By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

Discussing the future of local journalism, including the news media in Otter Tail County, was the topic May 1 at the Bigwood Event Center in Fergus Falls. The event was sponsored by the West Central Initiative.

Close to 80 people attended and took the opportunity to discuss the importance of local journalism and hear from news media leaders. One of those speaking to attendees was Steve Grove, CEO and publisher the Minnesota Star Tribune, formerly known as the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

“The name change to Minnesota Star Tribune reflects newspaper owner Glen Taylor’s desire to expand our focus beyond the Twin Cities to cover statewide issues and connect with more Minnesotans,” Grove said. “Our rebrand also includes a new website, new app and new mascot.”

Reed Anfinson, publisher of the Swift County Monitor in Benson and past president of the Minnesota Newspaper Association, said the goal for he and his staff is to create a sense of community. 

“We have common threads in and around Benson,” he said, “and want to enhance a feeling of belonging and shared responsibility.”

Heather Kantrud, managing editor for Daily Journal Media in Fergus Falls, said presenting factual information to readers is a goal of her organization. She stresses to staff members the importance of newspaper content that is based on proven facts and not on opinions, personal beliefs or interpretations.

Anna Wasescha, president of West Central Initiatives, lamented the fact that newspapers are disappearing at an alarming rate across the United States. One reason, she said, is that more adults receive news from digital devices. 

Newspapers have a profound impact on communities and democracy, acting as a vital source of local information, fostering civic engagement and holding institutions accountable.

“The future of local news will depend on innovation, adaptation and community support,” Wasescha said.

Tanner Curl, executive of MinnPost, oversees an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces in-depth reporting on civic and cultural affairs throughout Minnesota. 

“We have no political or commercial interest. Our only agenda is to be a trusted guide,” he said.

In a WCI publication titled “The View from Here,” Pelican Rapids Mayor Brent Frazier said that newspapers are “conduits that unite people.” He encourages residents in Otter Tail County to buy newspaper subscriptions, advertise and share news tips with editors.