains a clearinghouse of online public notices from member papers and FOIA/PIA and Open Meetings actions, as well as press clips.

Professional development opportunities are offered throughout the year, featuring experts in the field. These sessions currently focus on editorial and sales topics online and at convenient locations. 

Members earn regional and national advertising revenue through bulk advertising. Members may sell into all of our networks at a discount, gaining commissions for their sales reps and increasing their reach for their clients. MDDC Advertising Services, a digital and ROP advertising network, places millions in advertising in member newspapers and websites annually.

Annual editorial and advertising contests highlight achievements by news media professionals and publications throughout the MDDC region. MDDC’s Hall of Fame highlights individuals’ contributions to the industry, while the Distinguished Service award focuses on service to the Association. Press passes are now available for members by request. Speakers Bureau presenters are available to address community and business groups.

The Annual Conference, including contest awards, is our signature event. Throughout the year, MDDC hosts subject-specific networking and professional development events as well as webinars on areas of interest.

The Association communicates with members and interested community members through our Weekly Planner (electronic) and Member Directory & Awards publication. Many of our publications are delivered to legislators and media buying agencies.

Members have access to special discounts and revenue-sharing programs. Current programs include discounted libel insurance through Walterry.

The MDDC Press Foundation sponsors a paid internship program for college students who are placed at local member publications as well as the Michael S. Powell High School Journalist of the Year scholarship, a competition open to high school seniors throughout the MDDC region.