Summary:
Ghost papers are prevalent in Massachusetts, lacking original local news despite existing as nominal newspapers.
Startups like the Plymouth Independent and New Bedford Light are emerging to fill the news void left by legacy newspapers.
Community-supported journalism is gaining traction, with outlets relying on donations and local ads for funding.
The Belmont Voice is a successful example, reaching 11,000 households with a free weekly publication.
Challenges persist as many towns still lack local news sources, highlighting the need for sustainable journalism models.
The Rise of Ghost Papers in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, many towns are experiencing a ghost paper phenomenon, where local newspapers exist but lack genuine news reporting. This situation has emerged not only in news deserts but in communities that still have newspapers, albeit stripped of local content. Mark Pothier, a seasoned journalist, reflects on his journey from the Old Colony Memorial, a legacy newspaper, to his current role as editor and CEO of the Plymouth Independent, a nonprofit digital news outlet that launched in November 2023.
An oversized blue rocking chair on Main Street welcomes visitors to Plymouth, Massachusetts, ‘America’s Hometown.’
The Shift to Nonprofit Journalism
The decline of local reporting has been alarming, with over 60% of newsroom jobs disappearing since 2005. This crisis has led to the birth of several startups aiming to fill the gaps left by the hollowed-out legacy papers. Pothier and Walter “Robby” Robinson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, have initiated efforts to restore local news coverage in communities like Plymouth and New Bedford, where Gannett has drastically reduced local reporting.
Startups Making a Difference
New outlets such as the Plymouth Independent and New Bedford Light are emerging to provide comprehensive local news. They aim not only to replace the ghost papers but to improve upon them, focusing on relevant, community-driven content. For example, the Belmont Voice, a new publication in Belmont, Massachusetts, is a free weekly that reaches over 11,000 households with quality journalism.
The Financial Model of Local News Startups
Funding for these startups often comes from a combination of individual donations, grants, and local advertising. The Belmont Voice, for instance, has successfully engaged over 600 individual donors while generating revenue from ads. This model highlights the shift towards community-supported journalism as a sustainable solution.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive developments, challenges remain as many communities are still left without local news sources. The nationalization of news has led to a focus on broader regional stories, leaving towns disconnected from their local issues. As these startups strive to establish themselves, they must navigate the complexities of fundraising and sustaining operations in an increasingly digital landscape.
Conclusion
The future of local journalism in Massachusetts seems to hinge on the success of these new nonprofit models. The efforts of passionate individuals like Pothier and Robinson could pave the way for a resurgence of community-focused news, fostering a well-informed citizenry once again.
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