It was another tough year for our industry – and not just because so many jobs were lost and outlets were closed.
And not just because so many people are convinced we do these jobs – which are long on hours and short on pay – just so we can be biased against whatever particular person, company or cause they have extreme interest in. But I digress.
Unfortunately, the losses for our industry in 2024 included the passing of Michael Aron, the dean of reporters in the state.
Here’s a look at five top stories from our sector:
No. 5: The GOATs
Everyone still makes references to Woodward and Bernstein – and the work they did at the Washington Post that led to end of Richard Nixon’s presidency. It’s a high-water mark for the profession. On the 50th anniversary, the two came to NJPAC to look back – and look forward.
Read our story here.
No. 4: The End of a (printed) Era
My first job was at The Star-Ledger – back when the papers were still printed in Newark. Soon, they won’t be printed at all.
Unlike others, I’m not necessarily sad about the end of the print edition. If you are, I simply ask: When was the last time you bought it?
Read our story here.
No. 3: Talking it Out
A video of Representative Tom Kean Jr. refusing to answer questions in the U.S. Capital went semi-viral this fall. I was stunned it was taken – or shown. No one has to talk to the media. Period.
I reached out to Kean. He talked to me – about the incident and other issues.
Read the story here.
No. 2: The Free Press isn’t Free
Everyone talks about how much they love journalism. Presuming, of course, it’s free (what other product do people assume they don’t have to pay for?). But I digress. I challenged readers to support the industry. You responded with donations.
Here’s the story – and another chance to donate.
No. 1: The Passing of Michael Aron
He was the dean of the press corp. An icon of our industry. A great journalist. And a better person.
Read our tribute here.
