Despite recent news, the Miami Herald is here to stay
As you may have read in today’s story, McClatchy, parent company of the Miami Herald and el Nuevo Herald, has announced a voluntary restructuring under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.
This reorganization is not unprecedented among newspaper companies. Since 2008, more than 20 U.S. newspaper businesses have reorganized in order to stay in operation. This is crucially important in today’s challenging news media climate, as scores of local newspapers have shut their doors, leaving “news deserts” in communities throughout the country. When local news is no longer reported effectively, the voices of the vulnerable are silenced, the powerful are not held to account — and ultimately, justice suffers.
Rest assured, that important work — covering our communities and holding the powerful accountable — will continue as vigorously as ever at the Herald.
Thursday morning, as the Chapter 11 filing was announced, our reporters in Tallahassee revealed a new state investigation of one of Florida’s longest-serving social service agencies. Why? Because reporting by the Miami Herald disclosed that its CEO had received more than $7.5 million in compensation from state and federal funds in a three-year period.
This is one example of how the Herald fulfills its mission, but there are countless others. From bringing wealthy pedophile Jeffrey Epstein to justice and forcing the resignation of a Cabinet member, to detailing a decade of abuse in Florida’s juvenile justice system, we’re always working to make a difference.
Because of our journalistic mission, the local newspaper business is unlike any other, but it’s still a business. We must be financially healthy to provide the independent news and information our readers have come to expect for 117 years.
So while this process takes its course, it’s business as usual. Our readers, subscribers and advertisers can trust there will be no disruption in service, from our day-to-day reporting, our in-depth investigations, our print and digital delivery and our unwavering commitment to the South Florida community.
Then, now and always, we’re there for you.
This story was originally published February 13, 2020 at 5:47 PM.
