Remembering Jud Ashmore: A San Antonio Broadcasting Legend and the Evolving Landscape of Local Media
The recent passing of Jud Ashmore, a beloved figure in San Antonio broadcasting at the age of 101, serves as a poignant reminder of a bygone era in local media. But his career, spanning radio and television from the post-WWII years through the early 21st century, also offers a fascinating lens through which to examine the dramatic shifts – and potential future trends – impacting how we consume local news and entertainment.
From Airwaves to Algorithms: The Transformation of Local Broadcasting
Ashmore’s journey began in an era dominated by over-the-air broadcasting. He navigated the transition from KONO-TV to KSAT 12, a name change reflecting the evolving technological landscape. His later focus on radio, particularly talk radio at stations like WOAI-AM, highlights the enduring power of audio. Today, however, the media ecosystem is vastly different. The rise of digital platforms, streaming services, and social media has fragmented audiences and challenged the traditional broadcasting model.
According to a Pew Research Center study in 2023, only 38% of U.S. adults regularly get news from television, down from 59% in 2016. Simultaneously, social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) have become significant, though often unreliable, sources of local information. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for local media outlets.
The Rise of Hyperlocal Content and Community Engagement
One key trend is the increasing demand for hyperlocal content. While national news often dominates headlines, audiences are craving information directly relevant to their communities – school board meetings, local business openings, neighborhood events. Ashmore, with his long-standing presence in San Antonio, embodied this connection to the local community.
We’re seeing this manifest in several ways:
- Neighborhood Newsletters: Platforms like Substack are empowering individual journalists and community members to create and monetize hyperlocal newsletters.
- Local Podcast Networks: Podcasts are flourishing, offering in-depth coverage of local issues and personalities.
- Citizen Journalism Initiatives: News organizations are increasingly collaborating with citizens to report on local events and issues.
Pro Tip: Local businesses can leverage this trend by sponsoring hyperlocal content or partnering with local media outlets to reach targeted audiences.
The Convergence of Media: Radio, TV, and Digital
Ashmore’s career demonstrates a fluidity between radio and television. This convergence is accelerating in the digital age. Local TV stations, like KSAT, are investing heavily in digital platforms, offering live streaming, on-demand video, and interactive content. Radio stations are expanding their online presence with podcasts, streaming audio, and social media engagement.
A prime example is the growth of digital-first local news sites, often funded by venture capital or philanthropic organizations. These sites, like Block Club Chicago (https://blockclubchicago.org/), are demonstrating the viability of a subscription-based model for hyperlocal news.
The Role of AI and Automation in Local News
Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to play a significant role in the future of local news. AI-powered tools can automate tasks such as transcribing interviews, generating summaries of public meetings, and even writing basic news reports. However, the ethical implications of AI-generated content are significant, and maintaining journalistic integrity will be crucial.
Did you know? The Associated Press has been using AI to generate earnings reports for several years, freeing up journalists to focus on more complex reporting.
Monetizing Local News in the Digital Age
Finding sustainable revenue models remains a major challenge for local news organizations. Traditional advertising revenue has declined sharply, and many consumers are reluctant to pay for online news. However, several promising models are emerging:
- Digital Subscriptions: Paywalls and membership programs are becoming increasingly common.
- Philanthropic Funding: Nonprofit news organizations are attracting funding from foundations and individual donors.
- Events and Community Engagement: Hosting local events and workshops can generate revenue and build community support.
The Enduring Power of Personality and Trust
Jud Ashmore’s signature catchphrase – “Hug somebody. It’ll make you feel good.” – speaks to the importance of personality and connection in local broadcasting. In an increasingly fragmented and impersonal media landscape, building trust and fostering relationships with audiences is more important than ever. Local journalists who can connect with their communities on a personal level will be best positioned to thrive in the years to come.
FAQ
Q: Is local news dying?
A: While facing significant challenges, local news is not dying. It’s evolving. We’re seeing a shift towards digital platforms and new revenue models.
Q: How can I support local journalism?
A: Subscribe to your local newspaper or news website, donate to nonprofit news organizations, and engage with local journalists on social media.
Q: What role does social media play in local news?
A: Social media can be a valuable tool for distributing local news, but it’s important to be critical of the information you find there and to rely on trusted sources.
Q: Will AI replace local journalists?
A: AI will likely automate some tasks, but it’s unlikely to replace the critical thinking, investigative reporting, and community engagement skills of human journalists.
What are your thoughts on the future of local news? Share your comments below!
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