Letter: The Importance of Local Independent Media

Letter to the Editor:

This weekend was a reminder of why Towpath Radio covers local news here in Grand Rapids. We understand that sometimes it’s not glamorous — and while any “drama” around here is thankfully pretty mild — it still matters.

A regional newspaper recently published a story about the unprecedented eight candidates running for Village Council. Though I’m not one to judge anyone’s work, the article only mentioned three of those eight (and even referred to nine candidates total). It stated that outreach had been made to all, but after it was shared in a local Facebook group, several candidates commented that they were never contacted or never received a follow-up.

Again, I don’t say this to criticize. Like many newsrooms around the country, they’re operating with reduced staff after years of budget cuts that gutted so many newspapers between 2010 and today.

Earlier in the fall, Towpath Radio reached out to all eight candidates directly. (The ninth confirmed she had withdrawn.) We asked each to speak directly to voters through our Election Guide. Most were friendly and appreciative — a few weren’t thrilled with our past coverage, which is fair. As an independent organization, we know we won’t always make everyone happy. But we are always committed to honest, transparent reporting.

And here’s the thing: every one of them participated. Each candidate submitted a written statement to voters. That alone says a lot about their commitment to serve, and I commend them for taking the opportunity.

My point in all this is simple — this is where local media needs to go. Hyperlocal. Regional coverage has been cut to the bone, which is why organizations like BG Independent News exist for Bowling Green — and why Towpath Radio exists for Grand Rapids.

Imagine if every small town had an independent outlet focused solely on its own community — not trying to be bigger than it needs to be, just serving the people who live there. Sure, some stories may seem small or mundane. But this kind of reporting helps residents stay informed, helps businesses stay visible, and keeps our town connected.

So please — support your local media while you have it. That doesn’t mean financially (though that never hurts!) — it means spreading the word. Tell people about it. Share stories. Encourage others to engage.

And if you’re reading this from outside Grand Rapids — support your local media. And if it doesn’t exist yet… maybe it’s time to start it.

Thank you for five incredible years of support.

— Josh David
President, NWO Community Media
Towpath Radio 98.7 FM