What's Happening?
The Santa Barbara News-Press, a historic newspaper that ceased operations in 2023, has been revived by the nonprofit organization Newswell. The organization has appointed Joshua Molina, a veteran local journalist, as the new editor. Newswell, based at Arizona
State University, acquired the News-Press after its parent company declared bankruptcy. The acquisition was part of a broader effort to preserve local journalism in Santa Barbara, a city with a relatively robust news ecosystem compared to other regions. Molina, who has a long history with the News-Press and other local outlets, plans to hire additional reporters to cover Santa Barbara County comprehensively. The revival of the News-Press is supported by major donors, including the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and aims to sustain itself through a mix of subscriptions, advertising, and foundation support.
Why It's Important?
The revival of the Santa Barbara News-Press is significant as it represents a rare expansion in the local news landscape, which has been shrinking nationwide. The decline of local newspapers has been a concern for democracy, as these outlets are crucial for providing accurate and actionable information to the public. By reviving the News-Press, Newswell is helping to fill the information gap in Santa Barbara, ensuring that local issues receive the attention they deserve. This move could serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges, highlighting the potential of nonprofit organizations to play a vital role in sustaining local journalism.
What's Next?
Joshua Molina, the newly appointed editor, plans to expand the News-Press's coverage by hiring five reporters to cover a wide range of topics, including transportation, immigration, and local government. The newspaper aims to provide in-depth coverage and investigations, responding to reader demand for more comprehensive reporting. As the News-Press re-establishes itself, it will experiment with different approaches to journalism to determine what resonates with its audience. The success of this initiative could influence other nonprofit organizations to invest in local journalism, potentially leading to a broader revitalization of the industry.
