The future of true local journalism in Longmont is bleak, and I’m committed to creating a news source that is truly Longmont-owned and operated. Our community deserves a publication that understands and prioritizes its unique needs. The Longmont Times-Call is owned by one of the largest newspaper publishers in the United States, based in Denver, while interests in Puerto Rico own the Longmont Leader.
While these publications employ talented local writers, editors, and photographers, the decision-making ultimately rests with those outside our community, often prioritizing profit over local interests. As a result, important stories may be overlooked in favor of content that generates more clicks.
The Longmont Times-Call has become more of a Front Range publication rather than a dedicated Longmont newspaper. Though it retains the name “Longmont,” its operations are based in Boulder and overseen by a media group in Denver. It’s like producing a jar of salsa in New York City and labeling it fresh from Santa Fe—it’s not a true representation of the local flavor.
The Longmont Leader came from humble beginnings. It has undergone several changes, from its origins as the Longmont Observer to its different iterations of the Longmont Leader under various ownerships. Despite the dedication of local editors and writers, those working at the Longmont Leader are ultimately bound by decisions made by its overseas owners, limiting their ability to fully steer the publication’s direction.
I first wrote for the Longmont Observer in 2018 back when it was a nonprofit founded by Sergio Angeles and Scott Converse, who wanted to provide an alternative news source after the Times-Call moved to Boulder. When the Longmont Observer was rebranded as the Longmont Leader under McClatchy in 2020, I participated in the hiring process as they built their new team, but the publication moved forward without me.
Later, I returned as a freelancer in 2023, only to see the publication was under Village Media’s ownership. Eventually, my experience as a freelancer there left me feeling disconnected from their editorial process, as decisions seemed to be made without much regard for the local voices and perspectives. It became clear that I was just another email in their inbox. I started writing less and less months before Village Media ended the operation of the Longmont Leader on June 1, 2024.
When the Longmont Leader was recently acquired by UP Venture Media, a content marketing firm, they relaunched the website. In my interactions with them about potential freelance opportunities, I felt that they lacked the necessary experience and understanding of local journalism. Their unwillingness to pay me for new photos, for example, indicated a disregard for authentic local storytelling. I ultimately declined their offer. It was a difficult decision, but I realized I couldn’t again engage with a publication that seemed so disconnected from the community.
This is why I decided to create the Longmont Herald. My goal is to establish a publication that is truly for and by the people of Longmont. We deserve a news source that puts our community first and covers the stories that matter most to us. The Longmont Herald plans to fill this gap by offering articles written by Longmont residents, for Longmont residents, and published by those who have our best interests at heart in Longmont. It’s time again for a publication that genuinely reflects and serves our community.
The Longmont Herald will be a dedicated voice for Longmont, the bearer of the unbiased, the outrider using both wings to steady a story, and the messenger delivering the previously unwritten to readers. As a one-person team with plans for future growth, I aim to cover a diverse range of topics, from news and sports to events, business, arts, and culture—wherever the stories may emerge. Your support and engagement are crucial as the Longmont Herald strives to reflect the heart of our community. Subscribe, follow along, share your stories, and help shape this new chapter for local journalism.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, with many more stories ahead!
Adam Steininger
Hark the Herald: Make Your Mark on Longmont
A Call to Action for All Writers, Photographers, and Marketers
The Longmont Herald wants to grow, and we need YOUR talent to help tell the stories of our incredible community.
Are you a writer, photographer, marketer, or creative looking to build your portfolio, gain experience, or simply contribute to something meaningful? Join our team of locals shaping Longmont’s next big publication!
This is a volunteer opportunity, perfect for:
Aspiring photographers who want their work showcased.
Writers passionate about local news, arts, and culture.
Marketing enthusiasts ready to connect.
Creatives who want to leave their mark on the community.
This is a volunteer opportunity perfect for anyone wanting to:
Gain hands-on experience in digital publishing.
Build a robust portfolio or resume.
Be part of a growing, hyper-local publication.
Let’s create something amazing together!
👉 Interested? Email Adam at longmontherald@gmail.com to learn more.
Be part of our story. Be part of the Longmont Herald.
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