Journalism Matters: How The Wasatch Record fits the puzzle

**Title: Uniting Communities Through Local Journalism: The Role of The Wasatch Record** In an era where local journalism faces unprecedented challenges, The Wasatch Record is stepping up to fill a vital role in the fabric of the Wasatch Back region. As this area continues to evolve and grow, it is essential that local news outlets not only report on the happenings within their communities but also address the unique needs of distinct regions within this dynamic area. Since taking on the role of editor and publisher at The Park Record in August 2023, I have witnessed first-hand the intricacies of serving a community composed of multiple diverse locales — namely Greater Park City, the East Side, and Wasatch County. Each region has its own culture, needs, and interests, and understanding how to best inform and engage these communities is a complex puzzle. An important turn of events unfolded with Deer Valley Resort's announcement to significantly expand its terrain, an initiative that promises to affect nearby towns such as Heber City and Midway, stirring both excitement and apprehension. This development is emblematic of the broader growth trends impacting Wasatch County, and highlights the pressing need for a cohesive local voice amidst rapid changes. The challenge for The Park Record and its new initiative, The Wasatch Record, goes beyond simply reporting news; it’s about revitalizing community journalism at a time when many local papers are shuttering their doors. Since 2005, over 3,000 newspapers have closed in the United States, leaving gaps that lead to a loss of community connection and civic engagement. This decline is largely due to the erosion of advertising revenue as digital platforms overshadow traditional media. Despite these obstacles, I see an evolving narrative within The Park Record. Our team is committed to deepening our coverage and offering content that resonates with our audience's needs, blending humor and creativity into informative journalism. We've noticed growing support from readers who are acknowledging the efforts we put into providing balanced, researched reporting. The launch of The Wasatch Record aims to emphasize local news specifically relevant to Park City and neighboring Summit County communities while highlighting the interconnections among these areas. While we currently have no immediate plans for a dedicated edition for the East Side, our ongoing commitment to covering Kamas Valley, Coalville, and broader Summit County underlines our efforts to ensure no community is overlooked. As a seasoned journalist, I understand the complexities of local reporting, and the work ahead is undoubtedly substantial. However, our experience has prepared us for these challenges, and I remain optimistic about the trajectory we are on. Together, we can not only meet the informational needs of our diverse communities but also nurture a healthier, more engaged citizenry, a goal that remains at the heart of our mission. *Don Rogers is the editor and publisher of The Park Record. He can be reached at drogors@parkrecord.com or (970) 376-0745.*