We sit down with Melissa Evans, CEO of the Long Beach Post and Long Beach Business Journal. Melissa shares the challenges and triumphs of transitioning local journalism into a nonprofit model, the importance of investigative reporting, and how community support is vital to keeping these trusted news sources alive. Discover how local journalism impacts the Long Beach community and beyond, and how you can get involved.
A New Era for Local News
Melissa Evans’ passion for journalism radiates throughout the conversation. With over 30 years in the industry, including a stint as city editor at the Press-Telegram, her dedication to investigative reporting and transparency is evident. But as she points out, the business of journalism is tougher than ever before.
In 2023, the Post and Business Journal transitioned to a nonprofit model, a significant shift aimed at ensuring their longevity and independence. “What we do is really a public service,” Evans said. “We keep people informed. We keep leaders accountable. We highlight culture, food, and the amazing community that is Long Beach.”
The nonprofit move wasn’t just a structural change—it was a lifeline. The former for-profit company was dissolved, and new employees were onboarded under the nonprofit model in December. A board was established, and despite the immense effort, the results have been promising: a stable budget, a growing base of donors, and a powerful sense of purpose.
The Business Journal: Coming Back Strong
Although publication of the Business Journal paused temporarily, it’s set to make a return, publishing six issues this year. “People love the Business Journal,” Evans said, noting how much readers miss its bi-weekly print presence. The return signifies a hopeful rebound as the Post and Business Journal continue growing.
Juan Huizar echoed the sentiments of many Long Beach residents when he said, “Without the Post, not that many people are reading the Press-Telegram. I’d choose the Post and Business Journal over any other publication out there.”
Investigative Journalism That Matters
One of the most powerful stories the Post has covered involved a tragic DUI incident in the Los Cerritos neighborhood. A young man, driving drunk, killed a family of three—including a two-year-old boy named Omar. A reporter at the Post stayed on the story for years, uncovering how the liquor store owner—previously disciplined for violations—was able to maintain her liquor license.
The investigation led to statewide policy change, with legislation introduced by State Senator Lena Gonzalez and signed into law to hold liquor store owners more accountable. “At the sentencing hearing, the victim’s grandmother said the reporter had been Omar’s voice. That’s why we do this,” Evans shared.
This kind of deep, persistent reporting isn’t something you find on TikTok or in casual online publications—it requires time, trust, community involvement, and resources.
Why Local News is Struggling
More than 2,100 newspapers have closed since 2004. Why? As Evans explains, the shift to digital gutted traditional revenue models. Classified ads were wiped out by Craigslist. Social media disrupted distribution channels. And hedge fund ownership, as seen in the case of the Press-Telegram, stripped newsrooms down to their bare bones.
“We lost control of distribution,” Evans said. “Google and Facebook took that over. And now, we’re trying to figure out a new way forward.”
That new way includes diversified income streams: advertising, yes—but also memberships, donations, and grants. In just seven months, the Post secured nearly $200,000 in grant funding, and they’ve established a strong recurring donation program—just $15 a month makes someone a member.
A Vision for 2025 and Beyond
What’s next for the Post and the city of Long Beach? A lot.
Evans points to major infrastructure developments at the port, city-wide preparations for the 2028 Olympics, and the phasing out of oil operations—all significant stories requiring thorough, local coverage. “There’s so much going on in Long Beach, and we need more journalists to cover it all.”
A major priority? Education reporting. “There are so many young families in Long Beach who don’t have access to reliable, independent information about the schools and school district,” she said. Expanding that coverage is part of their end-of-year campaign goals.
Juan Huizar praised this initiative, reminding viewers that he and his team are not just realtors—they’re ambassadors for Long Beach. “People have choices. They’re looking at Carlsbad, San Diego, Redondo Beach. We’re here to promote Long Beach, and part of that is supporting journalism that tells our city’s story.”
How You Can Help
Supporting the Post and Business Journal can take many forms:
- Become a Member: For just $15/month, you can contribute to the newsroom’s stability.
- Make a Major Gift: Donations of $5,000+ can be matched as part of their current fundraising campaign.
- Send Story Ideas: Some of the best journalism starts with a tip from a local.
- Follow and Share: Follow @longbeachpost on Instagram (with over 108k followers!), X, and Facebook. Share the articles you care about.
To reach out, email Melissa directly at [email protected], the general inbox at [email protected], or learn more at lbpost.com.
Final Thoughts
As Evans put it best, “News is now in the hands of the community. But we have to do this together.”
The Long Beach Post and Business Journal are more than publications—they’re vital institutions working to make Long Beach better, more informed, and more connected. If you care about your city, it’s time to support the people who tell its stories.
