Wednesday, October 22, 12noon-1pm, National Veterans Memorial and Museum, 300 W. Broad St., this event will also be live-streamed on YouTube

In an era of media consolidation, vanishing local newsrooms, and viral misinformation, the future of trusted journalism is at a crossroads. What happens to a community when its news megaphone splinters — when public media fights for survival, editorial independence is under pressure, and social media algorithms reward outrage over truth?

This isn’t just a media industry issue — it’s a civic one. The health of democracy, the strength of local economies, and the vibrancy of neighborhoods all depend on access to reliable, community-centered information.

Join the Columbus Metropolitan Club for a timely and provocative conversation with national journalist and author Philip Bump (formerly of The Washington Post) and leading local voices as we explore the next chapter of news. We’ll examine the rise of nonprofit and alternative media, the economics of media independence, and the urgent question: If journalism is a public good, who pays for it — and who gets to shape it?

Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, educator, or engaged citizen, this forum will challenge you to consider how we protect and invest in local news as a civic lifeline for Central Ohio.

Featuring Philip Bump, Former National Columnist, The Washington Post, and Author, “The Aftermath: The Last Days of the Baby Boom and the Future of Power in America”; Michelle Everhart-Sullivan, Chief Audience Officer, Signal Ohio; Tareya Palmer, Co-Creator, Columbus Can’t Wait Podcast; with moderator Mike Thompson, Director of Radio, WOSU Public Media.

RSVP for this event by using this link.

Hosted by Columbus Metropolitan Club.