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Ben Olivo Takes New Direction with Seattle Times
Ben Olivo, a familiar name in local journalism and the co-founder of San Antonio's Heron, is embarking on an exciting new chapter as the local government editor at The Seattle Times. His transition, effective January 9, marks a significant shift not only in his career but also for the Heron, a nonprofit news outlet committed to community journalism.
His departure has sparked discussions among readers and journalists alike, reflecting a community that values the content he provided. While the Heron board—comprising Crystal Darby, Mario Ochoa, Glenda Wolin, Kent Oliver, and Lynn Knapik—has reassured followers that the newspaper will continue, there are evident challenges ahead.
Commitment to Community Journalism
The board emphasizes that the Heron brand remains strong, with a dedicated group determined to uphold high standards in reporting. Between now and the end of December, the Heron plans to publish previously reported content to maintain reader engagement and support. Stories in the pipeline tackle crucial local issues, such as the transformation of public housing and complex redevelopment deals—topics that resonate with residents who want informed perspectives on community growth.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the Heron will take a hiatus starting January 1 to regroup and strategize funding efforts. Before departing, Olivo aims to secure partnerships and grants to establish a sustainable financial foundation for the organization, allowing it to stabilize and grow beyond this transitional phase. The goal is to hire a full-time editor and a membership coordinator, which would reinvigorate the publication with a full program of community-focused journalism.
A Call for Community Support
Residents are encouraged to continue their support during this period of transition. As Olivo notes, creating a thriving journalistic entity is a community effort, one that will rely on both external funding and internal commitment to high-quality reporting. The Heron board is committed to transparency throughout this process, assuring readers that updates will follow as the situation evolves.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
While Olivo's departure is certainly a loss for the local journalism landscape, it opens the door for new opportunities at both The Seattle Times and within the Heron. As the San Antonio community rallies to support its local publication, it stands to gain a renewed commitment to quality journalism that speaks to the heart of the neighborhood. Readers interested in keeping up with developments or becoming involved can reach out to the Heron at hello@saheron.com.
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