www-mddc

Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien named Designer of the Year 2025

Fri, 08 May 2026 18:30:04 GMT

May 8, 2026

A-Mark Foundation for A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism Award 2025

Fri, 08 May 2026 18:30:04 GMT

May 8, 2026

2025 marks the first year MDDC Press Association partnered with the A-Mark Foundation for A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism award for each jurisdiction in Maryland, Delaware and D.C. There were 34 entries across the region. This impressive showing of entries underlines the commitment of the region’s newsrooms to strong investigative reporting. The entries were judged by a panel from the MDDC Press Foundation.

Maryland

Delaware

Washington, D.C.

Nick Stonesifer wins Rookie of the Year

Fri, 08 May 2026 18:30:04 GMT

May 8, 2026

Nominees

James Constantine is Salesperson of the Year for 2025

Fri, 08 May 2026 18:30:04 GMT

May 8, 2026

The Star Democrat has the Best Move of 2025

Fri, 08 May 2026 18:17:28 GMT

May 8, 2026

The Baltimore Beat and Baltimore Fishbowl tie for website of general excellence award

Fri, 08 May 2026 18:15:00 GMT

May 8, 2026

Here’s what the judges said about the first place winners:

MDDC PRESS ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF CONTEST WITH VIDEO ANNOUNCEMENTS

Fri, 08 May 2026 16:25:03 GMT

Reporters, editors and other media professionals gather for conference and awards program remotely and in person

(5/8/26 - Annapolis, MD) – Members and supporters of the Maryland | Delaware | DC Press Association came together this week to highlight news with integrity and excellence in journalism by recognizing the winners of the Contest, which celebrates print and online work completed in 2025 .

The contest, governed by the Association’s Editorial and Advertising Committees, admitted over 1,594 entries among 86 categories . There are six divisions in the contest, which group member publications into categories governed by total audience numbers, combining print and digital readership. One Best in Show award is given in each category across all divisions. These entries were judged by news media professionals at the Florida State Press Association.

There are several top awards given across all divisions to the publication. These include the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for demonstrating use of public information act requests in its reporting, Courage in Journalism, honors acts of courage in journalism and strength in adversity while uncovering truth, and Best Moves, which highlights the most important thing MDDC member organizations did in 2025. The contest also honors top personnel in design and sales and honors new journalists. Members of the MDDC Press Foundation board of directors and journalism academics judged the top awards and the video audience voted on the Best Moves. New for 2025 was the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism, which provides first, second and third place cash prizes for work in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia. The capstone award, one per division, is News Organization of the Year.

The Banner won the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for a wide-ranging portfolio of substantive projects that used public records in reporting. From investigations into child deaths from abuse and neglect to reporting on public officials’ use of Google Chat that auto deletes messages after 24 hours, Banner reporters were persistent in their pursuit of public records. Their groundbreaking investigation into the public transit times endured by Baltimore City’s schoolchildren was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. The award is named for Jim Keat, a retired editor and foreign correspondent for the Baltimore Sun, who was a long-time advocate for public information access. Keat is also a member of the MDDC Newspaper Hall of Fame. Read more .

The Star Democrat was awarded the Best Move of 2025 for its new daily emailed newsletter which combined strong data analytics and local content to create a useful product with clear revenue gains. The winner was determined by audience vote. Read more .

The Association recognized a new journalist with the Rookie of the Year award. This award honors a new journalist with less than 18 months' experience in the field. Six nominations were received from five member publications. Nick Stonesifer of Spotlight Delaware is the 2025 Rookie of the Year for his “well researched, well written and important work” teamed with a drive and determination to use public records in his reporting. Read more .

Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien won Designer of the Year , which honors a body of work over the contest cycle. O’Brien’s portfolio of work was noteworthy for her “impressive submission of imaginative and creative design with sophisticated use of white space that allows for typographic hierarchy. The variety of typefaces, font sizes, typeface weights, and colors contribute to the hierarchy while the page designs feel unified.” Read more .

The Baltimore Beat (baltimorebeat.com) and Baltimore Fishbowl (baltimorefishbowl.com) share Best of Show for MDDC’s Website of General Excellence category, which honors a news organization’s ability to connect with readers through social media and engagement, and local news coverage. The judges noted “Baltimore Beat stands out with bold, hyper-local links that are interesting and useful.” “Baltimore Fishbowl’s presentation offers a wonderful array of information with attractive, user-friendly design.” The award was judged by journalism instructors at Loyola University of Maryland. Read more.

The News Organization of the Year awards represent the best publication in each division. These awards are chosen based on the points accumulated for first and second prizes in each category. The Baltimore Banner won the award in Division A; The Frederick News-Post was named News Organization of the Year for Division B; and Catholic Review won in Division C. Baltimore Beat and Spotlight Delaware shared the award in Division D; Coastal Point was named News Organization of the Year for Division E; and Morning Star Publications won in Division F.

For a full listing of winners and their award-winning work, view our presentation episodes at https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRxzvJD4IXLBvNkmcUfFUogmBCw35XKUa&si=EAww-G0KFMx6V67w

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The Maryland | Delaware | DC Press Association is a vibrant, influential association representing over 100 member news media organizations in our region. We believe a strong news media is central to a strong and open society. We help our members succeed through advocacy efforts, revenue generation, professional development and industry recognition. Learn more at www.mddcpress.com .

The Banner wins James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2025

Fri, 08 May 2026 16:06:35 GMT

MDDC Staff

Nominees

Maryland Enacts First-in-the-Nation Local News for Maryland Communities Act

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:13:21 GMT

Congratulations to our 2025 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 01:14:43 GMT

March 27, 2026

The judges have made their decisions! Congratulations to the winners of the MDDC Press Association 2025 Contest. These winners represent the best work of the region in editorial, revenue and design categories. Over 1600 entries were submitted in over 80 categories. We will announce the winners for first and second place in our awards broadcast (premiered through Zoom) throughout the week of May 4th. Best of Show winners (one per category) will be announced at our Annual Conference on May 8th in Annapolis.

MDDC will hold its annual conference and awards lunch on Friday May 8th from 9 am – 2:30 pm at the Doubletree Annapolis hotel. Join colleagues and industry experts for two sets of panels and discussions on topics of interest, speed networking in our new “Mixing Bowl” session, and the presentation of Best of Show awards during a festive Mexican buffet lunch.

(First and second place awards will be announced in our pre-conference video drops during the week of May 4th.)

Are you an award winner? Help us showcase your work by making sure we have your latest headshot, correct title and spelling of your name, and social handles. This information will also be used in our new directory we are releasing this year. Click here to complete the form .

Division A

The Baltimore Banner

Stokely Baksh
Sapna Bansil
Giacomo Bologna
Liz Bowie
Jessica Calefati
Meredith Cohn
Céilí Doyle
Events Staff
Ashanti Fortson
Jessica Gallagher
Kristen Griffith
Rick Hutzell
Jerry Jackson
Sahana Jayaraman
KT Kanazawich
Barney Kirby
Andy Kostka
Wesley Lapointe
Ryan Little
Paul Mancano
Alex Mann
Hallie Miller
Greg Morton
Ulysses Muñoz
Kaitlin Newman
Glenford Nunez
Emily Opilo
Tim Prudente
Lillian Reed
Anna Rubenstein
Lee O. Sanderlin
Dylan Segelbaum
Krishna Sharma
Staff
Leslie Gray Streeter
Jasmine Vaugh-Hall
Allan James Vestal
Sarah Walton
John-John Williams IV
Adam Willis
Ariel Zambelich
Alissa Zhu

The Baltimore Sun

Jeff Barker
Dan Belson
Ruben Castaneda
Karl Merton Ferron
Lloyd Fox
Karl Hille
Ela Jalil
Todd Karpovich
Andy Knobel
Kenneth K. Lam
Jean Marbella
Mary Carole McCauley
Lorraine Mirabella
Abigail Olear
Jonathan M. Pitts
Chevall Pryce
Tracie Rawson
Kevin Richardson
Staff
Armstrong Williams
Katharine Wilson

The News Journal

Shane Brennan
Benjamin Chambers
Delaware Online/The News Journal staff
Martin Frank
Ginger Garrison
Krys'tal Griffin
Brandon Holveck
Stephanie Lindholm
Esteban Parra
Peter Pietrangelo
Kelly Powers
Staff
Luis Solano
Patricia Talorico
Také Uda
Xerxes Wilson

Division B

Cape Gazette

Kevin Conlon
Dan Cook
Chris Flood
Ron MacArthur
Mallery Galaska
Ellen McIntyre
Aaron R. Mushrush
Jim Parterson
Nick Roth
Bill Shull
Abby Workman

Cumberland Times

Steve Bittner
Cumberland Times-News Staff
Mark Harris
Chip Minemyer
John Smith
Times-News Staff

The Daily Record

Patrick Brannan
Sloane Brown
Kay Kron
MBRT Staff
Kate Malone
Staff

The Frederick News-Post

Cameron Adams
Erik Anderson
Marwa Barakat
Samantha Bangh
James Constantine
Graham Cullen
Cliff Cumber
Alexander Dacy
Ric Dugan
Esther Frances
Rocco Geppi
Noelle Hallman
Brittney Hamilton
Connie Hastings
Ceoli Jacoby
Erin Jones
Anna Joyce
Lauren LaRocca
Gabrielle Lewis
Kate McDermott
Shelby Maly
Ryan Marshall
Jack Murphy
Joseph Peterson
James Rada Jr.
Andrew Schotz
Staff
Greg Swatek
Nolan Wilkinson
Geordie Wilson
Susan Writer
Katina Zentz

The Herald-Mail

Julie E. Greene
Daniel Kauffman

Washington Business Journal

Nate Doughty
Ben Peters
Daniel J. Sernovitz

Division C

Baltimore Fishbowl

Nicole Allen
Jack Barker
Eddy Calkins
Marcus Dieterle
Charlie Dunn
Len Foxwell
Ed Gunts
Charlie Herrick
Maggie Jones
Julie Kichline
Karuga Koinange
Matt McCarney
Nathan McConarty
Joe Mesa
Karen Nitkin
Dan Rodricks
Staff
Aliza Worthington

Capital-Gazette (The Annapolis)

Katherine Fominykh
Michael Howes
Anthony Maluso
Benjamin Rothstein
Eric Smith
Maggie Trovato
Katharine Wilson

Carroll County Times

Jeffrey F. Bill
Lily Carey
Brian Krista
Anthony Maluso
April Santana

Catholic Review

Christopher Gunty
George Matysek Jr.
Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien
Kevin J. Parks
Staff

Daily State News

Jamie Bobbitt
Jessica Cook
Gary Emeigh
Mike Finney
Angi Hicks
Beth Skinner
Andy Walter
Andrew West

Daily Times

Olivia Minzola
Lauren Roberts

Maryland Matters

Danielle J. Brown
Christine Condon
William J. Ford
Josh Kurtz
Bryan P. Sears

Division D

Baltimore Beat

Devin Allen
Jocelyn Dombroski
MacKenzie River Foy
Grace Hebron
Logan Hullinger
Eze Jackson
Sanya Kamidi
Jonathan Keen
Fabian Perez
Bry Reed
E. Brady Robinson
Faith Spicer
Staff
Christian Thomas

Baltimore Jewish Times

Ebony Brown
Braden Hamelin
Lonna Koblick

Bay Journal

Karl Blankenship
Jeremy Cox
Lauren Hines-Acosta
Whitney Pipkin
Tim Sayles
Staff
Timothy B. Wheeler

Bethesda Today

Ashlyn Campbell
Elia Griffin
Louis Peck
Max Schaeffer

Cecil Whig

Jane Bellmyer
Carl Hamilton
Patrick LaPorte

Southern Maryland News

Riley Dauber
Megan Johnson
Marty Madden

Spotlight Delaware

Karl Baker
Tim Carlin
Editorial Staff
Brianna Hill
Elsa Kegelman
Julia Merola
Jacob Owens
José Ignacio Castañeda Perez
Maggie Reynolds
Mike Smith
Nick Stonesifer
David Stradley
Staff
Angela Reives

The Star Democrat

Ahmad Garnett
Biff Haufe
Konner Metz
Meredith Moore
Jennifer Quinn
Eli Wohlenhaus
Lily Tierney
Eli Wohlenhaus

Townson Times

Craig Clary

Washington Jewish Week

Zoe Bell
Aaron Troodler
Frank Wagner

Division E

Baltimore Brew

Christian Arias
Jennifer Bishop
Dante Davidson-Swinton
Amy Davis
Becky Kling Feldman
Madelein O’Neill
Keondra Prier
Mark Reutter
Dan Rodricks
Fern Shen
Carson Ward

Business Monthly

George Berkheimer
Mark R. Smith
Pantea Tofangchi
Catherine White
Jason Whong

Caroline Review

Connie Connolly
Kennedy Thomason

Coastal Point

Chris Aube
Susan Canfora
Taryn King
Shaun M. Lambert
Karin Magill
Darin McCann
Staff
Mike Stern
Jillian Stohr
Cian Titus
Laura Walter

OC Today -Dispatch

Marc Emond
Tara Fisher
Brian Shane

Washington Informer (The)

Denise Rolark Barnes
Elizabeth Booker
K Golden
Jada Ingleton
Ja’Mon Jackson
Ra-Jah Kelly
Skylar Nelson
Dan Olds
DeMarco Rush
Staff
Washington Informer Team

Division F

Aegis

Matt Hubbard
Brian Krista
Taylor Lyons
Brendan Nordstrom

Afro-American (The)

AFRO Editorial Staff
Dr. Frances Murphy (Toni) Draper
Ashleigh Fields
Diane Hocker
Lenora Howze
Matthew McDonald
Tashi McQueen
Victoria Mejicanos
Dana Peck
Kevin Peck
Megan Sayles
Alexis Taylor
Chrissy Thornton

Baltimore Business Journal

Baltimore Business Journal Staff
Garrett Dvorkin
Matt Hooke
Joe Ilardi
Alex Mason
Jacqueline Prins
Melody Simmons
Morgan Simpson

Bay Times /Record Observer

Hannah Combs
Andrea Grabenstein

Capital News Service

Jack Bowman
CNS-TV News Staff
Eddy Calkins
Capital News Service
Sophia da Silva
Lillian Glaros
Adam Hudacek
Molecule Jongwilai
Andrew McBride
Rachel McCrea
Cat Murphy
Haley Parsley
Peter Riccio
Ruby Siefken
Staff
Tolu Talabi
The Howard Center for Investigative Journalism
Jade Tran
Emma Tufo
Zion Willians
Ben Wolf

Delaware Business Times

Jennifer Antonik
Katie Tabeling

Howard County Times

Jeffrey F. Bill
Kiersten Hacker
April Santana
Molly Fellin Spence
Jacob Steinberg

Kent County News

Will Bontrager
Hannah Combs

Laurel Star / Seaford Star

Chris Elliott
Tede Griffith
Carol Kinsley
Mike McClure
Brittany Passon
Lynn Schofer
Star, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce
Star Staff
Carson Williamson

Independent Journalists

Mark Hyman
Madeline O’Neill
Suzanne Pollak

Six journalism students selected for MDDC Internships

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:38:36 GMT

Six journalism students have been selected as newsroom interns for the summer of 2026 through MDDC’s Reese Cleghorn Internship program. Funding for these internships was made possible the Delaplaine Foundation, the Goldseker Foundation and The Nutting Family Foundation, Baltimore Fishbowl, Baltimore Brew, and many individual donors to MDDC

The interns were selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. The intern selection committee, comprised of Andrea McDaniels of The Baltimore Banner, Ann LoLordo, Diana Sugg freelance journalist, Molly Fellin Spence of The Baltimore Sun, Kamau High of The Capital Gazette, Sam Davis of the Baltimore Sun and Tom Ferraro reviewed more than thirty initial applications, which included a personal essay, published clips and educational and professional references. The committee narrowed the field and conducted a panel interview with each candidate. Each intern will be treated as a professional working journalist at his or her host newsroom, with the expectation of generating 35-40 published clips and real-world experience during their 8-week paid internship. As part of the program, interns participate in a one-day briefing on how to get the most out of the internship. MDDC will also hold its popular “Into the Newsroom” series, which brings together reporters, freelancers and interns from MDDC member organizations for skill building training sessions. Interns will also be partnered with mentors, who will offer guidance outside the newsroom and coaches who will focus on writing skills.

The interns are (in alphabetical order): Marijke Friedman University of Maryland; Andrew Hall , Morgan State University; Evelyn Lucado , Washington College; Oliver Mack , University of Maryland; Nicole Pilsbury, University of Maryland; Theodore Rose , University of Maryland.

Congratulations to MDDC’s interns! Interested in becoming an intern in 2027? The application period is open from October to November. Read more about the program here . The Reese Cleghorn internship program is part of the MDDC Press Foundation, which is funded in part through donations from private individuals. Learn more or make a tax-deductible gift to the Foundation .

Sunshine Week 2026

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:27:28 GMT

We are featuring amazing examples of investigative journalism by our news media members that demonstrate the ideals of Sunshine Week in action! Sunshine Week is a nonpartisan collaboration among groups in the journalism, civic, education, government and private sectors that shines a light on the importance of public records and open government.

This year’s efforts are coordinated by Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications. And supported by John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and thrive with a growing list of partners.

Sunshine Week is about the public’s right to know what its government is doing, and why.

Recent investigative and transparency reporting from MDDC members

During Sunshine Week, MDDC will feature important investigative pieces that show the power of local reporting and transparency in our communities. Please tag your own work with #SunshineWeek2026 to be part of the conversation.

Josh Investigates – Josh Shannon – Newark Post (The)

Inmates share medical records to prove alleged BCDC H.pylori outbreak – Alexis Taylor- Afro American (The)

The housing hustle igniting a foreclosure crisis in Baltimore – Hallie Mikker, Giacomo Bologna, Shahanna Jayaraman – Baltimore Banner (The)

Thousands say they were sexually abused in Maryland juvenile detention centers. – Madeleine O’Neill – Baltimore Beat

Maryland’s public employee union quietly loses $1 million in “phishing scam” – Mark Reutter – Baltimore Brew

Health care’s heavyweight showdown – Matt Hooke, Craig M. Douglas – Baltimore Business Journal

Rehoboth using AI to track license plates, Rehoboth issues AI camera report, etc. – Chris Flood – Cape Gazette

Off the Rails – The Howard Center for Investigative Journalism – Capital News Service

‘Ticking time bombs’ – Coal ash pits pepper the Bay watershed – Timothy B. Wheeler, Whitney Pipkin – Bay Journal

He admitted ‘filthy’ chats with a teen. Cumberland made him police chief . – Madeleine O’Neill

Federal filing by ‘shadowy’ group trolling Moore leaves questions unanswered – Bryan P. Sears – Maryland Matters

Toddler tram death linked to equipment problems, probe finds – Bethany Hooper – OC Today-Dispatch

https://spotlightdelaware.org/2025/06/12/wilmington-lobbied-biden-camp-to-bring-presidential-library-to-the-city/ – Brianna Hill, Karl Barker – Spotlight Delaware

Visit Harford nonprofit reportedly spent thousands on parties, gifts, alcohol – Matt Hubbard – Aegis

Intentional hole cut in Fort Detrick lab suit – Ceoli Jacoby, Marwa Baraka – Frederick News-Post (The)

Hundreds of Delaware teachers found working on expired licenses – Kelly Powers, Esteban Parra – News Journal (The)

Student Press Freedom Day is this Thursday, February 26th

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:17:52 GMT

This Thursday is the ninth annual Student Press Freedom Day , a national moment to amplify student journalists in your community and to stand up for their free press rights.

Amid escalating censorship, intimidation and legal threats, student journalists are rising to the occasion. Across the country, they’ll be educating their peers about press freedom through op-eds, on-campus events and more.

Here are some ways you can stand with them:

1) Share on social media: Tell your followers why student journalism is so important to democracy. And if you were a student journalist, share what it meant to you! Be sure to use #StudentPressFreedom, and you’re welcome to tag the Student Press Law Center.

2) Report on local student journalists: Whether it’s a news story about what they’re doing for Student Press Freedom Day or a feature story on their challenges and successes, this is an opportunity to spotlight the essential work they’re doing at high schools and/or colleges near you. Here are seven things to know to aid your reporting.

3) Write an editorial or column: Explain to your audience why it is important to protect and support student voices through journalism, and to train the next generation of truth tellers. This toolkit has some ideas to help.

4) Republish this free-to-use story: The Student Press Law Center and other organizations have partnered to launch the Student Press Report, an editorially independent news desk to cover college journalism. Out this week, the first story is an in-depth look at the state of college journalism . You are welcome to republish this story and photos with credit ( details here ).

Of course, you can take these steps to amplify student journalism any time of the year!

The Student Press Law Center , which organizes the Day each year, is the nation’s only legal organization devoted to defending and advancing the free press rights of student journalists. If SPLC can be helpful this week or any time, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Josh Moore at jmoore@splc.org .

MDDC Supports Inspector General Access to Records

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:14:39 GMT

The Maryland–Delaware–District of Columbia Press Association (MDDC) represents local news organizations serving communities across our region. Our members rely on clear and consistent access to public information to inform residents about how government operates and how public resources are used.

We are concerned by recent actions affecting the ability of local Inspectors General to obtain unredacted government records necessary to perform their duties. While this issue has emerged in Baltimore City and Montgomery County, the implications extend beyond any one jurisdiction.

Inspectors General are established by local law to identify fraud, waste, abuse, and misconduct in government operations. Access to financial records, personnel records, and other internal documentation is central to that responsibility. When access is restricted or delayed, the oversight process itself is weakened.

This is not simply an internal dispute between agencies and oversight offices. It directly affects the public’s ability to understand how government functions and how taxpayer dollars are spent. Inspector General investigations frequently surface information that would not otherwise come to light. Their reports provide residents, elected officials, and the news media with independent insight into government operations.

It is important to recognize that Inspectors General operate within clear confidentiality boundaries. They are legally obligated to protect sensitive information and do not publicly disclose personnel files, medical information, or confidential financial data. Public reports describe findings and systemic issues without naming individuals, vendors, or contractors under scrutiny. The process is designed to balance oversight with discretion.

If Inspectors General are denied access to the records necessary to determine whether there is cause to investigate a complaint, that balance is disrupted. Oversight cannot function effectively without access, and transparency is diminished as a result.

Maryland’s Public Information Act was enacted to promote transparency and accountability. Clarifying the law to ensure that Inspectors General retain appropriate access to government records—while maintaining existing confidentiality protections—would reinforce that purpose.

We urge the General Assembly to address this issue promptly and ensure that local Inspectors General can carry out their legally mandated responsibilities. Strong oversight supports effective governance, strengthens public confidence, and upholds the public’s right to know.

We believe a strong news media is central to a strong and open society.

What PR Needs to Know About Local News Media in 2026

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:05:28 GMT

The relationship between public relations and local news has always required care, trust, and clarity. In 2026, that relationship matters more than ever.

Local newsrooms are operating with fewer resources, tighter timelines, and growing responsibility to the communities they serve. At the same time, PR professionals are navigating a crowded information environment where visibility is harder to earn and credibility is easier to lose.

Episode 153 of Five Dubs , the MDDC Press Association podcast, brought those realities into focus. In a wide-ranging conversation with editors from Baltimore Fishbowl , The Daily Record , and The Afro , one message came through clearly: strong PR–media relationships are built on understanding how local news actually works today—not how we wish it worked.

Here’s what PR professionals should know heading into 2026.

Local News Has Less Time — Not Lower Standards

Shrinking newsrooms are not a new story. But the implications are often misunderstood.

Editors and reporters are covering more beats with fewer people. That means there is less time for follow-ups, rewrites, and clarification. What it does not mean is that standards have changed.

Verification still matters. Relevance still matters. Accuracy still matters.

For PR professionals, this means:

Lead with the most important facts, clearly and early
Explain why the information matters to a specific audience
Make sourcing transparent and easy to verify

A clear, well-focused pitch respects a newsroom’s time and increases the chance that a story will be considered on its merits.

One Media Landscape, Many Missions

One of the strongest takeaways from Episode 153 is that “local media” is not a single thing.

Each outlet represented serves a distinct audience:

Baltimore Fishbowl balances lifestyle and hard news for a growing regional readership
The Daily Record focuses on business, legal, and government coverage statewide
The Afro centers Black communities, with deep reporting on culture, policy, faith, and local impact

The same announcement may be relevant to all three—but not for the same reason.

Effective PR in 2026 means shaping pitches to fit the outlet’s mission, audience, and coverage priorities. Generic outreach is easy to spot and easy to dismiss. Thoughtful framing signals respect and preparation.

Relationships Matter More Than Distribution

Mass distribution tools are everywhere. Trusted relationships are not.

Editors emphasized that familiarity and reliability make a difference. Knowing what an outlet covers, understanding who handles which beats, and offering useful information—before you need coverage—builds credibility over time.

PR professionals who act as informed colleagues rather than transactional messengers are more likely to be remembered when a relevant story breaks.

This is not about exclusivity. It’s about consistency, accuracy, and mutual respect.

AI Is in the Workflow — Judgment Is Not

Artificial intelligence is already part of newsroom operations, supporting tasks like transcription, research, and workflow efficiency. But editorial judgment remains human.

Editors are still responsible for deciding:

Which stories serve their communities
Which sources are credible
How information is framed and contextualized

AI-generated pitches that sound polished but lack substance are easy to spot. What stands out instead is real expertise, local knowledge, and accountability.

In 2026, trust is still built person to person—even when tools are involved.

Embargoes and Timing Matter

One practical point that resonated across the panel: timing can make or break a story .

Embargoed information, when used appropriately, helps small newsrooms plan coverage and prepare thoughtful reporting. Last-minute requests—especially for non-breaking stories—are harder to accommodate.

On the flip side, reporters often operate on tight deadlines when news is breaking. Understanding that pressure works both ways strengthens collaboration.

Good PR anticipates newsroom realities rather than reacting to them.

Not Every Story Is Daily News — And That’s Okay

A recurring theme was the importance of matching stories to the right format.

Not every announcement is suited for daily editorial coverage. That doesn’t mean it lacks value.

Editors discussed multiple paths for visibility:

Feature stories tied to broader trends
Special sections and editorial calendars
Honorifics and recognition programs
Sponsored content when appropriate

Understanding these options—and being open to them—helps organizations reach audiences without forcing a story into the wrong frame.

Community Voices Are Still Underrepresented

Across outlets, editors agreed: the most underreported voices are often the people most affected by policies and programs.

Announcements about funding, initiatives, or leadership changes are stronger when paired with:

Voices from the community
People doing the day-to-day work
Individuals directly impacted

PR professionals can play a critical role by helping newsrooms connect with those voices—not just institutional spokespeople.

This approach doesn’t dilute a message. It strengthens it.

Underreported Stories Still Need Help Surfacing

Editors also pointed to gaps in coverage that PR can help address:

Local economic development beyond major institutions
Emerging industries and small business ecosystems
Regional stories outside major population centers
New and diverse expert voices

Surfacing these stories requires context, patience, and an understanding of how they fit into a newsroom’s existing coverage.

What This Means for PR in 2026

The future of PR and local news is not adversarial. It is interdependent.

Strong earned media outcomes come from:

Clear, fact-based communication
Respect for editorial independence
Alignment with audience needs
Long-term relationship building

In a fragmented media environment, credibility remains the most valuable currency.

Local news organizations are not just content distributors. They are community institutions. PR professionals who understand that—and work within it—will be better positioned to tell meaningful stories in 2026 and beyond.

When Access to Information Shrinks, Communities Pay the Price

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:45:58 GMT

January 30, 2026

It rarely starts with a headline-grabbing showdown.

More often, it looks like small frictions that most people never see: a reporter is suddenly barred from a public building they’ve covered for years. A records request that used to take weeks now takes months. A newsroom has to spend money on legal help instead of reporting. A source hesitates to speak—because they’re not sure what could happen next.

Individually, those moments can sound technical. Taken together, they add up to something communities feel: less trustworthy local news and information, less clarity about what government is doing, and fewer answers when it matters most.

That was the focus of a recent Five Dubs conversation between MDDC Executive Director Rebecca Snyder and media attorney Max Mishkin (Ballard Spahr), who helps staff MDDC’s pro bono legal hotline. Their discussion was wide-ranging, but the throughline was simple: when it becomes harder to gather and share verified information, the public loses out. (The interview also included Max’s note that his firm represents the Associated Press in related litigation; he spoke in his personal capacity.)

A Series of Signals

Over the past year, journalists have watched several developments unfold at once. There have been federal searches involving reporters. Press access at the Pentagon and the White House has narrowed. Public media has been defunded at the federal level. Public records systems have slowed or weakened. Government-funded news outlets have faced new pressure over editorial decisions.

Any one of these developments might be explained away as temporary or situational. Mishkin cautioned against viewing them in isolation. When access, transparency, and legal protections are all strained at the same time, the impact compounds.

For journalists, that means more obstacles to doing routine work. For the public, it means fewer opportunities to understand how decisions are being made and why they matter.

This isn’t a “press problem.” It’s an information problem.

When people hear about disputes over access at the White House or Pentagon, it can sound like an inside-baseball Washington story. But the effects don’t stay in Washington.

Mishkin put it plainly: when you make it harder for reporters to do routine newsgathering, you end up with a less reliably informed public—and that has real consequences for everyday life.

That’s because local news and information doesn’t just summarize what happened. It adds what the internet often doesn’t:

Context (what this decision means in real life)
Verification (what’s true, what’s rumor, what’s missing)
Accountability (who decided, who benefits, who’s responsible)

Those are the building blocks of trust—and they’re hard to produce when access is reduced, records are delayed, or legal threats escalate.

Access isn’t a perk. It’s how accurate reporting happens.

Some public institutions allow credentialed reporters to work on-site—not to make them “insiders,” but because proximity enables accuracy.

Mishkin discussed how the Pentagon press corps has responsibly reported from inside the building for decades, including in moments of crisis. When access is abruptly narrowed, the practical result is predictable: more reporting based on official statements, fewer opportunities to observe directly, and less ability to ask questions in real time.

That matters because the strongest reporting often comes from persistent, on-the-ground coverage—especially when the story is complicated, fast-moving, or high-stakes.

When public media is weakened, gaps widen fast.

One of the clearest community impacts discussed in the episode: public media.

In major metro areas, people can often find multiple sources of local news and information. In many parts of the country, that’s not true. Public radio and public television stations frequently serve as the most consistent source of:

emergency alerts
school and local government coverage
public health updates
regional reporting that commercial outlets no longer staff

When public media funding is threatened or reduced, it doesn’t just mean “less programming.” In some places, it can mean no reliable local source at all —especially for people who can’t afford multiple subscriptions or who live in communities with limited coverage.

Records delayed can mean accountability denied.

Public records laws exist so residents can understand what the government is doing. But in practice, most people don’t have the time to chase requests, interpret complex documents, and translate them into usable information.

That’s where local newsrooms step in.

Mishkin noted that journalists generally don’t have “special rights” under the First Amendment that other members of the public don’t—yet in some records processes (like FOIA), journalists can receive different treatment in specific ways (like fee waivers, expedited processing, and attorney-fee recovery in litigation). Those provisions exist for a reason: getting verified information to the public quickly is a public benefit.

When records systems slow down, consolidate, or quietly deprioritize requests, the impact is cumulative:

fewer documents obtained
fewer investigations completed
fewer clear answers for residents

And because local newsrooms often work with tight budgets, delays and fees can stop accountability reporting before it starts.

Legal pressure changes what gets covered—even when nothing is “censored.”

Not all constraints look like a ban.

Mishkin explained how subpoenas, searches, and defamation lawsuits shape newsroom decisions behind the scenes. Even when a newsroom ultimately wins a legal fight, the cost is real: money and time spent on legal defense is money and time not spent on reporting.

One of the most important points from the conversation: self-censorship is hard to measure . When reporters worry that certain coverage could cost them access, funding, or trigger legal retaliation, stories can get softened—or dropped. The public never sees what didn’t run, so it’s hard to “prove” what was lost. But the community still feels the effect over time: thinner coverage, fewer watchdog stories, and less confidence in what’s true.

“Safety” is often used as the justification. Here’s what gets missed.

A recurring theme in public debates is that restrictions are about safety or security.

Mishkin challenged the idea that responsible reporting is inherently a safety risk. Journalists regularly make judgment calls about what to publish and what to hold, especially around sensitive matters. More importantly, cutting off access can reduce the reporting that helps communities understand waste, failures, or risks inside major institutions—information that can protect both public dollars and public safety.

In other words: reducing trustworthy information doesn’t automatically make communities safer. It can do the opposite—by limiting scrutiny and weakening early warning systems.

What you can do: small actions that strengthen trustworthy local information

This doesn’t require being a media expert. It starts with a simple commitment: choose verified local news and information as part of your routine.

Here are practical ways to help keep reliable reporting strong and available when it matters most:

Subscribe to at least one local source you trust (even if you also read national outlets).
Share reporting that helps neighbors make decisions —especially around schools, safety, local government, and community resources.
Support state-level policies that reduce legal “noise” designed to intimidate (for example, strong anti-SLAPP protections and reporter shield laws).
If you value public media, say so. In many communities, it’s a core source of trustworthy local information.

And if you’re able: consider contributing to efforts that expand access to reporting for everyone, not just those who can pay.

When access to information shrinks, the public doesn’t just get fewer headlines.

We get fewer verified answers about decisions that shape our schools, our safety, our taxes, and our rights. We get less transparency, less accountability, and more room for rumor to fill the gaps.

Local news and information is not about “protecting an industry.” It’s about making sure our communities can see clearly, make informed decisions, and solve problems with shared facts. That’s worth sustaining—quietly, consistently, and together.

Listen to the full podcast here .

Want to support Five Dubs and local reporting in our region? Subscribe, share an episode with a neighbor, and consider donating to the MDDC Press Foundation (501(c)(3)).

2026 MDDC Annual Conference Sponsorships Open

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 04:40:40 GMT

January 13, 2026

The 2026 MDDC Annual Conference returns to Annapolis on May 8, 2026, uniting hundreds of journalists, advertisers, and decision-makers from across the region. Explore sponsorship packages to elevate your brand and champion a strong, independent press.

MDDC Press Association Condemns FBI Search of Washington Post Reporter’s Home

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:12:38 GMT

January 14, 2026 – The MDDC Press Association strongly condemns the FBI’s search of the home of Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson—an extraordinary and deeply troubling action that threatens press freedom and the public’s right to know.

Searches of journalists’ homes are exceedingly rare for good reason. While government investigations into unauthorized disclosures are not uncommon, Natanson is neither accused of a crime nor identified as a target of the FBI’s investigation. Federal and state laws, along with long-standing Department of Justice policies, are explicitly designed to protect journalists and their sources from precisely this kind of intrusion.

This action represents yet another step in a sustained erosion of press freedoms—one that fosters fear, intimidation, and harassment of journalists whose role is to inform the public and hold power to account. It bears repeating: in the United States, it is not a crime for journalists to obtain or publish classified information. As Bruce D. Brown, president of the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, aptly stated, the search of Natanson’s home constitutes “a tremendous escalation in the administration’s intrusions into the independence of the press.”

Washington Post Executive Editor Matt Murray rightly characterized the search as an “extraordinary, aggressive action,” reaffirming the institution’s “long history of zealous support for robust press freedoms” and its unwavering commitment to that work.

The implications of this raid extend far beyond a single reporter or newsroom. When law enforcement crosses this line, it sends a chilling message to journalists everywhere and undermines the constitutional protections that safeguard a free and independent press. Such actions ultimately harm the public interest by discouraging investigative reporting and weakening transparency in government.

The MDDC Press Association calls on federal authorities to respect both the letter and the spirit of press freedom protections and to reaffirm their commitment to the First Amendment. A free press is not an obstacle to democracy—it is essential to its survival.

MDDC champions local news media organizations and advocates for press freedom. We stand with journalists and advocate for freedom of the press, ethical standards, and the rights of media professionals to do their work without fear, harassment or violence.

CFINR Opens 2025 Journalism Awards Submissions

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:23:38 GMT

The Center for Integrity in News Reporting is now accepting entries for its annual journalism awards recognizing objective and impartial reporting published in 2025. The program includes six $25,000 cash prizes—now featuring a new Investigative Reporting category—and there are no entry fees. Journalists and editors may submit work directly.

CPB Announces Plans to Dissolve After 58 Years

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:20:14 GMT

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting has announced that its board of directors voted to dissolve the organization after 58 years of stewarding the federal government’s investment in public media. The decision marks a significant moment for public broadcasting and the broader news ecosystem it has long supported. Read more about the announcement and its implications.

Former MDDC Intern Earns Morgan State Honor

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:15:21 GMT

Congratulations to Tavon Thomasson, a former MDDC intern at the AFRO, who has graduated from Morgan State University and received the President’s Award for Exceptional Creative Achievement. We’re proud to celebrate Tavon’s accomplishment and the continued success of emerging journalists in our region. Read more about Tavon’s achievement.

MDDC Contest is Open

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 03:30:21 GMT

January 13, 2026

The MDDC Contest recognizes excellence in news media organizations of Maryland, Delaware and DC. Contest categories focus on editorial, design and revenue, plus special awards for standout personnel, Freedom of Information coverage, Courage in Journalism, Best Moves, and News Organization of the Year.

New this year is the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism, with cash prizes of up to $15K per jurisdiction. Deadline for contest entry is 1/31.

The Laurel Independent is Seeking a Part-Time Managing Editor

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 03:31:59 GMT

December 22, 2025

Responsibilities: The managing editor, the top editorial staff position at The Laurel Independent, works closely with an associate editor and volunteers to put together our monthly print edition and contribute to our web content. This position is home-office based and part-time with flexible hours, but requires some weekend and evening availability.

The managing editor is responsible for connecting story ideas with writers and photographers, editing copy as it comes in, monitoring beats, and attending city events as needed. This person must be able to contribute editorial content, recruit and manage volunteer staffing, and ensure that content conforms to house style and standards.

In 2026, The Laurel Independent will generally be published on the Tuesday prior to the first of the month. The managing editor must be available to edit three print drafts the weekend before publication, which arrive between Saturday midday and Sunday evening.

Qualifications:
– Demonstrated accomplishment as a writer/journalist and/or editor
– Excellent writing and copy-editing skills
– Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to lead a diverse staff
– A flexible schedule and understanding of the news cycle
– Residence in Laurel or a neighboring community in Prince George’s County
– Baccalaureate degree (B.A./B.S.)

Base pay is $22,000 per year; we have a smaller opening for a contractor that could be combined with this position for the right candidate.

Send cover letter, resume, and two writing samples to kit@streetcarsuburbs.news by Jan. 15th.

The Maryland Daily Record/BridgeTower Media is Seeking an Editor

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 03:46:29 GMT

August 22, 2025

The Maryland Daily Record is seeking an Editor with strong newsroom leadership skills and a proven track record of success. The ideal candidate will have experience managing a successful team through establishing a strong editorial vision and creating deep connections in the business, government and legal community we serve. The Daily Record provides its readers with digital first news as well as a daily print edition and a robust social presence. Leadership experience in each of these areas is essential.

This is a hybrid role, the team is in the Baltimore office Tuesday and Thursday and works remotely the other days. This role must be active in the community attending events, and networking opportunities as necessary.

The Maryland Daily Record/Bridge Tower Media is Seeking a Legal Reporter

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 03:43:41 GMT

August 22, 2025

The Maryland Daily Record/Bridge Tower Media is seeking an experienced, digitally savvy Legal Reporter to primarily focus on appellate court coverage, who can develop strong content for our professional audience. The Daily Record provides its readers with digital first news as well as a daily print edition and a robust social presence.

This is a hybrid role, the team is in the Baltimore office Tuesday and Thursday and works remotely the other days. The role attends Daily Record events as well as key industry events. Read more.

The Maryland Daily Record/BridgeTower Media is Seeking a Government Affairs Reporter

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 03:40:22 GMT

August 22, 2025

The Maryland Daily Record/BridgeTower Media is seeking an experienced, digitally savvy Government Affairs Reporter who can work with a strong team to create quality journalism.

Duties + Responsibilities:

Understanding of the legislative process and ability to create connection with key leaders, advocates and business professionals to report essential Government Affairs news and information to Maryland’s business and legal professionals.
Provide robust coverage of the 90-day legislative session from January to mid-April and expanded coverage throughout the year.
Serve as an emcee / moderator of legislative panels, live interviews and Daily Record events as needed.
Develop strong sources and connections in the legislative and business community to strengthen content and reach.
Develop ideas for strong news stories, written in unique and engaging ways to increase readership and paid subscribers. Manage your workflow and timeline to ensure the content is delivered on time, complete and accurate.
Research stories and prepare interview questions as required.

Morning Star Publications is Hiring

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 03:48:55 GMT

June 13, 2025

Morning Star Publications is looking to add to its award-winning team, which publishes the Seaford and Laurel Star newspapers and the Business Report magazine. We are accepting applications for the following positions: full-time ad rep, part-time ad designer, and freelance news and sports writer. Please send resumes to mmcclure@mspublications.com .

Baltimore Sun is Expanding Its Newsroom

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 03:51:35 GMT

June 9, 2025

The Baltimore Sun is expanding its newsroom and looking for talented journalists to join their team. They’re currently hiring for the following positions:

Sports Columnist
Bureau Chiefs (Baltimore City and Maryland Counties)
Audience Engagement Director
Senior Editor, Emerging News
Assistant Editors
News Editors

Be a part of their legacy newsroom committed to impactful local journalism. Read More .

Resumes can also be sent to careers@baltsun.com .

The Baltimore Banner wins website of general excellence award

Fri, 09 May 2025 23:58:25 GMT

May 9, 2025

Here’s what the judges said about the first place winners

Division A winner – Baltimore Banner

Also Overall Winner

Division B winner – Frederick News Post

Good local coverage with a solid design and clean, open layout. Sections like the one highlighting local social media trend were attention-grabbing and build community engagement. The mobile version is even easier to read and sort through, and the social media highlights locally-focused journalism with simple, attractive posts.

Division C winner – Baltimore Fishbowl

Good local coverage with a nice balance of news and cultural reporting, and editorials by voices that are known and trusted in the community. The organization is logical and the categorizations help the user. The headlines and sub-headlines are nicely done.

Division F winner – Capital News Service

The clean and modern is easy to navigate with an alternating vertical and horizontal presentation that breaks up the page well. There is a nice mix of categories and coverage. Each article has 1-2 category headings that help the reader use the material well.

The Baltimore Banner staff honored with Courage in Journalism award 2024

Fri, 09 May 2025 23:51:51 GMT

May 9, 2025

A free press cannot be swept aside or silenced. This award honors acts of courage in journalism and strength in adversity while uncovering truth. The Courage in Journalism Award was established in memory of those killed at the Capital Gazette in Annapolis in 2018 and in honor of those who survived. Nominations included examples of the work as well as a summary letter describing the situation — the adversity faced and the actions taken by a journalist or news company to push forward — and the effect the work had.

Fentanyl deaths are a grimly familiar tragedy in U.S. cities, but The Baltimore Banner approached the crisis with rare depth and persistence.

Rejecting the notion that the deaths were inevitable, the nonprofit newsroom spent over two years—and more than $500,000—investigating. It fought a legal battle to obtain public records, collaborated with The New York Times’s Local Investigations Fellowship, and partnered with other local outlets to share its data nationwide.

The reporting team faced immense obstacles. Many sources were unhoused or battling addiction, and maintaining contact was exhausting. Reporters Alissa Zhu and Jessica Gallagher immersed themselves in affected neighborhoods, even witnessing an overdose. Gallagher waited hours in fast food parking lots, often overnight, hoping to meet elusive sources.

City officials resisted at every step—stonewalling interviews, canceling hearings, and accusing reporters of being industry plants. But the stories had real impact: days after a treatment provider was exposed, regulators moved to shut it down. The facility has since ceased operations and its housing is now under investigation.

The articles dissected the roots of the crisis and pointed to possible solutions. Most importantly, they gave voice to a neglected community. One grieving mother, after reading, said, “Thanks for letting us heal.”

Click here to read the nomination letter from The Baltimore Banner.

The Baltimore Banner wins James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2024

Fri, 09 May 2025 23:48:18 GMT

May 9, 2025

Lauren Hines Acosta wins Rookie of the Year

Fri, 09 May 2025 05:09:52 GMT

May 9, 2025

Nominees

Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien named Designer of the Year 2024

Fri, 09 May 2025 04:50:53 GMT

May 9, 2025

MDDC Press Association Announces Winners Of Contest With Video Announcements

Fri, 09 May 2025 04:47:21 GMT

May 9, 2025

Reporters, editors and other media professionals gather for conference and awards program remotely and in person

(5/9/25 – Annapolis, MD) – Members and supporters of the Maryland | Delaware | DC Press Association came together this week to highlight news with integrity and excellence in journalism by recognizing the winners of the Contest, which celebrates print and online work completed in 2024 .

The contest, governed by the Association’s Editorial and Advertising Committees, admitted over 1,620 entries among 86 categories . There are six divisions in the contest, which group member publications into categories governed by total audience numbers, combining print and digital readership. One Best in Show award is given in each category across all divisions. These entries were judged by news media professionals at the Washington State Press Association.

There are several top awards given across all divisions to the publication. These include the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for demonstrating use of public information act requests in its reporting, Courage in Journalism, honors acts of courage in journalism and strength in adversity while uncovering truth, and Best Moves, which highlights the most important thing MDDC member organizations did in 2024. The contest also honors top personnel in design and sales and honors new journalists. Members of the MDDC Press Foundation board of directors and journalism academics judged the top awards and the video audience voted on the Best Moves. The capstone award, one per division, is News Organization of the Year.

The Baltimore Banner won the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for a wide-ranging portfolio of substantive projects that used public records in reporting. From deaths at the Harford County Detention Center to an investigation at Howard Community College, to ghost guns in Baltimore city and a coverage of the Key Bridge, Banner reporters were persistent in their pursuit of public records. The work has been impactful, leading to the release of more information and stronger explanations for the public. The award is named for Jim Keat, a retired editor and foreign correspondent for the Baltimore Sun, who was a long-time advocate for public information access. Keat is also a member of the MDDC Newspaper Hall of Fame. Read more.

The Baltimore Banner won the Courage in Journalism award for a comprehensive series on opioid deaths in Baltimore City. The newsroom spent over two years—and more than $500,000—investigating. It fought a legal battle to obtain public records, collaborated with The New York Times’s Local Investigations Fellowship, and partnered with other local outlets to share its data nationwide. The reporting team faced immense obstacles in the investigation from difficulty in maintaining contact with sources, many of whom were unhoused or battling addiction and stonewalling from city officials. A free press cannot be swept aside or silenced. This award honors acts of courage in journalism and strength in adversity while uncovering truth. The Courage in Journalism Award was established in memory of those killed at the Capital Gazette in Annapolis in 2018 and in honor of those who survived. Read more.

The Baltimore Banner was awarded the Best Move of 2024 for its addition of obituaries and paid death notices to its website. The winner was determined by audience vote. Read more.

The Association recognized a new journalist with the Rookie of the Year award. This award honors a new journalist with less than 18 months’ experience in the field. Six nominations were received from five member publications. Lauren Hines Acosta of The Bay Journal is the 2024 Rookie of the Year for her “compelling writing about large and complex topics” teamed with excellent photo and video skills. Read more.

Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien won Designer of the Year , which honors a body of work over the contest cycle. O’Brien’s portfolio of work was noteworthy for “beautiful editorial spreads, which include good use of portraits and action shots. Her designs are organized well for reading but also highlight visual elements, with sophisticated use of negative space. The hierarchy is easy to read and creates user-friendly navigation.” Read more.

The Baltimore Banner won Website of General Excellence , which honors a news organization’s ability to connect with readers through social media and engagement, and local news coverage. The judges noted the clear and intuitive design hierarchy and the use of color to create an easily navigable site. The award was judged by journalism instructors at Loyola University of Maryland. Read more .

The News Organization of the Year awards represent the best publication in each division. These awards are chosen based on the points accumulated for first and second prizes in each category. The Baltimore Banner won the award in Division A; The Frederick News-Post was named News Organization of the Year for Division B; and Catholic Review won in Division C. Bethesda Today won the award in Division D; Coastal Point was named News Organization of the Year for Division E; and Laurel Star won in Division F.

For a full listing of winners and their award-winning work, view our presentation episodes at https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRxzvJD4IXLBuwfV8j7yyBXJ9-aEmM1X5&si=LR4rR3ieSDIwqbXa

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Congratulations to our 2024 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

Sun, 04 May 2025 00:09:35 GMT

April 4, 2025

The judges have made their decisions! Congratulations to the winners of the MDDC Press Association 2024 Contest. These winners represent the best work of the region in editorial, revenue and design categories. Over 1600 entries were submitted in over 80 categories. We will announce the winners for first and second place in our awards broadcast (premiered through Zoom) throughout the week of May 5th. Best of Show winners (one per category) will be announced at our Annual Conference on May 9th in Annapolis.

MDDC will hold its annual conference and awards lunch on Friday May 9 from 9 am – 2:30 pm at the Doubletree Annapolis hotel. Join colleagues and industry experts for two sets of panels and discussions on topics of interest, speed networking in our new “Mixing Bowl” session, and the presentation of Best of Show awards during a festive Mexican buffet lunch.

(First and second place awards will be announced in our pre-conference video drops during the week of April 29th.)

Are you an award winner? Help us showcase your work by making sure we have your latest headshot, correct title and spelling of your name, and social handles. Click here to complete the form.

Division A

The Baltimore Banner

Ramsey Archibald
Stokely Baksh
Giacomo Bologna
Liz Bowie
Jessica Calefati
Meredith Cohn
Ben Conarck
Kylie Cooper
Justin Fenton
Alex Fine
Clara Longo de Freitas
Jessica Gallagher
Matti Gellman
Kyle Goon
Rick Hutzell
Jerry Jackson
Rona Kobell
Andy Kostka
Delphine Lee
Ryan Little
Tramon Lucas
Paul Mancano
Laila Milevski
Ulysses Muñoz
Kaitlin Newman
Julie Scharper
Dylan Segelbaum
Krishna Sharma
Brenna Smith
Banner Staff
The Baltimore Banner Events Staff
Leslie Gray Streeter
Nick Thieme
Christina Tkacik
Jasmine Vaughn-Hall
Katrina Ventura
Adam Willis
Brenda Wintrode
Ariel Zambelich
Daniel Zawodny
Alissa Zhu

The Baltimore Sun

Jeff Barker
Sam Cohn
Amy Davis
Baltimore Sun Editorial Board
Baltimore Sun Staff
Karl Ferron
Lloyd Fox
Kim Hairston
Jerry Jackson
Sam Janesch
Annie Jennemann
Kevin Kallaugher
Kenneth Lam
Alex Mann
Jean Marbella
Lorraine Mirabella
Mary Carole McCauley
Dan Rodricks
Kevin Richardson
Matt Weyrich

The News Journal

Regan Apo
Michael Babin
Benjamin Chambers
Damian Giletto
Ginger Garrison
Krys’tal Griffin
Brandon Holveck
Isabel Hughes
Matthew Korfhage
Brigitte Mckinney
Olivia Montes
Amy Newton
Peter Pietrangelo
Kelly Powers
Christine Sipos
Luis Solano
Kevin Tresolini
Ariana Torrey
Xerxes Wilson

The Washington Post

Lateshia Beachum
Emily Davies
Paul Duggan
Jenny Gathright
Marisa Iati
Marissa Lang
Dan Morse
Danny Nguyen
Jenna Portnoy
Salvador Rizzo
Ellie Silverman
Staff
Rachel Weiner

Division B

Cape Gazette

Kevin Conlon
Dan Cook
Chris Flood
Mallery Galaska
Ron MacArthur
Eric Reiske
Nick Roth
Bill Shull
Abby Workman
John Yeatman, Jr.

Cumberland Times

Andrew Creelman
Teresa McMinn
Chip Minemyer
Alex Rychwalski
Mike Sawyers

The Capital

Jeffrey Bill
Katherine Fominykh
Paul Gillespie
Anthony Maluso
Luke Parker
Bill Wagner
Staff

The Daily Record

Brian Compere
Jack Hogan
Thomas Baden Jr
Patrick Brannan
Sloane Brown
Stella Edwards
Jack Hogan
Hope Keller
Rachel Konieczny
Kay Kron
Kathleen Malone
Angelyn Nye
Madeleine O’Neill
Ian Round
Staff

The Frederick News-Post

Cameron Adams
Erik Anderson
Jillian Atelsek
Samantha Bangh
Isabella Carrero-Baptista
James Constantine
Graham Cullen
Alexander Dacy
Dawn Dayhoff
Advertising Department
Ric Dugan
Esther Frances
Gina Gallucci-White
Bill Green
Noelle Hallman
Brittney Hamilton
Connie Hastings
Ceoli Jacoby
Erin Jones
Gabrielle Lewis
Ryan Marshall
Kate McDermott
Clara Niel
Joseph Peterson
Michael Santos
Andrew Schotz
Josh Smith
Katina Zentz

The Herald-Mail

Sasha Allen
Tamela Baker
Michelle Horton
Cori Marx
Lori McNeil
Dwight A. Weingarten
Katie Wiedlich

Washington Business Journal

Dan Brendel
Sara Gilgore
Abdullah Konte
Caitlin Lyons
Ana Lucía Murillo
Jacqueline Prins
Carolyn Proctor
Daniel Sernovitz

Division C

Baltimore Fishbowl

Nicole Allen
Rafael Alvarez
Nathan McConarty
Adam DeRose
Marcus Dieterle
Baltimore Fishbowl
Jalynn Harris
Charlie Herrick
Karuga Koinange
Joel McCord
Marian McCusker
David Nitkin
Karen Nitkin
Julie Sawyer
Tolu Talabi
Walinda West
Aliza Worthington

Carroll County Times

Brian Krista
Jeffrey Bill
Tim Dashiell
Nathan McConarty
Brian Krista
Anthony Maluso
Molly Fellin Spence

Daily State News

Logan Anderson
Craig Anderson
Jamie Bobbitt
Jessica Cook
Heather Cregar
Joy Ferrio
Brian Gilliland
Sharon Harvey
Angi Hicks
Jenny Keim
Tom Maglio
Debra Messick
Karen Riggin
Glenn Rolfe
Staff
Andy Walter
Laura Walter
Andrew West
Elle Wood

Maryland Matters

Danielle Brown
William Ford
Josh Kurtz
Bryan Sears

The Catholic Review

Rita Buettner
Lisa Harlow
Christopher Gunty
George P. Matysek Jr.
Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien
Kevin J. Parks
Staff

The Daily Times

Olivia Minzola
Laura Roberts

Division D

Baltimore Jewish Times

Ebony Brown
Jillian Diamond
Editorial Board
Lonna Koblick
Beth VanderStoep

Bay Journal

Karl Blankenship
Jeremy Cox
Dave Harp
Lara Lutz
Timothy B. Wheeler

Bethesda Today

Ginny Bixby
Ashlyn Campbell
Elia Griffin

Caroline Review

Connie Connolly

Cecil Whig

Jane Bellmyer
Carl Hamilton
Patrick LaPorte

Southern Maryland News

Ted Black
Marty Madden
Mike Reid
Matt Wynn
Jesse Yeatman

The Aegis

Jeffrey Bill
Matt Hubbard
Brian Krista
Anthony Maluso
Brennan Stewart

The Star Democrat

William Hauffe
Tom McCall
Maggie Trovato
Wendy Weitzel

Washington Jewish Week

Zoe Bell
Braden Hamelin
Rabbi Michael Safra
Lisa Traiger
Aaron Troodler
Frank Wagner

Division E

Baltimore Brew

Marty Katz
David Plymyer
Mark Reutter
Peder Schaefer
Fern Shen

Business Monthly

George Berkheimer
The Business Monthly Staff
Susan Kim
Mark R. Smith
Pantea Tofangchi
Catherine White
Jason Whong

Coastal Point

Chris Aube
Coastal Point staff
Shaun Lambert
Kerin Magill
Darin McCann
Mike Stern
Cian Titus

Delaware Business Times

Jennifer Antonik
Katie Tabeling

Howard County Times

Jeffrey Bill
Kiersten Hacker
Karen Jackson
Brian Krista
Jacob Steinberg

The Washington Informer

Denise Rolark Barnes
Kayla Benjamin
Stacy Brown
Ron Burke
Sam P.K. Collins
Jarrin Davis
Micha Green
Hamil Harris
Jada Ingleton
Ra-Jah Kelly
Shevry Lassiter
Dan Olds
Brenda Siler
Lindiwe Vilakazi

Division F

Baltimore Business Journal

Baltimore Business Journal staff
Garrett Dvorkin
Matt Hooke
Joe Ilardi
Margaret Lynn
Jacqueline Prins
Stephanie Redding
Melody Simmons
Morgan Simpson
Joanna Sullivan
Ben Terzi

Capital News Service Wire

Daranee Balachandar
Jenna Bloom
Alisha Camacho
Andrea Durán
CNS-TV News Staff
Capital News Service Audience Engagement Bureau
Local News Network Staff
Sydney Nauman
Ricky Podgorski
Dylan Shulman
Nathan Schwartz
Molly Szymanski
The Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism, The Howard Center for Investigative Journalism
Freddy Wolfe

Kent County News

Will Bontrager

Laurel Star

Karen Cherrix
Chris Elliott
Greg English
Tede Griffith
Casey Johnson
Carol Kinsley
Laurel Star staff
Mike McClure
Brittany Passon
Star editorial staff
Star Staff
Tony Windsor

Seaford Star

Rebecca Jones
Lynn Schofer

The Afro American

Mekhi Abbott
Helen Bezuneh
Aria Brent
Erixka Alston Buck
Denise Dorsey
Frances Draper
James Fields
Angela G. Galeano
Ariyana Griffin
Diane Hocker
Lenora Howze
Dayvon Love
Kevin McNeir
Tashi McQueen
Dana Peck
Benjamin Phillip
Megan Sayles
Alexis Taylor
Kofi Tyus

The Avenue News

Demetrius Dillard

The Dundalk Eagle

Olivia Barry
Demetrius Dillard

The Newark Post

Jon Buzby
Josh Shannon

Independent Journalists

Karl Baker
Jacob Baumgart
Deb Belt
Larry Deal
Thomas Ferraro
Brianna Hill
Mark Hyman
Jose Ignacio Castaneda Perez
Julia Merola
Madeleine O’Neill
Jacob Owens
Suzanne Pollak
Michael Smith
Nick Stonesifer
Spotlight Delaware Staff

BridgeTower Media is seeking an Editor

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 04:57:40 GMT

April 25, 2025

The Daily Record (Maryland) is seeking an Editor who will be responsible for not only managing the editorial vision and employees for their brand(s) but also for serving as a leader for the brand in the local business community.

This is a hybrid role and is required to report into the Baltimore office on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Duties + Responsibilities:

Working with other leaders to develop the editorial vision for the brand(s), including identifying key beats, building the special products calendar, setting story quantity expectations, and more.
Working closely with the Managing Director and Content Lead to grow revenue opportunities by creating new products, collaborating on niche products, and expanding content.
Working with editors, reporters and digital operations to use BTM best practices to grow online readership and engagement.
Managing all editorial employees for the brand(s) – directly or indirectly – to ensure deadlines are met and story quality and quantity expectations are satisfied or surpassed.
Hiring, training and mentoring editorial employees.
Manage freelance expenses to budget while ensuring that brand’s content needs are met across print, digital, niche and event publications.
Select the honorees for all Power Lists based on discussion with editorial employees and suggestions from community members. Follow all BTM best practices for managing the Power List process.
Ensure all special products are produced to BTM standards by either leading their production directly or working with the special products team.
Support the events process as needed by helping to develop summit themes, brainstorm speakers, select honorees, write/edit scripts, review videos, etc. leading up to events.
Serve as emcee and network with attendees the day of events.
Moderate and help to select panelists, as needed, for webinars and panel discussions.
Regularly attend key business events in the community to build connections and demonstrate the brand’s attention to the local business community.
Regularly meet with key business leaders in person and/or virtually to develop mutually beneficial relationships and expand the brand’s network.
Providing support to sales staff as needed to assist them in making pitches to potential advertisers without compromising editorial integrity.
Manage the publication of community-submitted content such as columns, op-eds, letters to the editor, etc.
Respond to feedback/criticism/suggestions from the community in a timely manner.
Miscellaneous tasks and duties, as assigned.

Skills + Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or relevant work experience; law degree desired but not required
4+ years of experience in the news industry with editing, writing and reporting experience
Knowledge of legal news coverage and local legal community
AP Stylebook knowledge
Strong computer skills and digital news management- including but not limited to: Word, Microsoft Excel, WordPress, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Reader and Acrobat, and internet research skills
Excellent organizational skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Reliable transportation and ability to commute to office in Baltimore two times per week on Tuesdays and Thursdays
Reliable home internet connection with a minimum 50mbps up/10mbps down

What does BridgeTower Media offer?

A competitive benefits package that includes health, vision, dental plus robust supplementary options.
Company paid Life, AD&D Insurance & Short and Long-Term Disability coverages
Health Savings Account with employer contribution
24-hour TeleMedicine and TeleCounseling Services
Employee Assistance Program
Paid Leave Program
Unlimited PTO
Sick Time
Summer Weekend Jumpstart Hours**
Over 10 holidays paid
Tuition Assistance Program
401K with a company match
Growth opportunities to build your career
Learning & Development programs

**As long as business needs are met*

About BridgeTower Media

BridgeTower Media is a leading business intelligence, marketing and event platform providing authoritative content and expert analysis through its 40+ B2B media and research brands. More than 4.4 million business decision-makers rely on BridgeTower Media for timely information and expert insights to grow their businesses. These deep and trusted first-party customer relationships power tailored insights for business executives and precision audience targeting for omnichannel marketing solutions. BridgeTower Media also celebrates professional and organizational success through 200+ events and its Best Companies Group. BridgeTower Media is a Transom Capital portfolio company. For more information, please visit www.bridgetowermedia.com .

BridgeTower Media and all subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers and value diversity in our workplace.

BridgeTower Media is seeking an Multimedia Account Executive

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 04:54:45 GMT

April 25, 2025

BridgeTower Media is hiring a motivated, results-oriented Multimedia Sales Executive (Multimedia/Advertising) to join The Maryland Daily Record team. The role manages an existing book of business in addition to cultivating new business. For more than 130 years, The Daily Record has been dedicated to covering business, legal and legislative news across the state of Maryland.

This is a hybrid position which works in the office located in Baltimore two days a week and attends networking events and client meetings, as necessary.

What skills does the job require?

1-3 years of successful sales experience with a proven track record of reaching monthly sales goals.
Strong consultative sales acumen
Advertising or marketing experience. Print and Digital sales experience is a plus.
A proven track record in developing new business and building strong relationships with existing business to grow the book of business.
Excellent verbal, written and face-to-face communications skills.
Strong teamwork ethic.
Experience using a CRM system, strong in excel and word.
Reliable home internet connection with minimum 50mbps up/10mbps down
The right candidate should be able to get to attend events in Central Maryland and at The Daily Record office as needed.

What will you be Responsible for?

Meet and exceed sales goals by maintaining and growing a book of business.
Client relationship building with existing key accounts and developing new accounts.
Manage assigned accounts and grow revenue.
Prospecting, growing, and forecasting business.
Attend networking events to build clients and promote The Daily Record / BTM brand.
Perform research on clients and competitors, trend analysis.
Create compelling proposals and presentations.
Traffic digital and print ads and event collaterals from the client to ensure they appear correcting in all marketing.
Excellent at multitasking multiple projects and deadlines and manage concurrent projects.

What does BridgeTower Media offer?

A competitive benefits package that includes health, vision, dental plus robust supplementary options.
Company paid Life, AD&D Insurance & Short and Long-Term Disability coverages
Health Savings Account with employer contribution
24-hour TeleMedicine and TeleCounseling Services
Employee Assistance Program
Paid Leave Program
Unlimited PTO
Sick Time
Summer Weekend Jumpstart Hours**
Over 10 holidays paid
Tuition Assistance Program
401K with a company match
Growth opportunities to build your career
Learning & Development programs

**As long as business needs are met*

About BridgeTower Media

BridgeTower Media and all subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers and value diversity in our workplace.

Sell gift subscriptions this holiday season

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 00:52:53 GMT

December 1, 2021

A recent Relevant Point advocated spirited campaigns to help newspapers sell gift subscriptions this holiday season. Thanks to Metro Creative Graphics, The Relevance Project offers a new promotion as a shopping starter or stocking stuffer.

See the attachment: SHOP LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY. AND…SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM.

Sunshine Week 2025

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:26:01 GMT

March 14, 2025

This year’s efforts are coordinated by Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communication s. And supported by John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and thrive with a growing list of partners.

Sunshine Week is about the public’s right to know what its government is doing, and why.

Recent investigative and transparency reporting from MDDC members

A place for ‘men of means’ – Jack Hogan – The Daily Record
Nestled in the Western Maryland woodlands and accessible only by a winding, mile-long gravel driveway is a hunting lodge that has served as a rural escape for generations of “men of means.”
More than half a billion opioid pills in 14 years: How prescriptions contributed to a crisis in Baltimore – Madeleine O’Neill
More than half a billion opioid pills permeated the Baltimore area between 2006 and 2019 as pharmaceutical companies targeted doctors with aggressive marketing campaigns, underplayed their products’ addictiveness and failed to block suspiciously large orders of painkillers, according to a trove of court records made public as part of the city’s lawsuit against some of America’s top drug companies.
Baltimore police sent expired misconduct cases to city civilian oversight body, meaning officer discipline was impossible – Darcy Costello – The Baltimore Sun
The Baltimore Police Department has sent at least eight and perhaps as many as 20 expired misconduct cases to the civilian oversight body that renders disciplinary decisions, records obtained by The Baltimore Sun show.
Baltimore’s Overdose Crisis – Alissa Zhu, Jessica Gallagher and Nick Thieme- The Baltimore Banner
Almost 6,000 dead in 6 years: How Baltimore became the U.S. overdose capital
People in Baltimore have been dying of overdoses at a rate never before seen in a major American city.
They entered treatment. Drugs, overdoses and deaths followed .
Amanda Vlakos had been living for years in rat-infested abandoned buildings in Baltimore, fighting an addiction to opioids, when she learned of a possible escape: a drug-treatment program that offered patients free housing.
Black women speak on motherhood during Black Maternal Health Week – Alexis Taylor – AFROCristina Easton was 34 when she found out she miscarried her very first child.
The first issue? She never even knew she was pregnant.
Carroll County’s transgender policies clash with Maryland Department of Education guidelines – Daranee Balachandar, Shaela Foster and Dylan Jaffe – Capital News Service
In Carroll County, schools are required to notify parents if a student wishes to change their pronouns or otherwise identify as a gender other than the one they were assigned at birth, according to guidelines published by Carroll County Public Schools (CCPS).
City worker details her allegations against Markham: ‘You don’t get on your knees for me,’ former mayor told her – Josh Shannon – The Newark Post
The last straw came in mid-August when a city employee was in a colleague’s office, kneeling at a table to fill out a receipt form.
Disarray in firefighting ranks leaked – Matt Wynn – Southern Maryland News
A scathing internal report on the mishandling of a recent fire in Waldorf was leaked to the media, saying that it is a “miracle” that firefighters have not been seriously injured or killed in Charles County.
Downtown office vacancy rate to soar after major employer’s exit – Melody Simmons – Baltimore Business Journal
The already ailing central business district has an office vacancy rate of 22.4%. Read more about what JLL predicts will happen in the coming months.
Emails: Rehoboth board raised Tedder pay after losing prospects – Jacob Owens – Spotlight Delaware
When Rehoboth Beach’s then-city manager resigned from his post last year, Commissioner Patrick Gossett said the news left him “devastated.”
Emails: Wilmington PD pressed city to cancel police accountability rally – Brianna Hill – Spotlight Delaware
Four days before activists were set to hold an event in Wilmington highlighting police violence, a local detective from the city’s Real Time Crime Center sent an email to other city officials alerting them to the gathering.
Fatal crashes prompt scrutiny of police pursuits, alarm Maryland AG – Cassidy Jensen – The Baltimore Sun
On a Sunday in early April, Dimeka Thornton told relatives that if death came for her that day or the next, she was spiritually ready. She knew her heart was with God.
Gore-Tex maker polluted some Marylanders’ drinking water with ‘forever chemicals,’ officials say. The question is how many . – Christine Condon – The Baltimore Sun
The maker of the renowned Gore-Tex waterproofing for outdoor gear polluted groundwater near two of its plants in Northeastern Maryland with a hazardous “forever chemical,” according to the Maryland Department of the Environment.
As Maryland investigates PFAS pollution, W.L. Gore transitions outdoor clothing to new material
In 2014, W.L. Gore & Associates stopped using a harmful chemical called PFOA in the technology it makes for waterproofing raincoats, hiking boots and other gear.
Home improvement scams plague region – Melissa Steele – Cape Gazette
After paying nearly $100,000 for a new deck and landscaping and never hearing from the contractor again, Angola resident Betty Barney said she soon learned dozens of other homeowners in the area had similar experiences.
How a ‘climate of chaos’ went unchecked at Maryland’s max-security psych hospital – Katie Mettler – The Washington Post
Tension had been building inside Maryland’s maximum-security psychiatric hospital when the news began to circulate among employees: Scott Moran, their CEO, had been banished from the facility.
How crumbling buildings, improper practices caused a Dover nonprofit to lose federal money – Amanda Fries – The News Journal
A Delaware nonprofit that provides emergency shelter and services to the homeless is in jeopardy of losing public funding amid a myriad of problems including deteriorating buildings, understaffing and asking clients to perform jobs without pay.
Indicted Anne Arundel register of wills’ financial history shows more than $30K in contract claims, eviction, records show – Luke Parker – The Capital
Since 2003, Erica Griswold, Anne Arundel’s register of wills indicted Friday for theft, has accrued $30K worth of contract violations, court records show.
Law firm hired by city after DPW worker’s death represents companies seeking to weaken national workplace heat standard – Fern Shen – Baltimore Brew
The D.C. law firm that Mayor Brandon Scott hired to investigate safety practices after a sanitation worker died of heat stroke specializes in representing companies involved in mining, oil and gas, chemical manufacturing and other areas as they try to avoid running afoul of workplace safety laws.
Living shorelines gain ground around the Chesapeake Bay but face hurdles – Timothy B. Wheeler – Bay Journal
When a 2-foot chunk of shoreline washed away from their waterfront property in Portsmouth, VA, the Berners decided it was time to prevent further erosion at their home of 15 years.
More than 15 foreign priests could be forced to leave archdiocese after recent visa law changes – Lisa Harlow – The Catholic Review
Unless a recent change in U.S. visa law is reversed, more than 15 priests from other countries who now serve in the Archdiocese of Baltimore may be forced to go home – uprooting their ministries and leaving parishes, schools and Catholic institutions scrambling.
On the inside: Rehabilitation programs key in successful reentry and anti-recidivism efforts – D. Kevin McNeir – AFRO
On a warm August night, several dozen citizens from the Greater Washington Area, mostly African-American men, gather at the Busboys and Poets in the Southeast D.C. community of Anacostia. The topic of discussion: the ongoing challenges facing the formerly incarcerated and the need for more programs that support their successful reentry into society.
Opioid grants mostly funded prevention, but also raised questions – Nick Stonesifer
Last year, 527 people died from an overdose in Delaware.
And while that total marked a small year-over-year decrease for the first time in a decade, it’s still one of the highest number of deaths on record in Delaware. That sparked a sense of urgency to get millions of dollars from a new fund to support organizations on the front line.
Prior to arrest of school therapist, local children’s hospital staff had raised concerns – Isabel Hughes – The News Journal
Months before a Brandywine School District therapist was arrested on charges of raping a child, a parent and employees at Nemours Children’s Hospital raised concerns to district officials about the man, according to interviews and documents obtained by Delaware Online/The News Journal.
SAFE AT HOME?: Cambridge’s Bradford House management keeps changing but problems persist – Maggie Trovato – The Star Democrat
When Linda Johnson moved to the Bradford House Apartments in May 2000, things were different.
‘Stop traffic on the Bay Bridge right now’: Inside a ship’s steering issue and a rare bridge closure – Hayes Gardner – The Baltimore Sun
As a ship approaching the Chesapeake Bay Bridge experienced a steering problem last month, audio recently obtained by The Baltimore Sun shows that its pilot urgently requested that the Maryland Transportation Authority halt vehicle traffic on the span to avoid the remote possibility of a tragedy similar to the one that killed six people on the Francis Scott Key Bridge this spring .
Suicides at Harford County Detention Center – Ben Conarck – The Baltimore Banner
Why is the suicide rate so high at this Maryland jail?
Behind security gates and heavy metal doors atthe Harford County Detention Center, messages of despair are scrawled on the cell walls.
System failure: How a man killed himself on suicide watch in the Harford County jail
The nurse who was supposed to be watching Tommy Wayne Pardew on a video monitor was on her third day of employment, still in orientation.
Survey: Delaware schools face 1K+ repair needs – Julia Merola
As Delaware begins to grapple with how to change funding of public education to improve student support, another major funding hurdle is emerging: deferred maintenance that is piling up at schools statewide.
The former firefighter and the soon-to-be Congressman – Mark Reutter and David Plymyer – Baltimore Brew
The Baltimore County Council is set tonight to authorize $200,000 more in legal fees – on top of $350,000 already allocated – to handle a Public Information Act lawsuit seeking information about a secret payment made by the Johnny Olszewski administration to a retired firefighter.
The new Big Ten is resulting in sharply higher carbon emissions – Shaun Chornobroff – Capital News Service Wire
Carbon dioxide emissions from Big Ten football team travel for regular-season conference games more than tripled in 2024 compared to 2023 after after the addition of a quartet of West Coast schools, a Capital News Service analysis found.
They left Maryland for Mecca. They didn’t all make it home . – Staff – The Washington Post
Even before Nemata Kamara set foot on a plane bound for Saudi Arabia, she started to see a pattern of broken promises from the tour operators she trusted to get her from Maryland to Mecca.
This Delaware child care center failed to report abuse concerns. What happened next? – Kelly Powers and Amanda Fries – The News Journal
Samantha Dello Buono watched a happy toddler splashing in front of her, not quite 2 years old, when her eyes returned to the soft skin of his inner arms. Already a mom of two, she hesitated. Toddlers will be toddlers, she cautioned, as her son looked up at her from the water, unable to elaborate.
Uncovering abuse at Greater Grace church – Julie Scharper and Justin Fenton – The Baltimore Banner
The guys drove up to the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains that brisk November day, set up their tents, lugged coolers from the car and started a fire. That was one thing they had learned in the church — how to work together, heads down, focusing on the shared task.

Judges needed for Catholic Media Association

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 04:51:53 GMT

February 20, 2025

The association is looking for people who have some familiarity with the Catholic church, so as to effectively judge the content, but you don’t have to be Catholic. Also, looking for people with journalism experience.

The gig pays nominally – $3.50 per entry, except the student division.

Let Chris Gunty know if you are interested and I will put you in touch with the contest coordinator.

Details below:

All of the details about the programs are below. The following divisions all have a few categories that need coverage. We are especially looking for Spanish speaking judges and those who are comfortable judging reports as well as multimedia entries.

Judges are paid $3.50 per entry. For our student division, we aren’t able to pay judges since students are allowed to enter for free.

Let me know if you have any questions after reviewing the details below.

· All Member : For the Individual Excellence and Digital categories.

· Newspapers : For print or digital work that is published in a member newspaper.

· Magazines and Print Newsletters : For work published in a member magazine or printed newsletter.

· Communications : For Organizational Communications Members to submit work that is separate from any work that appears in a publication.

· Spanish Language : For content created for a Spanish-language member publication.

· Judging Requirements

· Judging Instructions

The judging period will run from Saturday, March 1, to Monday, April 7, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT. In early January, you’ll receive further details, including category preferences, entry counts, and access to the judging portal, which opens March 1. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me. We greatly appreciate your time and expertise.

Six journalism students selected for MDDC Internships

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 04:46:35 GMT

February 20, 2025

Six journalism students have been selected as newsroom interns for the summer of 2025 through MDDC’s Reese Cleghorn Internship program. Funding for these internships was made possible by Betty Osborne, the Delaplaine Foundation , the Goldseker Foundation and The Nutting Family Foundation, and many individual donors to MDDC, including former staffers of the Herald-Mail who contributed to the Jim Schurz Intern Fund.

The interns were selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. The intern selection committee, comprised of Andrea McDaniels of The Baltimore Banner, Ann LoLordo, Tom Linthicum of MDDC Press Foundation, Walter Middlebrook of The Penn State University, Diana Sugg freelance journalist, Robert Long of Gannett, Molly Spence of The Baltimore Sun, and Tom Ferraro reviewed more than thirty initial applications, which included a personal essay, published clips and educational and professional references. The committee narrowed the field and conducted a panel interview with each candidate. Each intern will be treated as a professional working journalist at his or her host newsroom, with the expectation of generating 35-40 published clips and real-world experience during their 8-week paid internship. As part of the program, interns participate in a one-day briefing on how to get the most out of the internship. MDDC will also hold its popular “Into the Newsroom” series, which brings together reporters, freelancers and interns from MDDC member organizations for skill building training sessions. Interns will also be partnered with mentors, who will offer guidance outside the newsroom and coaches who will focus on writing skills.

The interns are (in alphabetical order): Adam Denn Ursinus College; Michael Howes , University of Maryland; Aline Behar Kado , University of Maryland; Kat Mauser , James Madison University; Sofia Montoya-Deck, Hood College; Tavon Thomasson , Morgan State University.

Congratulations to MDDC’s interns! Interested in becoming an intern in 2026? The application period is open from October to November. Read more about the program here . The Reese Cleghorn internship program is part of the MDDC Press Foundation, which is funded in part through donations from private individuals. Learn more or make a tax-deductible gift to the Foundation .

Duke Divinity School is looking to contract for copyediting/factchecking services

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 04:02:56 GMT

February 20, 2025

Duke Divinity School is looking to contract for copyediting and factchecking services for Faith & Leadership, an online magazine published by Duke Divinity School.

Religion knowledge is helpful but not required — mostly we need solid copyediting for six pieces of content that we produce every two weeks.

Feel free to reach out directly if you are interested . Email Sally at hicks@div.duke.edu

Northwestern University’s State of Local News Report 2024

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 04:53:24 GMT

January 10, 2025

We are pleased to share with you our full report on the State of Local News 2024 , published by the Local News Initiative at the Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications at Northwestern University.

Since 2005, the nation has lost more than a third of all local newspapers and more than two are still vanishing every week. For the first time since we began keeping statistics, our 2024 report chronicled a net increase in both standalone and network digital news sites. These gains, however, have not been unable to compensate for the significant losses of disappearing newspapers. This leaves many communities without any source of local news, especially in rural and less affluent areas.

The loss of local news contributes to the spread of misinformation, and research also shows it leads to increased government spending, higher borrowing costs, more corruption and less participation in local elections. In addition to mapping news deserts and studying their effects, the Medill Local News Initiative used predictive modeling to create a Watch List  of counties at high risk of losing local news. We hope this list can help prevent even more counties from becoming news deserts.

For the second consecutive year, the Local News Initiative also profiled a new group of local news “ Bright Spots ,” highlighting outlets around the country that have business models showing promise for a sustainable future.

To learn more about Medill’s State of Local News Project, please visit https://localnewsinitiative.northwestern.edu/projects/state-of-local-news/ . If you have questions or comments about the report, please e-mail us at localnewsinitiative@northwestern.edu .

Please join the students of the University of Maryland’s Merrill College of Journalism for our annual Career Fair on Friday, Oct. 25, from 1 to 4 p.m., in Knight Hall

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 05:01:04 GMT

University of Maryland’s Merrill College of Journalism

September 26, 2024

Employers at journalism and related organizations interested in meeting with students for job opportunities or internships are most welcome. If you are not able to attend in person, but have openings for interns or jobs, feel free to email me the details.

More than 200 experienced student journalists are expected to attend this event. They are well-prepared for a variety of jobs and internships.

This year, for the third time, we are hosting the annual event in the journalism school’s Knight Hall.
This event is also open to University of Maryland students who are not journalism majors.

Logistics :
We provide parking, Wi-Fi, lunch for employers, and event space including desks or tables and chairs in classroom spaces. Participants are invited to come any time after 12:30 p.m. to begin setting up. At this time, masks are generally optional on campus. *If you want a one-on-one space to interview students the morning of the career fair, that can be arranged. Please let me know your time frame.*

Cost :
$50 per organization for one person. $75 for more than one person (2+ people still $75) Payment by Oct. 18 preferred. (Government and university organizations may not have a fee.)

Deadline to register : Friday, Oct. 18, 2024.

Attending ?

Step 1: Let me know the names and email addresses of the folks coming from your organization.

Step 2: Pay here – https://quikpayasp.com/umd/commerce_manager/payer.do?orderType=College_of_Journalism

*It may ask for your email address and send you a security code.

*Enter $50 or $75 in the payment amount.
*You can indicate n/a on the “invoice” field.
*If it says “Capital News Service Wire Subscription,” that’s OK – that’s the link.

Call for Topics and Speakers!

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 05:04:51 GMT

September 19, 2024

The MDDC25 Pitch Desk for our Annual Conference & Celebration invites
MDDC members, journalists, and the public to submit ideas for our annual conference, taking place Friday, May 9 in Annapolis. For details on the submission process, refer to the MDDC25 Pitch Desk Guide .

Important Note:

The MDDC conference is an in-person event. All sessions will be held live in Annapolis, and speakers must attend in person.

Topics of Interest for the Conference:

Newsroom Development
AI & Emerging Technologies
Audience Development
Practical Insights & Tools
Revenue & Sustainability
Keynote

Preferred Formats:

Skill-Building: Interactive sessions offering hands-on learning (3 facilitators max)
Best Practices/Case Studies: Sharing successes, failures, and insights (2 presenters max)
Panels: Expert discussions on complex topics (4-5 presenters max)
Master Classes: Solo talks by experts (2 presenters max)

Congratulations to MDDC’s 2024 Interns!

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 05:33:04 GMT

August 30, 2024

Seven students complete 8-week internship with local news outlets

Across Maryland and DC, seven journalism students have been honing their skills and publishing important stories as part of the Reese Cleghorn Internship program from MDDC. Each year, MDDC hires outstanding student journalists to intern in MDDC member newsrooms each summer. Funding for these internships was made possible by Betty Osborne, the Delaplaine Foundation , the Goldseker Foundation and The Nutting Family Foundation , and many individual donors to MDDC, including former staffers of the Herald-Mail who contributed to the Jim Schurz Intern Fund.

These interns were selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. Interns come from three schools, including the University of Maryland, Morgan State University and Penn State University. Each intern was immersed in their host newsroom and treated as a professional working journalist. Students in the program are expected to generate 20-30 published clips and real-world experience during their 8-week paid internship. As part of the program, interns participate in a one-day briefing on how to get the most out of the internship. MDDC hosted webinars with Best of Show winners from the 2023 contest to provide real-world perspectives on journalism. Those webinars were incorporated into MDDC’s Five Dubs podcast to reach a wider audience. Presenters included Julie Scharper , of the Baltimore Banner for Feature Story, Non-Profile; Alex Mann , of the Baltimore Sun for Feature Story, Profile; Xerxes Wilson , of the News Journal, for First Amendment/Free Speech; and Dwight Weingarten of the News Journal for Investigative Reporting. In addition to the customary newsroom supports, interns were also partnered with mentors, who offered guidance outside the newsroom and coaches who focused on writing skills.

The interns are (in alphabetical order): Sasha Allen University of Maryland, College Park; Angelique Gingras , University of Maryland, College Park; Kiersten Hacker , University of Maryland, College Park; Apurva Mahajan , University of Maryland, College Park; DeMarco Rush, Penn State University; Tierra Stone , Morgan State University; and Natalie Weger , University of Maryland, College Park.

A selection of Sasha’s standout pieces:

A selection of Angel’s standout pieces:

A selection of Kiersten’s standout pieces:

A selection of Apurva’s standout pieces:

A selection of Tierra’s standout pieces:

A selection of Natalie’s standout pieces:

Congratulations to MDDC’s interns! Interested in becoming an intern in 2025? The application period is open from September to November. Read more about the program here .

The Reese Cleghorn internship program is part of the MDDC Press Foundation, which is funded in part through donations from private individuals. Learn more or make a tax-deductible gift to the Foundation .

Mid-Atlantic Media acquires Chesapeake Family Life

Thu, 23 May 2024 05:35:36 GMT

May 23, 2024

Columbia, Md. (May 20, 2024)—Mid-Atlantic Media, LLC announced today that it has expanded its media holdings with the acquisition of the Annapolis, Maryland, Chesapeake Family Life publication.

Chesapeake Family Life, a regional parenting magazine covering Annapolis and its Chesapeake Bay area suburbs, was sold by Jefferson Communications, LLC. and its Owner/Publisher Donna Jefferson. Terms of the deal were not released.

“We are pleased to align Chesapeake Family Life with an award-winning publishing group that will continue to provide expert, local information for parents to help them raise their children. Advertisers and sponsors will have even greater opportunities to reach parents in targeted areas. We are confident that Chesapeake Family Life will be a great addition to the Mid-Atlantic Media family of publications,” Jefferson said.

Mid-Atlantic Media CEO and Publisher Craig Burke said that the acquisition of Chesapeake Family Life is a welcomed addition to the media company’s strategic plans. “We continue to add these parenting publications as they are a nice fit within our media portfolio. We understand the importance of the content as a resource for parents and families. We’ve become quite good at it. This is our fifth (5) parenting publication, and we continue to be enthusiastic about this niche industry. Donna Jefferson has built a terrific business with Chesapeake Family Life, serving this community for 34 years, and we intend to keep it going strong. We look forward to providing valuable content to families in the Chesapeake Bay area,” Burke continued, “and helping our advertisers grow their business.”

Mid-Atlantic Media is a growing media company centered in the Baltimore-Washington, D.C. corridor and greater Philadelphia metropolitan markets, with services that encompass the mid-Atlantic region. Mid-Atlantic Media also publishes Baltimore’s Child, Baltimore Jewish Times, Baltimore Style, Consumer’s Eye Magazine, Frederick’s Child, Home Services Magazine, Montgomery Magazine, Philadelphia Jewish Exponent, Washington Family and Washington Jewish Week. The company—which maintains offices in Columbia, Maryland, in addition to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, also operates a substantial custom media portfolio.

Read the official Press Release

Greg Morton wins Rookie of the Year

Fri, 03 May 2024 04:27:21 GMT

May 3, 2024

Nominees

Clara Longo de Freitas, The Baltimore Banner

Annie Jenneman, The Baltimore Sun

Maggie Trovato, The Star Democrat

Braden Hamelin , Washington Jewish Week

Laila Milevski named Designer of the Year 2023

Fri, 03 May 2024 04:22:28 GMT

May 3, 2024

Here’s what the judges said about the first place winners

Division A

Division B

Division C

Division E

Division F

The Baltimore Banner wins website of general excellence award

Fri, 03 May 2024 04:18:56 GMT

May 3, 2024

Here’s what the judges said about the first place winners

Division A

Division B

Division C

Division E

Division F

News Journal staff honored with Courage in Journalism award 2023

Fri, 03 May 2024 04:08:53 GMT

May 3, 2024

MDDC honors Kelly Powers of the News Journal with the Courage in Journalism award for 2023 for her dogged persistence in covering unrest at Delaware State University.

Kelly Powers began hearing rumblings of a student protest in the makings at Delaware State University no sooner than she began a new role as education and equity reporter for Delaware Online/The News Journal in mid-January 2023. Powers confirmed that it was more than a rumor, and she zipped to the Dover campus in the middle of a weekday to cover developments that rocked the campus.

Hundreds of Delaware State students left classes, flooded a university street, and protested for better campus security and handling of sexual assault cases. The administration responded by setting a public town hall meeting, yet the university’s chief public information officer escorted Powers out of the meeting. “This is a family meeting,” Carlos Holmes, director of news services, said.

It was the second time in recent months that DSU had removed media from covering issues at the public institution. Powers did not allow the reporting to go dark. Undaunted, she reported on that development by being transparent and by tapping into the network of student sources she’d been building to provide insight on what happened at the meeting that went on until nearly 3 a.m.

That story prompted the university’s president to issue a statement outlining initial steps being taken to address the complaints. Powers stayed on the developments, providing coverage about the protesters’ making their case in Dover during a state budget hearing for the public HBCU.

The Safe Space Coalition, central to President Tony Allen’s response to campus unrest, formed in late January to assess existing protocol on safety, sexual violence, response services and more. More than 100 students, parents, community members and employees formed the coalition across nine committees. Then, students felt muzzled. Delaware State made any student who wished to join the Safe Space Coalition sign a confidentiality agreement. Powers reported about these agreements, which prompted free speech organizations to write to DSU. Both the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and ACLU-DE condemned the documents, citing the condition “plainly violates” student rights.

Delaware State rolled back. Simply put: On the confidentiality agreements, we went too far,” penned Allen to his university community in March. Allen took responsibility for the measure, echoing that Delaware State’s initial reasoning concerned the protection of sensitive information.

Powers kept the heat up. In February, she penned a candid narrative of some of the students’ experiences of being violated and subsequently feeling shut out. By early that April, the same reporter would learn Police Chief Bobby Cummings was set to step down from his post. From a “Safe Space Project” to campus lighting and camera upgrades, university response continued. Top officials at Delaware State also requested to meet with Powers and Delaware Online/The News Journal in April to explain the school’s evolving approach to transparency and free speech, and to extend an olive branch in keeping the lines of communication open between the public institution and the media organization.

There is no doubt that these developments are the result of Powers’ courage in pushing back against being shut out, in holding fast to accountability reporting and in giving a face and a voice to the individuals who just want a safe space to get an education.

Nicole Allen is Salesperson of the Year for 2023

Fri, 03 May 2024 04:06:28 GMT

May 3, 2024

The Salesperson of the Year for 2023 is Nicole Allen of Baltimore Fishbowl. As the only salesperson on staff, Nicole carries a heavy load. In her nomination letter, Founding editor Suzy Dunn says, “Nicole consistently impresses me with her exceptional sales skills, dedication to client relationships, and deep understanding of the market. She is remarkable.”

The Salesperson of the Year award honors a sales executive that runs circles around their peers. Nominations in this category require a short synopsis of how the nominee sets and exceeds goals, builds relationships with clients and agencies and is responsive to client needs.

Nicole sets ambitious goals – and consistently exceeds them. She is committed to understanding clients’ businesses and building strong relationships and positions the Baltimore Fishbowl in the competitive landscape. Suzy comments, “Nicole possesses a talent for connecting with clients on a personal level, effectively translating their needs into solutions. Nicole doesn’t simply sell products; she becomes a trusted partner, maintaining regular contact before, during, and after she closes the sale. Her dedication fosters loyalty and repeat business; clients know they can rely on her for responsive support and solutions. But Nicole’s impact goes beyond maintaining excellent existing relationships. She continuously brings fresh ideas to the table, proposing innovative solutions that address clients’ current and future needs. She isn’t afraid to think outside the box, offering well-researched alternative recommendations that often lead to win-win scenarios.”

Congratulations to Nicole!

MDDC Press Association Announces Winners of Contest With Video Announcements

Fri, 03 May 2024 00:42:35 GMT

May 3, 2024

Reporters, editors and other media professionals gather for conference and awards program remotely and in person

(Annapolis, MD) – Members and supporters of the Maryland | Delaware | DC Press Association came together this week to highlight news with integrity and excellence in journalism by recognizing the winners of the Contest, which celebrates print and online work completed in 2023 .

The contest, governed by the Association’s Editorial and Advertising Committees, admitted over 1,550 entries among 86 categories . There are seven divisions in the contest, which group member publications into categories governed by total audience numbers, combining print and digital readership. One Best in Show award is given in each category across all divisions. These entries were judged by news media professionals at the New Jersey Press Association.

There are several top awards given across all divisions to the publication. These include the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for demonstrating use of public information act requests in its reporting, Courage in Journalism, honors acts of courage in journalism and strength in adversity while uncovering truth, and Best Moves, which highlights the most important thing MDDC member organizations did in 2023. The contest also honors top personnel in design and sales and honors new journalists. Members of the MDDC Press Foundation board of directors and journalism academics judged the top awards and the video audience voted on the Best Moves. The capstone award, one per division, is News Organization of the Year.

The Baltimore Banner won the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for a wide-ranging portfolio of substantive projects that used public records in reporting. Reporters at The Banner have obtained and used public records in a variety of ways, including suing for records, scraping data from public websites, and using video and photographic records. The award is named for Jim Keat, a retired editor and foreign correspondent for the Baltimore Sun, who was a long-time advocate for public information access. Keat is also a member of the MDDC Newspaper Hall of Fame.

Kelly Powers of The News Journal won the Courage in Journalism award for her dogged persistence in covering unrest at Delaware State University. A free press cannot be swept aside or silenced. This award honors acts of courage in journalism and strength in adversity while uncovering truth. The Courage in Journalism Award was established in memory of those killed at the Capital Gazette in Annapolis in 2018 and in honor of those who survived.

The Star Democrat was awarded the Best Move of 2023 for its Summer Speaker Series: PIVOT: Conversations to Spark Change. This series continues the momentum of their Women to Watch program with five sessions of panel discussions, one for each county on the Midshore.

The winner was determined by audience vote.

The Association recognized a new journalist with the Rookie of the Year award. This award honors a new journalist with less than 18 months’ experience in the field. Five nominations were received from three member publications. Greg Morton of The Baltimore Banner is the 2023 Rookie of the Year. The judges remarked that Morton had the data analysis skills that made his work exemplary, and teamed that with strong writing that showed obvious influence in his newsroom. The award was judged by MDDC Press Foundation Board members. Read more .

Laila Milevski won Designer of the Year , which honors a body of work over the contest cycle. Milevski’s portfolio of work showed a unique and fun style that goes far beyond presentation into the realm of visual storytelling.

The News Organization of the Year awards represent the best publication in each division. These awards are chosen based on the points accumulated for first and second prizes in each category. The Baltimore Banner won the award in Division A; The Frederick News-Post was named News Organization of the Year for Division B; and Catholic Review won in Division C. Washington Jewish Week won the award in Division D; Baltimore Brew was named News Organization of the Year for Division E; and Baltimore Business Journal won in Division F.

For a full listing of winners and their award-winning work:

The Baltimore Banner wins James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2023

Fri, 03 May 2024 00:39:38 GMT

May 3, 2024

Nominees

Capital News Service

The News Journal

Baltimore Brew

The Star Democrat has the Best Move of 2023

Fri, 03 May 2024 00:33:09 GMT

May 3, 2024

Congratulations to our 2023 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 04:04:29 GMT

March 15, 2024

MDDC will hold its annual conference and awards lunch on Friday May 3 from 9 am – 2:30 pm at the Doubletree Annapolis hotel. Join colleagues and industry experts for two sets of panels and discussions on topics of interest, speed networking in our new “Mixing Bowl” session, and the presentation of Best of Show awards during a festive Mexican buffet lunch.

(First and second place awards will be announced in our pre-conference video drops during the week of April 29th.)

Are you an award winner? Help us showcase your work by making sure we have your latest headshot, correct title and spelling of your name, and social handles.

Click here to complete the form .

Division A

The Baltimore Banner
• Stokely Baksh
• Banner Staff
• Ben Conarck
• Justin Fenton
• Jessica Gallagher
• Kyle Goon
• Kristen Griffith
• Emma Harris
• Rick Hutzell
• Sophie Kasakove
• Andy Kostka
• Hugo Kugiya
• Ryan Little
• Paul Mancano
• Laila Milevski
• Hallie Miller
• Greg Morton
• Ulysses Muñoz
• Kaitlin Newman
• Tim Prudente
• Lillian Reed
• Lee O. Sanderlin
• Julie Scharper
• Krishna Sharma
• Brenna Smith
• Leslie Gray Streeter
• Nick Thieme
• Christina Tkacik
• Jasmine Vaughn-Hall
• John-John Williams IV
• Adam Willis
• Brenda Wintrode
• Pamela Wood
• Abby Zimmardi

The Baltimore Sun
• Baltimore Sun staff
• Dan Belson
• Giacomo Bologna
• Karl Merton Ferron
• Hayes Gardner
• Kim Hairston
• Jerry Jackson
• Sam Janesch
• Annie Jennemann
• Cassidy Jensen
• Peter Jensen
• Sanya Kamidi
• Andy Knobel
• Maya Lora
• Alex Mann
• Mary Carole McCauley
• Jacob Calvin Meyer
• Jonathan M. Pitts
• Tracie Rawson
• Kevin Richardson
• Angela Roberts
• Dan Rodricks
• Lia Russell
• Lee O. Sanderlin
• Victoria Stavish

The News Journal
• Benjamin Chambers
• Thomas Costello
• Hannah Edelman
• Brandon Holveck
• Damian Giletto
• Krys’tal Griffin
• Matthew Korfhage
• Meredith Newman
• Kelly Powers
• TakÃ© Uda
• Xerxes Wilson

Division B

Cape Gazette
• Cape Gazette Staff
• Dan Cook
• Ellen Driscoll
• Jen Ellingsworth
• Chris Flood
• Mallery Galaska
• Ron MacArthur
• Tara Marks
• Kathy McGinty
• Production Staff
• Nick Roth
• Tracy Toscano
• Kristin Sinnott
• Melissa Steele
• Abby Workman
• Lauren Zaniewski

Cumberland Times News
• Kyle Bennett
• Greg Larry
• Teresa McMinn
• Alex Rychwalski

The Capital
• Dan Belson
• Jeffrey F. Bill
• Katherine Fominykh
• Caitlyn Freeman
• Dana Munro
• Luke Parker
• Rebecca Ritzel
• Staff
• Bill Wagner

The Daily Record
• Patrick Brannan
• Cammie Collier
• Brian Compere
• Jack Hogan
• Rachel Konieczny
• Kay Kron
• Steve Lash
• Kathleen Malone
• Angelyn Nye
• Madeleine O’Neill
• Bryan Sears
• Staff

The Frederick News-Post
• Advertising Department
• Erik Anderson
• Jillian Atelsek
• Samantha Bangh
• John Cannon
• James Constantine
• Graham Cullen
• Alexander Dacy
• Ric Dugan
• Emmitt Gartner
• Roy Ghim
• Bill Green
• Connie Hastings
• Noelle Hallman
• Brittney Hamilton
• Ceoli Jacoby
• Anna Joyce
• Gabrielle Lewis
• Clara Niel
• Joshua Smith
• Edward Thompson
• Warren Walker
• Geordie Wilson
• Katina Zentz

The Herald-Mail
• Tamela Baker
• Joseph Deinlein
• Ric Dugan
• Andy Mason
• Julie E. Greene
• James Paul
• Dwight Weingarten

Washington Business Journal
• Dan Brendel
• Sara Gilgore
• Maggie Lynn
• Ana Lucía Murillo
• Carolyn Proctor

Division C

Baltimore Fishbowl
• Nicole Allen
• Rafael Alvarez
• Richard Bader
• Marcus Dieterle
• Ed Gunts
• Charlie Herrick
• David Nitkin
• Andrew Ratner
• Walinda West
• Marion Winik
• Aliza Worthington

Carroll County Times
• Jeffrey F. Bill
• Timothy Dashiell
• Jerry Jackson
• Kate Cedeno
• Brian Krista
• Thomas Goodwin Smith
• Staff

Cecil Whig
• Carl Hamilton
• Matt Hubbard
• Patrick LaPorte

Daily State News
• Pat Abel
• Jessica Cook
• Heather Cregar
• Daily State News Team
• Joy Ferrio
• Angi Hick
• Tom Maglio
• Marketing & News Teams
• Marketing Team
• Tonda Parks
• DJ Short
• Laura Walter
• Andrew West

Maryland Matters
• Danielle J. Brown
• Bryan Sears
• William Zorzi

The Catholic Review
• Rita Buettner
• CR Staff
• Mitzy Deras
• Gerry Jackson
• Archbishop William E. Lori
• George P. Matysek Jr.
• Gabriella O’Brien
• Kevin J. Parks
• Kyle Taylor
• Yvonne Wenger

The Daily Times
• Kristian Jaime
• Olivia Minzola
• Lauren Roberts
• Dwight Weingarten

The Star Democrat
• Connie Connolly
• Natalie Jones
• Marketing/Advertising/Editorial teams
• Marketing/Sales/Editorial Teams
• Tom McCall
• Meredith Moore
• Marketing Team
• Maggie Trovato

Division D

Baltimore Jewish Times
• Art Department
• Ellen Braunstein
• Ebony Brown
• Jillian Diamond
• Lonna Koblick
• Haydee M. Rodriguez
• Heather M. Ross

Bay Journal
• Karl Blankenship
• Jeremy Cox
• Whitney Pipkin
• Tim Wheeler

MoCo 360
• Ginny Bixby
• Steve Bohnel
• Courtney Cohn
• Em Espey
• Elia Griffin
• Akira Kyles
• Louis Peck

The Aegis
• Sam Cohn
• Brian Krista
• Anthony Maluso
• Staff

Towson Times
• Staff

Washington Jewish Week
• Jillian Diamond
• Hannah Docter-Loeb
• Aviad Haramati
• Braden Hamelin
• David Mark
• Wayne Pines
• Lisa Traiger
• Aaron Troodler
• Frank Wagner
• Washington Jewish Week Staff

Division E

Baltimore Brew
• Jennifer Bishop
• Laura Fay
• J.M. Giordano
• David Plymyer
• Mark Reutter
• Peder Schaefer
• Fern Shen
• Sebastian Tuinder

Business Monthly
• Natalie Abruzzo
• George Berkheimer
• The Business Monthly
• Pantea Tofangchi
• Jason Whong

Coastal Point
• Chris Aube
• Susan Canfora
• Coastal Point staff
• Butch Comegys
• Kerin Magill
• Darin McCann
• Mike Smith
• Carla Varisco

Delaware Business Times
• Jacob Owens
• Katie Tabeling

Howard County Times
• Jeffrey F. Bill
• Brian Krista
• Staff

Salisbury Independent
• Gregory Bassett
• Heather Cregar
• Angi Hicks
• Cathy Koyanagi
• Liz Holland
• DJ Short
• Andrew West

Southern Maryland News
• Mike Reid

The Washington Informer
• Stacy Brown
• Micha Green
• Brenda Siler
• Anthony Tilghman

Division F
• Baltimore Business Journal Staff
• Garrett Dvorkin
• Matt Hooke
• Jessica Iannetta
• Joe Ilardi
• Rebecca Logan
• Margaret Lynn
• Stephanie Redding
• Melody Simmons
• Joanna Sullivan

Capital News Service Wire
• Sapna Bansil
• Natalie Davis
• Ian Decker
• Braden Hamelin
• Aya Hussein
• Victoria A. Ifatusin
• Cameron Jones
• Local News Network Staff
• Abbi Ross
• Hunter Savery
• Dylan Shulman
• Sarah Siock
• The Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism Staff

Catonsville Times
• Staff

Crisfield Times
• Angi Hicks
• Karen Riggin

Dorchester Banner
• Dave Cannon
• Angi Hicks
• Tom Maglio
• Laura Walter

Laurel Star
• Karen Cherrix
• Chris Elliott
• Greg English
• Tede Griffith
• Casey Johnson
• Mike McClure
• Brittany Passon
• Lynn Schofer
• Star staff
• Tony Windsor

Seaford Star
• Bernard Carr
• Karen Cherrix
• Chris Elliott
• Rebecca Jones
• Carol Kinsley
• Kiwanis of Seaford
• Mike McClure
• Lynn Schofer
• Star Staff

The AFRO
• Helen Bezuneh
• Aria Brent
• Darius Brockett
• Rev. Heber Brown III
• Ericka Alston Buck
• Marnita Coleman
• Reuben Greene
• Ariyana Griffin
• Re’Jon Jones
• DaQuan Lawrence
• Tashi McQueen
• Ralph E. Moore
• Dana Peck
• Alexis Taylor
• Kofi Tyus
• Megan Sayles
• Jared Still
• Reginald Williams

The Newark Post
• Josh Shannon

 Division S – Freelance, unaffiliated
• Jacob Baumgart
• Aja Drain
• Al Drago
• Sue Kopen Katcef
• Ara Laughlin
• Suzanne Pollak
• Mukul Ranjan
• Bob Rutledge
• Scott Serio
• Patricia Villone

Seven journalism students selected for MDDC internships

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 03:57:45 GMT

MDDC Staff

March 1, 2024

Seven journalism students have been selected as newsroom interns for the summer of 2024 through MDDC’s Reese Cleghorn Internship program. Funding for these internships was made possible by Betty Osborne, the Delaplaine Foundation, the Goldseker Foundation and The Nutting Family Foundation, and many individual donors to MDDC, including former staffers of the Herald-Mail who contributed to the Jim Schurz Intern Fund.

The interns were selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. The intern selection committee, comprised of Ann LoLordo of Jhpiego, Chris Flood of Cape Gazette, Sam Davis of the Baltimore Sun, Tom Linthicum of MDDC Press Foundation, Walter Middlebrook of The Penn State University, Diana Sugg freelance journalist, and Jamesetta Walker of Gannett, reviewed more than twenty initial applications, which included a personal essay, published clips and educational and professional references. The committee narrowed the field and conducted a panel interview with each candidate. Each intern will be treated as a professional working journalist at his or her host newsroom, with the expectation of generating 35-40 published clips and real-world experience during their 8-week paid internship. As part of the program, interns participate in a one-day briefing on how to get the most out of the internship. MDDC will also hold its popular “Into the Newsroom” series, which brings together reporters,
freelancers and interns from MDDC member organizations for skill building training sessions. Interns will also be partnered with mentors, who will offer guidance outside the newsroom and coaches who will focus on writing skills.

The interns are (in alphabetical order): Sasha Allen University of Maryland, College Park; Angelique Gingras , University of Maryland, College Park; Kiersten Hacker , University of Maryland, College Park; Apurva Mahajan , University of Maryland, College Park; DeMarco Rush, Penn State University; Tierra Stone , Morgan State University; Natalie Weger , University of Maryland, College Park.

Congratulations to MDDC’s interns! Interested in becoming an intern in 2025? The application period is open from October to November. Read more about the program here . The Reese Cleghorn internship program is part of the MDDC Press Foundation, which is funded in part through donations from private individuals. Learn more or make a tax-deductible gift to the Foundation .

ISWNE’s Golden Quill contest

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 03:47:42 GMT

January 3, 2024

The International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors (ISWNE) is accepting entries for its annual Golden Quill editorial writing contest. Deadline is Feb. 1, 2024.

Entries should reflect the purpose of the ISWNE: Encouraging the writing of editorials or staff-written opinion pieces that identify local issues that are or should be of concern to the community, offer an opinion, and support a course of action.

All newspapers of less than daily frequency (published fewer than four days per week) are eligible to enter. Online-only newspapers must be considered community news sites. Syndicated columnists are not eligible.

Entries must have been published between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2023.

Cost is $15 per entry (each editorial or column) for ISWNE members, $20 per entry for non-members, and $5 per entry for students. There is a separate division for student entries. Three entries are allowed per person.

Grassroots Editor, ISWNE’s biannual journal, will reprint the 12 best editorials in the Summer 2024 issue. The Golden Quill winner will be invited to attend ISWNE’s annual conference in Toronto, June 18-23. The winner will receive a conference scholarship and travel expenses up to $500.

Information on how to prepare and send entries can be found at www.iswne.org. For specific questions, please contact ISWNE Executive Director Chad Stebbins at stebbins-c@mssu.edu .

MDDC’s Dues Update For 2024

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 03:46:28 GMT

December 8, 2023

The MDDC Board has taken a big step forward in modernizing our dues structure and creating more long term stability for the Association. At its last board meeting on November 30, the Board voted to change how dues are calculated. We will be moving from a print circulation-based model to one that assesses members based on their total audience and number of content generators. This will create a more equitable distribution of publications in our divisions for contests and dues. Most significantly, we will eliminate the online-only division.

To calculate dues for 2024, we will need different information than you have reported in the past. An email was sent to each publisher this past week asking for the needed information no later than December 15th. Please also use this opportunity to update your member directory record.

Office staff will determine which division each publication falls within, based on a matrix approved by the Board. In addition to changing the way dues are calculated, the actual dues structure has been changed for Divisions B through F, as shown below. The Board chose to “smooth out” the dues division that occurred historically between the Daily and Non-Daily groups (the change from Division D to Division C) and create a more equitable distribution for dues.

Dues notices will be sent out over the last two weeks of December. If you have questions about this change or would like to talk through the ramifications, please contact Rebecca or select a convenient time to meet on my calendar . Thanks for your support of the industry and our Association. We are gearing up for busy sessions in all three of our legislative jurisdictions, and preparing for an amazing conference May 3rd in Annapolis. The contest will open December 15th, and we cannot wait to see the outstanding accomplishments of our members.

DC Tax Revision Commission

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 03:45:21 GMT

October 19, 2023

In an effort to better align DC’s tax policy with the city’s values and changing economic base, the DC Tax Revision Commission solicited proposals from a variety of sources for ways to change tax law. One of the proposals under consideration is a Digital Ad Tax, potentially modeled on Maryland’s ad tax (which exempts news media entities). As the Commission reviews the various proposals, MDDC has provided comments about the overall efficacy of an ad tax. We will continue to monitor this issue. Currently, the Commission will deliberate on proposals and will winnow down the field for their final recommendations. For more information about the Commission and the various proposals under consideration, please click here . To see the clip of the public hearing where this proposal was discussed, please click here .

MDDC 2023 Readership Survey

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 03:41:37 GMT

October 12, 2023

MDDC supports its members’ efforts to understand their readership and provide actionable data for editorial and advertising initiatives. MDDC has created a readership survey that each publication can use to survey its audience. Each publication will have its own survey link, and MDDC will provide the results of the individual publication survey as well as an overview of the entire region. This survey may be used to “prove” that the percentage of your print readership over age 21 is 85% or more, as required by the Maryland Cannabis Administration advertising guidelines.

The survey will be open from November 6 to November 30.

Congratulations to MDDC’s interns! Interested in becoming an intern in 2024? The application period is open from September to November. Read more about the program here .

The Reese Cleghorn internship program is part of the MDDC Press Foundation, which is funded in part through donations from private individuals. Learn more or make a tax-deductible gift to the Foundation .

How can you take advantage of this initiative?

Tell us you want to participate. MDDC will generate a publication-specific URL for you. If you have more than one publication / website that you would like to survey, please get a URL for each one.
Provide an incentive for respondents . We recommend a $50 gift card. Once the survey closes, we will choose a random individual from your respondent pool and communicate that information to you so you can send out your prize.
Publicize the initiative . Only you can encourage your readers to respond to the survey. Best practices for publicizing are included below. We have provided customizable advertising, a publisher’s note, and copy for the email blasts. All you need to do is drop your logo and publication-specific URL in.
Wait for results . The survey will close November 30th and results will be sent to participating members by the end of December.

Best practices

Customize the ads provided with your publication-specific URL and logo.
Send an initial launch email to entire distribution list on November 6th when the survey opens.
Publicize the survey using the customized ads in your print publication, on your website and on social media.
Post often on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media outlets to drive traffic and check to make sure the ads are running in your publication and on your website.
Send a Don’t Forget email November 15th in anticipation of the November 30th survey close.

Ohio enacts law curtailing newspaper notice

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 01:54:05 GMT

Public Notice Resource Center

October 6, 2023

Last month, we reported that through the end of the summer there were no states that had approved legislation significantly altering their public notice laws. We were wrong.

Tribune-Democrat editor Minemyer named publisher in Johnstown, Cumberland

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:30:13 GMT

October 6, 2023

Chip Minemyer, editor and general manager of The Tribune-Democrat in Johnstown and general manager of The Times-News of Cumberland, Maryland, has been named the publisher in both markets, parent company CNHI announced Wednesday.

Minemyer was named editor of The Tribune-Democrat in 2004 and has been general manager in Johnstown and Cumberland since 2021. He also serves as publisher for Johnstown Magazine and Allegany Magazine.

Walter Middlebrook elected to MDDC Foundation Board

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:27:42 GMT

October 6, 2023

In October, the Trustees of the MDDC Foundation elected long-time editor and current Penn State professor Walter Middlebrook to join the Board. The MDDC Foundation focuses on a robust internship program that brings promising college students to host newsrooms for 8 week paid internships in the summer, with wraparound writing coaching and one on one mentoring.

Walter Middlebrook, the Foster Professor of Practice at The Penn State University, was inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame in April 2023.

A former assistant managing editor at The Detroit News who led an award-winning metro news desk and investigations team, he joined the Penn State faculty on a full-time basis in the fall 2020.

A senior editor and newsroom manager, his four-decade career also includes editing and working with staff and freelance writers producing stories and special sections in opinion, features, fashion, entertainment, news and business for such publications as The New York Times, Newsday/New York Newsday, USA Today and the St. Paul Dispatch and Pioneer Press.

He was among the staff at Newsday that won a Pulitzer Prize in 1992 for spot news.

Middlebrook, who previously taught at Michigan State and Hofstra universities and at the Maynard Institute Editing Program for Minority Journalists, was named a Lifetime Achievement award-winner in 2018 by the Detroit Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

He currently serves as vice president of Rosa Parks Scholarship Foundation board of directors and treasurer of the Detroit Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists; and sits on the boards of the Daily Collegian at The Pennsylvania State University and the Board of Student Publications at the University of Michigan.

A lifetime member of the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, he also serves as a coach/mentor for the Detroit Writing Room.

National Newspaper Week 2023

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 01:56:25 GMT

September 28, 2023

Oct. 1-7, 2023

“A free press is the guardian of democracy. In whatever form, it must be preserved.”
– Charlotte Tillar Schexnayder (1923-2020), member of the Arkansas House of Representatives and publisher and editor of the Dumas Clarion, Dumas, AR

2023 marks the 83rd celebration of National Newspaper Week. Since 1940, Newspaper Association Managers has sponsored and supported National Newspaper Week, a week-long promotion of the newspaper industry in the United States and Canada.

The theme this year is In Print. Online. For You. #NewspapersYourWay. All of the materials are developed from data derived from the Coda Ventures nationwide study conducted for America’s Newspapers and built around the evolution of newspapers and the fact that newspaper readers are from all generations, community leaders and voters.

Below you will find promotional print ads, social media ads, web ads, guest columns and editorial cartoons, all available for download at no charge to daily and non-daily newspapers across North America.

PLAN TO CELEBRATE National Newspaper Week by downloading these materials and devoting as many column inches as possible to reinforce the importance of your newspaper to your communities, and also by sharing the message on your social media platforms over the course of the week.

MAKE IT LOCAL by editorializing about your newspaper’s unique relevance. This can be about your duties as government watchdog, your coverage of community events, publication of timely public notices, etc.

Since the principle is timeless, the 2023 logo is undated and materials will remain on the website and accessible year-round as a continuing resource.

Thank you for supporting National Newspaper Week. You already know there is power in association. And the same principle holds when associations like ours band together to provide even greater impact — both directly to newspaper members locally and collectively to the overall industry nationwide.

Rafael Lorente elected to Press Foundation Board

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 01:57:32 GMT

August 3, 2023

Rafael Lorente, Dean of Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, was unanimously elected to serve as a Trustee for the Board of the MDDC Press Foundation. Rafael Lorente became dean of the Philip Merrill College of Journalism on July 1, 2023. Previously, he was the associate dean for academic affairs, director of the master’s program, and director of the Capital News Service Washington, D.C., and Annapolis bureaus. Lorente, a 1998 Merrill master’s alum, is a former reporter with the South Florida Sun Sentinel and Miami Herald. As a reporter in Washington for the Sun Sentinel, Lorente covered the 2000 and 2004 presidential elections, the attacks of Sept. 11 and U.S. foreign policy toward Latin America, particularly Cuba. He serves on the boards of the National Press Foundation and the National Press Club Journalism Institute in addition to his work with MDDC. The MDDC Press Foundation focuses on the future of journalism by offering paid, 8-week “real world” summer internships with MDDC member newsrooms. Learn more about our programs here [ https://mddcpress.com/mddc-press-foundation/ ]

Eight journalism students complete summer 2023 internships

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 03:37:31 GMT

July 14, 2023

This summer, eight journalism students have been working in newsrooms across Maryland and Delaware. The Reese Cleghorn Internship program hires outstanding student journalists to intern in MDDC member newsrooms each summer. Again this year, MDDC is administering Delaware Community Foundation’s Internship program. Summer internships were made possible through funding from the Delaware Community Foundation, the MDDC Press Foundation, Betty Osborne in memory of Burl Osborne, individual donors to the Jim Schurz Memorial Fund, and The Nutting Family Foundation .

These interns were selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. Interns come from six schools, including the University of Maryland, Hofstra University, University of Pittsburgh, Clemson University, Oberlin College, and Georgetown University. The intern selection committee, comprised of Ann LoLordo, of Jhpiego, Diana Sugg, freelance journalist, Sam Davis of the Baltimore Sun, Tom Linthicum of MDDC Press Foundation, and Larry Nagengast, mentor for the Delaware Community Foundation interns, reviewed more than two dozen initial applications, which included a personal essay, published clips and educational and professional references. The committee narrowed the field and conducted a panel interview with each candidate.

Each intern was immersed in their host newsroom and treated as a professional working journalist. Students in the program are expected to generate 35-40 published clips and real-world experience during their 8-week paid internship. As part of the program, interns participate in a one-day briefing on how to get the most out of the internship. MDDC has revamped its summer webinar series to focus on covering communities that are not your own, and developing sources and telling stories that are authentic to those communities. Presenters from the Dart Center and Maynard Institute will anchor that series, which begins Monday, July 31. Click here for more information about the series, which is open to all. In addition to the customary newsroom supports, interns were also partnered with mentors, who offered guidance outside the newsroom and coaches who focused on writing skills.

The interns are (in alphabetical order): Jenna Bloom , University of Maryland (funded by MDDC Press Foundation); Shifra Dayak , University of Maryland (funded by the Nutting Family Foundation); Bryce Jenkins , Hofstra University (funded by Delaware Community Foundation); Eli Kales , Georgetown University (funded by MDDC Press Foundation); James Paul , University of Pittsburgh (funded by Jim Shurz Memorial Fund); Cal Ransom , Oberlin College (funded by Delaware Community Foundation); Justin Robertson , Clemson University (funded by MDDC Press Foundation); Victoria Stavish , University of Maryland (funded by Betty Osborne in memory of Burl Osborne).

Congratulations to MDDC’s interns! Interested in becoming an intern in 2024? The application period is open from September to November. Read more about the program here .

MDDC Press Association 4-Part Codeswitching Series

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 03:29:23 GMT

July 11, 2023

Don’t Miss Our 4-Part Virtual Codeswitching Series
MDDC has convened experts in the field to help reporters understand how to report events in vulnerable communities – and examine their own unconscious bias that may be affecting their reporting. In this four-part series, experts from the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma, the Maynard Institute for Journalism Education, and veteran journalists share their perspectives and best practices. This will be an incredible series that will reframe the way journalists approach their reporting. Join us! Each session is standalone, though we encourage you to join for all four.
Each session is free for members, students, and interns $20 non-member fee. Registration is required for link to the virtual events.

Karina Serio wins MDDC’s 2023 Michael S. Powell High School Journalist of the Year.

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 01:59:47 GMT

MDDC Staff

July 6, 2023

This young photojournalist has gotten a head start, having shot for professional organizations while in high school. Tome School student, Karina Serio, has been named the 2023 Michael S. Powell High School Journalist of the Year.

After reviewing applications for this prestigious $1,500 cash award, it was determined that Serio’s 4-year high school career in Photojournalism with Cecil County Sports Weekly, and Eclipse Sportswire stood out as worthy of the award.

Students were asked to submit an autobiographical statement about journalism, a letter of recommendation from their journalism teacher or advisor as well as five published articles demonstrating their versatility and skill.

Serio is already showing signs of becoming a leader in her field. Serio’s publisher at the Cecil County Sports Weekly noted “I consider her our best Reporter and Photographer. She can cover games entirely by herself while other staff members are either good at photography or writing but can’t do both to the level Karina is doing it.”

Serio plans to major in Russian Studies and intends on using her photojournalism experience as an integral part of her overall International Studies experience.

James A. ‘Jim’ Flood, Sr., 95

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 02:01:33 GMT

July 5, 2023

James A. “Jim” Flood, Sr., founder of the Dover Post Company in Dover, DE died May 13, 2023.
Jim – known for his insistence on being called by his nickname and for his iron-grip handshake – succumbed to late-onset Alzheimer Disease at his vacation home near St. Michaels, MD.

Are you prepared for Google Analytics 4 (GA4)?

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 02:07:16 GMT

July 3, 2023

This summer, Google will transition you or your client’s website to Google Analytics 4 (GA4). Are you ready? Learn more about the who, what, where and why behind Google’s transition from Universal Analytics to GA4 by watching our webinar partnering with Google!

217th Report of the Rules Committee

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 02:05:37 GMT

July 3, 2023

News media orgs help maintain access to recordings of court proceedings in Maryland.

In the latest Report of the Rules Committee to the Supreme Court of Maryland, the Committee proposed new rules that will allow more discretion to seal sensitive testimony while maintaining access to the recordings of proceedings. In late 2022, in reaction to the federal decision in Soderberg v. Carrion, which overturned Maryland’s prohibition on broadcasting legally obtained audio of court proceedings. The December 2022 rulesought to broaden the unconstitutional Broadcast Ban by creating significant barriers to access. Under the new proposed rule and its related amendments, members of the public could access criminal court proceedings only “at a time and place designated by the court and under the supervision of a court official.” Further, the public would not be allowed to make copies or retain the recordings.

A broad coalition of advocates decried the proposed rule and media organizations were particularly vocal, submitting comments [attached] and ultimately a proposal for a path forward [attached].

After several meetings and discussion with advocates, the Rules Committee settled on the proposed Rule contained in the 217th Report. This Rule preserves access by members of the public and media in the same way access currently operates and creates a much higher standard for shielding: “…clear and convincing evidence (1) that a compelling reason exists under the particular circumstances to shield the information from public access and inspection and (2) that no substantial harm will result from the shielding,…”

The Press Association will continue to monitor this issue, as well as the related topic of cameras in the courtroom.

7 podcasting trends for news publishers, and a burning question: 2023 Digital News Report

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 03:20:21 GMT

June 22, 2023

After almost three years we got a comprehensive look at the global state of news podcasts (ok, more like Western world) thanks to the 2023 edition of the Digital News Report from Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism.

Gannett Files Federal Lawsuit Against Google

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 02:08:48 GMT

June 22, 2023

Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE: GCI) the largest publisher in the United States including USA TODAY and over 200 local publications, today filed a federal lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against Google for monopolization of advertising technology markets and deceptive commercial practices.

New Justice Department policy marks ‘historic shift’ in press protection

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 03:18:34 GMT

June 14, 2023

Today, the U.S. Department of Justice announced changes to its news media guidelines that, for the first time, expressly prohibit members of the Department from using subpoenas or other investigative tools against journalists who possess and publish classified information obtained in newsgathering, with only narrow exceptions.

Louisiana begins transition to newspaper websites

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 03:17:29 GMT

Public Notice Resource Center

June 7, 2023

Last week, Louisiana became the first state to pass a law that will eventually make newspaper websites the primary platform for public notice. HB-650 requires local governments to post their notices on official newspaper websites beginning in 2027. They’ll also be required to publish print notices describing the subject matter and location of the online notices, but — in a reversal of present custom — the print ads will be free and the online notices will be the ads they pay for.

HB-650 passed both houses unanimously and is expected to be signed by Gov. Jon Bel Edwards when it reaches his desk.

The bill has a number of other provisions that take effect next year. One new mandate changes how public notice fees are set. Another requires official newspapers to publish local notices on their websites and on the Louisiana Press Association’s (LPA) statewide public notice site. There’s also a now-ubiquitous “errors and omissions” clause stipulating that publication mistakes made by newspapers don’t undermine the validity of a notice.

The legislation only affects local governments — parish police juries, city councils, school boards and other local bodies — so public-notice laws regulating the state government and judiciary won’t change for now.

Planning for the bill began when the state’s legislative session ended last summer. LPA promised lawmakers who agreed to table legislation the association opposed that it would develop a plan to modernize the state’s public notice laws. After forming a task force and embarking on a process that ultimately took nine months, the LPA Board of Directors decided it would be preferable to recommend major changes now to avoid the potential of a worse outcome later. Some fear this year’s statewide elections may result in a less favorable political climate for newspapers in the 2024 session.

The fee changes simplify and standardize the state’s complicated pricing structure. Maximum rates for notices are presently set using two different space-based methods — 100-word squares and agate lines — that apply separately to three different population tiers. LPA conducted a survey of public notice rates and found there was a great deal of confusion surrounding the current structure.

HB-650 simplifies that framework by organizing rates around the number of text characters in each ad, or by a standardized price-per-square-inch formula for display ads and other prebuilt notices. That structure, which newspapers and their local government clients can opt to use beginning Jan. 1, 2024, is particularly well-suited to pricing online ads when the transition to digital notice takes place three years later.

According to Executive Director Jerry Raehal, the new rate structure may eventually result in a revenue decrease for LPA members but he emphasizes it was part of a compromise designed to secure the future of public notice in the state.

“It’s a win-win-win for everyone,” Raehal says. “Local governments get some economic relief and a more transparent pricing model. Local newspapers get a path forward to retain public notices in a digital format, and a runway to prepare for the changes. And Louisiana citizens maintain easy access to government notices from a trusted source.”

Like the rest of the bill, the web-posting section applies only to local notices. (Louisiana already has a law requiring newspapers to post state-government notices on the LPA site.) It includes an unprecedented mandate compelling newspapers to have a website in order to continue to qualify to publish notices. Raehal says the last time he checked there were four LPA papers that don’t have a website.

Texas passed a web-posting law last month as well, requiring newspapers to post notices free of charge on their own websites and on the Texas Press Association’s (TPA) statewide site. The TPA-backed bill was approved by both the House and Senate with only one dissenting vote and was signed into law last week by Gov. Greg Abbott. Texas is the nineteenth state to adopt a web-posting mandate for public notices.

Hear tales of fight for equal rights for women journalists on June 5

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 00:48:27 GMT

June 1, 2023

In the late 1960s, women journalists finally were beginning to be hired as hard news reporters. But their treatment in salary and responsibility would probably shock today’s reporters. Ground had to be broken.

Digging into DC collaboration w/ D.C. Public Library

Wed, 24 May 2023 03:56:13 GMT

May 24, 2023

The DC Open Government Coalition, in collaboration with the DC Public Library, is hosting a series of community conversations to help residents, businesses and anyone else obtain all kinds of information from the District of Columbia government.

Introducing Deep Reads, The Washington Post’s home for longform and narrative journalism

Fri, 19 May 2023 00:50:23 GMT

May 19, 2023

The Washington Post today announces the launch of Deep Reads, a dedicated home for immersive and narrative reporting. Each story in the new collection will have a Deep Reads label affixed to the top of the article for readers to easily access the full breadth of The Post’s award-winning narrative journalism.

Trust Kits, a new tool to help simplify earning trust

Thu, 11 May 2023 00:54:42 GMT

May 11, 2023

The public’s trust in news media keeps declining. It’s time for journalists to get to work.

Since 2016, they’ve been learning (alongside their partner newsrooms) about simple steps journalists can take to build trust. They can explain why they’re worthy of the public’s time, attention and support. They can get on the record about our mission, ethics and decision-making processes. They can listen with humility to better understand how people see our coverage and what they need from them.

3 keys for modernizing your recruiting

Thu, 11 May 2023 00:53:18 GMT

May 11, 2023

The keys to modernizing your newspaper’s recruiting efforts include three important steps, recruitment expert Julian Placino told attendees at the Mega-Conference.

Always be recruiting, even when you’re not actively hiring.
Know your Employment Value Proposition (EVP) and believe in it.
Cultivate a culture of recruitment.

How ‘pink slime’ journalism exploits our faith in local news

Thu, 11 May 2023 00:51:56 GMT

May 11, 2023

The 17th-century word “courant,” which once meant “newspaper,” is obsolete, according to Merriam-Webster, except in the rare case of the title of a periodical. Papers with that moniker in their masthead got grandfathered in because they were founded hundreds of years ago. Hearing something called “courant” today, I imagine a time-tested media institution anchored in a specific city or region, such as Connecticut’s Hartford Courant, which is a decade older than the United States government.

3 keys for modernizing your recruiting

Thu, 11 May 2023 00:19:02 GMT

The keys to modernizing your newspaper’s recruiting efforts include three important steps, recruitment expert Julian Placino told attendees at the Mega-Conference.

Always be recruiting, even when you’re not actively hiring.
Know your Employment Value Proposition (EVP) and believe in it.
Cultivate a culture of recruitment.

Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien named Designer of the Year 2022

Fri, 05 May 2023 20:10:37 GMT

MDDC Staff

Special mention

The Daily Record

The Baltimore Sun wins James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2022

Fri, 05 May 2023 20:07:02 GMT

MDDC Staff

Special mention

The Daily Record

Resources for 2022 MDDC Contest Award Winners

Fri, 05 May 2023 19:42:24 GMT

Baltimore Fishbowl wins website of general excellence award

Fri, 05 May 2023 17:12:31 GMT

MDDC Staff

Here’s what the judges said about the first place winners

Division A

Division D

Division F

Ethan Ehrenhaft wins Rookie of the Year

Fri, 05 May 2023 17:07:52 GMT

MDDC Staff

Nominees

Catholic Review has the Best Move of 2022

Fri, 05 May 2023 17:04:38 GMT

MDDC Staff

Catholic Review was awarded the Best Move of 2022 for its redesign and rebranding, which was the result of study, consultation and months of preparation before the launch of the new look in September 2022.

This award is chosen by the viewers of the MDDC Contest broadcast. The Best Moves category asks “what was the most important thing your organization did during the contest year?” Ideas implemented could come from any area of the business, and nominee interviews are recorded with video for judging.

In fall 2021, Catholic Review Media and the Archdiocese of Baltimore contracted with Simpson Scarborough, a marketing and branding agency, to gather feedback from readers. Given the movement in media toward digital – including some dioceses that have moved to all-digital news operations – part of the reason for the survey was to consider whether it was still feasible and effective to have a print edition.

The results were generally positive and affirming that a print magazine was the right choice. The redesign required the staff to look at stories in bold, new ways, with sidebars, callouts and other graphic elements, and a new marketing tagline emerged: “Real Life. Real Faith.”

The new look launched with the September 2022 edition, along with ongoing discussions and public-facing events to talk about better ways to reach Catholic Review readers.

See the video interview on the Catholic Review’s Best Move

Honorable Mention – Nominees

The Baltimore Sun

From the submission letter, The Baltimore Sun’s Best Move was:

“To bring light to The Sun’s role in oppression of Black Marylanders throughout the paper’s history, The Sun outlined, in a deeply researched editorial, the paper’s offenses, going back to its inception in 1837 and the process the paper has undergone in the past and today to build an inclusive future in its pages. The Sun is not the first newspaper to apologize for failing black communities through the years, and we hope we will not be the last. It was the most significant move we made in 2022 to reconnect to the communities we serve and ensure that the interests of all residents are respected and represented within our pages.”

See the video interview on the Baltimore Sun’s Best Move

The Frederick News-Post

From the submission letter, The Frederick News-Post’s Best Move was:

“An exciting thing for e Frederick News-Post in 2022 was bringing back our arts and entertainment guide, 72 Hours, to a standalone weekly tab once again. When covid happened, e News-Post did many things to save on costs overall and one of those was eliminating 72 Hours as a separate publication. Instead it was moved into the regular paper. So the possibility of bringing it back after two years to a standalone publication was very exciting for us as well as our local community.”

See the video interview on the Frederick News-Post’s Best Move

New National Press Club Journalism Institute Executive Director Named

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 01:01:16 GMT

April 27, 2023

The National Press Club Journalism Institute has appointed Beth Francesco, an experienced educator, press freedom advocate, and editor, as the organization’s next executive director.

Montgomery Community Media Health Reporting Webinar Series

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:57:18 GMT

April 27, 2023

Montgomery County is providing two webinars designed for up-and-coming journalists focusing on relevant topics around health news reporting. Registration is required, click the links in the respective sessions for registration.

The first session, Public Health Education: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Media Coverage , will take place May 17th from 1-2pm EST and will focus on the journalist’s role in reporting on health issues.
The second session, Health Equity Reporting , will take place June 1st from 5:30-6:30pm EST and will focus on the journalist’s responsibility in reporting on health inequity.

University of Maryland Names Rafael Lorente the Next Dean of Merrill College

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 00:59:54 GMT

April 27, 2023

The University of Maryland has named Rafael Lorente dean of the Philip Merrill College of Journalism , effective July 1, 2023.

Jack Hogan moves to The Daily Record

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 01:04:40 GMT

April 21, 2023

Congratulations goes out to Jack Hogan on his new role as Government affairs reporter at The Daily Record.

Applications for third BloomLab cohort now open

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 01:20:37 GMT

Local Media Association

April 20, 2023

LMF will select eight additional local media outlets to join 18 publishers currently participating in the Knight x LMA BloomLab, a three-year, $3.2 million immersive experience for Black-owned local media outlets, funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. The application period is currently open. The deadline for the final submission of all applications will be 8 p.m. Eastern time on Friday, May 12.

Veteran Journalist Darel La Prade Tapped as Project Manager for Statewide News Collaborative

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 01:25:48 GMT

Local Journalism Initiative of Delaware

April 14, 2023

MD Rules Committee proposes rules regarding access to recordings of criminal proceedings

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 01:22:17 GMT

April 14, 2023

Access to audio recordings of court proceedings was Item 1 on the Maryland Rules Committee agenda Friday, April 14th. The proposed rules discussed were the culmination of months of back and forth regarding the public’s access to recordings of criminal proceedings. A change in the rules was prompted by the December 2022 ruling in Soderberg v. Carrión, whichconcluded that Section 1-201 of the Criminal Procedure Article of the Maryland Code (the “Broadcast Ban”) is unconstitutional under the First Amendment “to the extent that it prohibits the press and public from broadcasting ‘lawfully obtained audio or video recordings of criminal proceedings that occurred in open court.’” — F. Supp. 3d —, 2022 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 222645, at *4 (D. Md. Dec. 9, 2022).

In early January, the Rules Committee proposed a revised rule 16.504(g) before the State Supreme Court that would have eliminated the ability of the public to receive copies of audio recordings of criminal proceedings. Press advocates were deeply concerned about journalists’ ability to cover the courts without access to recordings, pointing out that worries about witness intimidation and disclosure of sensitive information had not been carried out. The Supreme Court remanded the rule back to the Rules Committee for further discussion.

MDDC and a coalition of media organizations led by Ballard Spahr submitted comments to the Rules Committee regarding the remanded rule and the final proposal by the Special Subcommittee on Broadcasting of Criminal Proceedings was discussed April 14th.

MDDC submitted comments on the proposed rule (agenda item 1), and the media coalition led by Ballard Spahr also submitted comments . After discussion, the Rules Committee voted to allow judges to shield or redact certain portions of the record “on its own initiative,” while raising the standard for what may be redacted or shielding to clear and convincing evidence rather than simply good cause. The approved language reads:

16.504(g) Safeguarding Confidential Portions of Proceeding

If a portion of a proceeding involves placing on the record matters that, on motion or on its own initiative, the court finds by clear and convincing evidence (1) that a compelling reason exists under the particular circumstances to shield the information form public access and inspection and (2) that no substantial harm will result from the shielding, the court shall direct that appropriate safeguards be placed on that portion of the recording.

MDDC was comfortable with this compromise.

There was further discussion regarding reconsideration of the redaction or shielding. Under the proposed rule 16.504(b)(4) “on motion of a party or interested person” the court may modify or rescind an order for shielding or redaction if it finds that there is a material change in circumstance or that there is no longer good cause to shield the information. In this instance, the Rules Committee indicated that members of the press could be considered an “interested person,” clarifying that an advisory opinion would need to be issued.

News from the Local News Network

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 01:27:33 GMT

April 12, 2023

Local News Network will sponsor their first-ever local news summit at Merrill College on Nov. 3, More details will be available by early summer.
The Local News Network recently chose their first class of eight summer interns. The good news is that this is twice the number that they expected.
Local News Network is making progress on their spring 2023 project on county-by-county school spending. More than 40 students are involved in our work. They hope to publish sometime in May.

You will find more details about all the above — and more — in LNN’s spring newsletter .

Congratulations to our 2022 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 01:42:48 GMT

March 31, 2023

The results are in! Congratulations to our MDDC 2022 Contest winners! Our winners are below, sorted by contest division and publication. First and second place in each category will be announced via YouTube broadcast the week of May 1. At our IN PERSON conference and awards program May 5th in Annapolis, we’ll recap the winners and announce the Best of Show prize in each category as well as our organization-wide awards.

Are you an award winner? Help us showcase your work by making sure we have your latest headshot, correct title and spelling of your name, and social handles. Click here to complete the form.

Division A

The Baltimore Sun

Alex Mann
Amanda Yeager
Amy Davis
Andy Knobel
Andy Kostka
Baltimore Sun Photo Staff
Baltimore Sun staff
Christina Tkacik
Christine Condon
Dan Rodricks
Darcy Costello
Emily Opilo
Hannah Gaskill
Hayes Gardner
Jean Marbella
Jeff Barker
Jerry Jackson
John-John Williams IV
Jonathan M. Pitts
Jonathan M. Pitts
Karl Merton Ferron
Kenneth K. Lam
Kevin Richardson
Kim Hairston
Lea Skene
Lee O. Sanderlin
Lee Sanderlin
Lillian Reed
Lloyd Fox
Lorraine Mirabella
Mary Carole McCauley
Merdith Cohn
Michelle Deal-Zimmerman
Mike Klingaman
Mike Preston
Nathan Ruiz
Peter Jensen
Sabrina LeBoeuf
Sam Janesch
Sanya Kamidi
Scott Dance
Steve Earley
Tracie Rawson
Tricia Bishop
The News Journal
Amanda Fries
Anitra Johnson
Benjamin Chambers
Brandon Holveck
Damian Giletto
Delaware Online Staff
Emily Lytle
Esteban Parra
Ginger Garrison
Hannah Edelman
Isabel Hughes
Kelly Powers
Kevin Tresolini
Meredith Newman
Patricia Talorico
Takaki Uda

Division B

The Capital

Barbara Haddock Taylor
Bill Wagner
Brian Jeffries
Brooks DuBose
Dana Munro
Jason Armstrong
Jeffrey F. Bill
Lilly Price
Paul W. Gillespie
Rebecca Ritzel

The Frederick News-Post

Alexander Dacy
Andrew Schotz
Angela Roberts
Anna Joyce
Brittney Hamilton
Clara Niel
Connie Hastings
Graham Cullen
Greg Swatek
Jack Hogan
Jack Murphy
James Constantine
Jennifer Gerlock
Jillian Atelsek
John Cannon
Josh Smith
Kathi Smith
Katina Zentz
Katrina Zentz
Khushboo Rathore, Clara Niel
Mary Kate Battles
Mike Santos
News-Post staff
Noelle Hallman
Patrick Kernan
Ric Dugan
Samantha Bangh
Shelby Maly
Talia Valencia
Vickie Grinder

The Herald-Mail

Andy Mason
Bob Parasiliti
Dave McMillion
Dwight Weingarten
Herald-Mail and USA Today network staff
Joseph Deinlein
Julie Greene
Mike Garcia
Mike Lewis
Tamela Baker
Tim Rowland

Division C

Carroll County Times

Anthony Maluso
Brian Krista
Dylan Slagle
Cecil Whig
Carl Hamilton
Talha Ashrif
Cumberland Times
Alex Rychwalski
John Smith
Ken Nolan
Kyle Bennett
Lindsay Renner-Wood

Delaware State News

Andy Walter
Angi Hicks
Beth Skinner
Bonnie Mankin
Craig Anderson
Craig Horleman
Delaware State News Staff
DJ Short
Joy Ferrio
Laura Walter
Staff of Delaware State News
Tim Mastro
Tom Maglio

The Daily Record

Angelyn Nye
Bryan Sears
Cammie Collier
Joy Tyler
Madeleine O’Neill
Patrick Brannan
Sloane Brown

The Daily Times

Alec Branch
Cole Johnson
Dwight Weingarten
Jesse Kryscio
Kelly Powers
Kristian Jaime
Lauren Roberts
Matthew Korfhage
Olivia Minzola
Stephanie Lindholm

Division D

Bay Journal
Dave Harp
Jeremy Cox
Karl Blankenship
Timothy Wheeler
Sussex County Post
Angi Hicks
DJ Short

The Aegis

Brian Krista
Jason Fontelieu
Maria Morales
Matt Button
Randy McRoberts
Tony Roberts

The Catholic Review

ADAM ZIELONKA
CR Staff
Gabriella O’Brien
GEORGE P. MATYSEK JR.
Gerry Jackson
Kevin J. Parks
MARY K. TILGHMAN
Todd Karpovich

Towson Times

Staff

Division E

Baltimore Jewish Times

Ebony Brown
Selah Maya Zighelboim

Business Monthly

Emily Calkins
George Berkheimer
Len Lazarick
Pantea Tofangchi
Susan Kim

Cape Gazette

Aaron Mushrush
Abby Workman
Chris Flood
Dan Cook
Kathy McGinty
Kristin Sinnott
Lauren Zaniewski
Mallery Galaska
Melissa Steele
Nick Roth
Ronald MacArthur
Tara Marks

Coastal Point

Butch Comegys
Chris Aube
Coastal Point Staff
Darin J. McCann
Kerin Magill
Mike Smith
Mike Stern
Shaun M. Lambert
Susan Canfora

Howard County Times

Jacob Steinberg
Sherry Greenfield
Staff

Salisbury Independent

Susan Canfora

Southern Maryland News

Caleb Soptelean
Darryl Kinsey Jr.
Jesse Yeatman
Marty Madden
Ted Black

The Dundalk Eagle

Ben Terzi

The Washington Informer

Brenda Siler
Dan Olds
Micha Green

Washington Business Journal

Caitlin Lyons
Dan Brendel
Daniel Sernovitz
Hannah Denham
Maggie Lynn
Sara Gilgore
Tristan Navera

Washington Jewish Week

Art Department
Lisa Traiger
Staff
Suzanne Pollak

Division F

Baltimore Business Journal

Amanda Yeager
BALTIMORE BUSINESS JOURNAL STAFF
Carley Milligan
Garrett Dvorkin
Holden Wilen
Jessica Iannetta
Joanna Sullivan
Matt Hooke
Melody Simmons
Stephanie Redding

Bay Times/Record Observer

Doug Bishop
Megan Loock

Catonsville Times

Jeffrey F. Bill
Staff

Crisfield Times

Angi Hicks

Delaware Business Times

Emma Reilly
Jacob Owens
Katie Tabeling
Sabrina Gonzalez

Dorchester Banner

Dave Cannon
Tom Maglio

Kent County News

Mackenzie Brady

Laurel Star

Brittany Passon
Chris Elliott
Greg English
Mike McClure
Star staff
Tede Griffith
Tony Windsor

The Afro American (Baltimore & DC)

Aria Brent
Courtney Alexander
Dana Peck
Denise Dorsey
Diane Hocker
Frances Draper
Kevin Peck
Kofi Tyus
Lenora Howze
Mylika Scatliffe
Nicole Batey
Tashi McQueen

The Avenue News

Ben Terzi
Demetrius Dillard
The Dorchester Star
Angela Price, Natalie Jones
Connie Connolly
Mike Detmer

The Newark Post

Jon Buzby
Josh Shannon
Newark Post staff

Division O

Baltimore Brew

David Plymyer
Fern Shen
J.M. Giordano
Mark Reutter

Baltimore Fishbowl

Adam DeRose
Carl Schmidt
Charlie Herrick
David Nitkin
Ed Gunts
Ed Schrader
Josh Sisk
Karen Nitkin
Karuga Koinange
Latrice Hill
Marcus Dieterle
Marion Winik
Matthew Liptak
Nicole Allen
Susan Dunn

Capital News Service Wire

Abby Zimmardi
E.A. Breeden
HANNA ZAKHARENKO
Howard Center
Josh Casazza
Kyle Russo
Logan Hill
Matthew Wynn
Povich Center
Shannon Clark
Stephen Neukam

Maryland Matters

Alanah Davis
Danielle E. Gaines
Elizabeth Shwe
Josh Kurtz
Rosanne Skirble

MoCo360 (formerly Bethesda Beat)

Akira Kyles
Anne Tallent
Bethany Rodgers
Caitlynn Peetz
Christine Zhu
Em Espey
Erin Roby
Ginny Bixby
Julie Rasicot
Steve Bohnel
The Bay Net
JJ Atchison
Tony Ciarleglio
Zach Hill

Division S

SPJ-MD, SPJ-DE or SPJ-DC members

Adam Willis
Al Drago
Alissa Zhu
Ben Conarck
Brenda Wintrode
Brenna Smith
Christina Tkacik
Dylan Segelbaum
Emily Sullivan
Hallie Miller
Jacob Baumgart
Jessica Calefati
John-John Williams IV
Julie Scharper
Kaitlin Newman
Karina Serio
Krishna Sharma
Kristen Griffith
Leslie Streeter
Liz Bowie
Nick Thieme
Pamela Wood
Penelope Blackwell
Ryan Little
Scott Serio
Sophie Kasakove
Sue Kopen Katcef
Taylor DeVille
Tim Prudente

Remembering Jim Donahue

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:47:46 GMT

March 30, 2023

A staunch advocate of news media died last week. Jim Donahue served in many roles at MDDC: executive director, government affairs specialist, Foundation Board president, and visionary creator of the Press Services.

Jim came to the Press Association in 1995 after a two-decade stint at the Newspaper Association of America (NAA), formerly the American Newspaper Publishers Association (ANPA). He brought a wealth of knowledge and energy to his tenure at MDDC which lasted until 2003. Unable to let the news business go, Jim then volunteered for another two years as the eyes of the Association in Annapolis, monitoring all of the bills introduced in the Maryland Legislature.

He inherited a “horse and buggy operation, with a lone clerical employee and a program consisting largely of two meetings and a golf tournament each year” as described by Jim Keat in his nomination of Donahue for the Distinguished Service award in 2007. Under Jim’s tenure, the Association spun off its very successful Press Service division, which today continues to sell advertising into member publications and helps support the mission and goals of the Press Association. He also created professional development series, the Freedom of Information project that continues as the Sunshine Week project, and our popular summer internship program.

In 2006, he stepped in at a critical point in the Press Foundation’s development to volunteer as its president while the foundation defined its role within MDDC. During his four-year presidency, he helped stabilize funding for the Foundation and strengthened the internship program.

Jim remained an invaluable advisor and supporter to his successors at the Association and Foundation. The formal obituary, provided by his daughter, Moira, is below.

CAPBA $3,000 Scholarship

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 01:49:54 GMT

The Chesapeake Associated Press Broadcasters Association, comprised of AP member television and radio stationsin Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C., is offering a $3000 scholarship toa student pursuing a degree in broadcast journalism or a related field.Students must be enrolled full-time in undergraduate studies at a college or university inMaryland, Delaware or the District of Columbia, or be a resident of Maryland, Delaware or the District of Columbia.

Who’s eligible: Students with a major in broadcast journalism, journalism, mass communications, digital media or telecommunications. Students from other majors, who are working toward careers in journalism-related fields and have demonstrated their intention with internships, jobs and/or involvement in extra-curricular journalism-related fields.

The CAPBA Scholarship Committee will select one student from among all qualified applications received by the deadline: midnight on Friday, April 7, 2023.

Access to Information from Public School Systems in MD, DE, and DC

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 19:39:32 GMT

Miranda S Spivack

For Sunshine Week, an annual national celebration of open government, the Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association examined public school system websites to assess how easy it is to get key information about public schools in the three jurisdictions. MDDC looked at websites in D.C., all 23 counties and the city of Baltimore in Maryland, and four large school systems in Delaware. The project was led by former Washington Post reporter Miranda S. Spivack, with editing by Frederick News-Post editor Andrew Schotz and contributions from MDDC executive assistant Samantha Savage. Reporters George Berkheimer of The Business Monthly; Sabrina LeBoeuf and Lillian Reed of The Baltimore Sun; and Darryl Kinsey Jr. and Caleb Soptelean of Southern Maryland News also contributed research .

By Miranda S. Spivack

Best practices for school officials, boards

Bonnie Leedy, founder and CEO of Schoolwebmasters.com, a commercial software company that sells to school systems, has compiled a list of best practices for school system transparency.

Among the recommendations:

“There is a purpose, a value, a goal behind every major decision,” she wrote in a blog post.

The rationale or the “why” should be publicly discussed.

Information “trumps rumors.” Be proactive. Don’t wait for something to blow up.

“Sometimes you don’t have a choice and must react in an unexpected crisis. But when you maintain consistent transparency, those times are the exceptions,” Leedy wrote in the blog post.

And do a good job with your website: “Establish reliable channels of communication that are continually updated and informative. Your school website should be the communications hub from which everything else radiates, including social media, newsletters, parent notification systems, local media articles, employee intranets, governing board meetings, parent e-mails, staff e-mails, local TV channels, etc.,” Leedy recommended.

Be comfortable with pushback and be prepared for conflict. Saying nothing when a problem arises causes the public to be suspicious and wonder what you are hiding.

In an interview, Leedy said school systems are often reluctant to openly discuss the rationale behind their decisions, but that unwillingness often backfires.

While she understands the reluctance, especially in this era of hot-button issues and widespread use of social media by critics, she said, the best move a school system can make is to be upfront about how and why its officials reached a decision.

“You have a reason for making the decision you are making,” she said. “If it is well thought out, and you can express it clearly, a majority will at least say, ‘I can respect it for the analysis or presentation,’” even when they disagree, she said.

“Tell them the ‘why.’ That is my preaching. What has hurt that is self-censorship,” she said.

You can read the entire blog post on transparency at www.schoolwebmasters.com/Blog_Articles?entityid=377765

—Miranda S. Spivack

———————————

BoardDocs system aims to make school boards more efficient, transparent

As the Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association was researching how school systems and school boards use their websites to share information, we looked more closely at BoardDocs, a software system used by several school boards in the region.

The software system, which was introduced around 2000, is used by approximately 4,500 clients in the U.S. and Canada, mostly public school systems. BoardDocs also is used by non-profit boards, community colleges and universities, and private and charter schools, as well as local government councils.

The software is aimed at helping boards prepare materials for meetings and use them remotely before, during and after the meetings.

BoardDocs lets school boards post information online ahead of meetings.

BoardDocs is used by about 40 school systems in the region, said Andrea Walsh, senior director, marketing and partnerships for Diligent, the parent company of BoardDocs. Diligent acquired the software system in 2016.

A subscription to BoardDocs costs, depending on what the school system chooses, from about $2,700 to $22,000 annually.

School boards can select options among two versions — BoardDocs LT and BoardDocs Pro. Both versions let boards digitally create and publish school board agendas, supporting documents, minutes and descriptions of policies.

The 29 school systems surveyed by MDDC don’t all use BoardDocs. Those that do, don’t all use it the same way. Some post minutes of meetings; others do not. Some post agendas with links to supporting documents; others do not.

The software is proprietary, so the client cannot modify it, Walsh said. If a school system drops the service, BoardDocs preserves the data for the district before its site is decommissioned, Walsh said.

David Adkins, vice president of customer success for Diligent, said in an interview that BoardDocs “provides the framework” to enable school boards to organize materials and make them accessible to the public.

He noted that some boards extensively use the service. “There are stylistic differences” in each organization, he said.

The tools BoardDocs provides help boards run live meetings remotely and in person.

Adkins said feedback from clients suggests that the software makes it easier to be more transparent and more efficient.

— Miranda S. Spivack

———————————

Questions MDDC asked of 29 school system websites in early 2023.

Tell us what you most want to know and whether you

could find it. Email us at schoolsurvey@mddc.com .

1: How to contact the school board

2: Individual board member’s phone number

3: Individual board member’s email address

4: Individual board’s member’s physical address

5: School board agenda — is it available?

6: Is there a packet or links that explain agenda items?

7: Live stream of school board meetings

8: Archive of meeting video, with or without annotations

9: Written minutes of school board meetings

10: How to contact the superintendent

11: Superintendent’s phone number

12: Superintendent’s email address

13: Superintendent’s physical address

14: Budget document — is it available?

15: Budget summary/executive summary

16: Total amount of budget

17: Per-pupil spending in budget

18: Teacher salaries

19: Detailed list of outside contracts, with amounts

20: Superintendent’s salary / contract

Public school systems in Maryland, Delaware, and Washington, D.C., generally do well sharing basic information on their websites, such as how to contact the superintendent or when the next school board meeting will be held.

But finding information on school websites about teacher and superintendent salaries, the amount spent per pupil, or the amounts of contracts with outside vendors can be a challenge.

The Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association examined 29 public school system websites in the three jurisdictions. The press association looked for basic public information, such as email addresses and phone numbers, as well as more detailed data, such as school district budgets and copies of contracts.

MDDC found that most school systems make it easy to check in on school board meetings — all of them livestream their sessions. But in many systems, getting agenda packets the board would analyze at an upcoming meeting or figuring out ongoing expenditures for a school renovation proved more difficult.

Websites that anticipate and answer questions, such as from prospective parents or teachers, can help the public more easily find information about how the school system functions. An informative website can reduce the number of public records requests, saving time and money, because the information is already posted.

The information can be useful to families deciding where to live and enroll their children. It can help teachers decide where to apply for a position.

“Proactively, it helps parents. They see what schools they want to put their kids in,” said David Cuillier, a journalism professor who was recently named director of the Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida.

Cuillier said studies show that when school systems post information about their performance records and other data, it can influence future performance, as well as the school systems that families choose. Parents, he said, “notice that and take action based on that.”

All U.S. states, territories and the District of Columbia have their own public records and public meetings laws that require certain levels of transparency across state and local governments, including public school systems. The laws have a lot in common.

But a family may not have time, money or expertise to use those laws to research a school system. They look for quick, readily available information — and the school system website is a likely stop in their search.

Getting information through a formal public records request can take weeks, depending on the focus of the request and the timetables allowed by law.

In Delaware, it can be more complicated. The state allows its agencies to reject requests from non-residents . (The decision by some states to provide public records only to residents, or, in some places, only to U.S. citizens living in that state, was unanimously upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2013 in McBurney v. Young ).

With those limitations in mind, MDDC looked at the information school systems publicly share on their websites, without requiring someone to contact the school system by phone or email, or through a formal public records request. It is a mixed picture.

MDDC used a checklist of 20 types of information, starting with basic details such as email addresses, phone numbers and addresses.

Items on the checklist ranged from how to contact school board members and school system CEOs or superintendents to who the outside contractors are and how much they are paid.

Another question was how much each system spends per pupil — a useful metric for families deciding where to send children to school but one particularly difficult to find from the school system.

MDDC looked for school board agendas and packets of information that explain agenda items.

MDDC checked if school board meetings were live streamed and if videos were archived.

MDDC searched for written minutes of school board meetings, which some systems post on their websites.

We shared the entire list of questions in a sidebar to this story, so readers can try the searches themselves. Tell us what you most want to know and whether you could find it. Email us at schoolsurvey@mddc.com

The mixed bag in finding accessible information on school system websites is common.

Cuillier, the journalism professor, said education systems at the state and local levels are among the least transparent in state and local government. Making a formal records request may not work out well.

“Study after study shows education is secretive. If you want records you are entitled to, you are likely to only get those records about half the time,” he said.

There are many reasons school systems can be skittish about disclosing information, even when required by law.

First, there is a cautious culture in governments because people who fulfill information requests are leery of disclosing information they should not.

In school systems, people responding to information requests are mindful of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ( FERPA ), which requires that certain information be kept private or only provided to a student’s family.

Depending on local law, people responding to records requests can be sued for errors. Thus, there is often a culture inside governments of “When in doubt, don’t give it out.”

Adding to concerns about making mistakes, school systems often are at the center of hot–button issues, such as disputes about curriculum, books in schools’ libraries or a teacher’s syllabus.

Book–ban debates have occurred recently in Maryland in several jurisdictions. Delaware also has seen several book challenges. D.C. public school librarians are keeping a watchful eye on how these disputes play out.

Rick Weldon, a former Republican state lawmaker from Frederick County, now president and CEO of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, has broad experience in state and local government.

He said county commissions, town councils and school boards tend to ignore requirements for transparency to act quickly and expediently to get their agendas done.

In many smaller communities, elected officials are part-timers, and need to get up early the next day for their day jobs. The tendency, Weldon said, is to push forward on an agenda, even when more time may be needed for public input or more detailed disclosure.

They do this, he said, not with the nefarious goal of keeping the public in the dark — although he acknowledges that is sometimes the case — but “in the interest of being efficient and getting work done quickly.”

School boards, in particular, have substantial influence over large budgets, but are not well compensated for their work or time.

In Montgomery County, Md., for instance, the annual public school operating budget without the capital or construction budget is about $3 billion.

Members of the Montgomery County school board are paid $25,000 annually, with a $4,000 boost for the president.

By contrast, members of the Montgomery County Council are paid $156,284. The council president is paid $171,912.

But, often, school board members meet nearly as often as a County Council or Commission. They help manage a budget that is approximately half of the jurisdiction’s expenditures and what can be a sprawling system with hundreds or thousands of employees.

Many school boards that MDDC reviewed use a software system known as BoardDocs to manage meetings, agendas and other documents.

But how they use BoardDocs can differ greatly.

Some districts use it to store documents that can then be searched by someone looking for information. Others use it to provide an advance agenda for board meetings.

Some of those that were part of the review use BoardDocs to post written minutes. For those that do not, someone looking for a specific issue or discussion must search an archived video of the board meeting. Some archived videos have the agenda scrolling alongside the video, which helps the search.

The bottom line: The majority of the school systems that MDDC looked at could do better at sharing important information, such as budgets and contracts, on their websites.

Some of MDDC’s key findings:

Getting in touch with school board members:

If you want to reach the board of education, which oversees the school system and hires and fires the superintendent, contact information is easily findable on most school system websites — and most provide contact emails for individual board of education members.

Two of those surveyed, Baltimore City schools, and St. Mary’s County schools, do not provide contact emails for board members in an obvious place on their websites. They do provide a general email address. Baltimore City schools provide email addresses and a phone number for the board staff. St. Mary’s provides a phone number and a fax number for the board of education, but no email addresses that were obvious. At the bottom of the website, a “ contact us” link leads to a list of school system offices, but not the board of education.

Can I watch a school board meeting from my living room?

All of the school systems surveyed livestream their school board meetings, using platforms such as Zoom and YouTube.

Written minutes of board of education meetings are rarely posted.

About half of the school systems do not post written minutes; some assert that their video archive of school board meetings should suffice. Some archives are annotated, usually with the agenda scrolling alongside the video, so viewers can look for what they are seeking.

Can I find my school system’s annual operating budget?
All of the school systems post their operating budget documents. But figuring out the total spending plan can be difficult.

Some systems put the amount up front in the budget document; others give the total many pages later.

Importantly, many budget documents do not pop up by searching “budget” in the website’s search function.

That, for instance, was the case for Dorchester County, Md.’s public school system website. The budget is posted at https://dcps.k12.md.us/leadership/b-o-e/budgets , which can be found through a Google search, but can’t be found through the website search function.

In the District of Columbia, the public schools website has budget information in a pie chart . Unlike many school systems, D.C. Public Schools provides a useful school-by-school budget.

How much does the school system spend per pupil?
This metric is difficult to find. In Maryland, it is on a different website from the local school systems’ websites — that of the Maryland State Board of Education. In D.C., the data can be found on the website of the Office of the State Superintendent of Education. Similarly, in Delaware, the data is on the website of the state Office of Elementary and Secondary Education.

What do school systems pay their teachers?
For almost all of the school systems, MDDC easily found teacher salary information on the district websites though contracts that were posted.

What does the superintendent get paid and what’s in the contract?
This is widely available if someone makes a direct request, and sometimes through reporting by local news organizations after a superintendent is hired. But contracts don’t always show up when you search for “superintendent contract” on websites. In Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Calvert, Charles, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s counties in Maryland, the superintendent’s contract was easy to find.

Who is the school system contracting with for construction and other capital projects? How much is it spending on each contract?
About a third of the 29 school systems post at least some information about contracts. If others post contract details, they are not easy to find through website search bars.

Ozy Media Shuts Down Following Federal Fraud Indictment of Founder Carlos Watson

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 19:41:33 GMT

Josh Dickey | The Wrap

Ozy Media on Wednesday said it was suspending operations, days after founder Carlos Watson was indicted on federal fraud charges. The company announced in a tweet that it was shutting down after a determination by its board of directors.

Black newspapers transform through generations of family ownership

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 19:42:58 GMT

Elise Czajkowski | LocalMedia.org

Multi-generational owners of Black newspapers reveal how they advocate for their communities while navigating modern media challenges and battling systemic racism.

“Kibbitzing with Kagan” featuring Rebecca Snyder MDDC Press Assoc

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 19:44:07 GMT

Join Senator Cheryl Kagan for a kibbitz with Rebecca Snyder, Executive Director of the MDDC Press Association. They talked about advocacy for the “Fourth Estate” as they’re being accused of being “Fake News” and facing online competition. An advocate for transparency, the Association celebrates “Sunshine Week” each year and presents a “Courage in Journalism Award” each year.

An Op-Ed by Delegate Joe Vogel

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 19:49:07 GMT

Joe Vogel

Joe Vogel, a Democrat, represents Montgomery County in the Maryland House of Delegates where he is a member of the Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over tax credit programs.

Since his election, congressional reporters have been chasing George Santos around Capitol Hill. National reporters have been eager to expose the blatant and bizarre lies about his life story, career, education, animal charity, and campaign funds. The story has been dominating national headlines, but it was a local journalist, Maureen Daly with Long Island’s North Shore Leader, who first broke the story months before the 2022 election.

Local journalism is at the heart of a strong democracy. Journalists hold lying leaders like Santos accountable and keep the public informed. At a moment marked by countless crises and the pervasiveness of lies and misinformation, local journalism is needed now more than ever.

While reporters are chasing down Santos throughout the halls of Congress, our State House and City Halls feel emptier. The number of State House reporters fell by a third so that by 2014, only 30% of newspapers had a reporter covering the state legislature.

Between 2008 and 2018, the news industry experienced a staggering 68% decline in its advertising dollars, its primary source of funding. In that same time period, newspapers saw a 47% decline in employment. The slight increase in digital advertising revenues hasn’t compensated for rapidly declining revenue from print advertisements. The rise of media giants like Facebook and Google has made it nearly impossible for local news outlets to compete for advertising dollars.

Now, the United States is averaging two newspaper closures per week and experts predict our country will lose a third of its newspapers by 2025. Here in Maryland, centuries-old newspapers like the Montgomery County Sentinel have ceased operations while other publications have struggled to stay afloat.

The loss in revenues for local journalism threatens to turn the lights off in local newsrooms across the state and country.

That’s why I’ve introduced a bill to stimulate advertising in newspapers and revitalize local news outlets. The solution proposed in HB540 is straightforward: small businesses will receive a tax credit of up to $3,000 to refund advertising expenditures in local newspapers.

It’s a win-win. Small businesses gain exposure as they continue recovering from the pandemic while newspapers receive desperately-needed advertising revenue.

As we continue to reckon with the fragility of our democracy, we must work to preserve a free, open, and thriving press. When we invest in our newspapers and double down on our commitment to truth and accountability, we can stop the next George Santos and defend our imperiled democracy.

News/Media Alliance Announces New President & CEO, Danielle Coffey

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 03:15:23 GMT

June 2, 2023

The News/Media Alliance, a nonprofit trade association representing approximately 2,000 print and digital news and magazine media companies in the United States and Canada, today announced it has selected Danielle Coffey as its new President & Chief Executive Officer.

Take special care with coverage of police violence and protests

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 19:46:09 GMT

Joy Mayer | Trusting News

Each time we’re faced with incidents of police brutality and resulting protests, journalists must make careful decisions about how to accurately and respectfully document events while also mitigating harm — harm to the staff, to the families and people directly involved, and to the community at large.

Internship program openings still available in Delaware.

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 19:51:32 GMT

Delaware openings for the program are still available.

Apply for an internship for a Delaware placement by March 31st.

Submit a reference .

Amicus Brief Sonmez v. Washington Post

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 19:52:31 GMT

Ballard Spahr

An amicus brief was submitted on January 20 to the DC Court of Appeals.
Read the brief .

The JCPA. What the heck happened, and what’s next?

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 19:48:46 GMT

Mike Blinder | EditorAndPublisher.com

As Executive Vice President and General Counsel for the News Media Alliance , Danielle Coffey leads the advocacy efforts for the NMA’s over 2000 news and magazine publishing members worldwide.

4th Quarter & Annual 2022 Newsprint Tonnage Reports

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:51:15 GMT

Christy Bujnovszky Recycling Section Maryland Department of the Environment

Just a reminder to please submit your 4th Quarter & Annual 2022 newsprint tonnage reports to MDE by January 31, 2023.

Here’s the link to access a blank form ( Form A-Publisher’s Report ):

https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/LAND/RecyclingandOperationsprogram/Pages/newsprint.aspx

USPS to eliminate most sacks for Periodicals as of Jan 22 – some still allowed

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 20:55:39 GMT

National Newspaper Association

USPS continued its push to revise its mail processing procedures today with an announcement that sacks will no longer be accepted for Periodicals, Marketing Mail or other classes. But some exceptions will be made.

Sack handling has been targeted as a high-cost area in mail processing for more than a decade. National Newspaper Association led the way for urging elimination of sacks under the leadership of late Postal Committee Chair Max Heath with his “Sack the Sacks” campaign. But mailers continue to use some sacks because of ease of transport, and in some cases because flats trays as an alternative container have been unavailable.

But now USPS is changing its operation to eliminate sack handling inside mail processing plants. It has assured mailers that sufficient Mail Transport Equipment will be available to serve as appropriate containers.

The exceptions:

For Periodicals and Marketing Mail: sacks can be accepted when they are carrier route containers, 5-digit scheme containers or 5-digit carrier route containers
For mail entered at Delivery Units, no container is needed. Bundles can be entered directly.

To mitigate the impact on larger mailers, the 100-pound weight minimum for pallets destined for mixed ADC destinations will be eliminated so mailers can put bundles on pallets for these sparsely-distributed destinations.

The USPS announcement is available here: 2022-28587.pdf (govinfo.gov)

It’s time for PR for journalism

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 19:53:14 GMT

Ayala Panievsky | NiemanLab

Even if the media industry takes urgent steps like diversifying newsrooms and empowering local media, the populist media bashing won’t go away. Ignoring it is not a sustainable way forward.

MD Supreme Court Update on Limiting Access to Audio Recordings

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 21:11:37 GMT

National Newspaper Association

For Periodicals and Marketing Mail: sacks can be accepted when they are carrier route containers, 5-digit scheme containers or 5-digit carrier route containers
For mail entered at Delivery Units, no container is needed. Bundles can be entered directly.

Guardian offices closed until 23 January due to ongoing fallout from suspected ransomware attack

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 21:16:22 GMT

Dominic Ponsford

The Guardian is continuing to be severely impacted by a suspected ransomware attack which hit the publisher’s global IT systems on 20 December.

Transparency groups fight sealing of court case testing Anton’s Law

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 17:19:56 GMT

Steve Thompson | The Washington Post

A judge deemed some arguments by a Montgomery County police union attempting to block public access to court filings “not very strong,” but did not rule on the issue Wednesday in a case widely seen as an early test of Anton’s Law, passed by Maryland lawmakers last year to ensure public access to complaints of police misconduct.

Opportunity to Mentor Student Journalists

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 17:21:28 GMT

As part of their Student Press Freedom Day 2023 programming, SPLC is putting together an op-ed coaching program where student journalists will be paired with a professional journalist/educator who will serve as a writing coach as they craft an op-ed about their story and student press freedom.

Coaching will begin as early as Jan. 20 and will run through the submission of the op-ed and its acceptance for publication (Feb. 16 is our suggested target date for submission). We anticipate an average of 1-2 meetings between coaches and students and two drafts of the op-ed shared for coaches’ feedback.

Announcing the UMD Local News Network summer internship program

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 11:23:41 GMT

The Local News Network at the University of Maryland’s Philip Merrill College of Journalism is pleased to announce its internship program for the summer of 2023. This fully paid internship program will pair four Merrill College students with print, web or broadcast news outlets in Maryland, D.C. or possibly elsewhere.

These full-time internships of eight to 10 weeks include a living stipend paid by the Local News Network. Students will also receive a tuition subsidy that will allow the internship to count for credit at UMD.

We are beginning our process of filling these internships by assessing the interest that local news outlets in Maryland and D.C. have in this program. We will not have enough internships available for all the news outlets that would be interested in the program, but if your news organization is interested in hosting one of these internships, please complete this questionnaire by 5 p.m. Dec. 23. Students will have until Feb. 6 to apply, and the Local News Network will choose the interns and the news outlets taking part in the program shortly after that.

This is an exciting opportunity both for students interested in local news and for the news organizations that participate, so I encourage your organization to fill out the questionnaire. Also feel free to reach out to me with any questions.

Military & Veteran Affairs Reporting Guide

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 11:22:07 GMT

Military Veterans in Journalism has launched its Military & Veteran Affairs Reporting Guide , which provides a range of resources for reporters covering military and veteran issues (Military Veterans in Journalism). Read more.

FOIA Series: Session 1 – How to File a FOIA Request in Delaware

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 19:55:40 GMT

Now more than ever, journalists are leveraging the power of the Freedom of Information Act in the best interest of the public. Rebecca Snyder moderates as John Flaherty & Phil Freedman provide tips and tricks on submitting FOIA requests in Delaware.

Resources that came out of this video:

Visit the Delaware Journalism Collaborative
Delaware FOIA Portal (some municipalities also have their own portal or contact person)
Knight Foundation recently announced an investment in ProJourn to expand pro bono support for local newsrooms. The program has a specific focus on pre-publication review and public records access. For info and application .
A link to the PDF DE FOIA Manual

José Quiñones Joins Local Journalism Initiative Board of Directors

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 19:56:48 GMT

Allison Taylor Levine, MPA, APR

Sussex County realtor José Quiñones has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Local Journalism Initiative (LJI).

Quiñones, owner/broker of Linda Vista Real Estate Services in Rehoboth Beach, is a well-known fixture in Sussex County. Quiñones, who received the 2018 Trailblazer Award from the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce, also produces the vlog “ I Am Sussex,” which celebrates life in Sussex County.

“I’m excited to join LJI’s board so we can expand access to information and keep people informed,” Quiñones said.

Quiñones is an expert at building effective partnerships, and that is key to the organization’s work, LJI President Allison Taylor Levine said.

“Jose brings a real passion for building community in Delaware, especially Sussex County,” Levine said. “Through his real estate work and his broader engagement, he understands the nuances of Sussex County communities in ways that will help us understand how to be of greatest service.”

To learn more about LJI, please visit ljidelaware.org .

Local News Matters

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 11:19:50 GMT

It’s not news that the news is in trouble. Your morning paper is thinner than it used to be. Important elections sneak up on you. You hear rumors of something that happened down the street or around the corner, and the lack of news coverage leaves you wondering what to believe.

Sunshine Week Project (School Transparency)

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 19:59:21 GMT

Submit FOIA Requests by Nov. 10

What’s happening in Maryland, Delaware and DC’s school systems? MDDC aims to compare jurisdictions in the region in a collaborative report for Sunshine Week in 2023. The project, headed by investigative journalist Miranda Spivack, will analyze the contracts, salaries, and expenses of school superintendents and school board members as well as outside contracts and out-of-court settlements for school systems in the MDDC coverage area.

News organizations can help by submitting a public records request to their local school system. Please use this form to share which jurisdiction you are contacting (please use one form per jurisdiction).

AP Stringers needed November 8th

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 20:02:15 GMT

AP Stringers Needed | Associated Press

General Election is less than a month away and the Associated Press is eager to have stringers in place at voting precincts across Maryland. These stringers will go to a selected precinct after the polls close, collect the results, and call them into the AP. This process usually takes less than an hour. The pay is $65. Detailed instructions and any needed credentials will be emailed the week before the election.The AP is currently needs precinct stringers in the following Maryland counties: Anne Arundel, Baltimore County, Carroll, Cecil, Frederick, Howard, Prince George’s, and Worcester.If you are available to be an AP election stringer, please contact wroundy_contractor@ap.org with your legal name and your cell phone number.

MDDC to Host 2-Part FOIA Series

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 20:00:48 GMT

Join MDDC Executive Director, Rebecca Snyder as she moderates a panel of industry experts in a discussion including practical tips on filing FOIA requests.

Now more than ever, journalists are leveraging the power of the Freedom of Information Act in the best interest of the public.

This is a 2-part session.

Part 1 (November 16) will cover tips and tricks on submitting FOIA requests

Part 2 (December 7) will cover what to do when your FOIA request is turned down.

DOJ Broadly Prohibits Seizing Reporters’ Records

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 17:23:03 GMT

Summary

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has released a new rule sharply limiting government subpoenas that could unmask journalists’ sources.

The Upshot

The new regulations follow 2021 revelations that the Trump administration had secretly sought (and in some cases obtained) phone and email records from service providers for journalists at the New York Times, CNN, and the Washington Post.

Deadline for Alicia Patterson Foundation

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 17:34:04 GMT

Nov. 1 is the deadline for applying for a $40,000 grant from the Alicia Patterson Foundation. We give year-long grants of $40,000 and six-month grants of $20,000 for journalists to undertake their passion project. Fellows write four, 1,500 word pieces for the full year fellowship and two for the half-year fellowship. The work is published on the APF website and often leads to books.

Apply at: www.aliciapatterson.org

It’s a simple on-line application. Fellowships begin Jan. 1, Feb. 1 or March 1, depending on fellows’ schedules. The foundation is open to freelancers, staff writers and others with five years of print journalism experience.

Expanded student loan forgiveness could benefit some journalists

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 02:15:36 GMT

You may have seen Columbia Journalism Review’s article about nonprofit newsrooms whose employees could qualify for public service loan forgiveness. Public service loan forgiveness is a federal program that forgives the remaining student loan balance for people who have worked 10 years for a nonprofit, government or national service organization while making payments on some federal student loans.

Labor Dept Proposed Changes to Definition of Contractor

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 02:11:30 GMT

CAMILLE OLSON | SEYFARTH SHAW | America's Newspapers

Today the U.S. Department of Labor issued its draft new rule (or NPRM) on defining independent contractor status under the Fair Labor Standards Act, seeking to replace the Trump Administration’s Rule which was modernized and provided clarity to businesses and workers in this NPRM. The NPRM is 184 pages. The NPRM rejects the framework of the rule published under the Trump Administration which is currently in effect. It returns to the totality of the circumstances test which it describes as the test applicable for decades to determine whether the worker is free from economic dependence on their employer for work and instead in business for themselves.

Local Journalism Initiative Names New President, Board Members

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 01:35:23 GMT

Allison Taylor Levine, MPA, APR | LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE (LJI)

Diverse Group of Delaware Leaders Seeks to Strengthen Local Journalism

The Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) is pleased to announce the appointment of the organization’s new leadership team and board members.

Allison Taylor Levine, MPA, APR will serve as president of the organization, having founded and incubated LJI over the past several years. Known for her passion for democracy, journalism, and community, Allison has spent the past 20 years in various communications and community leadership roles in Delaware.

“We have the opportunity to build up our democracy and our communities in Delaware by strengthening the local news and information ecosystem,” Levine said. “LJI is committed to working with the existing local newsrooms and finding new ways to provide the information Delawareans need to thrive on a daily basis, participate in our democracy, and build the powerful social connections that make us a community.”

The seven board members will continue to advance the organization’s mission of increasing coverage that reflects the diverse needs of Delawareans. They are:

Chair: Amy Cherry, Communications Manager, University of Delaware
Vice Chair: Schlonn Hawkins, Chief Executive Officer and Publisher of Shelterforce
Treasurer: Mark Baxter, Senior Program Director at Rodel
Secretary: Matt Sullivan, Chief Operating Officer, Short Order Production House
Jill DiPaolo, Outreach Services Librarian, Sussex County Public Libraries
Laurie Jacobs, Director of Public Relations, Delaware State Housing Authority
Andre Smith, Digital Communications Manager, University of Delaware

“I’m honored to serve as chair of the board for the Local Journalism Initiative. With more than a decade as assistant news director at WDEL and several years as an editor at WBZ in Boston, I’ve dedicated the bulk of my career to journalism as both a form of public service and a vehicle for holding public officials accountable,” Cherry said. “With local news in crisis across the country, LJI is poised to have a profound impact on the state of journalism in the First State. Through innovation and partnerships, LJI is committed to improving the quality of information and increasing transparency and access to information for all Delawareans.”

In June of 2022, LJI released Delaware’s Local News & Information Ecosystem Assessment: Key Findings and Opportunities , a report on its comprehensive, community-centered research project that explores how Delawareans consume local news and information, analyzes gaps in coverage, and provides a set of recommendations for how the community can work together to improve access to high-quality, independent, local news and information for everyone.

LJI also is working to build a pipeline of historically underrepresented journalists through an internship program, established in partnership with the Delaware Community Foundation and the Maryland Delaware DC Press Association. Through the program, aspiring journalists are placed in newsrooms throughout the state to elevate the voices and stories of people of color and other historically underrepresented communities.

LJI also launched the Delaware Journalism Collaborative, a coalition of local news outlets that are pooling their resources to create coverage and lead conversations on important community challenges. Funded by the Solutions Journalism Network, this solutions-journalism collaborative is currently focused on the issue of polarization – what divides our communities and how we can work together more effectively.

“The work of LJI comes at a critical time, locally and nationally,” Hawkins said. “People are tuned in now more than ever to key issues like housing, education, racial justice, and more. Local journalism has served as a critical role in bridging the gap between people and the information they need to know about their communities. However, in the last decade, we have witnessed a dramatic loss of reliable local news sources. My hope is that the efforts of LJI will be one of many catalysts reinvigorating local journalism in Delaware that serves its people, especially communities of color.”

To learn more about LJI, please visit ljidelaware.org .

ABOUT THE LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE (LJI)

LJI is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, currently operating its programs through a fiscal sponsorship fund of the Delaware Community Foundation . LJI’s mission is to strengthen local journalism as a vehicle for a stronger democracy and thriving communities throughout the First State. LJI is not affiliated with any media organization.

Election Guide from RCFP

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 02:10:17 GMT

In advance of the 2022 midterm elections, our attorneys have updated the Reporters Committee’s Election Legal Guide . The guide covers exit polling, newsgathering in or near polling places, ballot selfies, and access to ballots and election records. It also includes more detailed information about election laws in 11 battleground states.

National Newspaper Week October 4-8

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 02:09:18 GMT

It’s time to prepare for National Newspaper Week, which runs October 2-8. The Newspaper Association Managers has prepared materials that are FREE to use by MDDC members. Click to see what is available. More materials will be added soon.

Additional training opportunities enhance summer learning

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 01:31:28 GMT

Special thanks to our Into the Newsroom and Brown Bag Lunch presenters. Each summer, MDDC provides wrap around training open to all journalists, and focusing on interns through our Into the Newsroom series.

Our program started with a session on Getting to Know Your Beat, with Chris Harvey of the University of Maryland. We also had a panel discussion, led by Mike Feeley of the News Journal and Tom Linthicum of MDDC, about Getting to Know your Host Newsroom. We continued the series with a three part session on data journalism with University of Maryland faculty presenters. Sean Mussenden taught how to use Google Sheets to work with data, Adam Marton unveiled the secrets of DataWrapper and other data visualization programs and Alex Pyles finished up the series with a discussion of various ways to use social media to find sources and trending information. In August, we will begin a series about how reporters can gain the trust of communities they cover, even if they are not familiar with that community. Again, all of these sessions were recorded and are available on MDDC’s YouTube channel here .

Congratulations to MDDC’s interns! Interested in becoming an intern in 2023? The application period is open from October to November. Read more about the program here . MDDC will hold a webinar about how to snag an internship in September. If you can’t wait, check out last year’s webinar here .

Mentoring program reaches out to summer interns

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 01:28:45 GMT

Rebecca Snyder

Special thanks to our volunteer mentors, led by Adrianne Flynn. MDDC’s goal for the mentoring program was to provide interns with an additional resource and network outside of their host newsroom. Funding for this part of our program was provided by SNPA. Adrianne recruited mentors to connect with young journalists and provided training and support to ensure success. In addition, Adrianne coordinated three brown-bag lunch sessions with Andrea Koppel about career resources for college-aged students, Daniel Oyefusi of the Miami Herald about building a career as a sports reporter and Robert Klemko of the Washington Post about transitioning from sports reporting to hard news. All of our programming was recorded and may be accessed at the MDDC YouTube channel .

Meet Our Mentors:

Coaches improve interns’ writing skills

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 01:18:43 GMT

Special thanks to our coaches, led by Tom Linthicum. Our coaches are expert editors who have supervised MDDC interns in their previous newsroom assignments, which provides them inside knowledge about how to improve the writing and storytelling skills for our interns.

Our coaches are:

2022 Summer Internships Come to a Close

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 02:08:10 GMT

MDDC Staff

Dozens of clips, front page bylines, and strong connections with mentors, coaches and editors: all in a summer’s work for MDDC interns. The summer is coming to a close and MDDC’s interns are going back to school or looking for that first job out of school job. The Reese Cleghorn Internship program expanded significantly this year, thanks to generous funding from The Nutting Foundation, The Gannett Foundation, The Delaplaine Foundation, Delaware Humanities, SNPA, and our many loyal individual donors. We are grateful for your support. MDDC also served as the administrator for the Delaware Community Foundation internship program.

The intern cohort was the largest in several years, with 14 students from Maryland and Delaware. This summer, we enlarged our coaching component under the leadership of Foundation President Tom Linthicum by adding three coaches to provide one-on-one feedback and critique for interns’ writing. Learn more about the coaching program here . In addition, we added a mentoring component under the leadership of Adrianne Flynn, recently retired from the Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland. Learn more about the mentoring program here.

Each intern was treated as a professional working journalist at his or her host newsroom, with the expectation of generating 35-40 published clips and real-world experience during their 8-week paid internship. As part of the program, MDDC hosted its popular “Into the Newsroom” series, which brings together reporters, freelancers and interns from MDDC member organizations for sessions on visual journalism, getting to know beats and data journalism and panel discussions. Learn more about our trainings here .

For more information about the internship program and details on applying (application period is September 15 – October 15 for next summer’s internships), please click here .

Read more about our interns below. The interns are (in alphabetical order): Donovan Aldridge, University of Delaware; Alexis Atherly, Delaware State University; Matt Cohen, Indiana University; Brian Jeffries, Morgan State University; Siera Jones, Norfolk State University; Konner Metz, University of Delaware; Kirit Minhas, Georgetown University; Nene Narh-Mensah, University of Maryland; Khushboo Rathore, University of Maryland; Emma Reilly, Washington College; Jacob Shindel, Towson University; Kara Thompson, University of Maryland; Nicholas Wolcott, University of Maryland; and Christine Zhu, University of Maryland.

Data: Readership Habits Across 670 Subscription News Websites Revealed

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 01:41:15 GMT

Exclusive data shared with Press Gazette by Chartbeat reveals the readership habits of subscribers, registered users, and other readers across 670 news websites.

AFRO Celebrates 130 Years

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 01:39:17 GMT

130th Anniversary Gala August 13th | In person

The AFRO’s Celebration Gala will bring together and recognize the Founders, Leaders, and Supporters of The AFRO News, who share a demonstrated commitment to the achievements made by The AFRO News Publication in the last 130 Years. Purchase Tickets

Revisions to Maryland Public Information Act

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 19:40:37 GMT

Revisions to Maryland Public Information Act & Ombudsman's webpage

As of July 1, there are significant changes to Maryland’s PIA. The PIA Compliance Board may now hear disputes on any conflict except for fee waivers with binding decisions. MDDC was active in the passage of this law in 2021. The PIA Manual , written by the Attorney General’s office, has been updated to reflect these changes. More information about the Public Information Act Compliance Board may be found here .

From the Ombudsman’s webpage :

Effective July 1, 2022, Chapter 658 of the 2021 Acts of the Maryland General Assembly (also referred to as HB183) expands the jurisdiction of the PIA Compliance Board (“PIACB”) while instituting an integrated PIA complaint dispute resolution process that includes the Ombudsman. Before an individual is eligible to submit a complaint to the PIACB, mediation must first be attempted by the Ombudsman. Once a request for mediation file is opened by the Office, the Ombudsman will have 90 days to attempt to resolve the dispute unless the parties agree to an extension in writing. At the conclusion of the mediation, the Ombudsman will issue a written Final Determination to the parties. Depending on the outcome of the mediation and the nature of the dispute, a party may be eligible to file a complaint with the PIACB – click here for more information.

These changes are also summarized in these downloadable one-pagers:

The Laurel Independent

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 17:57:41 GMT

Laurel Independent

The Laurel Independent brings local news home

Local news will soon be delivered directly to Laurel households and businesses with the launch of The Laurel Independent, a monthly newspaper powered by former Laurel Leader editors and a group of citizens dedicated to bringing local community news back home to Laurel.

Beginning in July, the 16-page newspaper will be mailed each month to all households and businesses in the city of Laurel; no need to buy a subscription. The Laurel Independent will offer coverage of Laurel’s city government, the business community, education, local civic organizations and arts and entertainment, along with profiles of the people who make up our community. Future plans include expanding the circulation to include Laurel businesses and households outside the city limits.

The Laurel Independent is a true community effort. Its mission is to build social capital through better-informed residents who are aware of, and plugged into, the happenings of Laurel, and to

do this independently, without editorial control by any government or political faction, or without reliance on absentee-owner media corporations only interested in turning a profit.

It all started with a task force of citizens called together by Mayor Craig Moe in 2021 to explore ways to create a newspaper that would provide local news and information to Laurel residents and businesses. The group independently found its way to Streetcar Suburbs Publishing, an 18-year-old publisher of nonprofit newspapers in Hyattsville and College Park. The organization’s board said yes to launching its third paper in Laurel.

With a shoe-string staff, The Laurel Independent will rely on the community to help report the news that is important to all Laurel residents and isn’t being covered anywhere else, with stories that shine a light on local government, celebrate Laurel’s organizations and events and reflect the diversity of Laurel’s communities.

The paper, as well as other Laurel news and updates, will be available to readers at StreetcarSuburbs.News and The Laurel Independent Facebook and Twitter accounts. Newsstand copies of The Laurel Independent will be available free at local businesses, community centers and city buildings.

Streetcar Suburbs Publishing, the hyper-local nonprofit publisher of The Laurel Independent, is an independent, nonpartisan organization that celebrates local civic organizations, communities and residents, reflecting the diversity of communities and keeping citizens informed by covering municipal government, local schools and development. Streetcar Suburbs Publishing already delivers local news to nearby municipalities Hyattsville and College Park through its monthly newspapers, the Hyattsville Life & Times and College Park Here & Now, mailed free to every household and business in the coverage area.

For advertising rates and information, contact The Laurel Independent Advertising Sales Manager Mike McLaughlin at mike@StreetcarSuburbs.news or 301-318-8965.

Interested in writing for The Laurel Independent? Have a news tip, calendar item or story idea? Contact Managing Editor Katie Jones at katie@StreetcarSuburbs.news or 410-259-0605.

Into the Newsroom Webinar Series

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 17:48:49 GMT

MDDC’s Into the Newsroom series focuses on the essential skills reporters need. Geared towards interns and early career journalists, MDDC brings experts in an online format to present timely and relevant material. The small class size (limited to 18 participants) promotes discussion and interactive activities. Join us for one or all of these FREE sessions.

Visualizing Data. Chris Harvey of the Philip Adam Marton, University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism, will demonstrate the power of data visualization using free, interactive tools.

Bringing Data Stories to Life. Alexander Pyles, University of Maryland, Philip Merrill College of Journalism, will share to how to bring data stories to life by using social media to find sources in specific communities.

Did you miss it? Watch past sessions

Unlocking Data with Google Sheets Sean Mussenden of the University of Maryland’s Philip Merrill College of Journalism will show participants how to manipulate and understand data using Google Sheets. Watch here

What I Wish I Knew When I Was a Rookie Reporter Veteran journalist Diana K. Sugg leads a session for young reporters on the touchstones of interviewing, reporting, writing and developing a beat. Watch here

Getting to Know Your Beat . Chris Harvey of the Philip Merrill College of Journalism discusses getting to know your beat.

Working and Reporting Remotely . Paul Milton of the Frederick News-Post and Ashley Dawson of the Delaware State News discuss how to connect with your newsroom and sources when working virtually.

Getting to Know Your Newsroom Culture: Lessons Learned . Tom Linthicum moderates a panel discussion with Mike Feeley of the News Journal and previous MDDC interns, Jack Hogan, Ellie Heffernan, Anjali DasSarma and Lindsay Weber. In conjunction with the Delaware Community Foundation’s COVID internship program.

Covering the Latinx Community . Jose Semala, Hoy en Delaware, and Patricia Rivera, Hook PR & Marketing, share insights on the growing Latinx population in Sussex County, DE and beyond. Coordinated by the Delaware Community Foundation.

Objectivity in Reporting . Baltimore Sun reporters Mike Preston and Daniel Oyefusi discuss how to overcome the urge to root for the home team and how that carries over into all aspects of your writing.

Effective Interviewing . Andy West of the Delaware State News, Tom Linthicum of MDDC and DCF mentor Larry Nagengast discuss the right questions to ask and the right ways to ask them.

Cross-Platform Content Preparation . Tom Byrne of Delaware Public Media, Mark Eichmann and Cris Barrish of WHYY and Julie Zeglen of Technical.ly describe their adventures in preparing the same content for print, broadcast and/or the web.

Using Public Records in Reporting . How can reporters use public records in their reporting, and what are the most effective ways to gain access? Danielle Ohl of the Capital Gazette shares her expertise.

The Next Generation of Journalism . Journalism today isn’t what it was like in 2020, so we should expect many more.

Fed judiciary says yes to free PACER searches. Here are the details so far

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 17:37:49 GMT

By Nate Raymond | Reuters

A bronze statue titled “Justice Delayed, Justice Denied” depicting a figure of Justice is seen on the Albert V. Bryan United States Courthouse in Alexandria, Virginia, U.S., September 1, 2020. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly

(Reuters) – Federal judiciary policymakers have approved a plan to eliminate costly fees for online docket searches amid debate in Congress about whether to force the court system to make its PACER electronic court record system free for the general public.

A newly released report on the Judicial Conference of the United States’ closed-door March 15 meeting showed that the policymaking body greenlighted making PACER searches free for non-commercial users in any future overhauls of the system.

Work on building a new case management and electronic filing system with modern technology is already underway, according to the report, which was posted online late last week. How long that will take is unclear.

Evergreen Content is a Publisher’s Best Friend…If You Do It Right

Tue, 31 May 2022 15:47:53 GMT

What’s New In Publishing | News Media Alliance

What’s New In Publishing

Resharing evergreen content on social media is one of the simplest and most cost effective methods of maximizing the value of your content. In What’s New In Publishing’s guide to resharing, they looked at how beneficial resharing content on Facebook can be to publishers, and the results were startling.

Internship program formalizes coaching component

Fri, 27 May 2022 17:32:18 GMT

MDDC Staff

MDDC’s Reese Cleghorn Internship Program is expanding its capacity to support interns and host newsrooms this summer. The program has 12 students from a variety of schools who will be working as paid interns for 8 weeks. Each student will be supported by a writing coach and a mentor outside their host newsroom. These programs were made possible by a grant from the Southern Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation.

To strengthen the writing skills of the students, MDDC has engaged three coaches, under the direction of MDDC Press Foundation President Tom Linthicum, to help strengthen the interns’ writing. Each coach will meet on a regular basis with their assigned interns to review their writing and offer suggestions. The coaches this summer have each had experience as MDDC newsroom editors and intern supervisors. They are:

MDCC Mentoring Program

Fri, 27 May 2022 17:28:04 GMT

This summer, MDDC is piloting a mentoring program for the students in the Reese Cleghorn Internship Program. This program is supported by a grant from the Southern Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation. Led by Adrianne Flynn, Retired (Director, Internships and Career Development; Senior Lecturer at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, this innovative program teams early in career journalists (many alumni of the MDDC Reese Cleghorn Internship Program) with interns for a one-on-one mentoring experience.

MDDC understands it is difficult for students to build a network in the industry and absorb newsroom lessons in a virtual environment. We developed this program to support students’ learning and networking, providing contacts and perspectives from outside their host newsroom. Adrianne provided an excellent training webinar , now archived at the MDDC YouTube channel, to acclimate our mentors to the program and provide tips.

Our volunteer mentors are:

Delaware Journalism Collaborative

Fri, 27 May 2022 16:00:02 GMT

Delaware Journalism Collaborative Launches to Address Community Polarization

News outlets and partners will advance solutions to community divisions through reporting and public conversations

The Local Journalism Initiative of Delaware is pleased to announce the new Delaware Journalism Collaborative.

The Collaborative is a statewide partnership of local news organizations and community partners who are committed to working together to improve access to high-quality local news and information in the state.

For its first two years, the Collaborative will focus on uniting Delaware communities driven apart by polarization. The Collaborative will apply a solutions journalism-approach, focused on both challenges and what is working to address those challenges.

The Collaborative will conduct reporting and lead community conversations about the reasons for our increasing divide over issues like politics, race, class and more, and focus on how we can work together more effectively to address community challenges. The Collaborative will provide high-quality, factual coverage that increases the public’s trust in news.

While the Collaborative will grow and evolve and other partners are invited to join, the initial partners are:

Cape Gazette
Delaware Business Now
Delaware Business Times
Delaware Call
Delaware Community Foundation
Delaware Libraries
Delaware Independent
Delaware LIVE
DelawareOnline/The News Journal
Delaware Public Media/WDDE
Delaware State News/BayToBayNews.com
DETV
Local Journalism Initiative
Larry Nagengast, freelance writer/editor
Out & About Magazine
TELEDUCTION/Hearts and Minds Film
WDEL
WHYY

Journalism from the Collaborative will be shared among the partners, on the website of the Local Journalism Initiative, through social media and other platforms to be determined.

The Collaborative is funded by a two-year, $200,000 grant from the Solutions Journalism Network’s Local Media Project . The Delaware Journalism Collaborative is one of 14 collaboratives around the country working to build trust in all segments of the communities they serve and stimulate public conversations about key issues.

The Collaborative is in the process of hiring a project manager to guide the work. More information about the journalism and community conversations will be available soon at ljidelaware.org/collaborative .

The Local Journalism Initiative of Delaware is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, currently operating its programs through a fiscal sponsorship fund at the Delaware Community Foundation.

—

Allison Taylor Levine, MPA, APR
President & Founder, Local Journalism Initiative
allison@ljidelaware.org 302.345.0589

Welcome to Baltimore Post-Examiner!

Fri, 27 May 2022 15:55:37 GMT

MDDC Staff

Welcome to Baltimore Post-Examiner!

MDDC Board of Directors approved the Baltimore Post-Examiner for membership at its May meeting. Headed by publisher Tim Maier, the online-only Baltimore Post-Examiner says “we are a little bit of everything – boasting more than 100 freelance journalists – covering state and national issues that affect Maryland.” Read their work at www.BaltimorePostExaminer.com

Lawsuit Accuses D.C. of Withholding Public Records On Police Social Media Surveillance

Mon, 23 May 2022 17:34:33 GMT

DCIST

A new lawsuit alleges that the D.C. government and the Metropolitan Police Department are withholding records about how police use social media to investigate crimes and monitor protests. The Brennan Center for Justice and Data for Black Lives sued the D.C. government on Tuesday, arguing that the city has been largely unresponsive to a FOIA request filed by the organizations 14 months ago.

The FOIA request asked for an array of records and documents related to MPD’s use of social media, including policies governing how officers are allowed to use social media for investigations, whether they can create fictitious or undercover online personas, and how they can collect, maintain, and analyze data they collect from social media. The request asked for information about any contracts between MPD and third-party social media monitoring companies. It also sought communications or agreements between MPD and federal law enforcement around social media — including any collaboration MPD had with federal law enforcement to monitor social media in connection with protests against police violence in June of 2020.

Baltimore Brew James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award

Fri, 13 May 2022 19:35:54 GMT

MDDC Staff

The Baltimore Brew wins the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for its unswerving commitment to reporting one issue with public records. Two strong nominations were received for this award.

The award is named for Jim Keat, a retired editor and foreign correspondent for the Baltimore Sun, who was a long-time advocate for public information access. Keat was inducted into the MDDC Newspaper Hall of Fame in 2013 and is a recipient of MDDC’s Distinguished Service Award.

The nominees were judged by MDDC Press Foundation Board members.

The Baltimore Brew submitted a body of work focusing on the inspector generals of Baltimore City and County. In their nomination letter, they write “Baltimore Brew has been the leading media voice – sometimes the only voice – reporting on efforts within Baltimore City and Baltimore County government to take away the power and independence of the inspectors general.” They went on to describe the effects of their reporting. “Shining a light on efforts to undermine the IGs has meant dogged reporting to obtain documents inappropriately withheld, expose meetings attempted behind closed doors and reveal legislation meant to protect public officials from scrutiny.

As a consequence of our reporting…good government voices in the community rallied. And, perhaps, political leaders were shamed:

A bill that would have gutted the powers of the Baltimore County IG was dropped.
A closed-door “performance review” of the city’s IG was canceled and efforts to dramatically clip back the powers of her office were thwarted.”

The judges were impressed with how the Baltimore Brew “shows persistence in this body of work and used tremendous numbers of public records.”

“They actually had immediate and important impact.” Because of this coverage, there was a work evaluation meeting and legislation on the issue. It is not often that reporting has real-time impact. “The Brew followed their passion and deeply worked this story.” The judges went on to say that “Jim would have loved this story. It is good old-fashioned, shoe leather reporting.”

Special mention

The Baltimore Sun
The Baltimore Sun submitted a large body of work across a variety of areas that always had an element of public interest. From whistleblowers and pandemic spending to gender inequality in state government, The Sun’s staff has demonstrated a firm commitment to public information.

Christine Condon wins Rookie of the Year 2021

Fri, 13 May 2022 19:32:16 GMT

MDDC Staff

Christine Condon wins the MDDC Rookie of the Year prize for new journalists for her excellence and professionalism as the education reporter for The Baltimore Sun.

Congratulations!

About our Nominees

Tracie Rawson wins Designer of the Year 2021

Tue, 10 May 2022 19:22:36 GMT

MDDC Staff

Tracie Rawson of the Baltimore Sun is MDDC’s 2021 Designer of the Year. This award is based on a designer’s work through the contest cycle. Each designer is required to submit 8-10 pieces, showing creativity and the ability to design across platforms and a letter of recommendation from his or her manager.

About our nominees

Sara Travlos, Catholic Review

5 things we learned from listening to audiences when launching a LGBTQ+ collaborative

Thu, 05 May 2022 15:27:42 GMT

Local Media Association

In early 2022, News is Out , a pioneering queer media collaborative featuring seven legacy media publishers ( Bay Area Reporter , Dallas Voice , Philadelphia Gay News , Q Voice News , Tagg Magazine , Washington Blade and Windy City Times ), officially launched. With generous funding from the Google News Initiative Innovation Challenge, News is Out organized and distributed a survey that was answered by more than 1,100 LGBTQ+ readers and led 13 focus groups.

The News is Out publishers worked together to encourage readers to provide extensive feedback on the types of topics they would like to see covered by News is Out, as well as their thoughts on current representation, how they consume their news, and willingness to pay for content that aligns with their values.

Flouting appeals court ruling, Maryland clerks withhold access

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 15:26:46 GMT

Courthouse News

(CN) — Courthouse News on Monday asked for an injunction against the court clerks of Maryland who are blocking access to new civil complaints at the time of filing and who operate inside the Fourth Circuit — which has already ruled in favor of this news service on the identical First Amendment issue.

Despite the clarity of the appellate ruling handed down last year in Courthouse News v. Schaefer, the Maryland clerks and state court administrator have dug in their heels.

The officials are represented by the Maryland Attorney General’s office and as a result the public pays for their intransigence.

NY Times fires back at defamation plaintiff with anti-SLAPP lawsuit

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 15:25:46 GMT

Tom Hals | Reuters

April 15 (Reuters) – The New York Times sued an anti-immigration author for the cost of defending itself against defamation in the first lawsuit of its kind under New York’s recently expanded “anti-SLAPP” law to protect critical speech.

The company is seeking unspecified fees spent fending off a 2020 lawsuit by Peter Brimelow, according to the company’s lawsuit, which was filed on Tuesday.

Brimelow had sued the company over five articles published between January 2019 and May 2020 that described him as being “white nationalist” and his VDARE.com website as being “animated by race hatred.”

Congratulations to our 2021 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 18:29:19 GMT

MDDC Staff

The results are in! See our contest winners below, by contest division and publication. Watch our virtual awards presentations May 9-13 to see our category winners and Best in Show winners, in addition to our Personnel and Organization-wide awards.

Division A

The Baltimore Sun

Barbara Haddock-Taylor
Christina Tkacik
Christine Condon
Dan Rodricks
Glenn Graham, Liz Bowie, Christine Condon
Hallie Miller
Hallie Miller, Meredith Cohn, Lizzy Lawrence
Jean Marbella
Jerry Jackson
Jerry Jackson, Karl Merton Ferron
John-John Williams IV
Jon Meoli, Karl Merton Ferron, Steve Earley
Jonas Shaffer
Jonathan M. Pitts
Justin Fenton
Karl Merton Ferron
Karl Merton Ferron, Kevin Richardson, Nick DiMarco
Kenneth K. Lam
Kevin Richardson
Kim Hairston
Liz Bowie
Lloyd Fox
Maria Eberhart, Ulysses Muñoz
Mary Carole McCauley
McKenna Oxenden, Jerry Jackson
Meredith Cohn
Mike Preston
News Staff
Peter Jensen
Sanya Kamidi, Steve Earley
Scott Dance
Staff
Stephanie García
Steve Earley, Alison Knezevich
Taylor DeVille
Tim Prudente
Tricia Bishop
Ulysses Muñoz
Ulysses Muñoz, Christina Tkacik

The News Journal

Amanda Fries
Brandon Holveck
Brandon Holveck, Meredith Newman, Jared Whalen
Isabel Hughes, Emily Lytle
Jerry Habraken
Jose Ignacio Castaneda Perez
Kevin Tresolini
Marina Affo, Jared Whalen
Meredith Newman
Meredith Newman, Jared Whalen
Natalia Alamdari
Patricia Talorico
Ryan Cormier
Také Uda

Division B

The Capital

Brooks DuBose
Dana Munro
Katherine Fominykh
Lilly Price
Lilly Price, Danielle Ohl
Lilly Price, Rose Wagner
Paul Gillespie
Paul Gillespie, Brian Krista, Jeffrey Bill
Rachael Pacella
Rick Hutzell
Staff

The Frederick News-Post

Angela Roberts
Anna Joyce
Anna Joyce, Connie Hastings
Anna Joyce, Samantha Bangh
Bill Green
Bill Green, Katina Zentz, Staff
Greg Swatek
Jack Hogan
James Constantine, Noelle Hallman
Jillian Atelsek
Joe Ferraro
John Cannon
Joshua Smith
Katina Zentz
Noelle Hallman, James Constantine
Paul Milton
Paul Milton, Trevor Baratko, Pete McCarthy, Bill Watts, Bill Green
Ryan Marshall, Steve Bohnel
Samantha Bangh
Samantha Bangh, Connie Hastings
Samantha Bangh, Connie Hastings
Samantha Bangh, Mary Kate Battles

The Herald-Mail

Dawn Friedman, Lisa Prejean, Michelle Horton, Tricia Johnson, Kathy Gelwicks
Sherry Greenfield
Tamela Baker
Tamela Baker, Alexis Fitzpatrick
Tim Rowland

Division C

Carroll County Times

Brian Krista
Dylan Slagle
Dylan Slagle, Jeffrey Bill, Brian Krista
Katie Jones
Kristen Griffith
Madison Bateman

Cecil Whig

Carl Hamilton

Cumberland Times

Alex Rychwalski
Bill Derlan
John Smith, Shane Riggs, Teresa McMinn, Jeffrey Alderton, Marisa Hammond
Kyle Bennett
Kyle Bennett, Alex Rychwalski
Lindsay Renner-Wood
Marisa Hammond
Mark Harris, Alex Rychwalski, Steve Bittner
Teresa McMinn

Delaware State News

Andrew West
Angi Hicks, Bonnie Mankin
Beth Skinner
Butch Comegys
Carla Varisco
Craig Anderson
Craig Horleman
Donald ‘DJ’ Short
Donald ‘DJ’ Short, Joy Ferrio
Donald ‘DJ’ Short, Tim Gary
Gary Emeigh
Glenn Rolfe
Heather Cregar, Angi Hicks
Heather Cregar, Donald ‘DJ’ Short
Heather Cregar, Jessica Cook, Advertising & Marketing Teams
Logan Anderson
Marc Clery
Marc Clery, Chuck Snyder, Butch Comegys
Thomas Maglio, Laura Walter, Advertising & Marketing Teams

The Daily Record

Brian Compere, Jason Whong
Bryan Sears
Erin McLaughlin, Bryan Sears, Staff
Jessica Markham
Johanna Alonso
Patrick Brannan
Patrick Brannan, Bryan Sears, Nicole Haggard
Patrick Brannan, Laura Black
Patrick Brannan, Wendy Martin
Sloane Brown
Staff

The Daily Times

Alec Branch, Ricky Pollitt, Lauren Roberts
Denisha Kranthoven
Kayla Golliher
Kelly Powers
Kristian Jaime
Lauren Roberts
Lauren Roberts, Thomas Costello
Maddie Aiken
Marci Jordan, Anthony Miller, Michelle Ganassi
Matthew Cardenas
Mike Batista
Richard Pollitt, Paula Ramirez, Michelle Ganassi
Rose Velazquez, Matthew Prensky

The Star Democrat

Angela Price
Brad Dress
Greg Mueller
Greg Mueller, Jennifer Quinn
Greg Mueller, Meredith Dean
Jennifer Quinn
Meredith Dean
Natalie Jones
Sally Covey
Talha Ashrif
Tom McCall
William Haufe

Division D

The Bay Journal

Dave Harp
Jeremy Cox, Timothy Wheeler
Karl Blankenship
Kathleen Gaskell
Timothy Wheeler

Laurel Leader

Brian Krista
Katie Jones

The Aegis

James Whitlow
Jean Marbella, Jason Fontelieu
Katie Jones
Matt Button
Matt Button, Brian Krista

The Catholic Review

Archbishop William E. Lori
Christopher Gunty
George P. Matysek Jr.
Kevin J. Parks
Kevin J. Parks, Archbishop William E. Lori, Christopher Gunty
Kevin J. Parks, Christopher Gunty, Paul McMullen, George P. Matysek Jr.
Kevin J. Parks, Sara Travlos
Kyle Taylor
Matthew Liptak
Paul McMullen
Priscila González de Doran, Staff
Rita Buettner
Sara Travlos
Sara Travlos, Kevin J. Parks
Sara Travlos, Kevin J. Parks
Staff
Tim Swift

Towson Times

Allana Haynes
Staff

Division E

Baltimore Jewish Times

David Holzel, Selah Maya Zighelboim
Editorial Staff
Jan Lee
Jesse Berman
Lonna Koblick

Business Monthly

George Berkheimer
Mark Smith
Pantea Tofangchi
Pantea Tofangchi, Susan Kim, Emily Calkins
Susan Kim

Cape Gazette

Chris Flood
Dan Cook
Dave Frederick
Kristin Sinnott, Kathy McGinty
Mallery Galaska, Lauren Zaniewski
Melissa Steele
Nick Roth
Nick Roth, Chris Flood
Ronald MacArthur
Tara Arjona, Teresa Rodriguez

Coastal Point

Chris Aube
Darin J. McCann
Mike Smith
Mike Stern
Shaun M. Lambert
Staff

Howard County Times

Brian Krista
Brian Krista, Jeffrey Bill
Katie Jones

Ocean City Today

Jack Chavez
Lisa Capitelli
Marc Emond
Stewart Dobson

Salisbury Independent

Angi Hicks, Cathy Koyanagi
Carrie Samis
Greg Bassett
Todd Dudek

Southern Maryland News

Caleb Soptelean
Dan Belson
Darryl Kinsey Jr.
Jennifer Helmer
Jenny Helmer, Eli Wohlenhaus
Ted Black

The Dundalk Eagle

Dan Belson

The Washington Informer

Anthony Tilghman
Daniel Kucin, Jr.
Dr. Shantella Sherman
Sam Collins
William Ford

Washington Business Journal

Carolyn Proctor
Carten Cordell
Maggie Lynn, Carolyn Proctor
Michael Neibauer
News Staff
Sara Gilgore
Stephanie Redding
Stephanie Redding, Carolyn Proctor
Tristan Navera

Washington Jewish Week

Ben Kahn
Jamie Anfenson-Comeau, Asaf Shalev
Jay Sevidal
Lexi Gopin
Lloyd Wolf

Division F

Baltimore Business Journal

Amanda Yeager
Carley Milligan
Danielle Frater
Holden Wilen
Holden Wilen, Matt Kish, Eric Jackson
Joanna Sullivan
Staff
Stephanie Redding

Bay Times/Record Observer

Doug Bishop

Catonsville Times

Brian Krista
Jeffrey Bill

Delaware Business Times

Jacob Owens
Katie Tabeling

Kent County News

Daniel Divilio

Laurel Star

Brittany Passon, Chris Elliott
Brittany Passon, Greg English
Brittany Passon, Karen Cherrix
Brittany Passon, Tede Griffith
Karen Cherrix, Chris Elliott
Karen Cherrix, Greg English
Mike McClure
Mike McClure, Brittany Passon
Mike McClure, Brittany Passon, Bryant Richardson
Mike McClure, Carol Kinsley, Karen Cherrix
Mike McClure, Karen Cherrix
Mike McClure, Karen Cherrix, Brittany Passon
Mike McClure, Karen Cherrix, Brittany Passon, Chris Elliott, Greg English
Tony Windsor

Seaford Star

Bernard Carr
Brittany Passon, Tede Griffith
Julleanna Seely
Karen Cherrix
Lynn Schofer
Michael McClure
Mike McClure, Karen Cherrix, Brittany Passon
Tony Windsor

The Afro American

Chicken Boxx Hosts, Kevin Peck
Dana Peck
Denise Dorsey
Dorothy Boulware, Micha Green, Jessica Dortch, Megan Sayles
Frances Draper
Megan Sayles
Mylika Scatliffe
Nadine Matthews
Taylor Peck

The Avenue News

Logan Williamson

The Dorchester Star

Mike Detmer
Natalie Jones

The Newark Post

Josh Shannon
Matt Hooke

Division O

Baltimore Brew

David Plymyer
Fern Shen
Fern Shen, David Plymyer
Fern Shen, Mark Reutter
J.M. Giordano
Mark Reutter
Mark Reutter, Ann Costantino, David Plymyer
Mark Reutter, Fern Shen, David Plymyer

Baltimore Fishbowl

Adam DeRose
David Nitkin, Carl Schmidt
David Nitkin, Karen Nitkin
Marcus Dieterle
Marion Winik
Nicole Allen, Muffy Fenwick, Susan Gerardo Dunn, Charlie Herrick
Rudy Malcom
Walinda West

Bethesda Beat

Bethesda Beat readers
Caitlynn Peetz
Caitlynn Peetz, Briana Adhikusuma, Steve Bohnel, Dan Schere
Dan Schere
Elia Griffin
Steve Bohnel
Steve Bohnel, Caitlynn Peetz, Dan Schere

Capital News Service Wire

Brittany N. Gaddy
Callan Tansill-Suddath
Devon Milley, Clara Niel
Digital Staff
Emma Grazado, Rachel Hunt, Eric Harkleroad, Adam Marton, Anton Van De Motter
Jacob Steinberg
Kelly Livingston, Madison Peek
Thomas Hindle
Tony Cabral

District Dig

Jeffrey Anderson

Maryland Matters

Alanah Davis
Brenda Wintrode
Elizabeth Shwe
Frank DeFilippo
Hannah Gaskill
Josh Kurtz
Lisa Nevans Locke
William F. Zorzi

Maryland Reporter

Bryan Renbaum, Charlie Hayward, Timothy W. Maier
Len Lazarick

The Bay Net

Caitlin Mays, Zach Hill
Zach Hill, Regan Coombs
Zach Hill, Regan Coombs, Kathy Hollyer

Division S

Daniel Kucin Jr.
Jacob Baumgart
Miranda Spivack, Robert Salladay, Nathaniel Levine, Lezlie Sterling, Scott Lebar
Scott Serio
Scott Serio, Karina Serio

Twelve journalism students selected for MDDC internships

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 17:47:24 GMT

MDDC Staff

April 13, 2022

Twelve journalism students have been selected as newsroom interns for the summer of 2022. The Reese Cleghorn Internship program hires outstanding student journalists to intern in MDDC member newsrooms each summer. This year, MDDC is administering Delaware Community Foundation’s Internship program as well. The record number of interns this summer was made possible through funding from Delaware Humanities Council , the Gannett Foundation , the Delaplaine Foundation and The Nutting Family Foundation .

These interns were selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. Interns come from more than eight schools, including the University of Maryland, Towson University, Morgan State University, and Georgetown University. The intern selection committee, comprised of Dawn Fallik of University of Delaware, Chris Flood of Cape Gazette, Kamau High of the Baltimore Sun, Tom Linthicum of MDDC Press Foundation, Paul Milton, formerly of Frederick News Post, and Larry Nagengast, mentor for the Delaware Community Foundation interns, reviewed more than thirty initial applications, which included a personal essay, published clips and educational and professional references. The committee narrowed the field and conducted a panel interview with each candidate.

Each intern will be treated as a professional working journalist at his or her host newsroom, with the expectation of generating 35-40 published clips and real-world experience during their 8-week paid internship. As part of the program, interns participate in a one-day briefing on how to get the most out of the internship. MDDC will also hold its popular “Into the Newsroom” series, which brings together reporters, freelancers and interns from MDDC member organizations for sessions on visual journalism, getting to know beats and data journalism and panel discussions. Interns will also be partnered with mentors, who will offer guidance outside the newsroom and coaches who will focus on writing skills.

The interns are (in alphabetical order): Donovan Aldridge , University of Delaware; Alexis Atherly , Delaware State University; Matt Cohen , Indiana University; Brian Jeffries , Morgan State University; Siera Jones , Norfolk State University; Konner Metz , University of Delaware; Kirit Minhas , Georgetown University; Emma Reilly , Washington College; Jacob Shindel , Towson University; Kara Thompson , University of Maryland; Nicholas Wolcott , Unversity of Maryland; Christine Zhu , University of Maryland.

Learning From Gen Z News Lovers

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 15:24:31 GMT

Twipe

Learn more about Gen Z news habits, including what they read and how they get it.

What is Anton’s Law

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 15:15:26 GMT

Rebecca Snyder | MDDC Press Association

Last year, Maryland’s General Assembly passed the groundbreaking Anton’s Law (the Maryland Police Accountability Act of 2021) to bring more transparency to police discipline records by making them available under Maryland’s Public Information Act.

The movement for reform began with the 2018 death of Anton Black, a 19-year-old Black teen who died in police custody after being restrained by three Greensboro police officers in Caroline County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. He was one of 31 people who died that year through the actions of police, according to the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention.

Black’s case was soon closed by the Maryland State Police and the three officers involved were cleared both criminally and administratively, but his family had questions about the investigation.

Under the state law in effect at the time, Marylanders who filed a complaint of police misconduct could not find out how the department investigated the complaint, or, in many cases, even its outcome. Those complaints were considered part of the “personnel record” of a police officer, and all personnel records were shielded under the Public Information Act.

A wide coalition of advocates worked for several years to get the legislature to pass Anton’s Law in 2021.

Starting Oct. 1, 2021, police internal discipline and complaint records are considered separate from personnel records, so they would be accessible under the Public Information Act. If the records are part of an ongoing investigation, they may still be shielded as “investigatory” and exempt from the Public Information Act.

Other government employee personnel records remain exempt from disclosure.

Implementing Anton’s Law in Maryland

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 15:10:34 GMT

Miranda Spivack and Rebecca Snyder

A community group in Montgomery County was asked to pay $95,000 for copies of police discipline and complaint records, which, under a 2021 change in Maryland law, are no longer automatically private.

Local public defenders in Baltimore seeking those records have been told to pay as little as $10 to the Harford County Sheriff’s Office but as much as $224,000 to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and nearly $500,000 to the Montgomery County Police Department.

Reporters in Washington and Baltimore and student journalists at the University of Maryland say they have received some internal police discipline records they’ve requested, but also have encountered long delays and huge fees.

Anton’s Law, formally known as the Maryland Police Accountability Act of 2021 , went into effect on Oct. 1, 2021. The measure makes internal police discipline and complaint records available to the public, erasing an exemption that had placed them off limits under the Maryland Public Information Act . Until Anton’s Law was enacted, members of the public could not find out if police officers in Maryland had been disciplined for misconduct or were the subject of numerous complaints reviewed by internal police investigators.

But five months since taking effect, Anton’s Law has not yet lived up to its promise.

Anton’s Law is named for Anton Black, a 19-year-old Black man from Greensboro in Caroline County, Md., who died in 2018 in police custody , after he was wrestled to the ground by three white officers and a white civilian bearing a Confederate emblem . While Black was struggling to breathe, his mother was standing nearby, witnessing the encounter and shouting his name.

Black’s death, several other deaths in police custody in Maryland, and the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis in 2020 in police custody helped spur Maryland lawmakers last year to take steps to open up information about police conduct, discipline, complaints and work history.

While some Maryland law enforcement agencies are now providing, upon request, documents that Anton’s Law says are now public records, many departments are struggling to comply with the law. Advocates for police transparency, defense lawyers and journalists say their requests for documents and data have been met with a wide range of responses — and many have not even been acknowledged.

“We would certainly argue that the legislature has determined that these records are in the public interest,” said Deborah Jeon, the legal director of the Maryland branch of the American Civil Liberties Union, which often relies on obtaining law enforcement and other government records without incurring high fees. And the legislature’s intent with Anton’s Law, she said, was minimal fees and expansive public disclosure by Maryland law enforcement agencies.

Anton’s Law works in tandem with the Maryland Public Information Act , which requires state and local governments to provide broad access to their records.

The MPIA, as it is commonly called, also gives requesters the right to ask for data and documents for free, or minimal cost, if they can show that public disclosure serves the public interest.

But the state’s largest police departments say they need more funds and more staffing to comply with new requirements under Anton’s Law. The upshot is that some law enforcement agencies in Maryland say they are being compelled to produce reams of documents, videos and audios without new employees or money to pay for the thousands of hours of work they say it takes.

In Montgomery County, Assistant Police Chief Darren Francke said the police department has about 1,500 internal investigative files that could be eligible for disclosure under Anton’s Law. Each contains between 200 and 5,000 pieces of paper, he said, and many also have video and audio. All must be reviewed to ensure that private information and other data that the MPIA says can be withheld are not inadvertently disclosed.

Little, if any of the paper, is digitized, though the Montgomery department is beginning to scan documents and create digital files, which eventually will make it easier to review and release the material. The department has asked County Executive Marc Elrich, a Democrat, to include more money for Anton’s Law in his budget proposal, which will be released on March 15 but must then win approval from the County Council. Elrich’s budget proposal includes about $427,000 for additional staffing — some civilians and some sworn officers — to improve compliance with Anton’s Law, according to Scott Peterson, a spokesman for Elrich.

“We are working very hard. We have many people assigned to work on this,” Francke said. “It is not our intent not to answer requests.”

The Baltimore Police Department and the Prince George’s County Police Department are reporting similar issues.

In Baltimore, police spokeswoman Lindsey Eldridge wrote in an email that the department is “staffing up … to better fulfill all MPIA requests.” But because of the high volume of requests, she wrote, the department plans to contract with an outside firm that will provide contract lawyers to help review the material. “This will come at a cost, either to the department or the requestor, which is determined on a case-by-case basis as provided by state law. BPD intends to fulfill these requests and does not intend to redact officer names. While we’re experiencing some logistical challenges getting this operation off the ground, that should not be misinterpreted as resistance or lack of transparency.”

In Prince George’s, where advocates and journalists say the process has been particularly slow, Gina Ford, a spokeswoman for County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, a Democrat, wrote in an email that the “county is working diligently to meet these mandates.”

But she predicted “a greater strain on county resources.” The email said the county plans to continue to charge fees for record requests if they require more than two hours to fulfill, as the Public Information Act allows.

Elena Russo, a spokeswoman for Maryland State Police, wrote in an email that the agency had received 26 requests for personnel records under Anton’s Law since the law took effect.

Police provided information in 17 cases (other requests were pending or withdrawn, or there were no matching records). Of the 17, police did not charge for records in 14 cases and had minimal charges in two. In the remaining case, there was an $1,822 charge for an extensive request, Russo wrote.

The push for greater transparency

When the General Assembly approved Anton’s Law in 2021 — sponsored by state Sen. Jill P. Carter (D-Baltimore) and Del. Gabriel Acevero (D-Montgomery) — Maryland joined several other states , including California, Colorado, Massachusetts and New York, in opening up internal police discipline and complaint records. Most have pushed ahead with the disclosure laws despite considerable resistance from police unions, and in some cases, police chiefs.

However, some chiefs who manage law enforcement agencies around the country have said they would welcome more transparency , because they, too, are often prevented from getting access to officers’ internal personnel records, a limit frequently written in to state and local government contracts negotiated with police unions.

In Maryland, Anton’s Law took effect after legislators overrode Republican Gov. Larry Hogan’s veto of the bill and several other bills requiring more public accountability from law enforcement.

But the General Assembly may not have fully accounted for how police agencies would react to Anton’s Law. The legislators did not include additional funding or apply pressure to local governments to fund the law, which may partly explain the resistance to disclosure and the high fees to locate, review and provide the documents. ( An MDDC review in 2019 found that Maryland police agencies traditionally charge much higher fees for records than other government entities do.)

On March 15, a bill Carter proposed to place limits on fees that law enforcement charges for police misconduct records will be the subject of a legislative hearing.

Carter wrote in an email that it’s hard to measure the impact of Anton’s Law based on several months.

“What we do know, however, is that some jurisdictions have forestalled specific components from being enacted. For example, some police departments charge astronomical fees to obtain public information, and some have outright refused its release,” she wrote. She expects her bill limiting fees to help.

“I unquestionably believe that, when in its full implementation, Anton’s Law will be the defining standard of police accountability for the rest of the country,” Carter wrote.

Law aims for more transparency in policing

The goal of Anton’s Law is to make it easier for the public to gain access to information about officers disciplined or in some other way penalized in internal probes or who had numerous complaints lodged against them, and whether they had similar issues in previous employment.

The effect of the law was to revise how the Maryland Public Information Act handled internal police discipline and complaint records. The records had been exempted from disclosure under the public information law and treated as non-public personnel records, an exemption that continues to apply to other state and local government employees.

Anton’s Law reclassified police internal records so that they are no longer considered exempt personnel records.

A recent ruling by a three-judge panel of the Maryland Court of Special Appeals, the middle statewide appellate court, has given supporters hope that law enforcement agencies will do more to comply. The ruling, which still could be reviewed by the state’ highest court, said that the Baltimore Police Department must hand over a set of discipline records at no cost, and found that the police department “arbitrarily and capriciously denied” a request from Baltimore Action Legal Team , a nonprofit advocacy group, to waive fees of $1,421,082.50 for the records “to which (BALT) was entitled.”

Matthew Zernhelt, head of litigation for BALT, said he was encouraged by his organization’s victory in the Feb. 7 ruling, and would prefer the issue to play out in the courts, rather than enact Carter’s proposed limits on fees — depending on whether the appellate court ruling stands.

Separately, the Maryland branch of the American Civil Liberties Union recently sued the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and the sheriff for refusing to provide documents and videos unless the ACLU paid $12,000 for records. The ACLU said the records might provide information about the police use of strip searches and body cavity searches, which the ACLU said has targeted Black people.

Giving police officers a chance to block disclosure

Another issue that could slow down or stymie requests in Montgomery County is a recent agreement with the police union to give the officers whose records are sought by the public 10 days to review them and potentially take steps to formally oppose release. Francke, the assistant chief, said that so far, no officers have used the review time to block release of documents.

That review system is far from unique. State and local governments often have similar agreements to give advance notice to private companies with government contracts. Cable companies and Amazon, for instance, regularly seek advance notice that a member of the public is seeking information about them.

Those arrangements often are written into their agreements with state and local governments, giving them time to mount a legal effort to block release.

Compiling a statewide database

At the University of Maryland’s Philip Merrill College of Journalism, students working with journalism professors are compiling a statewide database of records disclosed under Anton’s Law.

Sean Mussenden, the data editor for the journalism school’s Howard Center for Investigative Journalism, said student reporters made about 120 records requests to Maryland police agencies. The results are trickling in, slowly. Part of the challenge is that police across the state do not have a uniform system for tracking cases, Mussenden said.

In some cases, smaller departments use paper records; others track with software programs. And the infractions that are logged vary widely — one officer may get written up for failing to wear his uniform properly; another for excessive force.

All may appear on the same spreadsheet, which the University of Maryland reporters are sifting through to figure out which are the most significant cases. Then they want to return to the police departments for more details for those cases. That, too, is contributing to a slowed response, and in some cases, requests for big fees.

“The sticking point has been the case files themselves,” Mussenden said. He said he understood that reviewing those before releasing them publicly could take police departments more time and effort, and could come with a cost.

But the price tags have ranged greatly. Some police department want to show the records to a lawyer whose hourly cost is usually in the hundreds of dollars. Others will run them by a clerk, who is well versed in the law, but whose hourly cost is substantially less.

“We have seen huge variations in fees,” Mussenden said, from about $250 per hour for a lawyer to about $30 per hour for a clerk to review the documents.

Documents released for smaller requests

Justin Fenton, a reporter with The Baltimore Banner, formerly with The Baltimore Sun, has been seeking a wide range of records from the city’s police department for several years. Since Anton’s Law took effect, he has received records of internal investigations involving three officers, he said. But it has been slow and frustrating, he said, part of a pattern of delays from the Baltimore Police Department and other city agencies he has experienced for years.

“Some agencies feel they do not have to comply at all. They are reading the law differently. But the whole point of this was to create transparency,” he said.

Late last year, The Capital Gazette asked Anne Arundel County police for records under Anton’s Law and was rebuffed by department attorney Christine Ryder, who said disclosure could have a “chilling effect” on police and would be contrary to the public interest. Shortly after Fenton contacted the department, it reversed course and agreed to provide records.

Steve Thompson, a reporter for The Washington Post, wrote in an email that he has yet to receive records from Baltimore, Prince George’s County or Montgomery County police departments, but that Maryland State Police produced documents. He filed about 150 requests across the state.

“I would estimate more than two-thirds of the agencies have responded in some way, and most of these have produced internal affairs records or data. The great majority of those who have provided records or data have done so for free,” Thompson wrote.

“Only a few have charged what I would consider to be unreasonable fees. In most cases, I’m able to work with a department to narrow requests so that the labor in fulfilling them is not too burdensome, and that helps keep the fees down.”

He has filed two complaints about fees to the Maryland Public Information Act Compliance Board .

In Montgomery County, Joanna Silver, a defense lawyer active with the community-based Silver Spring Justice Coalition, said her group sought records in a handful of cases. While the coalition did not receive complete records within the 30-day deadline by which government entities must at least acknowledge a request, Silver said that the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Gaithersburg Police Department eventually provided the records without charging any fees.

Her organization also negotiated with the Montgomery County Police Department to narrow a request, eliminating the original $95,000 fee the department originally said it needed to charge once the group agreed to forego video footage, she said.

Angela Valdez, a staff investigator for the federal public defender’s office, which covers all of Maryland, also reported mixed responses to the agency’s requests. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office complied relatively quickly and without a fee for information about one deputy, she said.

“Compared to everybody else, it was outstanding,” she said.

In Prince George’s County, the police department responded quickly to Valdez — in about 90 minutes — but only to say that the file Valdez’s office needed could not be released under the law because it was part of an investigative file exempt from disclosure. (Once an investigation is completed, files can be released, but some departments spend months or years on an internal investigation, a move that some seeking records believe can be a delay tactic.)

Lisa Kershner, the Maryland public access ombudsman , who often mediates complaints about public records disputes, declined to describe what her office is seeing and hearing about how Anton’s Law is working. She said doing so could affect the perception that she is a neutral arbiter when she mediates complaints about record access. Kershner’s office produces annual reports near the end of each calendar year that could offer some clues.

While police agencies and the public grapple over Anton’s Law, Black’s family is moving ahead with a federal wrongful death lawsuit that could provide more pressure for police accountability. With support from the Maryland branch of the American Civil Liberties Union, Black’s family sued officers; the state medical examiner, who had ruled the death accidental ; the three towns where the officers served (Centreville, Greensboro and Ridgely and the two police chiefs involved in the case.

The case alleges a wide range of violations. The family’s lawsuit recently survived a motion by defendants to dismiss the case , and is slated to proceed.

Miranda S. Spivack is a former reporter and editor for The Washington Post. She has written extensively about open government issues for Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting and the McClatchy newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @mirandareporter and https://www.mirandaspivack.com .

What is Anton’s Law?

By Rebecca Snyder

Last year, Maryland’s General Assembly passed the groundbreaking Anton’s Law (the Maryland Police Accountability Act of 2021 ) to bring more transparency to police discipline records by making them available under Maryland’s Public Information Act.

The movement for reform began with the 2018 death of Anton Black, a 19-year-old Black teen who died in police custody after being restrained by three police officers in Caroline County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. He was one of 31 people who died that year through the actions of police, according to the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention, Youth and Victim Services.

Black’s case was soon closed by the Maryland State Police and the three officers involved were cleared both criminally and administratively, but his family had questions about the investigation.

A wide coalition of advocates worked for several years to get the legislature to pass Anton’s Law in 2021.

Other government employee personnel records remain exempt from disclosure.

There will be a panel discussion on Monday, March 21, about what Anton’s Law means for public records and where advocates and journalists go from here. The panelists will be moderated by Miranda Spivack, author of “Implementing Anton’s Law,” and will include Maryland State Sen. Jill Carter (District 41), Maryland Del. Gabriel Acevero, Yanet Amanuel of the American Civil Liberties Union, and Matt Zernhelt of Baltimore Action Legal Team. The panel is free and open to the public. Register here.

Rebecca Snyder is the executive director of the Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association.

PUBLIC RECORDS BLOCKED Maryland Attorney General Required Release of DUI Records After Being Blocked in Retaliation for Report on FBI Investigating Sheriff Mike Evans

Sat, 19 Mar 2022 15:23:35 GMT

Ken Rossignol | The Chesapeake Today

PRINCE FREDERICK, MD. – Following a May 2018 news report in THE CHESAPEAKE TODAY of the FBI investigating Sheriff Mike Evans’s improper handling of drugs he retrieved from a Solomon’s Nursing Home, Assistant Sheriff Dave McDowell , himself a candidate for sheriff in 2022, blocked the release of DUI arrest reports.

McDowell admitted in writing that the decision to no longer release DUI arrests of Calvert Sheriff’s deputies was in response to the coverage of the actions of the FBI and the Evans investigation. Following the intervention of the firm of Ballard Spahr, the Maryland Attorney General exacted an agreement from the Calvert Sheriff that avoided costly litigation for the taxpayers in providing the public records sought by this newspaper. The release of the DUI records on a regular basis was a continuation of a policy established by Calvert Sheriff Lawrence D. “Bootsie” Stinnett in 1992 and continued by every Sheriff in Calvert since, including Sheriff Evans.

Mid-Atlantic Media acquires Philadelphia Jewish Exponent

Sat, 19 Mar 2022 15:16:42 GMT

Mid-Atlantic Media

NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release Date: February 28, 2022
Contact: Craig Burke, CEO, cburke@midatlanticmedia.com

Baltimore, Md. (Feb. 28, 2022)—Mid-Atlantic Media, LLC announced today that it has expanded its media holdings with the acquisition of the Philadelphia Jewish Exponent.

Philadelphia Jewish Exponent, a regional Jewish publication covering Philadelphia and its Pennsylvania suburbs and South Jersey, was sold by the Jewish Publishing Group, a subsidiary of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. Terms of the deal were not released.

“Our steadfast commitment to engage, educate, entertain and connect Jews across the religious, political, demographic and geographic spectra of our community has never wavered,” said Michael Balaban, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. “However, the ever- changing media landscape can make owning a local Jewish publication challenging to maintain. Under Mid-Atlantic Media, the Exponent will have proven experts in the field focusing on its growth, development and relevance in the marketplace. We expect under this ownership that the Exponent will remain an award-winning publication, better able to meet the needs of its readers including expanding its footprint in the digital media marketplace.”

Mid-Atlantic Media CEO and Publisher Craig Burke said that the acquisition of the Philadelphia Jewish Exponent fits in well with the media company’s strategic plans. “The Jewish Exponent has always been one of preeminent Jewish publications in the country. Seven years ago, we considered it an honor and privilege to help provide custom media services to Jewish Exponent. Now, the opportunity to acquire Jewish Exponent and bring it into our corporate media portfolio is a true thrill.

“Jewish publications build and strengthen Jewish community with their content, both in print and digitally. We look forward to providing valuable content to Jewish readers in the greater Philadelphia area.” Burke continued, “And helping our advertisers grow their business with Philadelphia Jewish Exponent.”

Mid-Atlantic Media is a growing media company with a strong presence in Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Mid-Atlantic Media publishes Baltimore’s Child, Baltimore Jewish Times, Baltimore Style, Consumer’s Eye Magazine, Frederick’s Child, Home Services Magazine, Philadelphia’s MetroKids, Montgomery Magazine, Washington Family and Washington Jewish Week. The company — which maintains a corporate office in Owings Mills, Maryland — also operates a substantial national custom media division providing services to clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, Key West, Pittsburgh, New York, San Francisco and Scottsdale.

Salary, culture and remote work most effective methods at keeping local media workers happy: employee retention survey

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:22:33 GMT

Local Media Association

As in other industries, local media companies are making key adjustments to retain employees, but are not typically going so far as to add certain benefits, often associated with tech companies, like unlimited PTO.

In February 2022, Local Media Association surveyed media members, industry professionals, and R&D companies about their experiences with “The Great Resignation” — with a goal to provide insight about what’s working to keep employees engaged, productive, and employed with their current companies.

Overall, respondents noted that salary, changes to culture including remote-work flexibility, and some adjustments to paid time off were the most effective tools to keep employees.

Survey response highlights

32% of respondents said their companies had made significant changes to culture and operational procedures to allow more work-life balance.
51% of respondents said their companies had made no changes to PTO.
Recruitment was also a key issue, with 89% of respondents noting it as a significant challenge.
In open-ended responses and follow-up conversations, a majority of people talked about resignations being more on the journalism side, and general industry burnout. Some were struggling to recruit for entry-level roles.

Did the Florida Legislature pass this bill to punish newspapers? Some lawmakers say yes

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 02:22:34 GMT

Kirby Wilson | Tampa Bay Times

TALLAHASSEE — For the second time in 11 months, the Florida House voted on Thursday to send a bill to Gov. Ron DeSantis that would strip Florida’s newspapers of legal notice revenue.

Some lawmakers said the move is a jab at publications that sometimes publish stories and editorials critical of the Republican leadership in Florida.

“The free press here in the free state of Florida isn’t reporting what the governor’s communications director wants it to report,” Sen. Gary Farmer, D-Lighthouse Point, said during a committee hearing on the bill this week.

Supporters of the measure say it shouldn’t be the state’s job to make local governments subsidize newspapers. They say the measure will make notices more widely accessible to Floridians — who may or may not subscribe to a newspaper.

In Florida, local governments are required by law to publish certain notices in print newspapers or on newspaper websites. Those notices include updates on government meetings and budgets, code enforcement notifications and hazardous waste disposal notices.

House Bill 7049 , which now heads to DeSantis, would eliminate the requirement for local governments to publish thosenotices in a third-party publication. Instead, governments would be allowed to publish them on a county website.

The measure cleared the Senate 26 to 13, and the House 79 to 40, mostly along party lines.

Congress passes long-awaited postal reform legislation

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 02:21:20 GMT

National Newspaper Association

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – March 8, 2022

Contact: Lynne Lance, lynne@nna.org

The Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, HR 3076, cleared the U.S. Senate today, sending legislation to President Biden that would give the U.S. Postal Service relief from a 16-year-old requirement to prefund decades into the future. The mandate, unlike requirements for other federal agencies, beset the Postal Service with more than $58 billion in unpaid obligations. The bill passed by a vote of 79-19 with many rural Republicans voting with Democrats in favor. President Biden is expected to sign the bill.

The PRSA would roll back the prefunding mandate of 2006, shift about 40,000 postal workers onto Medicare parts B and D for their primary health care benefit and require USPS to continue its practice of delivering mail and packages as part of one integrated network, rather than splitting up costs as some package service competitors wanted.

The legislation also contains the Rural Newspaper Sustainability Act, which would give newspapers using Within County mailing rates the ability to send more sample copies to nonsubscribers. Community newspapers use this sampling practice to recruit new readers. Previous limits permitted them to send copies equaling only 10% of their annual mailings. When the bill becomes law, they will be permitted to send up to 50% of their annual mailings to prospective readers. Newspapers pay for the postage to send these copies and generate new business for USPS in doing so, as first-class postage is also purchased to complete new subscribers’ invoicing and payments.

“This legislation gives community newspapers a new ability to regain subscribers lost by the past few years of slow mail delivery,” NNA Chair Brett Wesner, president of Wesner Publications, Cordell, Oklahoma, said. “It also offers USPS a new lease on life by relieving debt to the federal government. Now we look forward to a revision of postage rates by both USPS and the Postal Regulatory Commission, which have attempted to retire some of this debt with dramatically higher postage rates.”

Wesner expressed his thanks to NNA’s Congressional Action Team for its vigorous advocacy and said congratulations were owed to the bill’s principal drafters.

“A long list of believers in universal mail service have shaped this legislation over more than a decade,” Wesner said. “I want to particularly thank Congressman James Comer (R-Kentucky), for his work on the rural newspaper provision and also Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney, (D-New York), Congressman Gerald Connolly, (D-Virginia), and Senators Gary Peters, (D-Michigan), Rob Portman, (R-Ohio), and Tom Carper, (D-Delaware). Although Senator Carper’s work had moved beyond postal to other issues in the 117th Congress, no one in the Senate fought harder than he over the past decade to keep USPS afloat. It took a very long time to get Congress to finally move this legislation. Frankly, there was a lot of deterioration of the system while we waited. We will have more work ahead of us in coming years. Meanwhile, today, Congress reaffirmed for America that the US Postal Service will continue to bind the nation together.”

Become a Mentor

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 02:23:53 GMT

MDDC Staff

We are so excited about our internship class this year. We’ve found 12 talented students who will work in our member newsrooms this summer – our largest class ever.

Of course they will perform real journalism and work with our top-notch reporters, editors, photographers, audience desk and etc., but there are some things that they just can’t pick up about our business in the short time they’re with us.

That’s where you come in.

We’re adding a new mentoring program to their internship this year, but we can’t do it without your help.

These talented proteges need mentors from all aspects of the journalism business and all ages and experiences. We’re hoping you will volunteer to help them grow into the excellent journalists we expect them to be. And we hope you will pass along this volunteer request to your colleagues. Anyone from your newsroom is eligible to be a mentor, and we hope to have more volunteers than interns (so you may get a pass this time around).

How this works:

We would facilitate matching volunteers with our 2022 intern class. Each intern will be given (we hope!) several mentor candidates to choose from.
Mentor experiences will be virtual, preferably by video conference, with in-person meetings optional as time and distance may permit. Volunteer mentors would attend a training we are putting together in April, attend a meet and greet with the intern and mentor, and finally commit to meeting with their protege for about an hour each week for the eight weeks the intern serves in one of our member newsrooms (May-August. Internship starting times vary somewhat).
We would also hope you would evaluate the experience at the end so we can improve it. And we hope we helped build a relationship that can continue into the future.

If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the form linked here by March 11. For questions, please contact Adrianne Flynn, adriannemflynn@gmail.com .

Feel free to share this with others in your newsroom and THANK YOU!

Sunshine Week Events

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 02:25:57 GMT

Sunshine Week is coming up soon (March 13 – 19) – and MDDC has a special report that you can use, and events planned for the week.

The reporting package (available March 11) will focus on the implementation of Anton’s Law. This special package is being managed by Miranda Spivack (bio below):

Maryland recently joined a handful of states seeking to make law enforcement agencies more transparent. With the passage of Anton’s Law in 2021, many details about police discipline could be released to the public. But so far, as journalists, advocates and others seeking to find out more about how police agencies handle complaints about misconduct are learning, getting to the records is proving to be, at best, a mixed experience.

For Sunshine Week, the annual national exploration of transparency in government, the Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association is assessing how well Anton’s Law has been working, since it took effect on Oct. 1, 2021. We invite you to add to our story by asking law enforcement agencies in your own community for their internal discipline records and records of community complaints, to help Marylanders understand how the law is working and if it needs to be improved to make access easier for all.

The Panel Discussion (March 21)

Miranda will host a virtual panel discussing next steps on Anton’s Law and what is needed.

We are also collecting Sunshine Week events and stories and will be retweeting and amplifying Sunshine stories – just tag us on Twitter (@mddcpress).

The project is being managed by Miranda S. Spivack, a veteran journalist who has written extensively about government transparency at the state and local level. A former Washington Post reporter and editor, her “State Secrets” stories for Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting https://revealnews.org/topic/state-secrets/ won SPJ’s 2017 Sunshine Award. She recently wrote about police discipline records and disappearing civilian criminal records in a series published by the McClatchy chain of newspapers. https://www.sacbee.com/search/?q=spivack+and+clean+slate

Sarah Palin v. The New York Times could be a groundbreaking journalism case

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 02:37:00 GMT

Tom Jones | Poynter

Most legal experts agree that Palin’s chances of winning the case are pretty low. But it’s not completely out of the question.

An intriguing defamation case gets underway today: former Alaska governor and Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin v. The New York Times.

To catch you up, Palin sued the Times in 2017 over an editorial that wrongly linked the 2011 shooting of Arizona Congresswoman Gabby Giffords to a map circulated by Palin’s PAC that showed certain electoral districts under the crosshairs. The Times immediately corrected and apologized for the error. But now the federal courts will hear the case.

At the heart of this matter is the landmark 1964 case of The New York Times v. Sullivan. That decision ruled that not only must public officials prove defamation, but that the news outlet did it with “actual malice.”

So that’s what Palin must prove: that the Times not only defamed her, but they knew what they wrote was false or that they recklessly disregarded whether the claims were true or not. The Times’ defense was that it was an honest mistake and that they immediately fixed it. As The Washington Post’s Erik Wemple wrote , “the case will help demarcate the line between really bad journalism and libelous journalism.”

Sponsor the 2022 Trust in News Conference

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 02:27:51 GMT

MDDC Staff

We’re excited to announce our sponsorship opportunities for our 2022 Trust In News Conference and Awards program. This year’s conference will bring decision makers within the local media industry together for a week of awards and celebration! Starting May 9th, we will feature a series of short “broadcast” awards segments honoring first and second place winners in each editorial and advertising contest category, in addition to featuring nominees for organization-wide awards!

Then on Friday May 13th, we will host panel discussion tracks and the final best-in-show and organization-wide awards.

By choosing one of our many sponsorship options , you’ll not only be displaying your brand in front of decision makers within the Maryland, Delaware and Washington, DC media industry, you’ll be supporting the effort of our press association in representing and advocating for its members and the industry in Maryland, Delaware and DC.

Contact Kevin Berrier for more information.

Elevate: Helping News Businesses Thrive

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 03:55:05 GMT

International Center for Journalists

February 17, 2022

Elevate, ICFJ´s news business hub, is a mind-changing global program focused on helping C-level journalists who are running small and medium-sized media outlets develop their business skills so that their newsrooms can become sustainable and grow.

The program is a “real-life MBA.” It is an opportunity for journalists to learn from global business executives and to receive funding, all with the purpose of taking their operations to the next level.

Applications are open until March 2, 2022 (23:59 EST)

NABJ honors Sherri Williams as ‘Journalism Educator of the Year’

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 02:31:32 GMT

Editor & Publisher

Dr. Sherri Williams, who has led an effort to educate young Black journalists and others to diversify newsrooms, has been honored with the “Journalism Educator of the Year” award by the National Association of Black Journalists.

Williams is an assistant professor in race, media and communication at American University and has worked as a newspaper reporter for a decade in three newsrooms, including The Associated Press in Jackson, Mississippi.

Will publishers bring games to the next level in 2022?

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 02:30:28 GMT

Twipe

At the start of 2022, the New York Times introduced a fellowship for crossword constructors . The aim of the fellowship is to increase the diversity of their puzzles so that underrepresented groups are considered when puzzles are created. This is one of the many actions The New York Times has taken to solidify its puzzle strategy.

There has been much talk and experimentation in the area of games for audience growth and habit formation. However, it seems there is no clear one-size-fits-all gamification strategy for publishers.

Md. Matters to Co-Sponsor Climate Forums for Gubernatorial Candidates

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 02:33:01 GMT

Maryland Matters

As Marylanders attempt to make sense of the many candidates who are running for governor this year, here are a couple of events that may help voters choose: Maryland Matters is co-sponsoring two candidate forums on climate change next month.

All of the candidates for governor have been invited to both events and several have already confirmed that they plan to attend.

The first climate forum is from 7-8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8 at the Riggs Alumni Center at the University of Maryland at College Park. The second is a night later, Wednesday, March 9, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Ungar Athenaeum at Goucher College in Towson.

Both events will also be live-streamed on several platforms and recorded, making them accessible to all Maryland voters.

Maryland Matters’ co-sponsors for both events are the Maryland League of Conservation Voters, the Sierra Club Maryland chapter, Ed Hatcher and Angie Cannon. The College Park forum is also being co-sponsored by the Prince George’s County NAACP and the new Environmental Justice Journalism Initiative. The Goucher event is being co-sponsored by the Baltimore County NAACP branch.

Maryland Matters Founding Editor Josh Kurtz will be a panelist at both events, asking the candidates questions.

For the College Park event, he will be joined as a questioner on the panel by Dr. Tonya Harrison-Edwards, legislative affairs chair for the NAACP Prince George’s County Branch, and Rona Kobell, an environmental journalist who is co-director of the Environmental Justice Journalism Initiative.

At Goucher, Kurtz will be joined on the panel by Staci Hartwell of the NAACP Maryland State Conference, Stella Krajick, a Goucher College political science and environmental studies student, and one other panelist who will be announced soon.

Maryland Matters’ participation in this event is part of the “ Climate Calling ” project we launched last year — and another sign of our commitment to illuminating major issues in Maryland and holding political leaders to account. As part of that project, we ran interviews last fall with the nine Democratic candidates for governor who were then in the race.

For more information about the College Park event, or if you’re interested in attending, please click here .

If you’re interested in learning more about the Goucher event, or attending, please click here .

All in-person attendees must show proof of vaccinations and wear N95 or KN95 masks when indoors on the two college campuses.

Philanthropy & Nonprofit Accountability Fellowship

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 03:53:39 GMT

The Chronicle of Philanthropy

February 11, 2022

The Chronicle of Philanthropy, an independent news organization that covers nonprofits, foundations, and others involved in advancing the social good, is launching the Philanthropy & Nonprofit Accountability Fellowship.

This fellowship is part of an extensive collaboration with the Associated Press and the Conversation designed to shed light on one of the most undercovered — but crucial — sectors of American life.

Our goal is to give news organizations access to the tools and training they need to write powerful stories that attract and engage more of their readers and to expand their accountability journalism across a variety of beats, both during the fellowship and over the long haul.

Through this one-year fellowship, journalists at local, regional, and nonprofit news organizations will have the opportunity to work with the Chronicle of Philanthropy to develop and publish articles about the people and organizations in their regions or coverage areas that are trying to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems and improve the quality of life for all.

The newsrooms selected will each receive a $15,000 stipend to subsidize the work of reporters and editors on projects for publication at their own organizations and in the Chronicle. They will also work with and learn from editors and reporters who are part of our philanthropy partnership at the Associated Press and the Conversation and with national experts who can help them improve their journalism.

Postal reform passes the House

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 02:35:40 GMT

National Newspaper Association

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Feb 8 2022
Contact: Lynne Lance, lynne@nna.org

POSTAL REFORM PASSES THE HOUSE, ADVANCING A DECADE OF WORK BY NNA

The House of Representatives today passed the Postal Service Reform Act, HR 3076, by a vote of 342 to 92, sending a landmark postal bill to the Senate for consideration.

The bill would accomplish several goals pursued by National Newspaper Association since debate on saving universal mail service commenced in recent years. NNA was instrumental in the passage of the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act of 2006, but that legislation picked up a late amendment that saddled the Postal Service with a $5 billion annual obligation to prefund retiree health costs for 75 years.

The prefunding requirement was met for only two years and then an ailing USPS transferred the obligation to debt on its balance sheet. The rising debt alarmed the Postal Regulatory Commission, which gave USPS authority to pass along substantial postage increases. In 2023, newspapers can expect two increases totaling nearly 10 percent in higher costs.

The PSRA would roll back the debt, require USPS to lower its retiree health costs by shifting about a quarter of its retirees into Medicare, for which Medicare taxes have already been paid.

Other important provisions are in the bill, including a mandate for continued 6-day mail service. It also would allow community newspapers to increase their uses of the mail by sending sample copies to potential new subscribers.

Brett Wesner, NNA chair and publisher of Wesner Publications, Cordell, OK, said NNA was celebrating a long-awaited signal by Congress that it was serious about preserving mail service.

“This day has finally come,” Wesner said. “We greatly appreciate the hard work of Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-NY, and James Comer, R-KY, in crafting a bill that drew wide bipartisan support, despite some unaccountable resistance. These two leaders came up with a complex bill that will give USPS some financial running room and, more importantly, demonstrate to the nation that we value this national treasure, the US Postal Service. Now it is on to the Senate.

“I wish I could reassure our members that today’s victory will mean stable postal rates and supremely reliable service. We know that more work is to be done to reach those goals. Today, however, we want to thank members of Congress and our own advocates for a job well done.”

Spotlight PA to launch first-ever regional reporting bureau based in State College

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 02:34:23 GMT

Christopher Baxter | The Lenfest Institute

During the past two years, with the enduring and generous support of Pennsylvanians across the state, we have built Spotlight PA into one of the most successful local journalism endeavors in the United States. But the challenges before us are immense, and we cannot rest.

That’s why, a year ago, I began discussions with a group of residents and stakeholders in State College about extending Spotlight PA’s journalism to bolster reporting in the region.

As part of this initiative, Spotlight PA will be hiring a team of four journalists dedicated to the community — a significant increase in local reporting resources — committed to the same high-quality, nonpartisan investigative and public-service journalism you’ve come to support.

Consistent with our member-funded, public-service mission, all of this high-quality journalism will be made available at no cost to our media partners — led by the Centre Daily Times and others in the region — and to the public through spotlightpa.org/statecollege .

APPLY by Feb 6: Widening the Pipeline 2022 Fellowship

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 03:51:48 GMT

National Press Foundation

February 3, 2022

All-expenses paid fellowship, March 2022 to February 2023. Application deadline Feb. 6, 2022.

APPLY

American journalism is experiencing a severe and systemic diversity crisis, one that was foretold yet long ignored. There are simply not enough reporters and editors of color to inform, engage and accurately and fairly reflect our society.

Many newsrooms have tackled urgent social issues with majority white staffs—some more successfully than others. The National Press Foundation intends to do its part to address this problem through a “Widening the Pipeline” Fellowship designed to help confront the common lament that “it’s hard to find qualified journalists of color.”

NPF is committed to leveraging its resources and decades of training experience to help grow the pipeline of diverse journalists who will rise to positions of influence in America’s newsrooms.

Specifically, NPF will:

Recruit up to 25 young journalists for a 12-month fellowship in the leadership, in-depth reporting, data and multimedia skills they need to hold governments and corporations accountable and to advance in their newsrooms.
Provide each fellow with individual coaching and mentoring.
Bring fellows to Washington for training, mentoring and networking sessions with editors.
Survey fellows on promotion, retention and job satisfaction.

The 2022 program will build on NPF’s Paul Miller Washington Reporting and Accountability fellowships, existing partnerships, influential alumni and volunteers to support the growth of these public service-minded reporters. The application is here .

Beginning in March 2022, the once-monthly training sessions will include two in-person gatherings in Washington, D.C. (unless COVID-19 guidelines mandate that all sessions be virtual). Participants must be fully vaccinated to attend in-person trainings. NPF will pay for fellows’ airfare, hotel and most meals for the two in-person trainings. The estimated time commitment for virtual trainings, including prep and homework, is five hours per month.

2022 Statehouse Reporting Fellowship – Apply by Feb 27

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 03:48:35 GMT

February 1, 2022

Nearly 90% of U.S. state legislative chambers will hold elections later this year. To help statehouse and regional reporters prepare for the contentious campaigning and bruising battles over redistricting that could affect U.S. politics for decades, the National Press Foundation will hold a week of journalism training in Austin, Texas, March 27-31.

In addition to gerrymandering and voting rights, key topics will include the future of democracy, handling misinformation, copycat legislation, COVID as a public health and political issue, campaign finances, how federal stimulus money is being spent locally, and voter-motivating issues such as race and abortion. Expert instructors will help journalists with sources and nuanced background, as well as fact-checking, community engagement, accountability journalism and other skills.

Application deadline is February 27.

Leadership Academy for Diversity in Media – Feb 11 deadline

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 03:37:46 GMT

Poynter

February 1, 2022

Apply by February 11

In partnership with The Washington Post, the Poynter Institute is looking for the next 30 journalists of color to participate in its sixth Leadership Academy for Diversity in Media. This group will join a network of 150+ graduates who regularly describe their experience in the diversity leadership academy as “life-changing.”

Part of that trademark experience comes from having honest conversations about the challenges for journalists of color in management roles — with fellow journalists and leaders of color. For many participants, this transparent environment offers what they don’t always get in their daily work: understanding and opportunities to unburden and heal.

The program structure and curriculum also provide participants the connections, confidence and skills to confront their challenges. Sessions are designed fresh each year to respond to industry trends, participant needs and evolving management challenges. Underscoring everything is Poynter’s expertise in leadership training and The Post’s expertise in digital innovation.

Doris Truong , director of training and diversity at the Poynter Institute, and Carla Broyles , senior editor for recruitment and training at The Post, will return to lead Poynter’s 2022 program.

Throughout the weeklong program, accepted applicants will have direct access to top media executives, receive practical advice on career planning and gain a deep understanding of what it takes to successfully lead today’s digital news organizations.

2021 Chesapeake AP Broadcasters Association Contest-Call for Entries!

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 15:21:13 GMT

CAPBA

Call for entries for the 2021 Chesapeake Associated Press Broadcasters Association contest!

The online contest is now open. It closes on Sunday, Feb. 20, 2022. Please mark your calendars! Winners will be recognized at our annual CAPBA Convention at the Dunes Manor Hotel in Ocean City, Md., June 3-5, 2022.

To submit your work or for instructions on using the BetterBNC website, visit http://betternewspapercontest.com/2021-chesapeake . The temporary password is Contest1.

For a list of the contest categories and rules, visit our new website at https://capba.net .

NEW this year is the category for Best Sports Anchor!

Charlene Bisson named INI’s CEO

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 02:38:52 GMT

Charlene (Patti) Bisson, 44, has been named President & CEO of Independent Newsmedia Inc. USA. She is only the fourth person to serve as the company’s CEO in its 68-year history.

Advertising Awards – Are they worth the fuss?

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:19:16 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

In one word — yup. Advertising awards are so incredibly important for so many reasons, but in the chaos of our everyday work we forget the importance and power that award-winning work brings. Here are three reasons why advertising awards (such as the MDDC Awards Contest) are important to your marketing organization:

1. AWARDS ARE BENEFICIAL FOR BUSINES S

Your clients are buying advertisements – they’re buying your creative ideas and strategies build their business. It’s safe to say there’s no shortage in Marketing agencies and freelancers out there promising the world to naïve businesses. Being an award-winning advertising and marketing agency will set you ahead of the competition.

Did your marketing campaign win an award? Share that success with a business as you’re presenting your idea to them. Did your ad design win an award? Use that design’s best practices in your prospects spec ad and share with them WHY your design uses best practices from your past award-winning designs.

Don’t be humble with your awards — promote them. Not to mention it continues to set an elite bar to strive to beat by your staff.

2. AWARDS ARE BENEFICIAL FOR MORALE

Let’s face it. Marketing consultants, designers, assistants, and directors work long, arduous hours. We really don’t have much off-time and that’s OK! That’s what we’ve signed up for in this career.

We are sounding boards for clients when they’re unhappy and are always pushing for peak performance in our campaigns. It can admittedly be exhausting. It’s nice to be recognized and motivates us to do our best work.

Marketers like to win, and absolutely despise losing. A win goes a long way to propel us to continue doing our best work.

3. AWARDS ARE BENEFICIAL FOR RETENTION

If your campaigns are winning awards, well you must be doing something right! Your award-winning campaign is probably bringing in rich and relevant leads to your client, increasing their brand-awareness in the marketplace, and propelling your client to the next level. A high-performing campaign that’s winning awards will keep a client happy 99 times out of 100.

Internally, recognition to your staff on a job well done by investing in submitting their work for award consideration can go a long way too. As a young marketer, I would rather win an award that can help my career than be treated to a gift card, potluck lunch, or a pat on the back.

Why? Because passionate marketers, eat, breath, bleed, and sleep marketing. An award shows that we’re on the right track in honing our craft.

So, if you’re on the fence of whether or not you should invest the time and money in to submitting your work for awards, don’t be! If you believe your content is worthy (and I hope you do, otherwise that’s a whole other conversation), show your staff you believe in them and your clients that you appreciate them.

Register for the Student Press Freedom Day training series

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 03:35:52 GMT

Student Press Law Center

December 24, 2021

We’ve got a great way to get ready for Student Press Freedom Day (Feb. 24, 2022) . This year, we’re launching the Student Press Freedom Day Boot Camp – a series of four skills-building zoom workshops to help student journalists develop important skills to report on and advocate for student press freedom! Students and advisers who participate in the four central training workshops below will receive a certificate and a LinkedIn badge.

Whether you can only attend a couple of these events or if you can attend all four, you’ll learn tangible skills from seasoned experts.

Space is limited, click the links to register today!

Op-Ed Crash Course
Thursday, Jan. 13 @ 8 p.m. ET

Responding to Press Freedom Threats Through Advocacy
Wednesday, Jan. 26 @ 8 p.m. ET

How to Tell Your Story and Be a Spokesperson for Student Press Freedom
Thursday, Feb. 3 @ 8 p.m. ET

Using Social Media as a Journalist & Advocate
Thursday, Feb. 10 @ 8 p.m. ET

Connect to this year’s theme, “Unmute Yourself”:

Send us some of your best work from 2021! We’re looking for examples of great student journalism.
Have you been censored? Help us understand how and when censorship happens by taking our survey.
Do you have excellent photos of your student staff in action? Enter them in the Unmute Yourself! Photo Contest for the chance at a cash prize. Your photos may be featured on the SPLC website, social media, and in this newsletter!
Want to host a Student Press Freedom Day event at your school? Apply now for a Student Press Freedom Day grant!

Stay up to date about upcoming events, trainings and tools at StudentPressFreedom.org .

The Washington Blade becomes the first LGBTQ publication to secure an official seat in the White House press room

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 02:45:41 GMT

The Washington Blade

The Washington Blade, the nation’s oldest LGBTQ newspaper, has secured an officially designated seat in the White House James S. Brady briefing room, marking the first time an LGBTQ publication has been afforded the honor.

The White House Correspondents Association, which is responsible for the seating assignment in the briefing room, made the announcement Friday as part of the updated seating chart, which will take effect on Jan. 3.

5-minute survey: Research group examines weekly newspapers’ business model

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 02:44:28 GMT

South Dakota Newspaper Association

Finding business model solutions for weekly newspapers is the top priority of 2022 for a multi-state team of journalism researchers, state newspaper association directors and journalists.

To do so, they need weekly newspaper publishers from across the nation to fill out this 5-minute survey giving input on what they think the industry’s future business model should be. The link to the survey is here: https://tinyurl.com/weeklymodel

Those who complete the survey can enter a drawing to win a $100 gift card. Please reply to the survey by Jan. 23.

The research team is led by Teri Finneman, a journalism professor at the University of Kansas, and also includes the South Dakota Newspaper Association, the Kansas Press Association and journalism researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder, University of Minnesota and University of Tennessee.

Finneman, who studied how COVID-19 impacted community journalism in the Midwest, said the upheaval of the pandemic was a turning point in needing to address the industry’s business model problem.

“The time for talk is up. It’s time for action,” she said. “We believe it’s critical to have academia and the industry working together to come up with some workable solutions to help save community journalism.”

The team will spend the next year working on surveys and focus groups for publishers and readers to create sample business model strategies. Funding to support their work has come from the SNPA Foundation, the University of Kansas School of Journalism, the North Dakota Newspaper Association, the South Dakota Newspaper Association, the Nebraska Press Association and the Kansas Press Association.

Finneman said it will be important for weekly publishers to fill out the team’s survey.

“We know there will not be a one-size-fits all solution, which is why it’s critical that we hear from as many publishers as possible to know what can work and what can’t,” she said. “We have a stellar team that knows community journalism working on this project and hope we can make a difference.”

A deep dive into the class action antitrust lawsuit against Facebook & Google

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 02:42:50 GMT

Editor & Publisher

“From 1962 to 2005, newspaper industry advertising revenues increased for 40 to 44 years, from roughly $3 billion to roughly $49.8 billion. Last year, according to the Pew Research Center, revenues fell to $8.83 billion. That’s an 82% drop in just 16 years. That’s a stunning drop, and if the trends hold, we’d be projected to hit zero in five years,” Lee Wolverton said, sounding an alarm to news publishers.

Lee Wolverton is the vice president of news and executive editor at West Virginia-based HD Media , the news publisher that ran point on a federal antitrust case filed at the beginning of the year, with Google and Meta (the platform formerly known as Facebook) named as defendants

“It shows that we are in a state of crisis, and we need to respond, and we need more than tax credits. We need to attack the problem, and that is that we’ve been choked off in digital advertising revenues by two companies operating a monopoly.”

Journalism and Climate Change: new guide to help newsrooms rise to the challenge

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 02:41:32 GMT

World Association of News Publishers

Climate change is an issue that will cut across most subjects tackled by newsrooms – from business to politics, sport and leisure, social pressures and migration. But not everyone or every organisation is at the same level of proficiency when it comes to understanding the issues or delivering engaging content.

WAN-IFRA has been working with newsrooms in Asia to think about the climate stories they tell, how they tell them, as part of the Temasek Foundation: WAN-IFRA Journalism Programme, Challenge of the Climate Crisis. The programme will culminate in a Global eSummit on Journalism and Climate Change on 22 and 23 February 2022.

Key takeaways from the training have been distilled into a concise reporting guide ( REQUEST YOURS HERE ) designed to get you thinking about:

Your role and responsibility in telling the climate change story
Understanding foundation science and where to source it
Language, context and measurement
Misinformation
Newsroom organisation
How you tell the story.

Warren Fernandez, Editor in Chief of the Straits Times and President of the World Editors Forum, said climate change is the story of our generation, both for audiences and journalists, all around the world. This is why the World Editors Forum was helping to build the capacity of newsrooms.“It is a complex and compelling story that affects all aspects of our lives, from the environment and economy, the science behind it, to the impact on societies and ways of life, arising from changes to our environment caused by global warming, both now and in the future,” said Fernandez.“The challenge for newsrooms is to tell this story well, going beyond the news of extreme weather events, to helping our communities figure out the way forward. This will call for a deep understanding of the trade-offs and challenges we will inevitably face ahead, as business as usual will not get the job done.“Telling this story in words, graphics, data projects, visuals and videos will require honing new skills from our newsrooms, which will also need to bone up on the science that underpins the issue, so as to present information in an authoritative and engaging way.“Doing so is doubly important if we are to counter the welter of fake news and misinformation, from not just climate change skeptics, but also vested interests seeking to block any hope of progress.“And in the end, we also need to give hope, and inspire people to believe in the possibility of progress, that the world can come together to tackle this challenge, huge and daunting as it might be. Our newsrooms can and must play our part in this grave, even existential crisis, of our times.”

Do you have an eight-inch frying pan?

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 05:14:59 GMT

John Foust

December 14, 2021

There’s a story about an old man who was fishing from a pier. He was catching more fish than anyone else, so a crowd gathered to learn his secret. His behavior was unlike anything they had ever seen. Each time he caught a fish, he pulled a tape measure out of his pocket and took a measurement. He put the small fish into his cooler and tossed the big ones back into the ocean.

When one of the onlookers asked about his strange technique, he explained that he kept only the fish that were under eight inches long. “Why are you doing that?” he was asked. He said, “Because my frying pan is eight inches wide.”

Imagine that. The old fellow was throwing away the fish that didn’t fit his eight-inch frying pan. It didn’t occur to him that he could get a bigger frying pan or cut large fish into smaller pieces.

We may laugh at this silly example, but there’s a bit of that old fisherman in all of us. It’s human nature to resist change. It’s no surprise that we have a tendency to discard ideas that don’t fit the way we’ve always done things. We all have eight-inch frying pans in our minds, and sometimes it takes discipline to break down those barriers.

Pablo Picasso once said, “Every act of creation is first of all an act of destruction.” While there is some debate about what this famous artist actually meant, I think it’s safe to say he was talking about the need to let go of former – often stubborn – inclinations to do things in certain ways.

Eight-inch frying pans have no place in a creative profession like advertising. If we discard the ideas that don’t fit the way we’ve always done things, we restrict our thinking and limit our potential. When that happens, we end up in a creative rut – and our advertisers get short-changed.

Abraham Maslow, the noted psychologist and philosopher, said, “If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail.” That’s another way of saying, “Stop throwing away the big ideas. Instead, get rid of that old, eight-inch frying pan.”

To refocus our thinking, it helps to recognize negative reactions we may have toward new ideas. When a new concept comes to mind – and our initial reaction is to measure it and throw it back – we should stop ourselves in our tracks. That’s it. Just stop.

This reminds me of the old saying, “The mind is like a parachute. It only works when it’s open.” Once we open the door to possibilities, new ideas – big ideas – will be more welcome.

There is a lot to gain. In the right environment, the seeds of unrestricted creative thinking can blossom into great advertising.

If you want to measure something, measure campaign results. When you have great advertising, you’ll have great results. And when you have great results, you’ll create loyal advertisers.

John Foust has conducted training programs for thousands of newspaper advertising professionals. Many ad departments are using his training videos to save time and get quick results from in-house training. E-mail for information: john@johnfoust.com

Enter your 2021 political reporting for The Toner Prizes for Excellence in Political Reporting

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 02:40:18 GMT

Newhouse School | Syracuse University

We award two Prizes – one for national political reporting and one for local political reporting. Each Prize carries a $5,000 honorarium. There’s no entry fee.

Deadline is Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, by 11:59 p.m.

The Toner Prizes honor the late Robin Toner, the first woman to be national political correspondent for The New York Times. The Prizes are sponsored by the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, where Toner was an outstanding alumna.

For more info, see the Toner Program and the ENTRY FORM

News Media Alliance, National Newspaper Association Agree to Combine Forces on Postal, Public Policy

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 02:20:24 GMT

News Media Alliance

The News Media Alliance and National Newspaper Association, both long-standing newspaper advocacy organizations with Washington, D.C., area offices, have created a joint policy group to assist their members in the newspaper industry with postal issues and public policy.

LGBTQ+ adults are not proportionally represented in religion reporting

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 02:14:25 GMT

Poynter

Despite the fact that nearly half of LGBTQ+ adults identify as religious, their stories are often not proportionally included in religion reporting, neither in religious nor mainstream publications. Religious publications could become more inclusive by hiring queer editors, suggests Sophie Hurwitz, an incoming intern at The Nation and former New Voices-Jewish Women’s Archive fellow. And while positive representation is important, publications should not exclude stories on how queer religious people have been harmed by their community.

Ogden Newspapers purchases Swift Communications

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 02:19:29 GMT

America's Newspapers

Ogden Newspapers will purchase Swift Communications, the two companies announced Tuesday.

Swift Communications publishes local daily and weekly newspapers, magazines and other media in a dozen markets in Colorado, Utah and California, along with a number of national niche and agricultural magazine products. Swift also operates two press facilities in Carson City, Nevada, and Gypsum, Colorado, all of which will be included in the sale.

Ogden Newspapers is a fifth generation family-owned and operated newspaper company, founded in 1890 by H.C Ogden. In his announcement, Robert Nutting, CEO of Ogden Newspapers and The Nutting Company, reiterated his family’s commitment to the industry and the critical role of community newspapers.

Legal needs survey for news organizations

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 02:18:23 GMT

The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press

The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press — a nonprofit that provides free legal resources to journalists — asks news organizations to complete this survey gauging the legal needs of journalists .

The Reporters Committee has a grant from the Knight Foundation to study the legal needs of our industry as part of an effort to expand the Protecting Journalists Pro Bono Program . This program was launched last year by Microsoft and the law firm Davis Wright Tremaine, and it currently makes pro bono legal services available to reporters and nonprofit newsrooms in California and Washington state that cannot otherwise afford legal representation. It currently accepts projects in three areas: pre-publication review, access to public records, and subpoena defense.

Your responses to the survey will help us better understand your overall legal needs as well as the gaps that the expansion of this program — and other Reporters Committee initiatives — will seek to fill.

We would appreciate getting responses by Dec. 10, 2021 . You may also see this survey circulating through other networks, but news organizations only need to complete it once. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Flavie Fuentes at ffuentes@rcfp.org. Please also know that the Reporters Committee has a legal hotline available to any journalist with specific legal questions or needs.

2021 Chesapeake AP Broadcasters Association Contest

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:51:34 GMT

December 1, 2021

We are getting close to the end of 2021, which means it is almost time for submitting entries in the annual Chesapeake AP Broadcasters Association contest.

The contest will be open beginning Monday, Jan. 3, to Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Please start gathering your best work from 2021.

If your contest manager is someone new, please send that person’s name, email, and phone number to Heidi Brown so she can update the contest website at https://betternewspapercontest.com , and ensure they receive all future contest correspondence. If you would like others copied, please let me know their contact information as well.

We are in need of judges for broadcast contests in other states. If you or a colleague can assist, please let us know ASAP! I will need a name, email and phone number for each judge. Judging usually takes place in February and March.

Dan Divilio leaving Kent County News

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 02:12:25 GMT

November 30, 2021

Dan Divilio, Editor of the Kent County News, will be leaving the publication at the end of November.

He will be the public relations and community specialist for Kent County Public Schools. He expressed mixed emotions and is sad to leave journalism but is excited to be able to support our teachers and students.

The Business Monthly Sold to Whong Community Media

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 00:49:55 GMT

November 30, 2021

The Business Monthly, the essential business publication for Howard and Anne Arundel counties, has changed hands.

Jason Whong, an experienced publisher, media executive and native Marylander, has purchased the venerable publication and its digital outlets from current owner Daniel Medinger. The transaction was effective Nov. 18, 2021.

“When Dan approached me about this opportunity, I was immediately excited,” said Whong, a Columbia resident. “The Business Monthly has been telling the story of our dynamic business community for nearly 30 years, and I am looking forward to continuing that tradition long into the future. I am especially grateful to Dan for the improvements he made to The Business Monthly as its leader.”

Daniel Medinger, owner and publisher of the publication said, “I have been proud to lead this publication for the last three years. It has meant so much to me to get to know our community leaders and to share news about important developments. However, it’s time to pass the newspaper onto a new publisher who can continue to make the publication flourish and continue to bring local news to the local community.”

Medinger added, “The staff has made this journey of publishing a newspaper enjoyable and exciting. The Business Monthly is recognized for its award winning business journalism and its deep commitment to helping the business community flourish with the power of advertising in print and online. While I am going to miss those close relationships, I look forward to seeing how the newspaper will continue to grow under Jason’s leadership.”

“I am optimistic about the future of community media,” said Whong, who also publishes OutLook by the Bay, the magazine for mature Marylanders. “I look forward to working with the business community and local government and nonprofits as well as our readers as I take The Business Monthly into its 30th year telling the stories of businesses in our area.”

The Business Monthly, founded in 1992 as a newspaper in Maryland covering Howard and Anne Arundel counties, features articles written by, for and about local business people and their companies. For nearly 30 years, The Business Monthly has kept the business community informed on the latest business, government and economic development news as well as the latest innovations in business, banking, finance, real estate development, technology and the many opportunities available to local companies. The newspaper’s hallmarks are integrity, excellence and a responsibility to the community it serves. The pro-business atmosphere of the newspaper encourages the participation of both small and large companies to share their stories and successes as well as promote their companies.

The Business Monthly is distributed at 380 outlets in Howard and Anne Arundel counties and reaches more than 55,000 readers.

How newsrooms can do less work – but have more impact

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 00:40:49 GMT

Stephanie Castellano | American Press Institute

November 12, 2021

We’ve published a lot of articles at API about innovative things that news organizations are doing — they’re hosting events , they’re launching newsletters , they’re starting new beats, they’re translating more stories , they’re running reader hotlines , they’re campaigning for civility. All of it is good and meaningful work.

But you know what our most popular piece by far has been? An article about how one news organization stopped doing things .

That underscores a key reality in the news industry that doesn’t get enough consideration.

Most news organizations have a fraction of the staff and resources they once had. So to do more of the meaningful work that we at API (and other groups like us) are always urging — listening to audiences, building trust with audiences, building smarter reader revenue strategies — news organizations first need to get control of their priorities.

And that doesn’t mean figuring out how to do more with less, but how to do less with less.

Changing Newsrooms 2021: hybrid working and improving diversity remain twin challenges for publishers

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 00:48:31 GMT

Reuters Institute

November 19, 2021

The return to the office is underway but with COVID-19 lingering in a number of countries, progress remains uneven and uncertain. Many will find newsrooms very different places to the ones they left. For some, the office has disappeared completely.

This report, which is based on a survey of 132 senior industry leaders from 42 countries as well as a series of in-depth interviews, makes clear that ‘hybrid working’ will soon be the norm for the vast majority of journalists in many news organisations – with some people in the office and others working remotely – and that the industry is still struggling with attracting talent and addressing lack of diversity.

Among other things, we find that:

Respondents say their companies are now mostly (79%) on board with the shift to hybrid working and even more (89%) say they themselves are committed.
A third (34%) say their organisations have already decided on major changes and are moving to implement hybrid working, but over half (57%) are still in the process of working out the best way to do this. Around one in ten (9%) say their organisations are looking to return to a working model as similar as possible to before the pandemic.
Our findings suggest publishers still struggle to attract and retain technology and data skills which are in great demand elsewhere. In contrast, most respondents remain broadly confident (63%) about keeping newsroom staff. Around half of respondents (47%) felt that the pandemic has made recruitment and retention of media staff harder, with less than a fifth (17%) saying that it was easier.
Most respondents say their news organisation is doing a good job with gender diversity (78%), but fewer say the same about ethnic diversity (38%) and attracting those from less advantaged backgrounds (37%) or with diverse political views (33%). In the light of the Black Lives Matter movement and greater awareness of historic injustices, ethnic diversity remains the biggest priority for media companies – identified by 35% as the single most important priority in terms of improving newsroom diversity, followed by gender diversity (26%) and greater diversity from less advantaged groups (17%).

MDDC Ad Services Launches New Website

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 00:47:13 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Ad Services

Hello world! We’re delighted to announce that our new agency website is now live! We’ve been working really hard over the last few months to bring an updated look and functionality to our website that we hope will help to communicate what MDDC Ad Services is all about.

U.S. Court of Appeals Upholds Harmful Postage Rate Increases

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 00:45:24 GMT

News Media Alliance

November 16, 2021

The News Media Alliance is deeply disappointed by Friday’s decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in the case of National Postal Policy Council v. Postal Regulatory Commission, preserving the major postage rate increases authorized by the Postal Regulatory Commission earlier this year.

Promote Your News Outlet as the Place with the Best Holiday Shopping Deals

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 00:44:23 GMT

News Media Alliance

November 12, 2021

Retailers are starting their holiday sales earlier and earlier, and more shoppers are buying earlier and online.

Local shoppers want to know where to find the best deals this holiday season, and they are turning to your news outlet for that information.

Capitalize on this advantage by positioning yourself with advertisers, readers and media as the place with the best Holiday Shopping deals and coupons.

The News Media Alliance has developed two new ads with unique audiences and messages for news media to use in your print and digital publications starting now and leading up to the holiday season:

Let Readers know that they can find the best Holiday Shopping deals and coupons in your newspaper.
Show Advertisers that news media are the best place to reach shoppers looking for Holiday Shopping deals, using statistics from the Alliance’s News Advertising Panorama.
Customize the ads with your own Holiday Shopping deal and coupon information/offer(s) , your logo, and contact information.

The ads are available in full- and quarter-page PDF and EPS for print, as well as in digital cube and banner formats (see below).

Fact checks actually work, even on Facebook. But not enough people see them.

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 00:42:34 GMT

Ethan Porter and Thomas J. Wood | The Washington Post

November 12, 2021

If you listen to Facebook defend itself, its argument boils down to the following: We’re doing our best. We know about the problems on our platform, and we’re doing all we can to address them. “I don’t think anyone can claim we haven’t taken a lot of exceptional measures to meet those very exceptional circumstances,” Facebook Vice President Nick Clegg asserted last month on “Meet the Press.”

As a point of fact, however, when it comes to misinformation on its platform, Facebook is not doing all it can. There are several measures the company could take to confront the problem that, so far, it has refused to take. These measures aren’t exceptional. Some of them — such as proactively putting clarifying fact checks directly in front of users who have previously been exposed to misinformation — are, in fact, quite simple. And our research makes clear that, when it comes to tackling misinformation, these measures can work.

Clarke Removed from MDDC Hall of Fame

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 00:36:58 GMT

MDDC Board of Directors

November 10, 2021

The Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association has removed Edward J. Clarke, the late editor and owner of the Worcester Democrat, from its Hall of Fame after a review of his published work revealed vile commentary, extreme racism and the promotion of lynching.

Clarke was editor and owner of the Worcester Democrat, which existed from 1921 to 1953. His personal writing and his newspaper’s coverage of a 1940 murder and assault case in Pocomoke City, Md., contained horrible, angry rants and racial attacks targeting three Black men — George B. Selby, Arthur Collick and Charles Manuel — in connection with the death of farmer Harvey Pilchard, who was white, and assault of his wife, Annie Pilchard, who also was white.

A Black woman, Martha Blake, and her teenage daughter, Lillian, were accused of being accomplices, but never charged.

Clarke was vicious and dehumanizing in his opinion writing, likening the accused to “a rabid dog” and “savages” and “brutes” and “a disease-spreading germ” and “garbage.” He championed “a good stout rope, a noose at one end, good stout arms at the other, a neck and a limb of a tree” as justice to be applied to “fiends who violated the home” of the white couple.

Coverage of the case from other newspapers at the time provided a contrast to Clarke’s white supremacist tone and made clear how much Clarke aligned with racial vigilante attitudes of the time. A mob estimated to be 1,000 people broke into the jail and dragged the Blakes away. Law enforcement officers were able to rescue them from the mob.

Clarke was openly racist and brutish not just in his views, but also in opinions he shared from those who supported his positions. In one letter he published, a writer said residents of the county should “show their sympathy in a real and convincing manner” by seeing that “Mrs. Pilchard is not forced to undergo the terrible ordeal of a court trial.”

This letter writer offered to play a part in “giving the prisoners ‘the same road into the vast unknown by which they sent their innocent victims.’” Clarke published racist viewpoints with pride and leveled sharp criticism at others who disagreed.

The MDDC Press Association board condemns in the strongest terms the ideas expressed in Clarke’s writing and in his newspaper coverage, which also was racist. “Clarke and his repugnant views are banished from any place of stature or honor within our association,” said Rebecca Snyder, executive director of MDDC.

His 1940s columns were uncovered through reporting by Gabriel Pietrorazio of the Howard Center for Investigative Journalism at the University of Maryland in their #PrintingHate series, reviewing racist media coverage of the past. An article about the Pocomoke City incident will be published in early December 2021.

The press association’s Board of Directors voted unanimously to remove Clarke’s honor on the recommendation of its executive committee after reviewing the primary materials and contemporaneous reporting.

Clarke was added to MDDC’s Hall of Fame in 1954, but as of Nov. 8, 2021, he has been removed.

His picture previously was removed from the MDDC Hall of Fame display in a classroom at Knight Hall at the University of Maryland. His name has been removed from the Hall of Fame listing on the MDDC website, although a link to this article and the executive committee resolution are posted on the site to be transparent about this action and MDDC’s past.

In Spring 2021, MDDC convened a committee to examine the Hall of Fame and make recommendations to the board to make the hall more inclusive and to recognize the contributions to journalism and the business of journalism by underrepresented communities.

The committee’s report will be presented to the board at its November 2021 meeting and will include recommendations on the physical and virtual aspects of the hall, as well as how MDDC will overhaul its recognition process for the future and try to make up for gaps in its past.

The Hall of Fame committee recognized that, unfortunately, supporting documentation on the nominations for many of the inductees is not available. This is typical for inductees from the 1950s. Where nomination documentation exists, or where there has been reporting on Hall of Fame members, MDDC has linked to those articles.

RESOLUTION UNANIMOUSLY ADOPTED November 8, 2021:

The Executive Committee of the MDDC Press Association condemns editorials and news coverage in February 1940 in which Edward J. Clarke of the Worcester Democrat advocated lynching. As owner, publisher, and author of the “’Chirps’ from the Democrat’s Pen,” Clarke advocated in issues of this newspaper for mob justice against those involved in the killing of a local farmer and an attack on his wife, likening some people to “dogs” and “savages.”

In 1954, Clarke was inducted into MDDC’s Hall of Fame. Recognizing that Clarke’s views are reprehensible, indefensible, and immoral and that his actions are antithetical to an inclusive reflection of the communities our members serve, as well as to the values of objective news coverage, the executive committee strongly recommends to the full board the removal of Clarke from MDDC’s Hall of Fame.

The executive committee has called for further investigative reporting of Clarke and will make the results of that reporting public on completion. Primary sources and contemporaneous reporting may be found here: https://libraryguides.salisbury.edu/c.php?g=1056210&p=8226479

The Do’s (and Don’ts) of Pitching to Marketing Agencies

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 00:33:29 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

For anyone looking to pitch a product and/or service to a marketing agency, lend me your ears, because I’m going to give you a gold mine of insider information on what we marketing agencies are looking for.

WE REALLY ARE INTERESTED, EVEN IF IT DOESN’T SOUND LIKE IT

I’ve sat on both sides of the desk. I worked for 15 years pitching media solutions to agencies, and now 22 years into my career, I’m running a marketing agency, handling domestic and international campaigns for our clients around the United States.

I can remember how frustrating it was to mindlessly blast out email after email to agencies pitching the newest product or service for their clients, only to get no response. Now sitting on the buyer’s side of the table, I can understand why I was snuffed out left and right by agencies.

You see, decision makers in agencies are usually barely floating with their nose above water, so you only have micro-moments to interest us. That sounds harsh, but it’s not meant to be. It doesn’t take much to interest us in wanting to know more.

I’ll let you in on a secret — if you do your research and propose a product or solution that you TRULY believe can make sense for a specific client of ours, I personally will ALWAYS listen. I’m looking for whether you’re trying to sell me, or if you have an actual solution that makes sense for my client. These are two very different things

Poynter Leadership Academy for Women in Media 2022

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 03:33:50 GMT

Poynter

November 5, 2021

This competitive program has transformed the careers of more than 450 women in news media and tech. It is designed for women who directly manage people and are within their first 1-5 years of formal leadership experience.

The application window is from Oct. 25 through Nov. 30, 2021.

Now in its eighth year, the Poynter Leadership Academy for Women in Media has transformed the careers of more than 450 women in news media and tech. During a week often described as overflowing with “Poynter magic,” each participant learns to manage teams more effectively, hone and communicate their strategic vision and steer their organizations toward success. But perhaps more importantly, graduates of the Poynter Academy and ONA’s partner program, the Women’s Leadership Accelerator , join a global community of support.

This sisterhood is established during the program through honest, candid and often vulnerable conversations, hands-on activities, formal and informal social activities, and shared experiences. Each participant’s network expands after the program as graduates from different classes network, connect online and in person, and even mentor each other.

We will once again host three women’s leadership academies , each open to 30 participants:

Cohort 1: May 15-20, 2022
Cohort 2: Sept. 18-23, 2022
Cohort 3: Dec 4-9, 2022

We plan to host these programs in-person at Poynter’s campus in St. Petersburg, Florida. However, if public health guidelines require the academy to be offered completely virtually, we are confident the experience will be just as robust.

LJSA is back in the Build Back Better Act

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 00:31:45 GMT

Dean Ridings | America's Newspapers

November 5, 2021

As of this afternoon, the Local Journalism Sustainability Act is back in the Build Back Better Act (budget reconciliation bill).

The LJSA was removed last Thursday along with many other measures, but was put back in as a result of the strong support from the bill’s sponsors and co-sponsors, members of the Ways and Means Committee, and House and Senate leadership.

A Crash Course in OTT Marketing

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 00:30:38 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

“Cord-cutting” has become so popular, dictionary.com has developed its own definition for the phrase; “A person who cancels or forgoes a cable television subscription.” If you cut the cord to avoid seeing advertisements, you’ll be disappointed thanks to OTT (Over-The-Top) Marketing .

OTT marketing basically refers to any streaming service that delivers content over the internet. OTT can be audio only, or audio-video, but for the purposes of this article, we’re going to focus on audio-video advertisements (think TV commercials).

So, what streaming devices could serve up a commercial for a small business? Lots. And lots. But one of the largest is Hulu, and they’re going after as many businesses as possible.

Hulu recently put out a “ state-of-streaming ” insight out to those interested in testing their Ad Manager Beta platform. Here’s what they have to say…

Marketing Trends for 2022 – What Businesses Need to Know

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:28:48 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

For the past 20 months, small businesses have had to sink or swim, and unfortunately some businesses just had too much weight around their ankles. Many businesses that survived ended up doubling down on their marketing with great amounts of success.

As we prepare to depart 2021 and head blindly in to 2022, here are three tips and trends to consider as you develop your 2022 marketing strategy.

PRINT IS NOT DEAD — QUITE THE CONTRARY

We get it, placing an ad in a local newspaper isn’t nearly as sexy as placing ads on social media with demographic, geographic and behavioral targeting overlaid, but did you know that the trust in local media , especially newspapers has increased due to their coverage of COVID-19? It’s true, and it’s something you really need to consider.

I’m not bashing social — social marketing and management has its role in a marketing blueprint, but if you put all your eggs in Zuckerberg’s basket, you’re missing out. Newspaper readers have expendable incomes, highly educated, and are trusting of businesses that align their brands with trusted media.

Additionally, the cost per 1,000 people reached with a typical advertisement is a typically a fraction of what you’ll spend in other marketing channels. And bonus points that your local newspaper reaches local consumers — so there’s your geographical targeting right there!

WMC Divided 2021: The Media Gender Gap

Sat, 30 Oct 2021 00:23:56 GMT

Women's Media Center

Gender inequality in America’s newsrooms continues across all media platforms as men overall receive 65% of news bylines and credits and women 34%, according to the Women’s Media Center’s latest “Divided 2021: The Media Gender Gap.”

WMC researchers analyzed 62,002 pieces of content from January 1 through March 31 for 30 news outlets across four platforms: print newspaper, online news, broadcast network and cable TV news, and wire services in the United States.

Pilot project helps boost political ad spending in community media

Sat, 30 Oct 2021 00:22:21 GMT

Amy Dunkin | Center for Community Media

The City Elections Initiative (CEI), a pilot program of the Center for Community Media (CCM) at the Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, helped community publishers get access to political ad dollars and boost their local election coverage during the NYC primaries in June.

The resources offered by CEI in NYC, including a database of candidates running for office, an interactive map showing 330 community news outlets, and a reporting fellowship program , provide a replicable model for supporting community media in local elections across the country, according to “ Making Local Elections Count ,” a report released last week.

How A/B testing can (and can’t) improve your headline writing

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 02:07:11 GMT

Nick Hagar and Nicholas Diakopoulos | Nieman Lab

What makes a good headline? Over-the-top superlatives? Clever wordplay? Eye-popping numbers?

Newsrooms grapple with this question on a daily basis. Headline writing is an art, a careful balance of both creatively informing the reader and also piquing their curiosity enough to click. But over the last few years headline writing has gotten a lot more analytical, relying on powerful data-driven techniques such as headline A/B testing.

Publishers are seeing increases in advertiser requests around climate and sustainability coverage

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 02:04:53 GMT

Sara Guaglione | Digiday

As publishers invest in more climate coverage this year , the question remains whether or not this content category is also drawing interest from advertisers.

For BBC, Bloomberg, Financial Times, Group Nine Media and The Economist, the answer is yes — with most saying advertisers are sending out more requests for publishers to pitch campaign or sponsorship opportunities around their solutions-based journalism, showing a growing interest this year in publishers’ coverage of climate and sustainability.

Bainum unveils plans for new Baltimore Banner news site — and hires Kimi Yoshino, a top L.A. Times editor, to run it

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 02:02:35 GMT

Stewart Bainum was a novice to the news business when his name first emerged earlier this year as a would-be savior.

The Maryland hotel magnate made a bold bid to buy the Baltimore Sun and its parent, Tribune Publishing, in what he described as a mission to restore local ownership and keep the newspapers out of the hands of a hedge fund with a history of stringent cost-cutting at its media properties.

Bainum’s months-long effort fell short — but he ended it, he said at the time, with a renewed conviction “that a better model for local news is both possible and necessary.”

Now he’s putting that belief to the test. Bainum has hired Kimi Yoshino, a top editor from the Los Angeles Times, to help him launch the Baltimore Banner, a nonprofit digital upstart dedicated to local coverage of the city, and committed $50 million of his own fortune to get it started.

Trust in Traditional Media

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 02:01:23 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

Even if you’re just a casual social media or YouTube user, you’ve likely been exposed to some sort of questionable information that lacks reliable and reputable sourcing. Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

In May of 2020, a survey of over 8,000 people around the world revealed a feeling of distrust brewing towards social media platforms . Unfortunately, advertisers on these platforms have now been caught in the crossfire because their brands are unprotected among misinformation.

According to the survey, 67% of US adults say that they’ve come across false information on social media. More concerning is that 56% say they have trouble recognizing fake news on social media. Only 14% of those surveyed said that they trust advertisers on social media platforms, while newspapers ranked #1 in trust with over 69%, saying newspapers are the most trustworthy source of news and information. (Statista)

How Apple’s iOS Privacy Update Impacts Digital Marketing

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 02:38:03 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

October 13, 2021

With nearly 64% of Americans owning an Apple device, the recent iOS privacy update has marketers scrambling to learn how the update will impact targeted digital marketing campaigns.

Here’s what you need to know:

What you need to know – Pulse Connect’s complimentary prospecting platform

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 02:34:07 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

October 11, 2021

Let’s face it — prospecting can be brutal, especially if you’re lacking resources to assist in flipping over rocks to see what’s underneath.

Pulse Connect is a resource you may not know about, and — at least through the end of the year — it’s free to use and has been for a while now.

Using Pulse Research’s national survey data on consumer spending, their complimentary platform can be a very effective arrow in your quiver when prospecting and cold-calling businesses.

New report shows Black media’s critical role in covering issues affecting Black communities

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 02:32:40 GMT

Center for Community Media

October 8, 2021

As protests against police violence and racial injustice swept the country and a pandemic disproportionately claimed Black lives, Black-owned media covered these events earlier, in more depth, and with more Black voices than their mainstream counterparts. That’s the essence of a groundbreaking content analysis released today by the Black Media Initiative of the Center for Community Media at CUNY’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism.

SEO – Voodoo Nonsense, or Data-Driven Marketing?

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 02:31:15 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

October 6, 2021

Most businesses and organizations see search engine optimization as voodoo – a way for salespeople to squeeze precious dollars from the pockets of businesses. In some respects, they’re not wrong. There are so many “solutions” to building SEO, and honestly, most typically don’t work – or at least work like they should.

But SEO done the right way? Well, it’s a beautiful thing.

Fighting the “PIO chokepoints” that limit media access to government sources

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 02:29:47 GMT

Mike Blinder | Editor & Publisher

September 29, 2021

An “E&P Reports” Vodcast with Mike Blinder

For decades many federal agencies have been prohibiting reporters from talking to anyone without first requesting access through a public information officer (PIO). And over those years, these “PIO chokepoints” have gotten tighter and tighter, including oversight on conversations and demands for questions ahead of any interview. Reporters today are often not allowed to speak to anyone, even after acquiescing to censorship and controls.

First Amendment attorney and head of the Brechner Center, Frank LoMonte, wrote in a 2019 article : “Although the practice of gagging public employees from giving unapproved interviews is pervasive across all levels of government, decades’ worth of First Amendment caselaw demonstrates that blanket restrictions on speaking to the media are legally unenforceable.”

In July, twenty-five journalism organizations, including the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ ) and the Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ) , called on the Biden administration to end these prohibitions and allow reporters to interview government sources without oversight.

In this 104th episode of “E&P Reports,” publisher Mike Blinder speaks with SPJ immediate past president and opinion editor at the San Diego News and Tribune, Matt Hall along with Chair of the SEJ and an editor at the Chesapeake Bay Journal, Tim Wheeler about how their two organizations (along with others) are working towards helping the industry gain more media access to government employees without censorship and controls.

Call for investigative proposals — Goodman Institute for Investigative Reporting — deadline Oct. 11

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 03:29:39 GMT

Goodman Institute for Investigative Reporting

September 28, 2021

The Leonard C. Goodman Institute for Investigative Reporting provides editorial and financial support to journalists pursuing in-depth investigative projects that align with In These Times’ mission of advancing economic, racial, social and climate justice. We offer story-specific grants for investigative features to be published in In These Times magazine and InTheseTimes.com .

The Institute recognizes the tremendous amount of time and labor that goes into investigative reporting, and we are committed to compensating writers fairly for their work. Journalists whose proposals are accepted by the Institute will thus be awarded contracts in amounts up to $10,000, along with compensation for travel and other expenses incurred during reporting.

Call For Proposals

The Institute encourages journalists to submit story proposals for consideration. The next deadline for proposals is Monday, October 11 at midnight. While we will consider proposals on any investigative topic, at this time we are especially interested in stories that examine the following issues:

Corporate capture of government
The forces undermining a climate transition
U.S. militarism and empire
Labor practices
Native issues
Systemic racism

We prize originality; we prioritize investigations that are unlikely to be pursued elsewhere.

To submit a proposal, send an email to investigations at inthesetimes dot com with the subject line “Goodman Institute Submission.” Please include all of the following in a single Word or Google document not to exceed 1,300 words:

A brief (200-300 word) summary of the issue, the new information you hope to uncover, and how you will do so
Briefly, any further context needed to understand your topic
Links to the most significant recent reporting and an explanation of how your findings will advance the public narrative surrounding your topic
Your proposed sources and reporting plan, including any travel
A brief summary of your journalistic experience, including 2-3 clips or links to previous work

Formatting requirements

Proposals should be in one Word or Google document, with section headings in bold and minimal special formatting. Please use 12-point Times New Roman font and single line spacing.

Acceptance benchmarks

The Institute aims to support and compensate reporters throughout the application and acceptance process. You will typically receive notification of whether your application is a semi-finalist within 2-3 weeks of the application deadline. Semi-finalists should expect to answer a round of follow-up questions and submit a detailed estimate of reporting expenses. The Institute offers a stipend of $200 for the additional work required.

Once an application is finalized, it will be reviewed by the Institute’s selection committee.

If your story is selected for a grant, you will typically be awarded a story contract of up to $10,000, intended to cover the story fee in addition to living expenses for the duration of your project. The fee will be subdivided into installments tied to deliverables, beginning with a $2,000 signing fee. The Institute will work with you to hone the scope, timeline and expectations of findings for your research plan. Once you have completed your research, the Institute will work with you on a writing plan for an investigative article for publication in In These Times magazine and/or on InTheseTimes.com. The Institute is open to considering cross-publication agreements.

Instead of a story contract, some proposals may receive an initial $2,000 research contract to develop reporting. Upon completion, they will be considered for a full story contract. Reporters whose projects are not awarded a full story contract retain the rights to any research completed, but are encouraged to keep in touch about future reporting developments that may warrant further consideration.

For more details, see inthesetimes.com/investigative .

Merrill’s Adrianne Flynn to Retire at End of 2021, CNS’ Karen Denny to Lead College Career Center

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 02:27:06 GMT

Philip Merrill College of Journalism | University of Maryland

September 28, 2021

COLLEGE PARK — Senior Lecturer Adrianne Flynn , who has run the University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism ’s internship and career development program for almost a decade, will retire on Jan. 1, 2022.

“While I am sad that we will no longer have her on our faculty, I am pleased for Adrianne in this very personal choice,” Merrill Dean Lucy Dalglish said. “Many capstone teachers will tell you that Adrianne is a phenomenal editor, who never hesitated to ‘backstop’ their editing of student work. I will miss her skillful teaching, directness, wise counsel and sense of humor.”

Flynn came to Merrill College in 1999 as the CNS Annapolis bureau director after a career as a reporter, where her last stop was as Washington correspondent for The Arizona Republic. She moved to the CNS Washington, D.C., bureau in 2006 and to the career-development position in 2012.

She led Merrill’s first efforts to cover the national political conventions, chaired its master’s and scholarship committees, served on numerous search committees, managed the college’s contest entries, served as one of Merrill’s first instructors for the Young Scholars program and much more.

Flynn was one of the first senior lecturers appointed under the new professional-track promotion program.

“When I joined Merrill College, I thought this would be a short stop and then back to daily journalism in a few years, but I enjoyed teaching so much, the time just rushed by,” Flynn said. “It’s been enormously satisfying to see the college stand among the country’s leading journalism schools and to serve with such an elite and caring faculty. It’s very hard to leave, but I’m also looking forward to opening some new doors.”

For more information, contact:
Josh Land
joshland@umd.edu
301-405-1321

Are you cross-channel marketing? If not, you should.

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 02:17:17 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

September 28, 2021

Marketing is all about the ROAS (return on ad-spend), right?

Wrong.

It’s about the customer. If you provide your customers with a consistent experience on any marketing channel, you’re moving in the right direction. But the reality is that this isn’t happening, and it’s costing businesses revenue opportunity.

WHAT IS CROSS-CHANNEL MARKETING?

Basically, cross-channel marketing (CCM) is the strategy of deploying a holistic marketing strategy on multiple marketing channels that provides your customer a consistent experience no matter where they’re looking.

This is different from “Multi-Channel Marketing”, which is marketing on as many channels as possible to gain the largest reach. CCM incorporates the strategy customer experience, which requires the different marketing channels to be married together in some way to provide one cohesive marketing strategy.

Webinar Series – Census Resources for the Media

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 03:26:35 GMT

September 23, 2021

The US Census Bureau, in addition to conducting the Decennial Census and over 130 surveys each year, presents training and programming for the novice through advanced data users.

This three-part FREE webinar series has been developed to lead participants through the matrix of publicly available census data. We will demonstrate where to find the data, how to search for the data sets you need, and then organize, download, save, and analyze data for your articles.

Census Bureau Resources for the Media
Wednesday, Sept. 29, 10:00 – 11:00 am ET

Join Joe Quartullo, Data Dissemination Specialist and Susan Licate, MBA, Media Specialist for a one-hour informative session designed especially for journalists. Journalists use Census Bureau data for a wide range of applications—from accessing a single statistic in data.census.gov to complex analyses of data for thousands of geographic areas. Read more .

*Note: There are no data releases associated with this training.

Census Bureau Data Tools for Everyone
Wednesday, Oct. 20, 10:00m- 11:00 am ET

Join Joe Quartullo, Data Dissemination Specialist, and Susan Licate, MBA, Media Specialist for a one-hour informative session designed especially for journalists. The Census Bureau is home to a variety of data tools and resources, all readily available and free to the public.

Knowing which data tools to use and the data to extract will benefit journalists in preparation of factual and statistically accurate stories, whether referencing national data or hyperlocal figures. Read more .

*Note: There are no data releases associated with this training.

Census Bureau – American Community Survey Data for Media
Wednesday, Nov. 3, 10:00 – 11:00 am ET

Join Noemi Mendez, Data Dissemination Specialist, and Susan Licate, MBA, Media Specialist for this informative one-hour session.

Behind the Decennial Census, The American Community Survey (ACS) is sent to approximately 295,000 addresses monthly (or 3.5 million per year), and it is the largest household survey that the Census Bureau administers. Read more .

*Note: There are no data releases associated with this training.

About the Presenters

Joe Quartullo has been employed by the Census Bureau since the late 20th Century, having held positions as Geographic Specialist, Survey Statistician, Program Coordinator and Area Manager. Currently, as a Data Dissemination Specialist, Joe promotes the use of census data to anyone with an interest or a need to work with this valuable information including media, community organizations, municipal officials, chambers of commerce, librarians, students, and entrepreneurs. He is available for complimentary presentations and hands-on data workshops.

A Philadelphia native, Joe received a BA in Political Science from Rutgers University and an MA in Sociology from Temple. He also shares his knowledge of census history and data tools by teaching Sociology at a local community college.

Noemi Mendez has been employed by the Census Bureau for over 17 years. She has previously held the positions of Geographer and Partnership and Data Services Specialist.

Currently, as a Data Dissemination Specialist, Noemi promotes the use of census data to anyone with an interest or a need to work with this valuable information. Noemi is available for future complimentary presentations and hands-on data workshops upon request.

Susan Licate serves as the Media and Partnership Specialist and Congressional Liaison for the U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Census Bureau, Philadelphia Region, a position she has held since early 2019.

She is responsible for media relations across the region’s eight states plus Washington D.C. and serves as a spokesperson for both regional and national events. Additionally, Susan manages a partnership portfolio of elected officials, local governments, organizations, and business leaders to ensure awareness, participation, and engagement for the Bureau’s 130 surveys and programs.

Susan’s career spans over 25 years leading and advising agencies, companies and non-profit organizations with their management, communications, and public relations needs.

5 Things to Think About If You’re New to Social Media (Or Even If You’re Not…)

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 02:36:52 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Ad Services

September 21, 2021

Popular social media platforms tout that their platform is designed for businesses to self-manage and market. But there’s a lot more that goes in to building and managing a successful business page.

1. USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO HUMANIZE YOUR BRAND.

Most brands could use some humanizing, and they certainly don’t do enough of it. Humanizing your brand creates trust and loyalty with your consumers, which means more sales and more importantly, returning sales. It goes beyond building your brand – it brings to life something that’s tangible for consumers to connect to, engage with, and remember.

Hearst to require vaccines for all newspaper employees

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 02:38:31 GMT

Chase DiFeliciantonio | The San Francisco Chronicle

September 20, 2021

The email announcement by President of Hearst Newspapers Jeff Johnson said the policy would be effective Nov. 12, to give employees who are not yet fully vaccinated time to get the shots. Johnson also said that, effective immediately, all new employees in the newspaper division would need to provide vaccination proof before their hiring.

“The public facing nature of our business and the strong interaction we have with the public, advertisers and each other make our collective well-being our highest priority,” Johnson wrote. He said close to 90% of employees in the newspaper division had already provided proof of vaccination.

APPLY: Reporting on Criminal Justice in the Age of George Floyd

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 03:20:43 GMT

National Press Foundation

September 18, 2021

The National Press Foundation is offering a week-long training on covering crime, policing and the criminal justice system. Fellows will come together for three days of sessions on key coverage issues, then cover the annual conference of the American Society of Criminology, the nation’s leading organization of criminal justice researchers.

APPLY

Amid a spike in homicide and a reckoning on police tactics and financing in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, the U.S. criminal justice system is undergoing an upheaval.

The nation spends more than $300 billion annually on policing and incarceration, but distrust of the system is widespread. Just over half of all Americans have confidence in the police, but just a quarter of Black Americans express such confidence.

The National Press Foundation is offering a special all-expenses-paid opportunity for 20 journalists to take a deeper look at the criminal justice system.

Over three days, NPF training will address: incarceration data, pre-trial justice, specialty courts, violence, weapons, incarceration impact on families, racial disparities in arrests and incarceration, re-entry into society, recidivism and more. With this background, journalists will then cover the four-day American Society of Criminology annual conference, with full access to presenters and abstracts.

The NPF training is Nov. 14-16 and the American Society of Criminology conference is Nov. 17-20. Both are in Chicago. This program is open to U.S.-based journalists only. Applicants must commit to attending both the NPF training and the ASC conference. The fellowship covers airfare, ground transportation, hotel costs and most meals. The deadline to apply is Oct. 4.

NPF trainings are free and on the record. Learn more about our mission here .

This program is funded by Arnold Ventures. NPF is solely responsible for the content.

Baltimore Business Journal launches Maryland Inno — your resource for a growing economy

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 02:14:48 GMT

Joanna Sullivan | Baltimore Business Journal

September 15, 2021

Maryland Inno is here.

Consider this your entry into the Maryland startup ecosystem.

Why is the Baltimore Business Journal launching this new product? Though we have long covered the ins and outs of economic development, we wanted to take it up a notch. We’re trying to find those stories of the fledgling companies — and even ideas — that could be the next big business opportunity for you and your business.

Maryland Inno is a digital media, events and data company covering, connecting and spurring local innovation. We’re part of American Inno, a network of local innovation intelligence cultivating engaged startup, tech and entrepreneurial communities in 40-plus markets (and counting) across the country. In each of its markets, Inno will serve as a portal to and for the local innovation economy. Maryland Inno will be working to connect local entrepreneurs to venture capital, peers and resources in our other markets as it pursues its goal to help them grow locally.

In Maryland, Baltimore Business Journal Technology Reporter Morgan Eichensehr will lead the Inno effort with help from the entire BBJ staff. We’re on the hunt for stories about new players — and existing ones — embarking on innovative ventures. If you have story pitches, feedback or questions, contact Morgan at meichensehr@bizjournals.com .

We love to tell stories about the people behind the companies, ideas and organizations that are leading the present and future of the region’s business landscape. Know a startup or entrepreneur we should we be in touch with? Let us know.

You’ll find in-depth looks into the trends and topics that are impacting and influencing the region’s reputation as an emerging tech hub, as well as resource-driven lists and multimedia. The daily news and analysis will help those in the community stay informed and will serve as a resource for people and businesses that are new to the ecosystem. We also have several directories to help you further navigate and discover this burgeoning ecosystem.

Now Available: 2021 Newspaper Carrier Day Ads

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 02:13:31 GMT

News Media Alliance

September 13, 2021

Each year, we recognize the accomplishments of newspaper carriers who are working hard to get the newspaper into the hands of our readers.

This year, the newspaper industry has designated Saturday, October 9, 2021, as International Newspaper Carrier Day, a salute to the many newspaper carriers who deliver the news to Americans every week.

The News Media Alliance has produced ads for newspapers to run in their print publications during National Newspaper Week (this year, October 3-9) and on International Newspaper Carrier Day (Oct. 9) to thank our hardworking newspaper carriers, without whom many people would not receive the news.

We have also provided a version for postal workers who deliver the newspaper.

We encourage you to run the ads in your publications to show support.

We have provided the ads in full- and quarter-page sizes, in PDF and EPS formats, for use in your print publications. You can customize the ad with your news organization’s message, logo and/or contact information.

Word in Black has a banner week

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 02:12:15 GMT

Local Media Association

September 12, 2021

Ripples began to emerge in early September from the launch of Word In Black , a collaborative of 10 of the nation’s leading Black publishers, managed by Local Media Association.

Baltimore’s The AFRO helps lead this collaborative effort.

Last year, after the murder of George Floyd and America’s reckoning on race, we launched the Fund for Black Journalism, which became the seed for Word In Black.

Now, just in the past week:

A profile piece by Editor & Publisher on the launch of the collaborative was republished by The Tennessee Tribune .
That republished piece from a Twitter thread was then quote-tweeted by Nikole Hannah-Jones of The New York Times on Labor Day.
Within 24 hours of that push, 500 people signed up for the Word In Black newsletter and several first-time donations were made.
In the days that followed, WIB publishers and staff were interviewed by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution , the Black News Channel , and Roland Martin’s Unfiltered , which resulted in more subscribers, more donors and more traffic to the site.

This new attention shows that when the various powers of media, regardless of platform, work together to highlight solutions that empower and engage communities from across our country, new growth and opportunity can occur. The 10 publishers involved in this critical initiative, along with the managing support team at LMA, are driving home a message that innovation and transformation truly is a collaborative effort — and what our industry needs most.

Want to get involved and learn more about Word in Black? Sign up for the weekly Word in Black newsletter.

Seyfarth Shaw shares Vaccine Policy Playbook for employers

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 02:10:23 GMT

Seyfarth Shaw | Editor & Publisher

September 12, 2021

Seyfarth Shaw, which provides legal services to clients worldwide, has shared its Vaccine Policy Playbook with members of America’s Newspapers. Non-members also can access the Playbook at www.newspapers.org .

The Vaccine Policy Playbook is an essential resource in designing, communicating and deploying your company’s vaccine policy.

The introduction to the Playbook notes that it is designed to guide employers through types of mandates, policy creation and considerations, such as reporting, incentives and local mandates, and perhaps most importantly, defining an accommodation strategy that reduces the risks of ADA and EEOC claims.

Report for America opens newsroom applications, expands opportunity to hire more journalists

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 02:08:32 GMT

Report for America

September 9, 2021

The deadline for news organizations interested in partnering with Report for America to host emerging and experienced journalists in their newsrooms is Sept. 30.

Report for America is a national service program that places talented journalists—corps members—into local newsrooms to report on under-covered issues and communities. Through the program, host newsrooms receive:

Service-minded reporters, photographers and videographers
Diverse, hand-picked candidates from a pool of emerging and experienced journalists
Subsidized salary support, up to half for the first year
Local fundraising coaching and resources
Extra training and mentoring for journalists

The application deadline is September 30, 2021, and newsrooms will be publicly announced in December. More information about how the program works can be found here .

# # #

Media Guide to Covering the Census Bureau

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 01:26:46 GMT

United States Census Bureau

September 3, 2021

The U.S. Census Bureau is the federal government’s largest statistical agency. They are dedicated to providing current facts and figures about America’s people, places, and economy. Federal law protects the confidentiality of all the information the Census Bureau collects.

Statistical Programs

The decennial census < www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html > is the once-a-decade population count required by the U.S. Constitution. The Census Bureau counts all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Island Areas. The results help determine the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and how to distribute hundreds of billions in federal funding for public services for the next 10 years.

The American Comm

unity Survey (ACS) < www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs.html > is an ongoing annual survey that shows what the U.S. population looks like and how it lives. The ACS helps communities decide where to target services and resources.

Demographic surveys < www.census.gov/programs-surveys/surveys-programs.html > measure factors such as income and poverty, education, health, housing, crime, and computer usage.

Economic data < www.census.gov/topics/business-economy.html > is produced monthly, quarterly, and yearly. They cover selected sectors of the nation’s economy and supplement the economic census with more frequent information about the dynamic economy. These surveys yield more than 400 annual economic reports, including principal economic indicators.

The Small Business Pulse Survey < https://portal.census.gov/pulse/data/ > provides detailed information on the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on small businesses as well as their participation in federal programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program. Available on a weekly basis (May 27 – July 22, 2021).

The Household Pulse Survey < www.census.gov/data-tools/demo/hhp/#/ > asks questions about how the COVID-19 pandemic affected education, employment, food security, health, housing, Social Security benefits, household spend-ing, consumer spending associated with stimulus payments, intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and transportation. Available on a biweekly basis (May 5 – July 14, 2021).

Visit < www.census.gov/programs-surveys.html > for more U.S. social, economic, and geographic survey data from the Census Bureau.

Helpful Resources

Read America Counts articles at < www.census.gov/library/stories.html > to find out the stories behind the numbers.
Visit the Census Bureau newsroom at < www.census.gov/newsroom.html > for the latest news, tip sheets, and events for media, including our Profile America segment, Facts for Features, and Stats for Stories.
View the online product calendar at < www.census.gov/en.html#calendar > for anticipated release dates for regular and recurring statistical products.
Visit our content library < www.census.gov/library.html > for b-roll, photos, articles, infographics, videos, and more.
Access statistics at < https://data.census.gov/cedsci/ >.
Sign up for embargo access at < https://registration.tco.census.gov/myregistration/register.jsf?cu=PIO&cus=& >.
Subscribe to receive Census Bureau press releases and information via e-mail or text at < https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USCENSUS/subscriber/new? >.
Contact the Public Information Office at < pio@census.gov > or 301-763-3030.

NNAF establishes Max Heath Postal Institute

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 02:43:39 GMT

NNAF

August 27, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- Aug. 26, 2021
Contact: Lynne Lance, lynne@nna.org

A new postal education program from National Newspaper Association Foundation will be named after its longtime mentor and trainer Max Heath of Kentucky.

The Max Heath Postal Institute becomes the new umbrella to train newspapers and printers for best uses of the mail in a rapidly-changing postal environment.

NNAF President Matt Adelman, publisher of the Douglas (Wyoming) Budget, said the NNAF board decided the most appropriate way to recognize the lifelong work of Heath, who died in July, would be to continue his mission. Memorial donations to NNAF will be dedicated to a fund for postal training.

“No one in this industry has to look very far to find a newspaper whose essential work has been protected by Max,” Adelman said. “He understood that the best newspaper imaginable has little value unless people are able to receive it. Max spent decades training us, fighting for us and leaping into the fray of postal policy. An entire industry is indebted to his selflessness.

“Now, as the Postal Service is pushing massive changes out to mail users, we face a daunting frontier without our leader. But National Newspaper Association and its partner foundation, NNAF, have known for years that this sad day would come. Our postal team is ready for it. We’ll be launching new training programs within MHPI, even as NNA continues to advocate for universal postal service.”

Adelman said the first program in the Institute would be October 21 with a presentation by USPS National Customer and Support Center in Memphis. The topic will be “Liberating your Newspaper from Costly Address Change Notices.” It will be designed for publishers, circulation professionals, printers and mail service providers. More information on this program will be provided in the weeks ahead. MHPI will also become the host of Postal Tips, a regular column in Publishers’ Auxiliary.

Adelman said NNAF expressed its condolences to Heath’s wife, Ruth Ann, and son, Jason.

“They have blessed this new design, even as they both often had to share Max with a wide world of newspaper people who called and wrote him at all hours of the day for help,” he said. “We thank them for their generosity,”

NNAF has established a donation link for industry professionals who wish to contribute to carrying on Heath’s legacy.

National Newspaper Association Foundation
PO Box 13323
Pensacola, FL 32591
1-850-542-7087

The Journalist’s Guide to Maryland Courts

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 01:20:49 GMT

August 27, 2021

Through the generosity of the Maryland Bar Foundation and a partnership with Society of Professional Journalists, MDDC Press Foundation and the MDCD Broadcasters Association, the third edition of the Maryland Judiciary’s Journalist’s Guide to Maryland’s Legal System will be printed and distributed to journalists working in print, online, tv and radio throughout the state.

The Guide was thoroughly updated, rewritten and reorganized under the direction of the Maryland Judicial Council’s Court Access and Community Relations Committee and its Community Relations Subcommittee, drawing on the help and expertise of many attorneys and journalists in the community.

The Journalist’s Guide, currently only published online at https://online.flippingbook.com/view/691761/ includes information on obtaining court records through Case Search, at the courthouse, or through the Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC) case management system; a review of journalists’ rights; guidelines for coverage to avoid legal problems; an overview of the Maryland Shield Law; a guide to the various components of Maryland’s state judicial system and justice partners; and explanations of the criminal and court processes.

Each organizational member of the MDDC Press Association and MDCD Broadcasters will receive a complimentary printed copy of the Guide. Additional copies may be purchased by anyone at the cost of $5.00 per copy.

Earning trust with communities of color

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 03:17:46 GMT

Trusting News | A project of RJI and API

August 26, 2021

Trust 101 online course

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS: Earning trust with communities of color

Does your community value your journalism? Are you seen as a reliable resource and a fair provider of information? Do the people you serve feel like you reflect their lives, values and priorities?

These are questions we invite journalists to reflect on routinely. And in an upcoming version of our free Trust 101 class, we’ll ask the questions on behalf of one specific group: communities of color. Apply to participate here.

Trust in journalism is often lower among communities of color than in the overall population. Newsrooms know this. But they often feel ill-equipped to meaningfully address it. In this class, we’ll work with you to create a plan for your own work that can put you on a path for improvement. We’ll identify past and present barriers to trust, work through coverage areas that are often especially problematic, equip you for effective outreach and talk about how to measure your success. We’ll also coach you individually as you outline specific problem areas, coverage ideas and next steps for your own newsroom.

Facilitators:

In addition to the Trusting News team , the class will be co-led by Letrell Deshan Crittenden , Assistant Professor of Communication and Program Director at Thomas Jefferson University. Letrell is a former police and government reporter. He’s now an emerging scholar who specializes issues related diversity and inclusion in news, and community journalism.

Details:

This class will run Oct. 25-Nov. 19, 2021 . Participants should be prepared to spend 3-4 hours per week, including attendance at four live class sessions on Fridays from 1 pm to 2 pm ET.
It is open to local journalists in U.S. newsrooms who are willing to make a commitment to better relationships with and service to communities of color.
This class is 100% remote and is facilitated through live Zoom classes, video recordings, a Slack workspace and assignments.
It is offered at no cost to journalists.
The course requires two participants from each newsroom to apply together. This structure will enable the partners to support each other’s plans and ability to follow through on them. We strongly recommend the team include someone in a leadership position, though that is not required. By leadership position we mean someone with decision-making authority — over the newsroom overall, or over sections or teams.
We plan to accept up to 15 newsrooms. As we evaluate applications, we’re looking for journalists who have thoughtful observations and seem ready to invest in making changes.

Questions? Email info@TrustingNews.org .

Ready to apply? Fill out this form .

Looking for more training?

If this particular focus isn’t right for you, fill out this form to be alerted when we’re next taking applications for a Trust 101 class.

And in the meantime, we have a self-paced class that is a partnership with Poynter’s NewsU: How Any Journalist Can Earn Trust . Sign up, then pick the lessons that are most relevant for your work, on your own time.

Earning trust with communities of color

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 02:41:31 GMT

Trusting News | A project of RJI and API

August 26, 2021

Trust 101 online course

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS: Earning trust with communities of color

Does your community value your journalism? Are you seen as a reliable resource and a fair provider of information? Do the people you serve feel like you reflect their lives, values and priorities?

Facilitators:

Details:

This class will run Oct. 25-Nov. 19, 2021 . Participants should be prepared to spend 3-4 hours per week, including attendance at four live class sessions on Fridays from 1 pm to 2 pm ET.
It is open to local journalists in U.S. newsrooms who are willing to make a commitment to better relationships with and service to communities of color.
This class is 100% remote and is facilitated through live Zoom classes, video recordings, a Slack workspace and assignments.
It is offered at no cost to journalists.
The course requires two participants from each newsroom to apply together. This structure will enable the partners to support each other’s plans and ability to follow through on them. We strongly recommend the team include someone in a leadership position, though that is not required. By leadership position we mean someone with decision-making authority — over the newsroom overall, or over sections or teams.
We plan to accept up to 15 newsrooms. As we evaluate applications, we’re looking for journalists who have thoughtful observations and seem ready to invest in making changes.

Questions? Email info@TrustingNews.org .

Ready to apply? Fill out this form .

Looking for more training?

If this particular focus isn’t right for you, fill out this form to be alerted when we’re next taking applications for a Trust 101 class.

Postage rate increase will go into effect Aug. 29, Court says

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 02:38:25 GMT

National Newspaper Association

August 26, 2021

National Newspaper Association
PO Box 13323
Pensacola, FL 32591
1-850-542-7087

Aug. 25, 2021
Contact: Tonda Rush, tonda@nna.org

The Postal Service will raise postage rates on August 29, after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit denied a petition by National Newspaper Association, News Media Alliance and others to put a hold on it.

The Court simply issued a statement that the petition was denied, without providing any reasoning for the decision. NNA and others had argued that the Postal Regulatory Commission’s decision to authorize the increase by USPS was flawed and that the rate increase should be delayed until the Court decides whether the PRC was correct.

NNA argued that the increase would create immediate and irreparable harm to users of the mail. An affidavit to support the petition by NNA member Multi Media Channels, Milwaukee, provided evidence to the Court on harm to its news coverage.

“This was always the longest of long shots to try to delay the increase,” NNA Chair Brett Wesner, president of Wesner Publications, Cordell, Oklahoma, said. “We felt the impact of a double digit increase between last January’s rate hike and the second one of the year coming this month was overwhelmingly damaging to community newspapers. So we decided to join in this appeal. NNA appreciates the support of News Media Alliance and the good work of William Baker of the Potomac Law Group for the skillful handling of our petition.

“But the court rarely issues such stays. This decision does deliver a blow to newspapers that are struggling to stay afloat. It does not diminish the basis of our original lawsuit. The oral argument on that case will proceed on Sept. 13. We expect a decision by the court by the end of the year. That decision could send the whole matter back to the PRC for reconsideration, and the PRC has the authority to roll back this increase if it so chooses. Congress also has the authority to take action here. I think our members have led the industry in reaching out to Congress about the financial distress of USPS and the need for postal reform.

“So we continue to push forward. We understand the Postal Service’s motivation for seeking the maximum rate increase allowed. But we, like a growing group of other stakeholders using this universal service, believe a fundamental reworking of the postal laws is the right way to approach the problem, not putting a huge burden on the backs of small businesses.”

Reader Revenue Toolkit

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 02:36:27 GMT

American Press Institute

August 23, 2021

Revenue that comes directly from readers in the form of subscriptions, memberships, donations, events and more is crucial for the long-term sustainability of news organizations — especially those serving local communities.

Nexstar acquires The Hill, a leading independent political digital media platform, for $130 million

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 02:33:05 GMT

Nexstar

August 23, 2021

Press Release

Five-Part Digital Sales Training Program

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 03:06:16 GMT

America's Newspapers

August 19, 2021

Five-part webinar series offers in-depth training on digital ad sales

FREE for America’s Newspapers members!

Building sales teams’ digital sales knowledge is a critical priority for all newspapers. This in-depth program will be conducted by industry-leading sales training company, The Center for Sales Strategy.

Register your entire team for this five-part training program designed for newspaper sales executives and managers. The series, which began Wednesday, Aug. 4, and runs for five consecutive Wednesdays, is free for members of America’s Newspapers. Session recordings are available to any newspaper executive for sessions missed.

Non-members can register their entire team for $150, including access to all five sessions and materials. Or, become a member of America’s Newspapers and take advantage of this program, plus all other member benefits.

Cloud Campaign Helps Digital Agencies Scale

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 02:28:04 GMT

Kevin Berrier | MDDC Advertising Services

August 19, 2021

Social media is here, and it’s been orbiting as a marketing channel for businesses of all sizes for some time. Relying solely on social media to bring clients new business is never a great idea but working social media in as a component of your overall holistic marketing strategy is key.

Our agency handles social media management and ad-buying for clients all around the United States, and we realized quickly that managing everyone’s accounts directly through Facebook, despite their best efforts to make it user friendly for agencies, was still cumbersome. We realized we needed a better way to manage social content for multiple clients in one space. After a lot of searching, we landed on Cloud Campaign .

Here are three reasons why we chose Cloud Campaign:

Five-Part Digital Sales Training Program

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 01:54:56 GMT

America's Newspapers

Five-part webinar series offers in-depth training on digital ad sales

FREE for America’s Newspapers members!

Special Report: Advertising on Misinformation

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 05:44:59 GMT

Matt Skibinski | NewsGuard

August 16, 2021

Top brands are sending $2.6 billion to misinformation websites each year, NewsGuard and Comscore report

An analysis of programmatic advertising data conducted by NewsGuard and Comscore finds that misinformation publishers are reaping billions in annual advertising revenue from top brands.

The journalism industry is struggling worldwide–with newsrooms across the world cutting staff, shutting their doors, or fighting to stay afloat.

But a new analysis from NewsGuard and Comscore has found that the misinformation industry is booming–with $2.6 billion in estimated advertising revenue being sent to publishers of misinformation and disinformation each year by programmatic advertisers, including hundreds of millions in revenue supporting false health claims, anti-vaccine myths, election misinformation, partisan propaganda, and other forms of false news.

The data underscore the scale at which online misinformation and disinformation is unintentionally bought and paid for by major advertisers, who place their ads on thousands of websites using programmatic advertising, a byzantine, computerized process–leaving brands with little idea where their ads are appearing and what messages they are financing.

Expert Workshop Explains Employer Tax Credit for Small Businesses

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 05:43:24 GMT

National Federation of Independent Business

August 6, 2021

Featured expert Matt Evans goes in depth about the under-used program

You may have heard of the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERC), but NFIB research shows many owners have not yet used the program. To help NFIB members make the most of available pandemic-recovery funds at a time when every penny counts, our latest webinar hosted a CPA and featured expert who workshopped the ins and outs of the ERC.

During the webinar , NFIB Research Center Executive Director Holly Wade and featured expert Matt Evans, CPA, SMA, CFM, explain the ERC in detail. “I felt compelled to get involved with this because I wanted to make sure small business owners knew about it, and I didn’t feel like it was getting the attention it deserved,” Matt said. He also encourages webinar attendees to talk directly to a CPA or tax attorney for details about their specific situation.

Morgan State’s new journalism school dean aims to continue program’s growth

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 05:41:44 GMT

Alicia Diaz | Baltimore Business Journal

August 5, 2021

By Alicia Diaz

Baltimore Business Journal

Jacqueline “Jackie” Jones said she knows the journalism industry and privilege often go hand-in-hand, so as the new dean of the Morgan State University journalism program she vows to ensure each student has an equal opportunity to get their foot in the newsroom door.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist was selected in July to become only the second dean of the School of Global Journalism and Communication, succeeding the inaugural dean DeWayne Wickham. She officially took over the role on Aug. 1.

“I hope these next steps, as we push forward and try to take the school to the next level, really show respect and honor to the foundation that he built for the school,” Jones said.

Morgan State’s new journalism school dean aims to continue program’s growth

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:51:44 GMT

By Alicia Diaz | Baltimore Business Journal

“I hope these next steps, as we push forward and try to take the school to the next level, really show respect and honor to the foundation that he built for the school,” Jones said.

Lessons from a failed advertiser

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 05:13:21 GMT

John Foust

July 30, 2021

By John Foust
Raleigh, NC

I remember talking to Clark about his early days in advertising. When he started his then-small marketing business, one of his first clients was a fast-food establishment that needed help with an introductory campaign. Although the store manager knew almost nothing about advertising, he understood that it was important.

According to Clark, three factors drove the advertising strategy: (1) the budget was severely limited, (2) although it was a national brand, the business was new to the market, and (3) a large university was about two miles away.

“In those pre-Internet days, the college market was the store manager’s best option,” Clark said, “and I figured the surest way to reach those students was through the college newspaper. The challenge was to give them a reason to travel two miles for fast-food. I decided to run a series of quarter-page ads, with discount coupons. The price fit the manager’s budget, and the coupons would give him a way to measure results. Each ad had a code number on the coupon, so he would know which days of the week drew more responses.”

When Clark dropped by the store after a few ads ran, the store manager held up a big paper grocery bag which was overflowing with coupons. There was no organization at all, and it was obvious that coupons had been mixed together in the bag. The ads had pulled in some customers, but – even though they had discussed the significance of measuring results – the manager clearly had no interest in following through.

“Unfortunately, that fast-food place didn’t stay open very long,” Clark explained. “For several years after it closed, I wondered if I could have provided more help. But eventually I came to realize that advertising alone can’t keep a business going. People were willing to try the restaurant once, but the food simply wasn’t good enough to bring them back. The store manager had a gruff personality that may have turned off customers. I also heard that there were staffing problems and issues with state restaurant inspections.”

Although that was a painful experience, it taught Clark some lessons which benefited him in later campaigns. “The first lesson was the importance of a system for clients to track ad responses,” he said. “That can be as simple as a box with folders to organize coupons. Or it can be as sophisticated as a spreadsheet or tracking software.

“The second lesson was to develop a way to capture customer information – at least a name and email address. That can be done with some kind of loyalty program, a requirement to provide information before downloading an online coupon, or an in-person sign-up for future deals.

“The biggest lesson of all,” Clark said, “was the first-hand observation of the power of the consumer’s in-store experience. The ultimate goal is for the customer to see the store as worth a second, third and tenth visit. Experience, not advertising, is the determining factor in customer loyalty.”

About the author

How local news organizations are taking steps to recover from a year of trauma

Sat, 24 Jul 2021 02:24:44 GMT

Jane Elizabeth, American Press Institute

July 24, 2021

By Jane Elizabeth

More than a year after the global pandemic became official, local journalism still grapples with the fallout — not only from the coronavirus but also by an intense nationwide racial reckoning, regional disasters including fires and storms, and ever-present gun violence and mass shootings.

The flood of news events over the past year also exacerbated the endemic financial struggles of local media. At least 65 news organizations have closed permanently. Local news organizations in every state, D.C. and Puerto Rico have been affected by job losses or pay cuts and furloughs, according to the Poynter Institute’s tracking . Some employees left voluntarily, citing unrelenting stress .

But local journalism endures — at startups, nonprofits, and corporate-owned newsrooms. In early April, an American Press Institute report outlined seven important challenges for local and regional news organizations to consider as they try to rebound from these ongoing struggles. We asked for your ideas and solutions for addressing lost resources, audience retention, misinformation, rebuilding beats and improving investigative journalism, newsroom diversity, and journalists’ mental health And over the past several weeks, we’ve heard the stories of dozens of journalists who launched ideas and projects aimed at emerging from the crushing blows of the past year. From web redesigns to starting (or killing) Facebook groups to tough talk about diversity, local news organizations are tackling those seven issues with unique strategies driven by a unique moment in their history.

Special projects energize staff, community

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 05:11:32 GMT

Jim Pumarlo

July 23, 2021

By Jim Pumarlo

I fondly characterize newsrooms as organized chaos. That definition has aptly described operations for the past 18 months with the impact of COVID-19. The story has demanded constant attention, and there are likely fewer reporters to handle the task due to the economic toll of the pandemic.

As we begin to return to some level of normalcy, it’s a great time to recharge – to brainstorm special projects that have unfortunately gone by the wayside. The initiatives are a great way to energize your staffs and simultaneously deliver great content.

Special projects, you say? We are barely treading water handling daily chores.

The reaction is understandable. Mention big projects and the mind-set often focuses on in-depth series that can take weeks to plan, research and write, and then will be published over multiple days. Newsrooms, no matter their size, should strive to do those enterprises, even if produced only once a year.

But special projects also can mean generating more substantive reports in everyday news. These reports can be just as “big” in terms of providing expanded coverage. And they can be done without overwhelming newsrooms strapped for time and resources.

Broadening your definition of big projects also presents opportunities for fresh approaches to stories done year in and year out.

A few examples:

Annual reports on a variety of topics are regularly presented at meetings. Statistics are often regurgitated with little interpretation. As an alternative, review reports for the most compelling highlights. Tell a story by putting names and faces behind the representative data. It’s a great way to introduce individuals not regularly showcased in your news columns. A sidebar can detail the overall statistics.

Pursue second-day coverage. How many times do you cover spot news, and then drop a story? There’s often more to be told by probing beneath the surface. These stories are also a great way to distinguish your newspaper from outside media that sweep into a community for the big story and then are rarely seen again. Supplementary and complementary coverage is especially worthwhile and effective when reporting on sensitive and challenging stories that may initially prompt reader complaints of sensationalism.

Local governments pore months over data preparing annual budgets. Newsrooms too often simply give blow-by-blow meeting reports. Instead, connect early with the appropriate folks at city hall, the courthouse and the school district to develop a series of stories that offers meaningful analysis of numbers.

By all means, newsrooms still should take the time and initiative to pursue the once-a-year projects. Remember, if you’re going to devote the time and effort, you want to identify those packages that will strike a chord with readers. Solicit citizen comments and suggestions on topics that will resonate with your audience. Your newspaper can play a valuable role in researching and advancing conversation on challenges facing the community.

As you explore in-depth projects, pay attention to the calendar. Are there times of the year where workloads might be lighter and it’s easier to devote extra resources? Planning and organization are especially important. Online project management tools can help to assign and schedule responsibilities. Using one place to check all your tasks keeps everyone running at the same pace.

I pose a challenge to all news operations in little projects and big projects alike. Everyone should strive to deliver the chicken dinner – and the steak extravaganza, too. No matter how big your newspaper, don’t forget the little things. And, no matter how small your newspaper, take the time to pursue the big projects, too. The combination keeps you relevant to readers and advertisers.

Jim Pumarlo is former editor of the Red Wing (Minn.) Republican Eagle. He writes, speaks and provides training on community newsroom success strategies. He is author of “Journalism Primer: A Guide to Community News Coverage,” “Votes and Quotes: A Guide to Outstanding Election Coverage” and “Bad News and Good Judgment: A Guide to Reporting on Sensitive Issues in Small-Town Newspapers.” He can be reached at www.pumarlo.com and welcomes comments and questions at jim@pumarlo.com .

The state of digital advertising fraud: 4 points publishers should know

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 02:29:41 GMT

Alliance for Audited Media

July 23, 2021

At the recent Great Western Audience Development Summit , AAM’s Kevin Rehberg shared an update on digital ad fraud, and the steps publishers can take to stand out to advertisers and earn more digital ad revenue.

Here are the highlights of that presentation and ideas on how publishers can demonstrate their commitment to creating a quality digital advertising environment.

As digital ad spend grows, so does fraud.

Digital advertising https://www.adexchanger.com/online-advertising/iab-digital-ads-grew-29-in-q4-in-pandemic-rebound/ . But where there’s an increase in investment, there’s also often an increase in fraud. In one estimate from eMarketer, as much as $100 billion could be lost to digital ad fraud by 2023 .

Everyone is affected by fraud, including publishers.

Learn more about how to enroll in AAM’s complimentary Digital Publisher Audit program.

Health Research Training Workshop

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 03:02:55 GMT

National Center for Health Research

July 22, 2021

Journalists: Apply for a Free Health Research Training Workshop to be held on August 6, 2021 in Washington, D.C.

Apply by July 23, 2021.

Are you a journalist or medical writer who wants to better understand health research? Would you like to attend a free Workshop that will provide training as well as potential copy on groundbreaking new research on diagnostic tests and treatments for breast cancer, pain, anxiety, and other major medical issues?

Research aimed at improving treatments and prevention can be complex, and new research showing promising results can generate inflated claims and unrealistic hopes. The media plays a key role in cutting through the hype and translating the complexities, ensuring that news about important research reaches and is understood by those who would most benefit.

In order for the media to fill this role most effectively, researchers and medical writers/journalists need to communicate clearly with each other. Unfortunately, not all researchers are adept at communicating their research findings to the media, nor do all medical writers and journalists have the knowledge of research design, statistics, and related issues to fully understand what new studies can and can’t conclude, or whether a new treatment has benefits that outweigh the risks.

Thanks to an award from the Patient Centered Outcome Research Institute® (PCORI®), the National Center for Health Research is hosting the second of two Health Research Training Workshop on August 6, 2021 to help bridge that gap. The National Center for Health Research is a non-profit, independent think tank focused on effective and affordable health care, and does not accept funding from companies making products that we evaluate. PCORI® is an independent, nonprofit organization authorized by Congress in 2010. Its mission is to fund research that will provide patients, their caregivers, and clinicians with the evidence-based information needed to make better-informed healthcare decisions. The term “patient-centered” refers to results that matter most to patients, such as living longer, spending less time in the hospital, and having a better quality of life.

The Health Research Training Workshop will bring together medical writers, journalists, medical experts, and groundbreaking researchers to help them communicate more clearly with each other, and enable writers to communicate with their audiences. You’ll learn from researchers at the nation’s best universities; medical experts from the National Institutes of Health and major medical schools; and past and present well-respected journalists from NYT, NPR, AP, and WSJ.

You will learn about new research on which prevention strategies and treatments are most effective for improving patients’ health.
You will learn how to evaluate the quality of new studies and how to reconcile conflicting results and conclusions.
You will learn the pros and cons of clinical trials, pragmatic trials, real world evidence, and other types of medical research.
You will network with medical experts, researchers, journalists, and writers who want to improve communication between researchers and journalists/writers.
Workshop faculty include award-winning journalists and nationally-respected researchers.
The workshop is free and breakfast, lunch, and Happy Hour are included.
Scholarships are available for travel expenses and hotels for those living at least 40 miles away.
Workshop training certificates will be provided upon completion.

If you are a journalist or medical writer who wants to improve your understanding of new research comparing the effectiveness of various treatments and prevention strategies, and to network with medical experts and researchers from major medical schools, email Asher at wp@center4research.org to express your interest by July 23.

About the National Center for Health Research

The National Center for Health Research is an independent, nonprofit think tank focused on medical and public health issues, and does not accept funding from pharmaceutical or medical device companies. This workshop is funded by a Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute® (PCORI®) Eugene Washington PCORI Engagement Award (8598-NCHR).

P.S. As a healthcare nonprofit, we are following CDC protocols and also requiring proof of vaccination to attend.

Capital Gazette shooting verdict: gunman found criminally responsible

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 02:31:28 GMT

Alex Mann and Lilly Price | Capital Gazette

July 16, 2021

Three years and 17 days after the mass shooting, an Anne Arundel County jury ruled Thursday the man who killed five Capital Gazette employees was sane during the attack that shocked the tightknit town of Annapolis and therefore culpable for his crimes.

Their verdict brings closer to a conclusion the legal case stemming from the June 28, 2018, murders of Gerald Fischman , Rob Hiaasen , John McNamara , Rebecca Smith and Wendi Winters . Six people survived the attack, billed as the deadliest ever on an American newsroom.

Now, Jarrod Ramos, 41, will almost certainly spend the rest of his life in prison.

Sentencing is expected to occur in about two months, though a date has not been set. Prosecutors have already said they would seek at least five life sentences without the possibility of parole.

Business expenses: Knowing when to invest in your newspaper’s future

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 05:06:15 GMT

Kevin Slimp

July 12, 2021

By Kevin Slimp

About 15 or so years ago, I received a call from a newspaper designer at a small weekly. She was panicked because of a technical issue that was causing a lot of complications at her paper.

“No problem,” I told her. For less than $100, the paper could purchase a software utility that would fix the problem.

A few minutes later, my phone rang again. “The publisher says we can’t afford it.”

My response worried the designer. “Walk into your publisher’s office,” I told her, “and remind her that I know what kind of car she drives.”

She didn’t want to follow my instructions, but I assured her she wouldn’t get into any trouble.

You see, I knew what type of car the publisher drove. I’d known her for years. Just now, I checked, learning that a 2021 model of her car sells for more than $100,000.

A few minutes later, my phone rang again. “We just ordered the software.”

Since starting my own publishing company four years ago, I’ve gotten a feel for what it’s like to be on the other side of the desk. As a consultant for 25 years, I often advised publishers about making long-term plans and investing in their companies.

This became especially apparent to me a few days ago when a staff member told me we needed to talk. She had a business proposal. We met for coffee – well, I had a diet coke – and discussed her ideas.

I came out of the meeting a little poorer in the short term. These were her ideas:

We should invest in a subscription-based software package, priced at $500 per month, that would help ensure that we’re making accurate payments to writers.

We should hire more editors. There were a couple of reasons for this, but I was sold on the idea because years of consulting have taught me that quality is everything, and I agreed that we needed to “up” the quality of our editing. In addition, we’re publishing a lot more books these days, and I’ve been working my editors too hard, which has resulted in a loss in quality.

We need to invest in more office space. Yes, we could continue to work the way we have, but our tight spaces were resulting in short fuses, as well as storage and other issues.

I now know more than ever what it means to be a publisher. It means that every penny invested in the company comes directly out of my pocket. There’s no salary from other owners. No group to pay my way.My income is based on the profit of the company. What I make is what’s left over after all expenses are paid.

We discussed the pros and cons of each idea. I brought up a possibility that she could continue to work as hard as she has been, and I could pay her more money, but we both knew that wasn’t the best option. The best option was to look toward the future of the business and do what is needed to help ensure continued growth in the long term.

One reason many community newspapers succeed is because their owners live in the communities they serve. In addition to their love for their communities, along with an understanding of the importance of journalism, they also realize every decision made at the paper affects their financial futures.

When I considered the three proposals presented to me, it didn’t take long to realize our company had two choices: 1) Continue to go on as we were, which would allow us to make a living, but keep us from significant growth in the long-term, or 2) We could invest in the future, meaning I could take home a little less money over the next few months, knowing our business would be poised to continue our growth well into the future.

I bet you can guess what I decided. We met and looked over the new office space. I signed the lease, and I’m very excited about the new editors who will be working with us.

Speaking of Software

My friend Reed Anfinson, publisher in Minnesota, called in a bind last week. His paper wasn’t going to press on time due to a technical error with the InDesign newspaper file. I asked him to send the file to me, I fixed it, then sent the new file back to him. Reed called again yesterday with the same problem, so I took the time to tell him how I repaired the file.

A few months ago, I wrote about a software app called IDMarkz, from Markzware (markzware.com), a software company that creates plug-ins and applications related to InDesign. In my research, I learned that IDMarkz does a great job of fixing corrupt InDesign files. That’s how I fixed Reed’s problem file.

Now you know what Reed knows. If you use InDesign, go ahead and purchase IDMarkz. Get the full $150US version. You can thank me later.

About the Author

Kevin Slimp is founder of newspaperacademy.com and The University of Tennessee Newspaper Institute. In 2017, he founded Market Square Publishing.

Despite the changes brought on by COVID-19, he keynoted dozens of national and regional newspaper conferences virtually in 2020. He also dropped 50 pounds during the pandemic.Kevin still wonders what he’ll do when he grows up.

PIA Compliance Board Annual Meeting Notice

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 02:32:45 GMT

Public Information Act Compliance Board

July 12, 2021

The Public Information Act Compliance Board will hold its Annual Meeting at 11:00 am on August 26, 2021. The meeting will be a virtual Microsoft Teams call. The public is invited to attend.

If you are interested in attending, we ask that you please contact Ms. Janice Clark (at piaopengov@oag.state.md.us or 410-576-6560) no later than August 25 so that we may send you the call-in information; however, individuals requesting call-in information after that date will be provided with it.

The meeting agenda will be posted at https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/Pages/OpenGov/piacb.aspx when it is available.

If you are interested in receiving email notifications about future meetings of the PIACB, please contact Janice Clark at piaopengov@oag.state.md.us .

5 digital, revenue, diversity and audience strategies your newsroom should follow after ONA 21

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 02:59:32 GMT

Local Media Association

July 6, 2021

By Penny Riordan • LMA Director, Business Strategy and Partnerships

While it was sad that we as an industry couldn’t meet in person for the Online News Association’s conference this year, the topics and speakers at ONA 21 were still inspiring. This year was my seventh ONA, and I’ve been a speaker and panel moderator in several past years. What I love about ONA is the topics are always at the forefront of what industry leaders are talking about.

If you registered but didn’t attend, you can check out recordings for nearly every session on the site. For those that didn’t register, the session pages often have slide decks and other resources. Here are the biggest takeaways you’ll want to make sure your news organization considers.

Local News Ideas-to-Action series

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 02:58:07 GMT

American Press Institute

July 5, 2021

API’s Local News Ideas-to-Action series is designed to help local news outlets do accountability and governance reporting that directly prioritizes residents’ needs. Want to get involved? Submit a rough project idea for how you can better serve a specific audience with your government reporting by July 12. Advisors will provide constructive feedback on your proposal, and later this summer you can apply for funding for the project. Learn more here.

Antitrust Bills Offer Long-Term Solution to Reining in Big Tech

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 02:15:12 GMT

News Media Alliance

June 29, 2021

Over the last year, multiple lawsuits, bills and investigations have been introduced to examine the anticompetitive behavior of Big Tech companies, such as Facebook and Google, and how their dominance of the online ecosystem harms news publishers and other creators.

Alliance President and CEO, David Chavern, stated, “The anticompetitive conduct of the dominant tech platforms can’t be ignored and is a testament to the critical need to correct the glaring imbalance in the marketplace.

SPJ Dateline Awards Presentation

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 02:13:10 GMT

Society of Professional Journalists

June 16, 2021

Probing Profile of How Police Dealt with a Mentally Ill Man Takes Top Honors in D.C. Journalists’ Annual Contest

June 15, 2021
For Immediate Release
Contact: Randy Showstack (randy.100@usa.net)

WASHINGTON — The Washington, D.C., Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists has announced recipients of its 2021 Dateline Awards for journalism excellence.

This year’s top honor – The Robert D.G. Lewis Watchdog Award – went to Eric Falquero of Street Sense Media for his investigation of one man’s journey through the mental health and policing systems. Falquero is the editorial director of this street newspaper whose mission is to raise awareness and spotlight solutions to homelessness.

The award, which comes with a $1,000 prize, is presented to a journalist or group in any award classification whose entry best exemplifies journalism aimed at protecting the public from abuses by those who would betray the public trust.

Falquero’s winning investigation “What can happen when the police are asked to respond to a mental health crisis in D.C.?” began when he witnessed the police detaining a homeless, mentally ill man at the June 20, 2020 Black Lives Matter demonstration in Washington D.C. Falquero’s story chronicled in depth what started out as a mental health episode and spiraled into much more. The awards judge said, “This was real reporting. Falquero saw an incident that some might consider a sidebar and most would ignore, but he paid attention and then followed what happened after. He talked to people on all sides of the mental health, policing, justice, housing and social services systems and examined this from almost every angle. Now, THIS is investigative reporting, shining a light into dark corners!” the judge added.

“What a challenge the judges faced this year in selecting the best of the best,” said Randy Showstack, president of the Washington, D.C. Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. “This has been a year when extraordinary events reared their heads, merged, and sometimes collided – a pandemic, urgent calls for social justice reform, a presidential election and a violent mob storming the U.S. Capitol, and an increasing concern about climate change. So, it is not surprising that our contest would receive a record number of entries, with so many of the entries displaying the highest caliber of journalistic excellence. We thank the judges for their difficult task in selecting the best of the best, and all of the journalists who entered the contest. We want to congratulate the winners, including Eric Falquero of Street Sense Media, this year’s recipient of the Robert D.G. Lewis Watchdog Award.”

A list of the Dateline Awards winners and finalists by category follows.

A video of the presentations can be viewed at the DC SPJ YouTube Channel.

2021 Dateline Awards Presentation Video

DATELINE AWARDS – FINALISTS AND WINNERS

CORRESPONDENT AWARD

(For distinguished coverage of the Washington D.C. area published or broadcast outside the area):

Winner: Mark Albert, Hearst Television

Finalist: Ben Wermund, Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News

Finalist: Samantha Manning, Cox Media Group’s Washington News Bureau

Finalist: Jacqueline Policastro, Gray Television Washington News Bureau

DAILY NEWSPAPER

Breaking News

Winner: Rachael Levy, Alexander Osipovich, Geoffrey Rogow, The Wall Street Journal, “Kodak’s Busted Moment”

Non-Breaking News

Winner: Rose Thayer, Stars and Stripes. “The Search for Vanessa”

Finalist: Miranda Spivack, Amy Pyle, USAToday, “Public Colleges Hide Donors Who Seek to Influence Students. Will Covid-19 Make It Worse?”

Finalist: Jon Hilsenrath, Justin Baer, Eric Morath, The Wall Street Journal, “How Covid is Reshaping Cities”

Finalist: Shen Wu Tan, The Washington Times, “Virus Outbreak Delays Adoptions from China”

Series

Winner: Tara Copp, Meta Viers, Kevin Keister, McClatchy Newspapers, “ Female Military Pilots See the Next Barrier to Break: Getting More Black Women to Fly”

Finalist: Chelsea Cirruzzo, Amanda Michelle Gomez, Washington City Paper, “The Clearing of a Homeless Encampment”

Finalist: Staff, The Wall Street Journal, “How America’s Demographics Shaped the 2020 Election”

Features

Winner: Thomas Floyd, The Washington Post, “A Retired Engineer’s Latest Sculpture is a Bicycle, Back-Scratcher and Cookie Dispenser – All in One”

Finalist: Adam Bernstein, The Washington Post, “Carl Reiner, TV Comedy Pioneer and Probing Straight Man to Mel Brooks, Dies at 98”

Finalist: Janet Adamy, The Wall Street Journal, “Abortion, Guns and Trump”

Finalist: Harrison Smith, The Washington Post, “Once Virginia’s Lead Executioner, He Later Lobbied against Capital Punishment”

Beat Reporting

Winner: Nancy Youssef, The Wall Street Journal, Pentagon reporting

Finalist: Stephen Dinan, The Washington Times, immigration reporting

Finalist: Ben Wolfgang, The Washington Times, military reporting

Sports

Winner: Matthew Paras, The Washington Times, Matthew Paras Sports Portfolio

Finalist: Andy Kostka, The Washington Times, Andy Kostka Sports Portfolio

Finalist: Adam Zielonka, The Washington Times, Adam Zielonka Sports Portfolio

Infographic

Winner: Staff, The Wall Street Journal, “Where Did the Biggest PPP Loans Go?”

Business

Winner: Staff, The Wall Street Journal, “The New Economy”

Finalist: Ben Wolfgang, The Washington Times, “Pandemic Shows Military’s Need to Cut Reliance on Foreign Suppliers”

Commentary & Criticism

Winner: Thomas Floyd, The Washington Post, Reviews of the book “Memoirs and Misinformation,” the audio play “Human Resources” and the outdoor production “Fannie Lou Hamer, Speak on it!”

Investigative Journalism

Winner: Byron Tau, The Wall Street Journal, “How the U.S. Sidesteps Data Privacy Laws”

Front-Page Design

Winner: Robert Cohn, The Washington Times, “The Epilogue; Of all the Great Sports Flicks; Crunchtime All-Timers”

Art/Photo Illustration

Winner: Greg Groesch, The Washington Times, Best of Greg Groesch Illustrations 2020

Finalist: Linas Garsys, The Washington Times, Best of Linas Garsys Illustrations 2020

Finalist: Alexander Hunter, The Washington Times, Best of Alexander Hunter Illustrations 2020

Editorial Cartoon

Winner: Alexander Hunter, The Washington Times, Hunter editorial cartoons

Finalist: Al Goodwyn,Creators Syndication, Goodwyn editorial cartoons

WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

B reaking News

Winner: Eric Falquero, Sasha Polonko, Street Sense Media, “Poor and Homeless People are Included in the CARES Act Stimulus, but Will Probably Have to ‘Raise Their Hand’ to get it”

Non-Breaking News

Winner: Michael Pope, Alexandria Gazette Packet, “Interrogating Inequality”

Finalist: Jake Maher, Street Sense Media, “Response to Protests Upends Daily Life for Homeless People Downtown”

Finalist: Zach Cohen, National Journal, “Why Congress Hasn’t Made Lynching a Hate Crime”

Finalist: Lou Chibbaro Jr.,Washington Blade, “D.C. Study Documents ‘Life and Death’ of Trans Woman Alice Carter”

Series

Winner: Avi Bajpai, Reginald Black, Julia Pinney, Street Sense Media, “How Covid-19 Affected DC’s Homeless Community”

Finalist: Stacy Brown , The Washington Informer, “One Hundred Years after Suffrage Victories, Black Women Still Carrying the Torch”

Features

Winner: Lana Green, Street Sense Media, “Two Homeless Residents Say Dupont Circle Neighbors Cleared Their Belongings When They Were Given an Airbnb for One Night”

Finalist: Judy Kurtz, The Hill, “Getting Ready to Give Birth amid a Pandemic”

Finalist: Kathi Wolfe, Washington Blade, “Blind and Queer and Finding Community”

Finalist: Michael Pope, Alexandria Gazette Packet, “Alexandria’s Failed Experiment with Wards”

Beat Reporting

Winner: Zach Cohen, National Journal, Senate reporting

Finalist: Michael Pope, Alexandria Gazette Packet, Criminal Justice Reform reporting

Finalist : Annemarie Cuccia, Avi Bajpai, Eunice Sung, Street Sense Media, Employment and Income reporting

Finalist: Alex Koma, Washington Business Journal, Public Housing/D.C. Housing Authority reporting

Sports

Winner: Denise Dunbar, Alexandria Times,“His Long-Awaited Day in the Sun”

Business

Winner: Michael Pope, Alexandria Gazette Packet, “Crashing Economy”

Finalist: Alex Koma, Washington Business Journal, “ Covering the Intersection of Business and D.C. Politics”

Commentary & Criticism

Winner: Joey DiGuglielmo, Washington Blade, “Album roundup: Gaga Just So-So on New Album ‘Chromatica’”

Finalist: D. Kevin McNeir, The Washington Informer, “The Word According to Dominic”

Finalist: Andrew Dunbar, Alexandria Times,“Strokes, Bob Dylan, Gorillaz”

Finalist: Cody Mello-Klein, Alexandria Times,“Her Name was Jo”

Investigative Journalism

Winner: Eric Falquero, Callie Tansill-Suddath, Street Sense Media, “What Can Happen when the Police are Asked to Respond to a Mental Health Crisis in DC?”

Finalist: Zach Cohen, National Journal, “Inside D.C.’s Scramble to Set Up Covid-19 Contact Tracing”

Finalist: Alex Koma, Daniel Sernovitz, Washington Business Journal, “A PPP ‘Double Dip’: Some of D.C.’s Biggest Developers Scored Multiple Loans to Weather Coronavirus Crisis”

Finalist: Michael Pope, Alexandria Gazette Packet, “Disproportionate Policing”

Front-Page Design

Winner: Cammi Rood, Ben Cooper, T.B. Khadra, Joseph Young, Street Sense Media, “Homelessness and Gentrification through the Eyes of DC Residents”

Finalist: Lyvian Sieg, Alexandria Times

Feature Photography

Winner: Anthony Tilghman,The Washington Informer, “The Washington National Cathedral’s Exhibit of Doves Symbolizing Hope for the Days and Year Ahead”

MAGAZINE

Features

Winner: Eric Hoover, The Chronicle of Higher Education, “The Test of Our Tests”

Finalist: Tamara Lytle, Arlington Magazine, “Is Arlington Ready for the Next Flood?”

Finalist: Jonathan Guyer, The American Prospect, “How Biden’s Foreign-Policy Team Got Rich”

Finalist: Candace Montague, The Physiologist Magazine, “An Eye on Diversity”

Beat Reporting

Winner: Shawn Donnan, Bloomberg Businessweek, “Left Behind”

Editorial/Opinion Writing

Winner: Miranda Spivack, Lottie Joiner, The Crisis Magazine, “Digital Redlining”

Finalist: Dr. Xanthe Scharff, The Fuller Project with Time Magazine, “Why the Coronavirus Outbreak Could Hit Women Hardest”

Commentary & Criticism

Winner: Andrew Clevenger, CQ Magazine, Common Defense columns

Investigative Journalism

Winner: Jonathan Guyer, The American Prospect, “The Lucrative Afterlife of a Trump Official”

TELEVISION

Non-Breaking News

Winner: Sue Kopen Katcef, Maryland Public Television, “Floyd Protest Historic Ties”

Series

Winner: NEWS4 I-Team, WRC-TV, “Fight for Transparency”

Finalist: Rick Yarborough, Scott MacFarlane, Steve Jones, WRC-TV, “Forced to the Frontlines”

Features

Winner: Diane Roberts, David Berman, Montgomery Community Media Photography Staff, Montgomery Community Media, “Black Artists of Montgomery County”

Finalist: Jodie Fleischer, Katie Leslie, Jeff Piper, WRC-TV, “Rescue Risks: ‘We Have to Stop the Dying’”

Finalist: Jacqueline Policastro, Timothy Knapp, Gray Television Washington News Bureau, “A Horse’s Journey: from the Wild to the Army”

Finalist: Rick Yarborough, Scott MacFarlane, Steve Jones, WRC-TV, “The Foster Care Crisis”

Beat Reporting

Winner: Adam Longo, WUSA9, “Federal Employees Battle Covid-19 Policies”

Editorial/Opinion Writing

Winner: Adam Longo, WUSA9

Investigative Journalism

Winner: Scott Taylor, WJLA TV ABC 7 News, “WJLA TV Helps More Than 5,000 Viewers Obtain Unemployment Benefits during Covid-19 Pandemic”

Finalist: Jodie Fleischer, Katie Leslie, Steve Jones, WRC-TV, “Violating Searches”

Finalist: NEWS4 I-Team, WRC-TV, “The Immovable Flag”

RADIO

Breaking News

Winner: Staff, WTOP-FM, “D.C. Protests”

Finalist: Donna Cole, WNAV News Radio, “Tornado Hits Edgewater and Annapolis”

Finalist: Staff, WTOP-FM, “Biden Harris Win”

Non-Breaking News

Winner: Michael Pope, Virginia Public Radio, Reporting on the Incarcerated

Finalist: Staff, WTOP-FM, “2020: The Year of Covid-19”

Finalist: Tom Hall, Rob Sivak, Cianna Greaves, WYPR, “Midday Healthwatch, with Dr. Leana Wen”

Series

Winner: Daniella Cheslow, Dawnthea Price Lisco, Tyrone Turner, WAMU, “For Black Emergency Doctors in Washington, the Pandemic Is Personal”

Finalist: Jacob Fenston, Tyrone Turner, Carmel Delshad, WAMU, “Portraits from a Pandemic”

Finalist: Kate Ryan, WTOP-FM, “Covid-19 Survivor”

Finalist: WAMU’s Affordability Desk, “Money Talks”

Features

Winner: Daniella Cheslow, Martin Austermuhle, Tyrone Turner,WAMU , “In Virginia, a Family Tragedy Stirs New Life in a Burial Ground for the Enslaved”

Finalist: Esther Ciammachilli, Jeffrey Katz, Tyrone Turner, WAMU, “George Washington’s Mount Vernon Highlights More Stories of Enslaved People”

Finalist: Mikaela Lefrak, Gabe Bullard, Tyrone Turner, WAMU, “This D.C. Puzzle Company Won Over Customers, and Oprah, with Its Diverse Characters”

Beat Reporting

Winner: Michael Pope, Virginia Public Radio, the Virginia General Assembly coverage

Finalist: Mitchell Miller, WTOP-FM, Capitol Hill coverage

Business

Winner: Michael Pope, Virginia Public Radio, “Unemployment in Virginia”

Photography Story

Winner: Jeffrey Katz, Tyrone Turner, WAMU, “His Daughter Died of an Opioid Overdose. So He Built a Treatment Facility in Her Name”

Photojournalism

Winner: Donna Cole, WNAV News Social Media, Black Lives Matter protesters

Feature Photography

Winner: Tyrone Turner, WAMU, “Demonstrators Peacefully Protest at the U.S. Capitol”

NEWSLETTER/TRADE PUBLICATION

Breaking News

Winner: Alexandria Carolan, The Cancer Letter, “‘#WhiteCoats4BlackLives’ Aims to Lead to Real Change in Oncology”

Non-Breaking News

Winner: Jeremy Conrad, Washington Lawyer, “Qualified Immunity and the Path to Police Reform”

Finalist: Theresa Agovino, SHRM Online, “The Pandemic Imperils Working Mothers’ Careers”

Finalist: Matthew Ong, Katie Goldberg, The Cancer Letter, “First-ever Survey of Leadership Pipeline Points to Urgent Need for More Diversity at Elite Cancer Centers”

Finalist: Adam Bender, Communications Daily, “Communications Daily Reports on Covid-19 and 9-1-1”

Series

Winner: Aaron Mehta, Mike Gruss, C4ISRNET, Ligado coverage

Finalist: Alexandria Carolan, The Cancer Letter, “What to Expect: Oncology’s Response to Coronavirus in Italy”

Finalist: Alexandria Carolan, Matthew Ong, Paul Goldberg, The Cancer Letter, “Covid-19 and Cancer: Tracking the Surge, Early Data and Treatments”

Features

Winner: Alexandria Carolan, Jacqueline Ong, The Cancer Letter, “Sexual Harassment Reporting Structures in Oncology are Broken, The Cancer Letter Survey Finds”

Finalist: Debra Bruno, Washington Lawyer, “Esquire at Home: When Lawyers Go Remote”

Finalist: Theresa Agovino, HR Magazine, “Companies Try a New Approach to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Honest Conversations”

Finalist: Natalie Kroc, SHRM Online, “The Covid-19 Crucible”

Beat Reporting

Winner: Corbin Hiar, Timothy Cama, E&E News, “Big Tech’s Influence on Climate Policy”

Finalist: David B. Larter, Defense News, Coverage of the U.S. Navy

Finalist: Kevin Bogardus, Sean Reilly, Ariel Wittenberg, E&E News, “Inside the Trump EPA”

Business

Winner: Susan Milligan, HR Magazine, “How Should HR Handle Political Discussions at Work”

Finalist: Adam Bender, Monica Hogan, Jonathan Make, Communications Daily, “Communications Daily Reports on Frontier Communications Bankruptcy”

Finalist: Jennifer Moss, SHRM Online, “Dealing with Social Isolation”

Finalist: Stephenie Overman, Virginia Business, “Law and Disorder: Pandemic Brings Wave of Cuts, New Cases to Law Firms”

Columns

Winner: Paul Fletcher, Virginia Lawyers Weekly, Fletcher columns

Editorial/Opinion Writing

Winner: Joe Gould, Defense News, “A Fake Story about the Secretary of Defense Stole My Real Byline”

Finalist: Stew Magnuson, National Defense Magazine, “A Hard Look at the Land Mine Issue”

Investigative Journalism

Winner: Maxine Joselow, E&E News, “Exclusive: General Motors, Ford Knew about Climate Change 50 Years Ago”

Finalist: Lindsay Ellis, Jack Stripling, Dan Bauman, The Chronicle of Higher Education, “The New Order: How Hyperpartisanship Warped Higher Education in America”

Front Page Design

Winner: Jennifer McNally, Virginia Lawyers Weekly

Finalist: Brian Taylor, National Defense Magazine

Art/Photo Illustration

Winner: Katie Goldberg, The Cancer Letter, Illustrating Covid-19 and Cancer

Finalist : Katie Goldberg, The Cancer Letter, Boundaries and Frontiers in Oncology

Editorial Cartoon

Winner: Katie Goldberg, The Cancer Letter, “The Doctors’ Plot: American Style”

ONLINE

Breaking News

Winner: Paul D. Shinkman, U.S. News & World Report, “U.S. Kills Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani”

Finalist: Shaun Courtney, Bloomberg Government, “Undocumented Migrants Face Fast Removals in Renewed Trump Push”

Finalist: Jennifer Jacobs, Bloomberg News, “Covid Comes to Donald Trump’s White House”

Finalist: Travis Tritten, Bloomberg Government, “Air Force Orders ‘Seismic Shift’ for Pentagon Staff Telework”

Non-Breaking News

Winner: University of Maryland’s Howard Center for Investigative Journalism and Capital News Service, HuffPost, “Nowhere to Go”

Finalist: Daniel Newhauser, The Minnesota Reformer, The Georgia Recorder, N.C. Policy Watch, Mississippi Today & Honolulu Civil Beat, Investigative and campaign finance journalism

Finalist: John Dunbar, Andrew Wallender, Bloomberg Law, “‘Cops’ Legal Cover Is in Question as States Agonize over Reforms”

Finalist: Abbie Bennett, Connecting Vets, “’Lower your Shield’: How Marines are Defending Each Other in their Deadliest Battle Yet”

Series

Winner: Jenni Bergal,Stateline, “Risky Ride: How Impaired School Bus Drivers Endanger Children”

Finalist: Madi Alder, Allie Reed, Holly Barker, Bloomberg Law, “Zoom Courts”

Finalist: Bill Lambrecht, Gracie Todd, University of Maryland Howard Center for Investigative Journalism, “Saltwater Invasion”

Finalist: Lydia Wheeler, Paige Smith, Andrew Satter, Bloomberg Law, “Covid ‘Long Haulers’”

Features

Winner: Susan Ferriss, Joe Yerardi, Taylor Johnston, Center for Public Integrity, “Hidden Hardship: Immigrant and Foreign Food Workers Toil, and Die, in Obscurity”

Finalist: Chris D’Angelo, Jimmy Tobias, HuffPost, “Environmental Destruction Brought Us Covid-19. What It Brings Next Could Be Far Worse.”

Finalist: Katherine Reynolds Lewis, Elemental, “Autism Is an Identity, Not a Disease: Inside the Neurodiversity Movement”

Finalist: Jerry Bembry, The Undefeated, “The Untold Story of the Inmate who Helped Shape Malcolm X’s Future”

Beat Reporting

Winner: Dave Jamieson, HuffPost, “Worker Safety during the Pandemic”

Finalist: Shira Stein, Bloomberg Law, Shortages of Personal Protective Equipment

Finalist: Dave Levinthal, Darren Samuelsohn, Business Insider, Investigating political money in the 2020 US Presidential Election

Finalist: Staff, The Center for Public Integrity, “Coronavirus Crisis: Investigating the Government’s Secretive and Inadequate Response to Covid-19”

Sports

Winner: Justin Tinsley, The Undefeated, “Jon Vaughn and the Cost of Being a Michigan Man”

Finalist: Jerry Bembry, The Undefeated, “Two Hoops Prospects, a Dream and Tragedy”

Infographic

Winner: Ben Gonzalez, University of Maryland Capital News Service, “The Legislative Legacies of the George Floyd and Breonna Taylor Protests”

Finalist: Sean McGoey, Adam Marton, University of Maryland Capital News Service, “Blue Precincts in Republican Counties Helped Boost Biden to Victory in Maryland”

Business

Winner: Staff, The Center for Public Integrity, “The Covid Divide”

Finalist: Staff, International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, “Luanda Leaks”

Finalist: Rodney Brooks, Quartz Media, “How Reparations Would Work”

Finalist: Sam McQuillan, Bloomberg Tax, “How Oprah, Walmart Scored Tax Breaks on Films that Others Made”

Editorial/Opinion Writing

Winner: Mary C. Curtis, CQ Roll Call, Mary C. Curtis columns

Finalist: Jonetta Rose Barras, The DCLine.org, “What is the Price of a Black Girl’s Life?”

Commentary & Criticism

Winner: Lonnae O’Neal, The Undefeated, “George Floyd’s Mother Was Not There, but He Used Her as a Sacred Invocation”

Finalist: Celia Wexler, NBCNews.com/THINK, “Coca-Cola’s Tab Soda Has Been Discontinued”

Finalist: Jonathan Guyer, The American Prospect, “Trump’s Destructive Legacy in the Middle East”

Finalist: Celia Wexler, Religionunplugged.com, “Senate Should Question Amy Coney Barrett about Her Ties to People of Praise”

Investigative Journalism

Winner: Staff, Center for Public Integrity with Columbia Journalism Investigations, The State, News & Observer and Centro de Periodismo Investigativo, “Hidden Epidemics”

Finalist: Daniel Newhauser, The Minnesota Reformer, Investigation into numerous ethics and staffing issues in the congressional office and campaign of Rep. Jim Hagedorn

Finalist: BuzzFeed News, International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and more than 100 media partners, “The FinCEN Files”

Finalist: Lauren Camera, US News & World Report, “Whistleblower: Education Department Killed Website That Made Applying for Loan Forgiveness Too Easy”

Art/Photo Illustration

Winner: Ruth Tam, DCist, “In Illustrations: The March on Washington”

Feature Photography

Winner: Tyrone Turner, DCist.com, “U.S. Park Police Separate Groups of Black Lives Matter Protesters and Trump Supporters Near the Washington Monument as Fireworks Erupt Overhead on July 4”

Editorial Cartoon

Winner: Ruth Tam, DCist, Black Lives Matter coverage

Photojournalism

Winner: Alejandro Alvarez, WTOP.com

Photography Story

Winner: Rey Lopez, Eater DC, “Capturing the Scene at D.C.’s Outdoor-Only Restaurants”

ALL DIVISIONS/BLOG

Winner: Donna Cole, WNAV News, Annapolis Creative blog

Jackie Jones Named Dean of Morgan State University’s School of Global Journalism

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 01:18:43 GMT

Richard Prince

June 16, 2021

Eight Ideas to Capture Digital Marketing with Success

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 20:17:10 GMT

Editor & Publisher

June 14, 2021

By Ryan Dohrn

Sharpen your editing with these press releases

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 05:00:12 GMT

June 11, 2021

By Jim Pumarlo

The hyper partisanship in today’s political landscape was on full display with passage of the American Rescue Plan. It passed on a straight party-line vote.

A Minnesota congressman joined in the chorus of his fellow Republicans characterizing the bill as bloated and wasteful.

Weeks later, he issued a new round of statements. This time, he took credit for the millions of dollars allocated for local projects courtesy of the $1.9 trillion economic relief package.

Double-speak? The lawmaker staunchly defended both his vote and taking credit for the local funding. He was a longstanding advocate for the projects, but opposed the federal plan as full of spending unrelated to COVID-19.

Such exchanges are commonplace at all levels of government as omnibus bills are cobbled together to include anything and everything. It makes great campaign fodder for incumbents and challengers alike in the next election cycle. It’s unfortunate, as well, that most incumbents can get by with having it both ways without constituents playing close attention.

But such proclamations by politicians are an excellent reminder for editors and reporters to be the eyes and ears for their readers and to pay close attention to the PR machines.

Don’t misinterpret. Politicians campaign on the ability to deliver critical votes – for policies and dollars – that benefit local interests. When they do so, they deserve to take credit. At the same time, the partisan debate over the federal relief package should raise the red flag for editors when lawmakers – especially those staunchly opposed to the measure – suddenly “announce” money for local projects.

Incumbents always have taken advantage of the campaign season to step up their public relations efforts. Staffs are adept at seeking and seizing every opportunity.

A lawmaker shows up at a county board meeting to support federal funding for a highway project or a veterans home. An incumbent facing a stiff election challenge coincidentally asks for time on a city council agenda to brief local officials on federal or state legislative issues. A legislative candidate – again, during the heat of a campaign – shows up at a school board meeting to voice support for a building referendum or for more state dollars for education in the interest of closing the academic achievement gap.

Election cycles unfortunately have become year-round affairs, especially the higher you climb the political ladder. Lawmakers routinely seize all chances to get their names in newspapers.

That’s understandable, but it’s no excuse for newsrooms to ignore the obvious ploys for publicity. A lawmaker announces the rules for a state quilting contest. Another reports that shipping season has closed on the local waterway. Others remind property owners when taxes are due.

These items may well be legitimate news, and kudos to the staffs for creativity. But should a lawmaker be given credit – even be mentioned – in the story? Absolutely not. There is no connection whatsoever between the news and the politician.

Funding for local projects delivered by the federal relief bill is news. The reports may well warrant mention of a local member of Congress, but it’s highly questionable whether that is the story lead. A quote is likely sufficient coverage unless there are extenuating circumstances.

The flurry of press releases announcing details of the federal relief package draws attention to the broader issue of when to acknowledge a connection between the “whom” and “what” in everyday reporting. There is no universal right or wrong, but decisions demand consistency. Newsrooms should develop general guidelines, keeping in mind that all circumstances must be reviewed on their individual merits.

Newspapers typically confront these decisions in connection with “bad” or “uncomfortable” news. Take, for example, a business owner who asks that am embarrassing DWI ticket not be reported on the premise that the company is one of the newspaper’s largest advertisers.

Editors should be especially wary when prominent residents – politicians included – expect favorable treatment. These individuals expect that certain items will be published – and, at minimum, that they will be connected to this good news – items that would not ordinarily be reported.

Newspapers should take pause and evaluate. Bending the rules for “good” news can produce just as many headaches for editors as being asked to look the other way when “bad” news occurs.

A simple way to develop ad campaign ideas

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 05:03:17 GMT

John Foust

July 6, 2021

By John Foust
Raleigh, NC

Let’s say you’re meeting with a florist who has been running ads with the headline, “For all your floral needs.” Of course, you and I know this is an empty headline that speaks to no one in particular. It’s a terrible idea and a waste of the advertiser’s budget.

What should you do?

1. Have a conversation. The first step is to diplomatically encourage the advertiser to consider something else. The headline – as weak as it is – may be near and dear to his or her heart. The florist has been spending money to run it, so don’t criticize. Simply say something like, “Your idea opens the door to a lot of ad possibilities. How would you feel about seeing where those possibilities lead?”

Every word of your statement is true. “All of your floral needs” does open the door to other ideas. And you do want to encourage a look at other possibilities.

This approach sends a signal that you are not looking for a quick, hit-and-run sale. You’re aiming for a low-pressure, collaborative effort to promote the florist shop.

2. Break it down . Like a technician who takes a machine apart to examine its inner workings, it’s important to learn specifics. What does “all” really mean? Make a list of the needs which the florist meets. It’s better to ask, “What do your customers need?” than, “What do you do?” That keeps the focus where it should be – on the florist’s customers.

As you go through the process, you’ll probably learn that the florist provides flowers for all kinds of occasions: weddings, anniversaries, proms, funerals, Christmas, church events, Valentine’s Day and birthdays, among many others. The point is to turn a generality into specifics. With the right details, you’ll have plenty of raw material for new ideas.

3. Develop a strategy. The next step is to look at the yearly calendar and figure out the best times to promote flowers for those occasions. While some are year-round and some are seasonal (Spring for wedding planning, for example), other occasions rely on the advertiser’s records and industry trends for development of an ad schedule and a creative strategy.

4. Create continuity. How are you going to tie everything together? Each ad should look like – and sound like – it comes from the same advertiser. There are a number of elements to consider: typography, color, illustrative style, ad sizes, frequency, coordination between print and digital and ways to link to their web site.

This four-step formula can help you generate more sales for your paper and for your advertisers. The end result will be a series of targeted and consistent messages, instead of the same watered-down ad over and over again. And the good news is that you don’t even have to start with a bad idea like, “for all your fill-in-the-blank needs.” Just start by figuring out what specific things your advertiser can do for their customers – and you’ll find that the future looks rosy.

About the Author

Statement: Representative Raskin Introduces Federal Shield Bill, the PRESS Act, in the House

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 02:22:50 GMT

News Media Alliance

July 5, 2021

By News Media Alliance Staff July 1, 2021

Today, Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD) introduced the Protect Reporters from Exploitative State Spying (PRESS) Act in the House, which establishes reasonable ground rules for when the government can obtain confidential source information from the media and their third-party service providers. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) introduced a similar bill in the Senate on Monday.

Groundbreaking investigative stories of government corruption and other wrongdoings would remain unknown – both to the public and to Congress – without information gathered from confidential sources by investigative journalists. Actions by the government to learn journalists’ confidential sources undermine the ability of the press, as outlined in the First Amendment, to provide important information to the public about such transgressions.

The legislation introduced now in both the House and Senate would prevent government overreach in obtaining confidential information that would expose anonymous sources and jeopardize the public’s right to know, while at the same time enabling law enforcement officials to get the information they need to investigate and prosecute crimes to keep the nation secure.

Alliance President and CEO, David Chavern, stated, “We must do more to protect journalists from being forced to reveal confidential sources used in investigative reporting, which are often crucial to helping to shed light on important public matters critical to preserving our democracy. We are grateful to Representative Raskin for his leadership in introducing this legislation, as well as Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler for calling attention to the problem of prosecutorial overreach when it comes to seeking source information from reporters.”

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State of the News Media Project

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 02:20:23 GMT

Pew Research Center

July 5, 2021

Since 2004, Pew Research Center has issued an annual report on key audience and economic indicators for a variety of sectors within the U.S. news media industry. These data speak to the shifting ways in which Americans seek out news and information, how news organizations get their revenue, and the resources available to American journalists as they seek to inform the public about important events of the day. The press is sometimes called the fourth branch of government, but in the U.S., it’s also very much a business – one whose ability to serve the public is dependent on its ability to attract eyeballs and dollars.

Reasons to Bet on Print

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 04:56:37 GMT

Kevin Slimp

June 3, 2021

Tangible evidence leads Kevins Slimp to feel good about the future

By Kevin Slimp
kevin@kevinslimp.com

Before you begin reading this column, please answer this question: “Are you sitting down?”

If not, take a moment and find a seat. I’ll wait. Okay, thanks.

I wanted to be sure you were sitting when you read these words: “I honestly believe it’s a great time to be in the print business.”

John Oliver segment is a reminder of failings within journalism

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 04:52:48 GMT

Society of Professional Journalists

June 1, 2021

CONTACT:
Matthew T. Hall, SPJ National President, 619-987-7786, mhall@spj.org
Jennifer Royer, SPJ Director of Communications and Marketing, 317-361-4134, jroyer@spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — After John Oliver skewered the recent actions of some local media outlets to pass off ads as actual news on “Last Week Tonight” on Sunday, the Society of Professional Journalists calls upon news organizations to end this practice of “pay to play,” which deceives their audiences.

Oliver showed that TV news stations accept money to air advertising disguised as news. Sometimes, a product is marketed with a dubious, unproven medical claim. Yet, some news operations help promote products, giving them an air of credibility, without doing the slightest bit of journalism — failing their viewers and shirking the pursuit of truth.

News Media Alliance Remembers Career Newspaper Leader and Free Press Advocate, Scott Schurz, Sr.

Mon, 31 May 2021 04:02:29 GMT

News Media Alliance

May 31, 2021

Longtime newspaper leader and free press advocate, Scott Schurz, Sr., passed away last Monday at the age of 85. Schurz was a passionate and active member of the industry, serving on Boards and Committees of many industry associations and devoting significant amounts of his time and energy to helping the newspaper business as a whole.

He was on the Newspaper Association of America (NAA, now the News Media Alliance) Board of Directors for eight years and then served as Chair of the NAA Foundation (now the American Press Institute), and is a former Board member of both WAN and WAN-IFRA.

Into the Newsroom Webinar Series

Sun, 23 May 2021 04:08:07 GMT

MDDC Staff

May 23, 2021

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Did you miss it? Watch past sessions

Getting to Know Your Beat. Chris Harvey of the Philip Merrill College of Journalism discusses getting to know your beat.

Working and Reporting Remotely. Paul Milton of the Frederick News-Post and Ashley Dawson of the Delaware State News discuss how to connect with your newsroom and sources when working virtually.

Getting to Know Your Newsroom Culture: Lessons Learned. Tom Linthicum moderates a panel discussion with Mike Feeley of the News Journal and previous MDDC interns, Jack Hogan, Ellie Heffernan, Anjali DasSarma and Lindsay Weber. In conjunction with the Delaware Community Foundation’s COVID internship program.

Unlocking Data with Google Sheets. Sean Mussenden of the University of Maryland’s Philip Merrill College of Journalism shows participants how to manipulate and understand data using Google Sheets.

Implicit Bias in the Media and How to Minimize It. Phil Freedman, News Journal/Delawareonline, and John-John Williams, Baltimore Sun, discuss the subtle ways our language influences public perceptions.

Data Visualization. Adam Marton, University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism, demonstrates the power of data visualization using free, interactive tools.

Objectivity in Reporting. Baltimore Sun reporters Mike Preston and Daniel Oyefusi discuss how to overcome the urge to root for the home team and how that carries over into all aspects of your writing.

Effective Interviewing. Andy West of the Delaware State News, Tom Linthicum of MDDC and DCF mentor Larry Nagengast discuss the right questions to ask and the right ways to ask them.

Bring Data Stories to Life. Alexander Pyles, University of Maryland, Philip Merrill College of Journalism, share to how to bring data stories to life by using social media to find sources in specific communities. Ideally, participants will have taken “Unlocking Data with Google Sheets” AND “Data Visualization”, though it is not required.

Cross-Platform Content Preparation. Tom Byrne of Delaware Public Media, Mark Eichmann and Cris Barrish of WHYY and Julie Zeglen of Technical.ly describe their adventures in preparing the same content for print, broadcast and/or the web.

Using Public Records in Reporting. How can reporters use public records in their reporting, and what are the most effective ways to gain access? Danielle Ohl of the Capital Gazette shares her expertise.

The Next Generation of Journalism. Journalism today isn’t what it was like in 2020, so we should expect many more changes by the time 2040 rolls around.

Intern Kickoff: Into the Newsroom

Sun, 23 May 2021 02:55:33 GMT

MDDC Press Staff

May 23, 2021

Have an internship at an MDDC Press member organization this year? Don’t miss this session to make the most of your journalism opportunity! Chris Harvey, senior lecturer at the Merrill School of Journalism at UMD, will share how to get to know your beat and reporting resources. Former interns will share their experiences, and MDDC editors and reporters will share best practices on working and reporting remotely.

Required for MDDC interns, and open to any intern (or new reporter) working in an MDDC member newsroom this summer.

Tuesday, May 25 from 10 am – 1:00 pm

10 am Welcome & get to know one another; Slack workspace

10:15 am – 11:30 am “Getting to know your beat” Chris Harvey, Merrill School, Chris Harvey has worked as digital editor for The Washington Post, a magazine managing editor, a political reporter and a journalism teacher. In her earliest positions at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism, she directed the student-staffed Capital News Service bureaus in Annapolis and Washington, and launched and directed the multimedia news bureau in College Park. She currently serves as director of assessments (helping to oversee curriculum development), oversees a weekend graduate multimedia certificate program, and teaches courses in reporting and editing. charvey@umd.edu

11:30 Break

11:35 am – Noon “Working and reporting remotely” Paul Milton of the Frederick News-Post and Ashley Dawson of the Delaware State News discuss how to connect with your newsroom and sources when working virtually.

Noon Break

12:05 pm – 1:00 pm “Getting to know your newsroom culture: Lessons learned” Tom Linthicum moderates a panel discussion with Mike Feeley of the News Journal and previous MDDC interns, Jack Hogan, Ellie Heffernan, Anjali DasSarma and Lindsay Weber. This session is in conjunction with the Delaware Community Foundation’s COVID internship program.

Join us by Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83078905125

Questions? Contact Rebecca at rsnyder@mddcpress.com

Making Plans for the Next Ten Years

Thu, 20 May 2021 04:47:28 GMT

Kevin Slimp

May 20, 2021

Newspapers remain a vital component of a healthy community

By Kevin Slimp

In my previous column, I mentioned that there seem to be a lot of positive feelings in the community newspaper industry right now. Four weeks has passed since I wrote that column, and I’m even more convinced that good things are happening at many of our papers.

Just before sitting down to write this column, I interviewed a new graduate of the University of Tennessee School of Journalism for a collegiate journalism conference I’ll be speaking at this coming Friday. Two years ago, he came by to see me to tell me he changed his major from computer engineering to photojournalism. Recently, he landed a dream job as a journalist, his future is bright, and I asked if he was glad to have changed majors. He visibly rose from his seat with enthusiasm as he answered, “Oh, yes. I am so glad. There’s no looking back!”

The reason I’m writing this column in the middle of the night (It’s 11pm on Sunday night), is because there is such a demand for training right now from newspapers. My normal workday begins around 9 a.m. and ends around 2 a.m. The requests aren’t for any specific area of training. It just seems like publishers are looking forward to a return to “normal,” and are ready to invest in improving their products.

You may have read some of the columns I’ve written about Affinity Publisher, the software that’s poised to give Adobe InDesign a run for its money. Those of you that know me know that I’m an Adobe guy. I’m not going to be tossing out InDesign and Photoshop anytime soon. But after leading several Affinity training sessions over the past six months, I’m convinced Affinity will eventually own a big chunk of the newspaper software market. Just this past week, I taught three half-day classes for a national newspaper group. I’ve received requests from community papers and groups across the U.S., wanting to know when they can be trained to use the software. Some are even asking for help creating new templates in Affinity Publisher.

My guess is the primary reason Serif, Inc. (maker of Affinity) isn’t making a bigger push in the U.S. newspaper market is because they are having so much success in Europe. I’m quite certain we’ll be hearing a lot more from the folks at Serif in the not-too-distant future.

Tomorrow morning I’ll be interviewing Joey Young, the young publisher who has gained quite a bit of national attention for the work he’s doing in Kansas. I remember like it was yesterday, Joey sheepishly walked up to me at a newspaper convention in Des Moines and asked my advice about starting a new community paper in his hometown. That was about eight years ago, give or take a year. He told me he knew he could start a successful paper. The last time I counted, Joey had four publications in Kansas. Every time I visit with Joey, I come away even more enthusiastic about the future of community newspapers.

It’s now been 12 years since I made that now-famous bet with the renowned journalism educator that there would still be newspapers standing after 2018. I knew then that newspapers weren’t going away anytime soon, and I’m more confident than I have been in years about the future of community papers. (I still want to get t-shirts printed that say, “Kevin was right!”

Well, what do you know? I made it to 800 words before midnight. I’m never at a loss for positive things to say about the community newspaper industry. I’m proud to be associated with this family. Let me suggest, as we move back to a period of “normalcy,” you take a look at your newspaper to see what can be done to create a stronger product, draw more readers and attract more advertisers. What we do is incredibly important, and this is the time to let our communities know that we did, indeed, make it past 2018. Let your readers know you’re making plans for a future in which the local paper remains a vital component of a healthy community.

If anyone wants to make a bet, I’m betting most of us will still be around in 2028.

You can reach kevin at kevin@kevinslimp.com . He leads webinars for newspapers at newspaperacademy.com.

Career Connection – Defining your digital footprint

Thu, 20 May 2021 02:52:55 GMT

National Press Club Journalism Institute

May 20, 2021

Making an impression on a potential employer starts long before an email or phone call. By then, your digital footprint has done the talking … don’t let it send someone walking. “ Career Connection: Defining your digital footprint ” was a weeklong series of hands-on workshops to help you create and maintain the journalism/writing identity you want to showcase to sources, employers, and publishers.

Watch videos from each session:

What hiring managers want you to know
Tapping Twitter networks in your job search
How to leverage LinkedIn in your journalism job search
How to rev up your resume for today’s job market

Case Study: Brands Can Now Avoid Advertising on Misinformation Sites, Restore Support to Quality News Publishers

Wed, 19 May 2021 23:25:43 GMT

NewsGuard

May 19, 2021

NewsGuard today reported the results of a study conducted with IPG Mediabrands and a top brand advertiser to test a new solution to the growing problem of using traditional ad tech brand safety solutions… They found that the advertisers benefited from a greatly expanded list of news sites for its advertising, which performed so well that the average cost of the campaign fell and the click-through rate increased.

May Is A Good Month For Relevance

Wed, 19 May 2021 04:42:14 GMT

Thomas A. Silvestri

May 19, 2021

The Relevance Project

We begin with breaking news:

The Relevance Project has started a SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM section. Check out the work-in-progress.

This expansion will allow the REVENUE RESOURCE 2021 to be all about money.

on www.relevanceproject.net to receive the Relevant Points when they are posted. If not, wait for the monthly newsletter to learn what’s new.

Your choice.

Here’s a quick summary on what’s been added since the April Update:

#3. Help This Friend

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell of Washington state made news at last week’s America’s Newspapers spring conference when she advocated that $2.3 billion should go to local newspapers and broadcasters to repair the “communications infrastructure.” (The message above is in the new SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM section.) Awarding newspapers federal tax credits and grants will put back newsroom jobs eliminated by years of retrenchment. Cantwell says she can’t do it alone, however. She needs associations and community newspapers to persuade their representatives in Congress to join in the rescue. Learn more here.

#4. Ad Agency Opportunities

This summary repeats the 9 actions associations should consider to make their ad services more Relevant. It is based on a review of how associations pitch their ad agencies and ad services on their websites. Read all 9 Opportunities here.

#5. Be THE Community Forum

We continue our series on this important Relevant strategy with the strongest case to date on why associations and community newspapers should seize the advocacy for local journalism and elbow out of the picture all of the so-called national experts. Deepen trust with Community Forum initiative. If you read one Relevant Point today, make it this one.

#6. All Eyes On Florida

#7. Indispensable Journalism

You have to admire an association committee feeling so motivated that members create a statewide collaboration to better examine a controversial subject. Look to the Iowa Newspaper Association for the story behind the series about the inconsistent policies governing police body cameras and public access to the videos. Yes, collaboration can work big time. See here.

#10. Leave Print Alone

Why do some publications learn the hard way that revamping a print product to match a digital design doesn’t please loyal readers. They want news and simple, not glitz and complex. Here’s one publication that reversed course to cheers. Call it a new type of “bottom line.”

#13. Ah, The Days Of Razor Blades and Wax

We shed a tear when we spotted David Thompson’s suggestion that news and production veterans in Kentucky celebrate National Paste-up Day. Be patient. The Paste-Up Era won’t easily compute with those whose fingers are stuck to smartphone keyboards. Roll it here.

14. Welcome, Lisa M. Simpson

There’s a new executive director in Arizona. She is focused on change. And these Top 3 Actions.

That’s it Richmond, VA, where The Relevance Project ventured out of the pandemic bunker without a mask last week. It felt good. Real good.

You can catch the latest version of 10 Things You Need To Know About The Relevance Project this Thursday during the Colorado-Kansas virtual joint conference. It will be an honor being a part of this collaboration.

Let us know if you need something. Our thanks to Metro Creative Graphics for its design and production of Relevance Project material, which are free to NAM associations and their members.

And always remember: RELEVANT is an action.

Thomas A. Silvestri
Executive Director
The Relevance Project
An Initiative of the Newspaper Association Managers

TAS@relevanceproject.net
80 4 -690-3361

Follow the RELEVANT POINTS blog on www.relevanceproject.net

FIVE INTERNS JOIN DELAWARE’S FIRST STATEWIDE NEWS COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVE

Wed, 19 May 2021 04:24:05 GMT

Allison Levine, Delaware Community Foundation

May 19, 2021

Aspiring journalists will increase coverage of pandemic’s impact on BIPOC communities in Southern Delaware

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 17, 2021

Contact: Allison Taylor Levine, MPA, APR , Cell 302.345.0589

Five aspiring journalists will be working in local newsrooms this summer through the new DCF Journalism Internship Program , Delaware’s first statewide collaborative journalism initiative.

The program, funded by a grant from the COVID-19 Strategic Response Fund and managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, will increase news and information about the impact of the pandemic on BIPOC (Black, indigenous, people of color) communities in Southern Delaware and strengthen the pipeline of BIPOC journalists.

This year’s interns and their hosting newsrooms are:

Stories produced by the interns will be shared by all of the participating outlets, ensuring the news reaches as many people as possible across different media platforms and in different parts of the state.

In addition to the five outlets hosting interns, Hoy en Delaware and El Tiempo Hispano will be translating the students’ work, publishing those stories and sharing the translations for the other outlets to publish. Technical.ly Delaware also will participate, publishing the interns’ work and providing additional mentoring.

The interns also will participate in educational programming and work collaboratively on a news project about the impact of the pandemic on BIPOC communities in Sussex County.

This summer’s cohort will work under the mentorship of Larry Nagengast, a journalist with nearly 50 years of experience in local news in Delaware. The Maryland Delaware DC Press Association also is partnering with the DCF on recruiting and providing educational programming for the students.

“Strong local news provides accountability in our government, increases civic engagement and strengthens our communities by helping us understand our neighbors’ lived experiences,” said Allison Taylor Levine, DCF vice president for marketing and communications. “This group of talented interns will help elevate the stories of the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Delaware’s BIPOC communities.”

Interns will begin work in June. Their work will be available through the media outlets’ own platforms and on the DCF website.

About the Delaware Community Foundation

The mission of the Delaware Community Foundation is to improve the lives of the people of Delaware by empowering and growing philanthropy through knowledge and relationships, now and in the future. As a facilitator, information resource and manager of charitable funds, the DCF helps communities and philanthropists focus charitable resources for the greatest community benefit statewide. For more information, visit delcf.org or call 302.571.8004.

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Into the Issues: Pandemic payoffs

Tue, 18 May 2021 23:22:24 GMT

Al Cross

May 18, 2021

Into the Issues
May 2021
By Al Cross

The main issue facing the country and most of our communities is what it has been for more than a year: the coronavirus. We are in what is almost certainly the last chapter, immunization – but this chapter may last a lot longer than it should, and make the economic recovery slower, because so many Americans are pandemic-fatigued, ill-informed about vaccines, and reluctant to get a shot, or even resistant.

Respected voices of authority, like newspapers, need to promote public health. We’ve been doing that on The Rural Blog at irjci.blogspot.com. Recently we had an item (at tinyurl.com/yab6h5nk ) reporting that vaccination rates among rural adults are fairly close to urban rates, but rural seniors are falling farther behind their urban counterparts.

Rural seniors are the most loyal readers of community newspapers, but there are many other vaccine-hesitant or -resistant groups that need reliable information about immunization. Community papers are some of the best vehicles for that information, because they enjoy a higher level of trust than other news media.

They also have the ability to reach every household in their home counties, through sample copying that can be supported by advertising or sponsorship. Early in the pandemic, some newspapers partnered with governments to deliver coronavirus information through sample copies, and now seems like another good time for it, since so much misinformation is out there and local governments are getting billions in relief money.

The effort to overcome misinformation is a story in itself, as Alex Acquisto of the Lexington Herald-Leader showed in a long story about pastors in Harlan County, Kentucky, who “gently bat down . . . fear-based questions” about coronavirus vaccines. We excerpted it at tinyurl.com/2fwhxcwb . It’s the sort of story that could be done in just about any community, and not just about clergy; what are health-care professionals, elected officials and civic leaders doing?

Speak up for public notice: The annual battle to preserve paid public notices in newspapers is on, and it’s more important than ever because “the legals” have become a more important source of revenue. But we have a new argument, the value of local newspapers as proven by the pandemic. And that case can be made not just in state capitals, but at the local level, especially if local officials appreciate the value of the newspaper.

Editor-Publisher Laurie Ezzell Brown of The Canadian Record in the Texas Panhandle did that in early April. Then she shared it with readers, who are also potential allies, and we shared it with readers of The Rural Blog at https://tinyurl.com/466tdfcn . Here’s part of what she said:

“Never has the importance of community newspapers been more apparent than during the last very difficult year. [They] have ensured that their readers have the facts about Covid-19: about the efforts to combat it, the decisions made by public officials and local businesses to guard against its spread, the number of cases that are occurring in their community, and the lives have been lost or changed by it. . . . The reporting has been arduous, time-consuming and often heartbreaking. It is done at great cost to owners and publishers, at a time when newspapers are struggling from financial losses that resulted from economic slowdown and the pandemic. We are fighting for life, like many other small businesses that provide jobs and paychecks, that pay taxes to enable the good work our government officials do, and that are the heartbeat and life of their communities in so many ways.

“Taking away one more reliable source of revenue that enables us to perform that essential role may well be the death knell for many community newspapers. Far worse, it will be a fatal blow to public transparency and accountability, and an open door to government corruption. Public notices in community newspapers do get read. Their publication is monitored and verified by an independent source, and their content is often examined, explained and expanded upon by the newspaper that publishes it.”

Jail deaths and money: Small jails already had some of the highest death rates in the nation, and the pandemic has surely made that worse. The federal government is slow to report deaths by jail size, but as of 2012, “Mortality rates were highest in jails holding a daily average of fewer than 50 people,” Katie Rose Quandt reported for The Atlantic, noting that since 2008, jail populations in rural areas have risen 27 percent.

That’s partly because some local governments have found it profitable to house state and federal prisoners, and taxpayers may appreciate that. But the Vera Institute of Justice, which favors reform of jails and bail, says jails are increasingly on the front lines of mental health, addiction and homelessness in rural communities, and they’re not very good at addressing those issues. Quandt’s story was comprehensive, and our Rural Blog item about it was about twice as long as usual, 950 words. You can read it at tinyurl.com/njb9762e .

Quick survey: Research on rural journalism and small-town newspapers is lacking. Tony Baranowski of the Iowa Falls Times Citizen is trying to fill some of the gap with a survey of rural newspaper publishers, to wrap up his work in the NewStart program at West Virginia University. Because such research is relatively rare, it’s important that he have a broad sample. The survey has 19 questions, is easy to complete via SurveyMonkey. Tony would like to wrap it up in about two weeks. The heart of it is about revenue, so it’s designed for publishers, but in community journalism the publisher and editor roles often overlap, so editors should feel free to take a look. It’s at surveymonkey.com/r/SXGZ7BH .

About the Author

Al Cross edited and managed rural newspapers before covering politics for the Louisville Courier Journal and serving as president of the Society of Professional Journalists. He is the extension professor of journalism at the University of Kentucky and director of its Institute for Rural Journalism and Community Issues, which publishes The Rural Blog at http://irjci.blogspot.com .

Sally Buzbee named executive editor of The Washington Post

Sat, 15 May 2021 04:27:15 GMT

The Washington Post

May 15, 2021

The Washington Post today named Sally Buzbee executive editor of The Washington Post, effective June 1, 2021.

“Sally Buzbee has an exceptional record of achievement and a tremendous wealth of experience in leading a global news organization,” said Fred Ryan, Publisher and CEO of The Washington Post. “In an extensive search that included many of the best journalists in America, Sally stood out as the right person to lead The Post going forward. She is widely admired for her absolute integrity, boundless energy, and dedication to the essential role journalism plays in safeguarding our democracy.”

Publishers Call on President to Use Local Newspaper Advertising to Help Reach Their Goal of 70% Vaccinated by July 4

Fri, 14 May 2021 04:01:19 GMT

News Media Alliance

May 14, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, D.C. – The News Media Alliance and the National Newspaper Association (NNA) today sent a letter to President Joe Biden, on behalf of their more than 3,700 combined daily and community newspaper members, encouraging the Administration to use advertising in local newspapers to help build trust and acceptance of vaccines.

On May 4, President Biden announced the Administration was releasing additional funding for coronavirus strategies, including $130 million to improve vaccine education and information, and an additional $250 million to assist state governments with outreach efforts to encourage citizens to become inoculated – particularly in states with lagging vaccination rates compared to the rest of the country.

Change at Md. Matters: Gaines to Become Editor, Kurtz to Return to Reporting

Fri, 14 May 2021 02:10:10 GMT

Maryland Matters

May 14, 2021

Maryland Matters is announcing that Deputy Editor Danielle E. Gaines will become editor of the website on Wednesday.

Chairwoman Maloney, Ranking Member Comer Introduce Bipartisan Postal Reform Legislation

Fri, 14 May 2021 01:10:16 GMT

House Committee on Oversight and Reform

May 14, 2021

Washington, D.C. (May 11, 2021)—Today, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform Carolyn B. Maloney and Ranking Member James Comer introduced the bipartisan Postal Service Reform Act to make needed financial and operational reforms to the United States Postal Service.

“I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Postal Service Reform Act to help ensure the Postal Service can continue to serve Americans on a more sustainable financial footing for years to come,” said Chairwoman Maloney. “This landmark legislation will make foundational reforms and add transparency to ensure the Postal Service provides the high quality of service Americans expect and deserve. Ultimately, this bill will preserve and strengthen the Postal Service, one of our nation’s most vital and respected institutions.”

Call for Applications: Transatlantic Media Fellowship 2021

Mon, 10 May 2021 16:36:30 GMT

May 10, 2021

Deadline: June 14, 2021. Decisions will be made on a rolling basis. Early applications are preferred.

Read the full Call for Applications and apply here!

Transatlantic Media Fellowships are coming back to the real world! As Germany is headed into elections this fall, and as the Biden administration is changing the course of US domestic and foreign policy, we’re thrilled to see that travel seems to be possible after a year of digital-only fellowships in 2020. In this transition period, we accept applications for either travel-based or virtual research and reporting.

The Transatlantic Media Fellowship program supports well-researched transatlantic journalism. As in previous years, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Washington, DC, will give a select number of journalists from the United States, Canada, and Germany the opportunity for on-the-ground reporting relevant to the foundation’s work on climate & energy policy, democracy & social policy, or technology & digital policy. We will not be able to offer a specific fellowship in the field of foreign and security policy this year, but plan to include this area again in 2022.

We seek journalists with a strong track record of publications who offer new perspectives on transatlantic policy debates. Fellowships are open to journalists in any medium.

Applicants should be:

based in the United States or Canada and demonstrate a strong motivation for engaging in research and reporting about Europe; OR
based in Germany and demonstrate a strong motivation for engaging in research and reporting about the United States or Canada

We will give special consideration to journalists

from regional or local media outlets
from diverse backgrounds who can offer lesser-heard perspectives
who may not otherwise have the opportunity to conduct transatlantic research

ISSUE AREAS

1. Climate & Energy Policy

Applicants in this category should pitch stories on climate and energy policy/issues in the United States, Canada, or in EU member states. Possible topics include:

The Green New Deal / The European Green Deal
Green stimulus packages
Phase-out of fossil fuels and nuclear power
Transformation towards renewable energy
Sustainable transportation
Environmental justice
Methane emissions
Climate change litigation

2. Democracy & Social Policy

Applicants in this category should pitch stories on challenges to democracy in the United States, Canada or in EU member states. Possible topics include:

The upcoming German federal election in September 2021
Challenges to democracy, such as radicalization and anti-democratic movements
Migration (climate-induced migration is of particular interest)
LGBTQ, gender equality and racial justice
Debates on colonialism and historical reconciliation (Vergangenheitsaufarbeitung)
US society and transatlantic relations in a post-Trump era
Social, democratic and economic reforms under the Biden administration

3. Technology & Digital Policy

Applicants in this category should pitch stories on technology and digital policy in North America (United States and/or Canada) or in EU member states. Possible topics include:

EU, US or transatlantic digital governance debates (e.g. platform regulation, privacy, data flows)
Debates on disinformation and misinformation online
EU, US or transatlantic debates over digital innovation and competition with China
Digital technologies and sustainability
Public interest technology and open data
Ethical debates about the use of data and digital technologies

Read the full Call for Applications and apply here!

For questions, please contact Carl Roberts at carl.roberts@us.boell.org .

James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2020

Fri, 07 May 2021 03:59:50 GMT

MDDC Staff

May 7, 2021

The Baltimore Sun wins the James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award for its body of work reporting with public records. Three strong nominations were received for this award.

Special mention for runner-ups

Daniel Oyefusi wins Rookie of the Year 2020

Fri, 07 May 2021 03:54:46 GMT

MDDC Staff

May 7, 2021

Daniel Oyefusi wins the MDDC Rookie of the Year prize for new journalists for his depth, skills and professionalism as a sports and reporter for The Baltimore Sun, in Baltimore, Maryland.

The Baltimore Sun website wins Best of Show

About our Nominees

2020 Website of General Excellence Winners

Fri, 07 May 2021 03:45:56 GMT

MDDC Staff

May 7, 2021

The Baltimore Sun website wins Best of Show

Attack of the morale-killing bosses

Thu, 06 May 2021 12:54:08 GMT

John Foust Training

May 6, 2021

By John Foust
Raleigh, NC

In my advertising and training career, I’ve observed – and heard about – a lot of boss-employee encounters. Some have been good, some have been bad.

All have been instructive. In many cases, we can learn as much from the negative incidents as we can from the positive ones. Here are several examples:

1. The competitive boss . This kind of manager can’t seem to play fairly with others, especially if commissions are involved. Unfortunately, the competitive boss is in position to cherry-pick the best prospects. I knew of one company that relied on a notebook to log incoming leads. The boss was one of three people in the ad sales department, and the procedure was to alternate leads. The others on the team realized that she regularly deleted and re-designated the leads, so prime prospects would be assigned to her.

2. The boastful boss . This manager can’t resist bragging that he or she has special perks. The CEO of an advertising services company was once invited by a client to attend one of the biggest college basketball matchups of the year. Although it was one of the scarcest tickets of the season – and although no one else in the firm had a ticket – he made it the main focus of an all-staff meeting on the morning of the game. The next day, the entire office received a follow up email from him, with a closeup photograph of the crowd taken from

the television broadcast. The email boasted that he appeared just a few rows above press row at center court.

3. The disrespectful boss. A disgruntled employee told me about the sales manager who scheduled a regular weekly staff meeting and warned everyone that there was no excuse to miss it or be late. That worked fine for a couple of weeks, although the team often had to rush appointments and phone calls to make it to the conference room on time.

Then came the day when the manager was late for the meeting. Not fifteen minutes late, not thirty minutes. She was over an hour late. She didn’t offer any explanation or apology. All she said was, “Okay, let’s get started.”

“That was the last straw for a lot of us,” the employee said. “We sat there debating whether we should go back to our desks, but decided we’d better wait. That was a clear sign that she had no respect for us or our time.”

4. The public criticism boss. A salesperson once told me about the time his boss openly complained about his performance in front of everyone in the ad department. “It was bad to be told publicly that I was short of my sales goal,” he said. “That kind of thing should be done one-to-one.”

Perhaps none of these management mistakes are worthy of investigation by the human resources department, but they all indicate the bosses’ morale killing attitudes toward the people they manage. And they provide crystal clear examples of what not to do.

About the Author

DCN leads new era of quality content signaling with trust.txt

Thu, 06 May 2021 02:33:33 GMT

Digital Content Next

May 6, 2021

Since its founding, Digital Content Next has been at the forefront of emphasizing the importance of brands as proxies for trust and advancing the future of trusted news and entertainment.

We share this message about trusted digital publishers with policy makers, advertisers, and the public. We share how the trust DCN members’ brands have built – both their reliability and integrity – is critical to their on-going relationships with advertisers and consumers. And today, we also share that message through an innovative new way – through the trust.txt framework.

New Florida public notice law first to authorize internet-only notices

Wed, 05 May 2021 02:31:16 GMT

Public Notice Resource Center

May 5, 2021

Last Thursday evening, the Florida legislature passed the most significant piece of public notice legislation in modern history.

Sen. Ray Rodrigues’ (R-Fort Myers) SB402 makes Florida the first state in the country to significantly dilute the statutory requirement that notices must be published in print newspapers. But there’s a lot for the newspaper industry and residents of the state to like about the bill.

Read more from the Public Notice Resource Center.

2020 Designer of the Year

Wed, 05 May 2021 02:28:52 GMT

MDDC Staff

May 5, 2021

About our nominees

Matt Metz, Coastal Point

Teresa Rodriguez, Cape Gazette

Do small, quick experiments around audience engagement

Tue, 04 May 2021 16:33:06 GMT

American Press Institute

May 4, 2021

Looking for ways to better reach specific audiences? You can test your hypotheses and run experiments using API’s Metrics for News analytics software.

Nadine Timpanaro awarded Sales Rookie of the Year 2020

Tue, 04 May 2021 02:24:39 GMT

MDDC Staff

May 4, 2021

Nadine Timpanaro of Coastal Point is MDDC’s Sales Rookie of the Year for 2020. This award honors honors a new sales executive with less than 18 months’ experience in the field. Nominees should show revenue generation, sales expertise and initiative and be recommended by their supervisor.

How one student newsroom built an ‘Equity Board’ to diversify and improve coverage

Tue, 04 May 2021 02:21:13 GMT

Poynter

May 4, 2021

Inspired by the racial justice movement that followed George Floyd’s murder, the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Media created a three-member equity board that advises the newsroom on how to cover underrepresented communities.

The board attends daily pitch meetings, has input on story angles and source diversity and sends weekly briefs on equity issues and best practices. Newsroom editors and advisers also meet with the board once a week to discuss workshops and other long-term projects.

National Science-Health-Environment Reporting Fellowships Program for 2021-2022

Mon, 03 May 2021 16:31:00 GMT

Society of Environmental Journalists

May 3, 2021

Deadline to apply: May 10 at 6 p.m. ET

Journalists interested in building careers reporting on science, health and the environment are eligible to apply for new cross-cutting fellowships designed to provide training, networking, mentoring, new sources and story ideas, while allowing them to stay at their jobs.

The National Science-Health-Environment Reporting Fellowships are a first-ever collaboration of the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing (CASW), the Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ), and the Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ). The year-long fellowships are open to early-career journalists interested in covering any or all of the three fields.

Aware that today’s fast-changing media economy makes it harder than ever to build a career as a specialized journalist, the three organizations seek to enable journalists to do rigorous reporting on complex topics and pursue a wide variety of job opportunities and stories. The project also aims to increase equity and diversity in these areas of journalism by offering a practical and effective opportunity for the vast majority of journalists who cannot afford the cost or time commitment required for academic training in specialized journalism.

The pilot project, funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Department of Science Education and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, will provide 12 fellowships. The program is particularly aimed at staff and freelance journalists with between two and 10 years of professional reporting experience.

“Our society is awash in misinformation and misconceptions about science and the process of science,” said Sean B. Carroll, vice president for science education at HHMI. “By supporting talented storytellers of diverse backgrounds, these new fellowships promise to strengthen fact-based journalism in communities across the United States.”

Holly Potter, chief communications officer at the Moore Foundation, added: “These boundary-spanning fellowships will support journalists covering some of the most critical issues of our time—conservation, health, and science. The cross-cutting nature of their training reflects the reality of our interdependent world, and will offer an unprecedented opportunity for them to report with the same level of rigor across subject boundaries.”

Over the course of a year set to start in July 2021, selected fellows will participate in workshops, a reporting bootcamp, multi-day field trips and webinars, with the details and timing of any in-person activities adjusted when necessary in response to health guidelines. Fellows will be supported in attending any of the partner organizations’ annual conferences and participating in additional networking, professional development and access to resources. The fellows will be linked by an online networking platform and matched with professional mentors. Independent journalists will be eligible for project support stipends.

Fellowships are an essential step on the ladder for journalists seeking a sustainable career in the science, health, and environment beats. Increasing access to training and mentoring for early career journalists from communities under-represented in the field is key to SEJ’s mission. Through innovative and comprehensive programs like this, we increase and improve science, health, and environmental journalism by supporting the journalists who tell the world’s most important stories.

“This fellowship will open unexpected doors and insights for this first cohort of journalists, and this innovative program will advance reporters’ abilities to cover these often nuanced and complex issues,” said Sadie Babits, SEJ’s president. “I’m proud that SEJ is a part of this inaugural fellowship, and I look forward to the inspired journalism that will come from this fellowship.”

The fellowships were modeled on AHCJ’s Regional Reporting Fellowship Program, which has graduated 117 reporters since its launch a decade ago. The activities of the new fellowship will be coordinated by AHCJ staff working in collaboration with CASW and SEJ. The reporting bootcamp will take place on the University of Missouri campus, while workshops and conferences will take place in other cities across the country.

Celebrate the winners of the 2020 Editorial, Design and Revenue contest!

Mon, 03 May 2021 02:18:45 GMT

MDDC Staff

May 3, 2021

Join MDDC all this week as we celebrate the winners of the 2020 Editorial, Design and Revenue contest! News organizations across the region submitted their best work from 2020, and the entries were judged this spring. The entire program will be virtual and posted to the MDDC YouTube channel.

The presentations will be aired at 11:30 am Tuesday through Friday, with the lineup of categories below.

Tuesday: Revenue Generators, Targeted Publications, Sales Rookie of the Year, Design & Designer of the Year
Wednesday: Best Moves, Photography, Online, Video, Commentary, Website of General Excellence & Editorial Rookie of the Year
Thursday: Features, Sports & Jim Keat FOIA Award
Friday: News & Beat Reporting, News Organization of the Year

The contest, governed by the Association’s Editorial and Advertising Committees, admitted nearly 1,500 entries from 48 member publications among 85 categories . There are seven divisions in the contest, which group member publications into daily and non-daily print and online-only categories, then further group them by circulation. One Best in Show award is given in each category across all divisions. These entries were judged by news media professionals at the Virginia Press Association.

Wave of New Newspapers Sue Google and Facebook

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 04:16:03 GMT

Editor & Publisher

April 27, 2021

Publishers of 125 newspapers in 11 states filed or announced lawsuits against Google and Facebook on Monday claiming the tech giants have unlawfully monopolized the digital advertising market and engaged in an illegal secretive deal, nicknamed “Jedi Blue,” to thwart competition.

MDDC Sunshine Week Project: Agencies have patchwork approach to tracking public records requests

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 06:11:33 GMT

MDDC Staff

April 8, 2021 .

Led by Andy Schotz, editor of Bethesda Beat, and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi, MDDC’s public policy intern and UMD Merrill College of Journalism graduate student, MDDC conducted a one-month test of government agencies in Maryland. This project revealed a patchwork of approaches in how public records are tracked and how requests for access are filled.

The Maryland-Delaware-DC Press Association in February filed requests for public information with 31 state agencies, counties, municipalities and school systems. The idea was to look at trends in the number of public records requests they received over a three-year period and what effect the COVID-19 pandemic had, if any, on their responses.

MDDC members are invited to use the the project during Sunshine Week, March 14 – 21, 2021. The components of the package include:

Editorial from MDDC (453 words), suitable for all publications in Maryland, Delaware and DC. Please note this editorial can be customized to a publication’s needs, and includes an optional paragraph referencing the MDDC project.
Main Story (2298 words) focusing on the Maryland project and considering pending legislation in the state that affects the Public Information Act.
Sidebar to Main Story (2222 words) containing all of the PIA responses received. Please note an update has been made as of March 16th at 1:30 pm. The response from the MD Department of Natural Resources was inadvertently omitted.
Graphics for Main Story, including code for an interactive map

Next week, MDDC will be posting investigative work from 2020 that was submitted as part of nominations for the MDDC James S. Keat FOIA Award, and posting our interview with Andy and Luciana on our podcast, FiveDubs .

Congratulations to the 2020 Contest winners!

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 07:05:44 GMT

The Maryland | Delaware | DC Press Association is proud to announce the winners of the annual Contest in the list below. These winners represent the best work of member publications in Maryland, Delaware and DC. Publications are divided into seven categories based on circulation, plus a special division for SPJ members. Entries are judged, in most cases, by a sister press association. We will celebrate this award-winning work virtually this year, throughout the week of May 7.

The judges were very impressed with the caliber of writing and design in the contest and the competition was stiff!

During our week-long program, we will reveal the individual winners and their placements, the Best in Show category winners and News Media Organization of the Year. We will also recognize the James S. Keat FOI Award, the Michael S. Powell High School Journalist of the Year, Designer of the Year, Salesperson of the Year and Editorial Rookie of the Year.

The Baltimore Sun

Alison Knezevich
Amy Davis
Andrea K. McDaniels
Andy Neumann
Baltimore Sun Staff
Baltimore Sun Visuals Team
Barbara Haddock Taylor
Christina Tkacik
Christine Zhang
Dan Rodricks
Eileen Canzian
Emily Opilo
Hallie Miller
Jean Marbella
Jeff Bowen
Jerry Jackson
Jessica Anderson
John-John Williams IV
Jon Meoli
Jonas Shaffer
Jonathan M. Pitts
Justin Fenton
Karl Ferron
Kenneth Lam
Kevin Richardson
Kim Hairston
Lillian Reed
Liz Bowie
Lloyd Fox
Meredith Cohn
Mike Preston
Paige Wagenknecht
Pamela Wood
Sanya Kamidi
Scott Dance
Stephanie Garcia
Tim Prudente
Tracie Rawson
Tricia Bishop
Yvonne Wenger

The News Journal

Brad Myers
Brittany Horn
Esteban Parra
Isabel Hughes
Jared Whalen
Jeanne Kuang
Jeff Neiburg
Jenna Miller
Jerry Habraken
Kevin Tresolini
Maddy Lauria
Marina Affo
Meredith Newman
Patricia Talorico
Xerxes Wilson

the capital

Alex Mann
Beena Raghavendran
Bill Wagner
Brian Krista
Brooks Dubose
Danielle Ohl
Donovan Conaway
Garrett Evans
Heather Mongilio
Jeffrey Bill
Katherine Fominykh
Lilly Price
Naomi Harris
Nate Kitch
Olivia Sanchez
Paul Gillespie
Selene San Felice
The Capital Staff
Talia Buford

The frederick news-post

Allen Etzler
Anna Joyce
Bill Green
Bill Watts
Connie Hastings
Erika Riley
Geordie Wilson
Graham Cullen
Greg Swatek
Hannah Himes
Heather Mongilio
Jennifer Gerlock
Jeremy Arias
Joshua Smith
Kate McDermott
Katie Powderly
Katlynn Almansor
Katryna Perera
Mary Grace Keller
Mary Kate Battles
Mike Santos
Noelle Hallman
News-Post Advertising Department
News-Post staff
Paul Milton
Pete McCarthy
Ryan Marshall
Samantha Bangh
Stacy Taylor
Steve Bohnel
Thomas Malcolm

The Herald-Mail

Advertising staff
Bob Parasiliti

Baltimore Brew

Amy Joust
David Plymer
Ed Gunts
Fern Shen
Ian Round
J.M. Giordano
Joan Jacobson
Louis Krauss
Mark Reutter

Baltimore Fishbowl

Brandon Weigel
Ed Gunts
Lawrence Lanahan
Marcus Dieterle
Marian McCusker
Nicole Allen

Bethesda Beat

Andy Schotz
Bethesda Beat readers
Caitlynn Peetz
Matt McDonald
Rose Horowitch

Capital News Service

Amina Lampkin
Ben Gonzalez
Capital News Service
CNS-TV
Jacob Rousseau
Kaitlyn Francis
Kelsey Mannix
Maris Medina
Molly Work
Morgan Weaver
Sean McGoey
University of Maryland
Victoria Ebner
Ya-Marie Sesay

Maryland Matters

Alanah Davis
Bennett Leckrone
Bruce DePuyt
Danielle E. Gaines
Elliot Jaspin
Frank DeFilippo
Josh Kurtz
Lisa Nevans Locke
Rosanne Skirble

The Bay Net

Zach Hill

Bay Journal

Tim Wheeler
Whitney Pipkin

Delaware Business Times

Jacob Owens
Katie Tabeling

Laurel Leader

Katie V. Jones

The Aegis

David Anderson
James Whitlow
Kyle Andrews
Matt Button
Randy McRoberts
S. Wayne Carter Jr.
The Aegis Staff

Catholic Review

Carole Norris Greene
Christopher Gunty
George P. Matysek Jr.
Kevin J. Parks
Mary K. Tilghman
Nancy Jackson
Paul McMullen
Rita Buettner
Sara Travlos
The Catholic Review Staff

Towson Times

Brian Krista
Taylor DeVille

Baltimore Jewish Times

Jesse Berman
Lonna Koblick

Business Monthly

Daniel Medinger
George Berkheimer
Mark Smith
Pantea Tofangchi
Regina Lasco
Susan Kim

Cape Gazette

Ad Sales Team
Chris Flood
Chris Rausch
Cindy Bowlin
Kathy McGinty
Kristin Sinnott
Nick Roth
Tara Arjona
Teresa Rodriguez

Coastal Point

Coastal Point Staff
Darin McCann
Jason Feather
Kerin Magill
Laura Walter
Matt Metz
Shaun Lambert

Howard County Times

Ana Faguy
Brent Kennedy
Brian Krista
Howard County Times Staff

Salisbury Independent

Brice Stump
Carrie Samis
Greg Bassett
Liz Holland
Tony Weeg

Southern Maryland News

Caleb Soptelean
Dan Belson
Eli Wohlenhaus
Jennifer Helmer
Madison Bateman
Ted Black

The Dundalk Eagle

Betsy Griffin
Greg Mueller
Mike Ursery

Washington Business Journal

Alex Koma
Andy Medici
Carolyn Proctor
Carten Cordell
Daniel Sernovitz
Ellen Collier
Eman Mohammed
Sara Gilgore
Stephanie Redding

Washington Jewish Week

Andrea Siegel
David Holzel
Eric Schucht
Jay Sevidal
Lisa Traiger

Baltimore Business Journal

Amanda Yeager
Baltimore Business Journal Staff
Carley Milligan
Catie Peterson
Ethan McLeod
Holden Wilen
Joanna Sullivan
Melody Simmons

Bay Times

Angela Price
Doug Bishop
Rick Kollinger

Catonsville Times

Allana Haynes
Craig Clary
Jeffrey Bill
Taylor DeVille

Crisfield Times

Angi Hicks

Kent County News

Daniel Divilio
Leann Schenke
Trish McGee

Laurel Star

Chris Elliott
Karen Cherrix
Mike McClure

Record Observer

Angela Price
Doug Bishop
Rick Kollinger

The AFRO American

Denise Dorsey
Diane Hocker
Ilka Robinson-Eaton
Lenora Howze
Micha Green

The Dorchester Star

Hannah Combs
Mike Detmer

The Sentinel

Daniel Kucin Jr.

The Newark Post

Jacob Took
Josh Shannon

Times-Record

Hannah Combs
Jordan Crawford

Baltimore Business Journal

Amanda Yeager
Baltimore Business Journal Staff
Carley Milligan
Catie Peterson
Ethan McLeod
Holden Wilen
Joanna Sullivan
Melody Simmons

Bay Times

Angela Price
Doug Bishop
Rick Kollinger

Catonsville Times

Allana Haynes
Craig Clary
Jeffrey Bill
Taylor DeVille

Crisfield Times

Angi Hicks

Kent County News

Daniel Divilio
Leann Schenke
Trish McGee

Laurel Star

Chris Elliott
Karen Cherrix
Mike McClure

Record Observer

Angela Price
Doug Bishop
Rick Kollinger

The AFRO American

Denise Dorsey
Diane Hocker
Ilka Robinson-Eaton
Lenora Howze
Micha Green

The Dorchester Star

Hannah Combs
Mike Detmer

The Sentinel

Daniel Kucin Jr.

The Newark Post

Jacob Took
Josh Shannon

Times-Record

Hannah Combs
Jordan Crawford

‘A Dollar is a Dollar’: Publishers Restructure Commerce Teams to Drive Revenue, Experimentation

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 02:16:34 GMT

Staff | News Media Alliance

On Monday, a Maryland circuit court judge struck down the state’s tax on digital advertising services. The ruling held that the tax violated the Internet Tax Freedom Act, the Constitution’s Commerce Clause, as well as the First Amendment. The Alliance applauds the court’s decision and maintains the stance that taxes on advertising are bad public policy and harmful to the economy.

The Baltimore Banner has the Best Move of 2024

Sat, 09 May 2020 05:01:00 GMT

May 9, 2025

Nicole Allen is Salesperson of the Year for 2024

Sat, 09 May 2020 04:59:34 GMT

May 9, 2025

Assistant Editor for BridgeTower Media

Sat, 14 Mar 2020 03:59:50 GMT

March 14, 2025

BridgeTower Media is seeking an Assistant Editor who will play a key role in producing content for the online and print editions of The Daily Record and related products. Under the direction of the Editor and Managing Editor, the Assistant Editor is responsible for posting online and in print news briefs, personnel announcements (Movers and Shakers), and BTM Connect items as well as building daily email alerts, scanning wires for stories/news releases, updating the website, leading the production of profiles for the Power Lists and In the Lead sections, proofing pages for the daily paper and special products, ensuring corrections are completed by the design team, and gathering/producing content for print and online business albums.

Duties + Responsibilities:

Under direction of editor and managing editor, work with staff writers and freelancers to plan and execute coverage plans.
Edit and post content on the publications’ websites.
Work with digital editor to build out social media content on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and other platforms.
Work with the company’s design hubs to plan and execute design of print products; assist with page proofing and corrections.
Help develop Power Lists and In the Lead profiles.
Communicate regularly and effectively with the editor, publisher, other newsroom personnel and others throughout the company.
Other duties as directed by the editor and managing editor.

API Executive Director Tom Rosenstiel to join faculty at University of Maryland Journalism School

Sun, 01 Jan 1961 01:15:07 GMT

American Press Institute

June 14, 2021

After leading API for nine years, during which the organization expanded from a staff of one to more than a dozen people, Executive Director Tom Rosenstiel will be joining the faculty at the University of Maryland Philip Merrill School of Journalism as the Eleanor Merrill Visiting Professor on the Future of Journalism.

www-mddc

Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien named Designer of the Year 2025

A-Mark Foundation for A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism Award 2025

Maryland ﻿

Delaware

Washington, D.C.

Nick Stonesifer wins Rookie of the Year

Nominees

James Constantine is Salesperson of the Year for 2025

The Star Democrat has the Best Move of 2025

The Baltimore Beat and Baltimore Fishbowl tie for website of general excellence award

MDDC PRESS ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF CONTEST WITH VIDEO ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Banner wins James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2025

Nominees ﻿

Maryland Enacts First-in-the-Nation Local News for Maryland Communities Act

Congratulations to our 2025 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

Six journalism students selected for MDDC Internships

Sunshine Week 2026

Student Press Freedom Day is this Thursday, February 26th

MDDC Supports Inspector General Access to Records

What PR Needs to Know About Local News Media in 2026

When Access to Information Shrinks, Communities Pay the Price

2026 MDDC Annual Conference Sponsorships Open

MDDC Press Association Condemns FBI Search of Washington Post Reporter’s Home

CFINR Opens 2025 Journalism Awards Submissions

CPB Announces Plans to Dissolve After 58 Years

Former MDDC Intern Earns Morgan State Honor

MDDC Contest is Open

The Laurel Independent is Seeking a Part-Time Managing Editor

The Maryland Daily Record/BridgeTower Media is Seeking an Editor

The Maryland Daily Record/Bridge Tower Media is Seeking a Legal Reporter

The Maryland Daily Record/BridgeTower Media is Seeking a Government Affairs Reporter

Morning Star Publications is Hiring

Baltimore Sun is Expanding Its Newsroom

The Baltimore Banner wins website of general excellence award

The Baltimore Banner staff honored with Courage in Journalism award 2024

The Baltimore Banner wins James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2024

Lauren Hines Acosta wins Rookie of the Year

Gabriella Ferraro O’Brien named Designer of the Year 2024

MDDC Press Association Announces Winners Of Contest With Video Announcements

Congratulations to our 2024 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

BridgeTower Media is seeking an Editor

BridgeTower Media is seeking an Multimedia Account Executive

Sell gift subscriptions this holiday season

Sunshine Week 2025

Judges needed for Catholic Media Association

Six journalism students selected for MDDC Internships

Duke Divinity School is looking to contract for copyediting/factchecking services

Northwestern University’s State of Local News Report 2024

Please join the students of the University of Maryland’s Merrill College of Journalism for our annual Career Fair on Friday, Oct. 25, from 1 to 4 p.m., in Knight Hall

Call for Topics and Speakers!

Congratulations to MDDC’s 2024 Interns!

Mid-Atlantic Media acquires Chesapeake Family Life

Greg Morton wins Rookie of the Year

Laila Milevski named Designer of the Year 2023

The Baltimore Banner wins website of general excellence award

News Journal staff honored with Courage in Journalism award 2023

Nicole Allen is Salesperson of the Year for 2023

MDDC Press Association Announces Winners of Contest With Video Announcements

The Baltimore Banner wins James S. Keat Freedom of Information Award 2023

The Star Democrat has the Best Move of 2023

Congratulations to our 2023 Editorial and Advertising contest winners!

Seven journalism students selected for MDDC internships

ISWNE’s Golden Quill contest

MDDC’s Dues Update For 2024

DC Tax Revision Commission

MDDC 2023 Readership Survey

Ohio enacts law curtailing newspaper notice

Tribune-Democrat editor Minemyer named publisher in Johnstown, Cumberland

Walter Middlebrook elected to MDDC Foundation Board

National Newspaper Week 2023

Rafael Lorente elected to Press Foundation Board

Eight journalism students complete summer 2023 internships

MDDC Press Association 4-Part Codeswitching Series

Karina Serio wins MDDC’s 2023 Michael S. Powell High School Journalist of the Year.

James A. ‘Jim’ Flood, Sr., 95

Are you prepared for Google Analytics 4 (GA4)?

217th Report of the Rules Committee

7 podcasting trends for news publishers, and a burning question: 2023 Digital News Report

Gannett Files Federal Lawsuit Against Google

Maryland

Nominees