Galveston publisher calls on readers to support the Local Journalism Sustainability Act

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"Local journalism is an important element of American society — and one we feel contributes to a better nation through the sharing of opinions, facts and the invitation for civil conversations," Leonard Woolsey wrote in a recent column encouraging readers to support the Local Journalism Sustainability Act.  Woolsey is president and publisher of  The Daily News and president of Southern Newspapers, Inc.

He told readers: "The Daily News is the oldest newspaper in Texas — around longer than statehood itself. We’ve always worked to provide our citizens and community a newspaper they could proudly call their own. This is our time-honored call and mission.

"We are a small business and privately held. No fancy towers in New York City. No, our modest world headquarters sits right off Interstate 45 as you cross onto the island. And our employees are as local as they get. You see us at the local grocery stores, farmers markets and places of worship.

"Our hope is that your support — the action of reaching out to your congressional representatives — will allow us to continue to serve and play a role in our community for years to come."

During the August Congressional recess, America's Newspapers is encouraging all newspapers to take similar action.  "It is critical for us to continue to raise awareness of this important bill," CEO Dean Ridings said.

Paul Boyle, senior vice president for public policy with the News Media Alliance, also called on individual publishers to take action.  "Your representatives and senators will be in their districts and states during August.  Please contact them to support the Local Journalism Sustainability Act or raise this important piece of legislation when these policymakers are visiting with your editorial boards; most likely virtually."

Read Leonard Woolsey's full column

Local Journalism Sustainability Act, Leonard Woolsey