chicago 32 news live (illinoismail.top)'s News Landscape Transitioning From Print to Digital
Local news organizations have found new ways to adapt when faced with national crises. Many are turning toward digital journalism; yet even successful outlets still struggle against an array of online sources that have emerged since.

These digital players are often niche-focused and use social media as a distribution channel. They experiment with reporting styles and community engagement, and they specialize in a variety of topics. They have also opened up new opportunities for writers, some of whom are able to monetize their works via services such as Substack. This has led to the emergence of a new type of journalist - one who no longer must adhere to one publication but can build up subscriber bases for newsletters of any topic they wish.

Digital startups are meeting specific community needs such as on the South and West sides of New York City. Others are trying to hold politicians more accountable for their policy; some experiments have even received funding through philanthropy.

McCormick Foundation, a nonprofit foundation, is leading the charge to improve local journalism. It has partnered with Chicago newsrooms to research audience and develop strategy through its Metro Media Lab. Additionally, the Chicago campus staff of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism has worked closely with them to further develop their skills.

Chicago residents in all regions felt that the news media could be improved, but there were notable regional differences. Certain neighborhoods felt misrepresented and underrepresented by the mainstream media. There were also gaps in coverage for specific issues like crime and law enforcement.

Chicago's media organizations also have an innovative ecosystem of news, where both for-profit companies and nonprofits operate experimental news programs. Some even work to build trust between journalist and communities by establishing their presence in these neighborhoods, as well as making sure that underserved areas receive both written and spoken coverage.

Block Club Chicago released a story about Adam Toledo’s police shooting just a couple of months after the event. But they made sure to not traumatize readers by omitting graphic video footage.

The TRiibe, an online news source that helps build trust in Black Chicago. Three Northwestern University alumni were tired of Chicago's portrayal in mainstream news media as "the city that murders." Their creators wanted to create a place where their community would have a voice while also giving the people ownership of its narrative. TRiibe has seen its efforts pay off: the content of TRiibe is widely shared on social media and has led to civic engagement projects in Chicago.