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Newton Today
By the People, for the People
Local News Day Celebrates Community Journalism in Newton
Mayor honors local news outlets for keeping residents informed and engaged
Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:11am
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The vibrant glow of local journalism illuminates the heart of Newton's civic life.Newton TodayThursday marked Local News Day, a time to reflect on the value of community journalism. In Newton, Massachusetts, Mayor Marc Laredo hosted a ceremony honoring the city's local news organizations - The Newton Beacon, Fig City News, and NewTV - for their year-round coverage of local issues and events. The mayor praised the outlets for keeping residents informed and holding local officials accountable.
Why it matters
Local news plays a vital role in fostering an engaged and informed citizenry, which is the foundation of a healthy democracy. By covering city council meetings, school board decisions, and other community issues, these local news outlets provide residents with the information they need to participate in civic life and hold their elected leaders accountable.
The details
During the ceremony, Mayor Laredo acknowledged that while elected officials may not always love the daily news coverage, it is critically important for keeping the community informed of the work being done at City Hall. Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan also attended the event, underscoring the significance of local journalism in the region.
- Thursday, April 10, 2026 was Local News Day in Newton.
- The mayor's ceremony honoring local news outlets took place on Local News Day.
The players
Marc Laredo
The mayor of Newton, Massachusetts who hosted a ceremony honoring local news outlets on Local News Day.
Marian Ryan
The Middlesex County District Attorney who attended the mayor's ceremony recognizing the importance of local journalism.
The Newton Beacon
A local news organization in Newton that was honored for its year-round coverage of community issues and events.
Fig City News
A local news organization in Newton that was honored for its year-round coverage of community issues and events.
NewTV
A local news organization in Newton that was honored for its year-round coverage of community issues and events.
What they’re saying
“I can't say that any elected official actually loves the newspaper every single day. But the fact that we have local news covering School Committee meetings, covering City Council meetings, covering what we do at City Hall, is critically important for keeping our residents and businesses informed of what we're doing. Frankly, you hold our feet to the fire a little bit, and I actually think that is very important. It is the essence of democracy, and I am very grateful for all that you do.”
— Marc Laredo, Mayor of Newton
The takeaway
Local news outlets play a vital role in keeping communities informed, engaged, and accountable. By covering city government, schools, and other local issues, these journalists provide residents with the information they need to participate in civic life and hold their elected leaders responsible. The mayor's recognition of their importance underscores the essential function of community journalism in a healthy democracy.
