The future of local journalism, Part III

The Left Hand Valley Courier (Courier), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dealing with the same issues that the journalism industry, particularly local journalism, is grappling with across the country. This article is the third in a series of reports on the current journalism business climate, the history and contributions of the Courier, why local journalism remains an important asset in community-building, and ways in which its business model can be strengthened.

The Left Hand Valley Courier supports and enhances the Niwot community through its concentration on local journalism, its print and digital formats, and its talented reporters and leadership team. The Courier's tag line is, "All local. All the time."

The many studies that have explored the value of local journalism consistently find that "connection" is its most important benefit. This is an age of growing isolation, loneliness and depression. One report says that "local journalism can contribute to people's happiness by highlighting local events, stories and achievements, leading to residents feeling more connected to their community and fostering a sense of belonging."

Unlike the preponderance of national news, local journalism often shares uplifting stories about neighbors, community initiatives and developments. These stories also inform people about local issues and happenings, which encourages participation in community events, volunteer opportunities and civic activities. And, by showcasing local arts, businesses and initiatives, local journalism promotes pride in the community.

Studies show that print newspaper's layout style is thought to provide readers with a better sense of proportion and importance than digitally formatted news. Readers tend to concentrate longer on content when reading a print newspaper. On the other hand, digital format provides immediate access, as well as the option for readers to scroll more quickly to topics of particular interest to them. It also allows for a quick click onto links for additional content.

The Courier provides readers with the opportunity to see the news in both formats. Although the newspaper distributes its free print edition only once every four weeks, subscribers are able to view the layout version every week online. Evolution in the industry and the Courier will undoubtedly continue.

The Courier also enhances the community through its talented and diverse group of reporters. Some are seasoned journalists who have obtained professional awards and recognitions. Others have professional skills which are valuable in analyzing and reporting on local and regional issues and challenges. Most, however, seek this experience to become more involved in the community, hone their writing skills and meet new people. Reporters' time commitments are flexible, which expands the available talent pool.

Peggy Graham is one of the Courier's frequent contributors. Her professional background as a civil engineer helps her to shed light on transportation, irrigation and farming issues. She has also sounded the alarm with informative, well-reasoned articles regarding the threat to the viability of businesses in unincorporated Boulder County, including Niwot, as additional minimum wage increases are imposed. Graham had no prior reporting experience before she joined the Courier earlier this year, but has become an invaluable member of the team.

The Courier also supports young people's interest in journalism and provides some with their first opportunity to work in the field. Anne Watts, a freshman at Niwot High School, recently became a first-time reporter. When she met with her guidance counselor to discuss extra-curricular activities, Watts mentioned that she enjoys writing. The counselor suggested that Watts contact the Courier and Watts has already written articles on high school gymnastics meets and on the Shine Prom held at a local church. Her biweekly commitment helps her balance her Courier work with her academics and other activities.

Madison Shaw, a University of Colorado student who lives in Niwot, began writing for the Courier last spring after an introduction to the managing editor at one of her twin brothers' baseball games at Niwot High School. She has taken on covering multiple sports, as well as events around town including Rock & Rails and Dancing Under the Stars.

Preparing the Courier for publication every week is a massive undertaking for a very small and part-time staff. It simply wouldn't happen without the dedicated leadership team members, who have been and are active in the community in many ways.

Local attorney Bruce Warren, Managing Editor and one of the Courier's founders, has overall responsibility for the Courier. Elise Marylander, a retired attorney, serves as Editor, and is responsible for determining content, assigning articles to writers, and editing everything that appears in the Courier. Reporters have noticed that both editors often work after midnight making final edits to meet production deadlines.

Vicki Maurer, also one of the founders, is a paralegal with over 40 years of experience, who also serves as the Courier's Business Manager. She coordinates delivery of the print editions, and handles finances for the Courier.

Alyson Varvel Bell, with years of experience in advertising and marketing, serves as Advertising Director, selling and creating ads for the Courier. She is also the main contact for the layout staff, located in the Philippines and is the person who makes sure the Courier arrives in subscribers' inbox every Wednesday morning.

The Left Hand Valley Courier is an important thread in the fabric of the Niwot community. It provides residents with a reliable source of local news that fosters connection, pride, and awareness.

"The Future of Local Journalism," continues with "Part IV: How the Courier Survives." The article will provide insights about the budget and the plans to increase the value, advertisements and subscribers. It will be available to e-edition subscribers. Subscribe at https://www.lhvc.com/subscribe/start for $99 per year, with a money-back guarantee for 30 days to first-time subscribers.

The Courier is now recognized by the IRS as a charitable 501 (c)(3)non-profit organization. Send your tax-deductible donations to the Left Hand Valley Courier, P.O. Box 652, Niwot, CO 80544 to keep local journalism alive and thriving in your community.