Wednesday, April 16th
8:00 am: Breakfast in the Town Square
9:00 am: Sessions Kickoff
Wednesday’s sessions equip newspaper executives with the strategies needed to adapt to shifting reader habits, revenue models, and the evolving role of journalism. From exploring the impact of reduced editorial pages to optimizing mobile engagement and diversifying revenue through promotions and events, these discussions provide actionable insights to strengthen audience connections.. Sessions include:
8:00 am: Breakfast in the Town Square
9:00 am: Sessions Kickoff
Wednesday’s sessions equip newspaper executives with the strategies needed to adapt to shifting reader habits, revenue models, and the evolving role of journalism. From exploring the impact of reduced editorial pages to optimizing mobile engagement and diversifying revenue through promotions and events, these discussions provide actionable insights to strengthen audience connections.. Sessions include:
- SILENCING OURSELVES? THE FUTURE OF OPINION, ENDORSEMENTS, AND JOURNALISM’S ROLE IN DEMOCRACY – With many newspapers reducing or eliminating editorial pages and political endorsements, this session examines the broader implications. Discover what this shift means for audience trust, civic engagement, and the role of local journalism in shaping informed communities. Moderated by Mike Blinder from E&P.
- GOING MOBILE: SUPERCHARGING YOUR READER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY – Mobile engagement is no longer optional—it’s essential. This session explores innovative ways to optimize mobile apps, enhance digital subscriptions, and ensure newspapers are meeting audiences where they are.
- PROMOTIONS/EVENTS AS REVENUE STREAMS – Newspapers have untapped revenue opportunities beyond traditional advertising. Learn how creative promotions, sponsored events, and reader engagement initiatives can drive new income while strengthening community ties.
- SALES SUCCESS: KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE AND MAKE A PLAN – The most effective ad sales strategies start with deep audience insights. This session provides practical guidance on leveraging data to personalize ad offerings, improve sales performance, and create stronger advertiser relationships.
- THRIVING IN THE AGE OF RETAIL'S PRINT TO DIGITAL SHIFT – Retail advertising is shifting rapidly to digital—what does that mean for newspapers? Learn how to adapt to this transition and position newspapers as key partners in local business marketing strategies.
Tuesday, April 15th
8:00 am: Breakfast in the Town Square
9:00 am: Sessions Kickoff
Tuesday’s sessions are packed with strategies to help newspaper executives drive revenue, streamline operations, and strengthen audience connections. From rethinking print frequency and modernizing business models to leveraging AI in sales and optimizing consumer revenue, these sessions provide the tools and insights needed to navigate industry challenges. Sessions include:
8:00 am: Breakfast in the Town Square
9:00 am: Sessions Kickoff
Tuesday’s sessions are packed with strategies to help newspaper executives drive revenue, streamline operations, and strengthen audience connections. From rethinking print frequency and modernizing business models to leveraging AI in sales and optimizing consumer revenue, these sessions provide the tools and insights needed to navigate industry challenges. Sessions include:
- OPENING SESSION: THE SPOKESMAN REVIEW MODEL: REINVENTING A NEWSPAPER’S APPROACH IN THE MARKET – Rob Curley, executive editor at The Spokesman Review, shares how the newspaper has transformed its business model to strengthen community connections and grow revenue. Learn how innovative thinking and a local-first strategy can revitalize engagement and financial sustainability.
- PRINT FREQUENCY SHIFTS: DECISION, EXECUTION, AND IMPACT – The Tampa Bay Times made a bold move to adjust its print frequency—this session unpacks the decision-making process, execution plan, and real-world impact. Publishers will gain insights into balancing cost savings with audience expectations while maintaining strong brand loyalty.
- ETHICAL AI IN ACTION: INTRODUCING EIGHT PILLARS FOR RESPONSIBLE AI – AI presents massive opportunities for newsrooms, but it also comes with risks. This session provides a framework for using AI ethically and effectively, ensuring news organizations can harness its power while maintaining trust and credibility.
- MODERN OPERATING MODELS THAT CAN TRANSFORM LOCAL NEWS MEDIA – Learn how one midsized newspapers has evolved it’s model to adapt and thrive in new market conditions. Explore how a restructured approach to operations can create efficiencies, enhance audience engagement, and generate new revenue streams for sustainability.
- GEN AI IN SALES AND OPERATIONS: IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES THAT DRIVE SUCCESS – AI isn’t just for content—it can revolutionize ad sales and workflow automation. This session explores how newspapers can implement AI-driven solutions to enhance productivity, increase revenue, and stay competitive in a digital-first world.
- HOW TO SUCCESSFULLY EXPAND BEYOND PRINT: STRATEGIES, CHALLENGES, AND SUCCESS STORIES – As print revenue declines, newspapers must embrace digital-first strategies to remain relevant. Learn from the Lenfest Institute on successful case studies on diversifying revenue streams, building sustainable digital models, and making the transition without alienating loyal readers.
- BEST PRACTICES IN CONSUMER REVENUE GROWTH – Consumer revenue is a critical pillar for local newspapers. This session provides actionable strategies to grow both print and digital subscriptions, boost retention rates, and create sustainable audience-driven revenue models.
- BREAKING THE DATA DIVIDE: HOW DATA HELPS UNIFY PRINT AND DIGITAL AUDIENCES FOR GROWTH – Data can be the bridge between traditional print and digital audiences. Learn how to use analytics to better understand reader behavior, improve engagement, and drive long-term audience growth across platforms.
Monday, April 14
5:30 - 6:30 PM
WELCOME RECEPTION IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Town Square-Griffin ABC Sponsored by: KODAK
Tuesday, April 15
7:30 - 8:30 AM
BREAKFAST IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Lenfest Institute for Journalism
8:30 AM
WELCOME
Leonard Woolsey, Publisher, The Galveston County Daily News, President of Southern Newspapers
8:40 AM
Bridging the Gap: How For-Profit Newsrooms Can Access Philanthropic Support
You don’t have to be a nonprofit to tap into philanthropic dollars and resources. In this session, learn how for-profit newsrooms are leveraging a diverse range of tools, funding and networks to diversify revenue streams, attract new audiences, cut costs and pave the way to long-term sustainability. Learn about the national movement to fund local news across the country and walk away with a toolkit of resources for your own newsroom.
Jim Brady, VP/Journalism, Knight Foundation
Duc Luu, Director of Sustainability Initiatives/Journalism, Knight Foundation
9:20 AM
Rebuilding Trust: Connecting Communities Through Local Journalism
Rob Curley shares how The Spokesman Review has transformed its business model to strengthen community connections and grow revenue. Learn how innovative thinking and a local-first strategy can revitalize engagement and financial sustainability. Plus, a special announcement from the Spokesman-Review
Rob Curley, Editor, Spokesman-Review
10:00 AM
COFFEE BREAK IN THE TOWN SQUARE
10:30 AM
MEGA SOLUTIONS SESSIONS
Interactive Discussions between sponsors and media leaders, featuring rotating small groups to maximize engagement.
11:45 AM
LUNCH IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Software Consulting Services
12:45 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Griffin DE
Print Frequency Shifts: Decision, Execution, and Impact
The Tampa Bay Times made a bold move to adjust its print frequency—this session unpacks the decision-making process, execution plan, and real-world impact. Publishers will gain insights into balancing cost savings with audience expectations while maintaining strong brand loyalty.
Conan Gallaty, CEO & Chairman, Tampa Bay Times
Joseph Annotti, President & CEO, Media Financial Management Association
Cardinal
Ethical AI in Action: Introducing Eight Pillars for Transparent, Accountable AI Implementation
AI presents massive opportunities for newsrooms, but it also comes with risks. This session provides a framework for using AI ethically and effectively, ensuring news organizations can harness its power while maintaining trust and credibility.
Kevin Rehberg, VP, Client Development, Alliance for Audited Media
Jessica Davis, VP of News Automation and AI Products, Gannett
1:15 PM
BREAK TO SWITCH SESSIONS
1:25 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Cardinal
Modern Operating Models That Transform Local News Media
Learn how one midsized newspaper has evolved its model to adapt and thrive in new market conditions. Explore how a restructured approach to operations can create efficiencies, enhance audience engagement, and generate new revenue streams for sustainability.
Todd Benoit, President Bangor Daily News
Arvid Tchivzhel, Senior Vice President, Mather Economics, Chief Strategy Officer, Bangor Daily News, Bangor Daily News
Griffin DE
GenAI in Sales and Operations: Implementation Strategies that Drive Success
AI isn’t just for content—it can revolutionize ad sales and workflow automation. This session explores how newspapers can implement AI-driven solutions to enhance productivity, increase revenue, and stay competitive in a digital-first world.
Mike McCarthy, Senior Director of AI Solutions, Hearst Newspapers, Hearst Newspapers
2:10 PM
BREAK TO SWITCH SESSIONS
2:20 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Griffin DE
How to Successfully Go Beyond Print: Strategies, Challenges, and Success Stories
As print revenue declines, newspapers must embrace digital-first strategies to remain relevant. Learn from the Lenfest Institute on successful case studies on diversifying revenue streams, building sustainable digital models, and making the transition without alienating loyal readers.
Tristan Loper, Head of National Programs, Lenfest Institute for Journalism
Natalie Pruitt, President/VP Sales Strategy/Ad Operations Advance Local, Alabama Media Group
Andy Pennington, Publisher, Adams Publishing Group
Cardinal
Best Practices in Consumer Revenue Growth
Consumer revenue is a critical pillar for local newspapers. This session provides actionable strategies to grow both print and digital subscriptions, boost retention rates, and create sustainable audience-driven revenue models.
Aaron Kotarek, General Manager & Chief Operating Officer, The Spokesman-Review
3:00 PM
BREAK IN THE TOWN SQUARE
3:30 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Cardinal
Supercharging Your Reader Engagement Strategy (20-minute session)
Mobile engagement is no longer optional—it’s essential. This session explores innovative ways to optimize mobile apps, enhance digital subscriptions, and ensure newspapers are meeting audiences where they are.
Kyle Whitfield, Vice President, Consumer Revenue, The Advocate
Jonny Kaldor, Co-Founder, Pugpig
Cardinal
Driving Growth: The Teams and Tools Fueling Newspaper Sales Success [20-minute session]
Explore how local newspapers can drive revenue growth through strategic hiring and innovative solutions.
Rachel Scudder, Senior Partnerships Manager, Jobcase
Mike Davis, Senior Account Executive, Gannett Co., Inc.
Griffin DE
Spokesman Review: Northwest Passages & Q&A [40-minute session]
The Spokesman-Review has created one of the most successful "book clubs" in the country. Hear how they made this newspaper-oriented program one of the town's largest events. Plus the Spokesman-Review team will answer questions about their new model.
Rob Curley, Editor, Spokesman-Review
4:10 PM
GENERAL SESSION: Critical Issues Facing the Industry
Griffin DE
Building Trust: The Center for Integrity in News Reporting
Public trust in journalism has reached historic lows, fueled by bias, the rise of 24/7 news cycles, and social media fragmentation. This session introduces the work of the Center for Integrity in News Reporting and its mission to restore confidence in journalism through advocacy, education, and recognition of impartial, values-driven reporting.
Rufus Friday, Executive Director, Center for Integrity in News Reporting
Protecting Local Newspapers: Legislative Challenges and Opportunities
There's been significant state legislation, including public notice, that has impacted newspapers. Hear from those that are leading these efforts across the country.
Dean Ridings, CEO, America's Newspapers
Alan Fisco, President & CFO, The Seattle Times
Zack Richner, Director, Richner Communications, Inc
Pat Dorsey, Publisher, Santa Fe New Mexican
Facing the Future: How Local Publishers Are Navigating Disruption and Uncertainty
In today’s volatile economic and political climate, local newspaper leaders are making tough decisions to stay viable and relevant. This session brings together industry executives for a candid conversation about the future of local media—what’s working, what’s at risk, and how they’re adapting to meet the moment.
David Wilkison, VP, Local Media, The Associated Press
Leonard Woolsey, Publisher, The Galveston County Daily News, President of Southern Newspapers
TBA
5:30 -6:30 PM
RECEPTION IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Gannett
Wednesday, April 16
8:00 - 9:00 AM
BREAKFAST IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Advantage Newspaper Consultants
9:00 AM
GENERAL SESSION
Griffin DE
Silencing Ourselves? The Future of Opinion, Endorsements, and Journalism’s Role in Democracy
Major newspapers are scaling back—or outright eliminating—editorial pages and political endorsements, raising pressing questions about journalism’s role in shaping public discourse. Discover what this shift means for audience trust, civic engagement, and the role of local journalism in shaping informed communities.
Mike Blinder, Publisher, Editor & Publisher
Michael McCarter, Opinion Editor, Gannett Co., Inc.
David Dunn-Rankin, Columnist, D-R Media and Investments LLC
Rob Curley, Editor, Spokesman-Review
Your Audience Data is Lying to You: Why Publishers Can’t Trust Their Own Analytics
This panel will explore the illusion of data accuracy and why many publishers believe they have a “single source of truth” when they are working with only fragments of the full picture.
Bridget Sibthorp-Moecker, Director of Audience, BLOX Digital
Reilly Kneedler, Chief of Staff, Wick Communications
Kyle Rickhoff, Operations Strategist, AlignSimple
10:30 AM
COFFEE BREAK IN THE TOWN SQUARE
11:00 AM
GENERAL SESSIONS
Sales Success: Know Your Audience and Make a Plan [20-minute session]
The most effective ad sales strategies start with deep audience insights. This session provides practical guidance on leveraging data to personalize ad offerings, improve sales performance, and create stronger advertiser relationships.
Dee Evans, Executive Vice President, Advantage Newspaper Consultants
Marianne Grogan, President, Coda Ventures
Building Promotions/Events as Revenue Streams [30-minute session]
Newspapers have untapped revenue opportunities beyond traditional advertising. Learn how creative promotions, sponsored events, and reader engagement initiatives can drive new income while strengthening community ties.
Liz Huff, Founder, Huff & Co.
New and Effective Trends and Techniques to Reinforce Obits and Classifieds [20 Minute Session]
Evolution of obits and classified placements and their impact on local community
Ronald Speechley, VP, Sales, Legacy.com
How Mobile Advertising is Evolving in Publishing [20-Minute Session]
Mobile is now a primary driver of audience engagement and revenue. This session explores how newspapers of any size can implement practical, scalable mobile advertising strategies to connect with readers and grow digital revenue.
Matthew Moulton, GM AdMessenger
Mike Martoccia, VP, Digital Sales & Marketing, Adams Publishing Group
Matt McMillan, CEO, Press Publications
12:30 PM
LUNCH IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Brainworks
MEGA-CONFERENCE CONCLUDES
5:30 - 6:30 PM
WELCOME RECEPTION IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Town Square-Griffin ABC Sponsored by: KODAK
Tuesday, April 15
7:30 - 8:30 AM
BREAKFAST IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Lenfest Institute for Journalism
8:30 AM
WELCOME
Leonard Woolsey, Publisher, The Galveston County Daily News, President of Southern Newspapers
8:40 AM
Bridging the Gap: How For-Profit Newsrooms Can Access Philanthropic Support
You don’t have to be a nonprofit to tap into philanthropic dollars and resources. In this session, learn how for-profit newsrooms are leveraging a diverse range of tools, funding and networks to diversify revenue streams, attract new audiences, cut costs and pave the way to long-term sustainability. Learn about the national movement to fund local news across the country and walk away with a toolkit of resources for your own newsroom.
Jim Brady, VP/Journalism, Knight Foundation
Duc Luu, Director of Sustainability Initiatives/Journalism, Knight Foundation
9:20 AM
Rebuilding Trust: Connecting Communities Through Local Journalism
Rob Curley shares how The Spokesman Review has transformed its business model to strengthen community connections and grow revenue. Learn how innovative thinking and a local-first strategy can revitalize engagement and financial sustainability. Plus, a special announcement from the Spokesman-Review
Rob Curley, Editor, Spokesman-Review
10:00 AM
COFFEE BREAK IN THE TOWN SQUARE
10:30 AM
MEGA SOLUTIONS SESSIONS
Interactive Discussions between sponsors and media leaders, featuring rotating small groups to maximize engagement.
11:45 AM
LUNCH IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Software Consulting Services
12:45 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Griffin DE
Print Frequency Shifts: Decision, Execution, and Impact
The Tampa Bay Times made a bold move to adjust its print frequency—this session unpacks the decision-making process, execution plan, and real-world impact. Publishers will gain insights into balancing cost savings with audience expectations while maintaining strong brand loyalty.
Conan Gallaty, CEO & Chairman, Tampa Bay Times
Joseph Annotti, President & CEO, Media Financial Management Association
Cardinal
Ethical AI in Action: Introducing Eight Pillars for Transparent, Accountable AI Implementation
AI presents massive opportunities for newsrooms, but it also comes with risks. This session provides a framework for using AI ethically and effectively, ensuring news organizations can harness its power while maintaining trust and credibility.
Kevin Rehberg, VP, Client Development, Alliance for Audited Media
Jessica Davis, VP of News Automation and AI Products, Gannett
1:15 PM
BREAK TO SWITCH SESSIONS
1:25 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Cardinal
Modern Operating Models That Transform Local News Media
Learn how one midsized newspaper has evolved its model to adapt and thrive in new market conditions. Explore how a restructured approach to operations can create efficiencies, enhance audience engagement, and generate new revenue streams for sustainability.
Todd Benoit, President Bangor Daily News
Arvid Tchivzhel, Senior Vice President, Mather Economics, Chief Strategy Officer, Bangor Daily News, Bangor Daily News
Griffin DE
GenAI in Sales and Operations: Implementation Strategies that Drive Success
AI isn’t just for content—it can revolutionize ad sales and workflow automation. This session explores how newspapers can implement AI-driven solutions to enhance productivity, increase revenue, and stay competitive in a digital-first world.
Mike McCarthy, Senior Director of AI Solutions, Hearst Newspapers, Hearst Newspapers
2:10 PM
BREAK TO SWITCH SESSIONS
2:20 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Griffin DE
How to Successfully Go Beyond Print: Strategies, Challenges, and Success Stories
As print revenue declines, newspapers must embrace digital-first strategies to remain relevant. Learn from the Lenfest Institute on successful case studies on diversifying revenue streams, building sustainable digital models, and making the transition without alienating loyal readers.
Tristan Loper, Head of National Programs, Lenfest Institute for Journalism
Natalie Pruitt, President/VP Sales Strategy/Ad Operations Advance Local, Alabama Media Group
Andy Pennington, Publisher, Adams Publishing Group
Cardinal
Best Practices in Consumer Revenue Growth
Consumer revenue is a critical pillar for local newspapers. This session provides actionable strategies to grow both print and digital subscriptions, boost retention rates, and create sustainable audience-driven revenue models.
Aaron Kotarek, General Manager & Chief Operating Officer, The Spokesman-Review
3:00 PM
BREAK IN THE TOWN SQUARE
3:30 PM
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Cardinal
Supercharging Your Reader Engagement Strategy (20-minute session)
Mobile engagement is no longer optional—it’s essential. This session explores innovative ways to optimize mobile apps, enhance digital subscriptions, and ensure newspapers are meeting audiences where they are.
Kyle Whitfield, Vice President, Consumer Revenue, The Advocate
Jonny Kaldor, Co-Founder, Pugpig
Cardinal
Driving Growth: The Teams and Tools Fueling Newspaper Sales Success [20-minute session]
Explore how local newspapers can drive revenue growth through strategic hiring and innovative solutions.
Rachel Scudder, Senior Partnerships Manager, Jobcase
Mike Davis, Senior Account Executive, Gannett Co., Inc.
Griffin DE
Spokesman Review: Northwest Passages & Q&A [40-minute session]
The Spokesman-Review has created one of the most successful "book clubs" in the country. Hear how they made this newspaper-oriented program one of the town's largest events. Plus the Spokesman-Review team will answer questions about their new model.
Rob Curley, Editor, Spokesman-Review
4:10 PM
GENERAL SESSION: Critical Issues Facing the Industry
Griffin DE
Building Trust: The Center for Integrity in News Reporting
Public trust in journalism has reached historic lows, fueled by bias, the rise of 24/7 news cycles, and social media fragmentation. This session introduces the work of the Center for Integrity in News Reporting and its mission to restore confidence in journalism through advocacy, education, and recognition of impartial, values-driven reporting.
Rufus Friday, Executive Director, Center for Integrity in News Reporting
Protecting Local Newspapers: Legislative Challenges and Opportunities
There's been significant state legislation, including public notice, that has impacted newspapers. Hear from those that are leading these efforts across the country.
Dean Ridings, CEO, America's Newspapers
Alan Fisco, President & CFO, The Seattle Times
Zack Richner, Director, Richner Communications, Inc
Pat Dorsey, Publisher, Santa Fe New Mexican
Facing the Future: How Local Publishers Are Navigating Disruption and Uncertainty
In today’s volatile economic and political climate, local newspaper leaders are making tough decisions to stay viable and relevant. This session brings together industry executives for a candid conversation about the future of local media—what’s working, what’s at risk, and how they’re adapting to meet the moment.
David Wilkison, VP, Local Media, The Associated Press
Leonard Woolsey, Publisher, The Galveston County Daily News, President of Southern Newspapers
TBA
5:30 -6:30 PM
RECEPTION IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Gannett
Wednesday, April 16
8:00 - 9:00 AM
BREAKFAST IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Advantage Newspaper Consultants
9:00 AM
GENERAL SESSION
Griffin DE
Silencing Ourselves? The Future of Opinion, Endorsements, and Journalism’s Role in Democracy
Major newspapers are scaling back—or outright eliminating—editorial pages and political endorsements, raising pressing questions about journalism’s role in shaping public discourse. Discover what this shift means for audience trust, civic engagement, and the role of local journalism in shaping informed communities.
Mike Blinder, Publisher, Editor & Publisher
Michael McCarter, Opinion Editor, Gannett Co., Inc.
David Dunn-Rankin, Columnist, D-R Media and Investments LLC
Rob Curley, Editor, Spokesman-Review
Your Audience Data is Lying to You: Why Publishers Can’t Trust Their Own Analytics
This panel will explore the illusion of data accuracy and why many publishers believe they have a “single source of truth” when they are working with only fragments of the full picture.
Bridget Sibthorp-Moecker, Director of Audience, BLOX Digital
Reilly Kneedler, Chief of Staff, Wick Communications
Kyle Rickhoff, Operations Strategist, AlignSimple
10:30 AM
COFFEE BREAK IN THE TOWN SQUARE
11:00 AM
GENERAL SESSIONS
Sales Success: Know Your Audience and Make a Plan [20-minute session]
The most effective ad sales strategies start with deep audience insights. This session provides practical guidance on leveraging data to personalize ad offerings, improve sales performance, and create stronger advertiser relationships.
Dee Evans, Executive Vice President, Advantage Newspaper Consultants
Marianne Grogan, President, Coda Ventures
Building Promotions/Events as Revenue Streams [30-minute session]
Newspapers have untapped revenue opportunities beyond traditional advertising. Learn how creative promotions, sponsored events, and reader engagement initiatives can drive new income while strengthening community ties.
Liz Huff, Founder, Huff & Co.
New and Effective Trends and Techniques to Reinforce Obits and Classifieds [20 Minute Session]
Evolution of obits and classified placements and their impact on local community
Ronald Speechley, VP, Sales, Legacy.com
How Mobile Advertising is Evolving in Publishing [20-Minute Session]
Mobile is now a primary driver of audience engagement and revenue. This session explores how newspapers of any size can implement practical, scalable mobile advertising strategies to connect with readers and grow digital revenue.
Matthew Moulton, GM AdMessenger
Mike Martoccia, VP, Digital Sales & Marketing, Adams Publishing Group
Matt McMillan, CEO, Press Publications
12:30 PM
LUNCH IN THE TOWN SQUARE
Sponsored by: Brainworks
MEGA-CONFERENCE CONCLUDES