Dear Landmark readers,
In 1980, when my two partners and I launched what would later become the Landmark’s parent company, Growing Community Media (GCM), we dreamed of creating a local community newspaper filled with the kind of journalism we wanted to read and that our fellow residents desperately needed.
Then, as now, we set out to create a paper that provided rigorous, insightful coverage of local government; helped parents and taxpayers follow events in their local schools; connected readers and business owners to local businesses right here in our own backyard; and showcased the rich stories and strong opinions of the remarkably talented and diverse group of neighbors in the communities we call home.
Forty-five years later, I could not be prouder of all that we have accomplished along the way.
As we reach that milestone, I’ve been reflecting deeply on the future—for Growing Community Media, and for me personally.
Leading this organization has been the joy and privilege of a lifetime. But I’ve come to believe that the time is right to scale back my day-to-day responsibilities and pass the baton to new leadership.
So I’m delighted to announce that, with the support of our Board of Directors, I will be moving into a new role as Senior Advisor. This will let me spend a bit more time with my family while also allowing me to continue to support our team as we strive to build a strong, sustainable foundation for GCM’s future. My primary focus will be on growing our partnerships and fundraising, and I’ll also lead special projects from time to time.
Later this spring, the Board will be hiring a full-time Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth, service and impact. The Executive Director title will replace the Publisher title, which better reflects the realities of our not-for-profit organization.
In the meantime, I’m pleased to announce that Max Reinsdorf will become our interim Executive Director. Effective immediately, Max will lead every aspect of our effort and work with all of us and our Board of Directors to sustain and grow this essential nonprofit newsroom.
Max has already been working with GCM to help us do a deep dive on our business management and operations, so he knows our organization, our team and our needs. Max brings a passion for community news, having previously worked at both the Tribune and the Better Government Association. He has a sharp focus and deep understanding of digital growth with a healthy respect for the value of print. He has also worked on the philanthropic side of local news. Importantly, Max is a good listener and knows well our staff’s commitment to this work.
I could not be more excited for the future.
But these are not easy times for local journalism, as you know. Changing habits, new platforms and evolving business models have taken their toll on far too many local newsrooms around the country.
A community news organization is nothing without a community willing to support it —as readers, advertisers, subscribers, donors and champions.
You’ve been essential to our success over these last 45 years—and you’re critical to our future, too.
I look forward to working with our new leadership and with all of you to keep that mission alive and thriving in Riverside and Brookfield.
With gratitude,
Dan
