Public Access Media Founder Terry Kelliher explains how his platform can help develop Sports and local news and communication. On this episode Peter Mingils talks about Pickleball and asks how this platform works for this community.
httos://Blog.NewsOn this episode, Terry Kelliher explains how the platform he is creating will help people that love Pickleball, like our friend Jay Sargeant, can use the platform to develop the Pickleball community. We also talk about the launches of Vlog.news, Blog.News and the first channel https://publicaccess.blog.news/
We are always updating the Kell News site with the Kell News Radio shows.
https://kell.news
Public access news—locally produced, freely available journalism—serves as the lifeblood of informed communities. In an era of media consolidation and digital overload, it provides a vital counterweight, ensuring residents stay connected to the issues, events, and decisions shaping their daily lives. Unlike national outlets focused on broad trends or sensationalism, public access news drills down to the granular details—school board meetings, zoning disputes, local elections—that directly impact neighborhoods. Its importance lies in its ability to foster accountability, civic engagement, and a shared sense of identity.
One key role of public access news is holding power to account. Local governments, businesses, and institutions often operate with less scrutiny than their national counterparts. Without dedicated coverage, mismanagement or corruption can fester unnoticed. A small-town paper or community radio station might expose a misallocated budget or a shady land deal, sparking public debate and action. For example, investigative reporting by local outlets has uncovered everything from toxic waste dumping to fraudulent school administrators—issues that might never hit the radar of distant media conglomerates.
Beyond oversight, public access news drives civic participation. When people know what's happening—whether it's a new park proposal or a tax hike—they're more likely to vote, attend meetings, or voice opinions. Studies consistently show that communities with robust local news have higher voter turnout and engagement. In contrast, "news deserts," areas with little to no local coverage, see declining participation as residents become detached from local governance. Public access news bridges that gap, turning passive residents into active citizens.
It also strengthens community bonds. National news often amplifies division, but local stories—about a firefighter's heroism, a school's fundraiser, or a cultural festival—highlight shared values and experiences. This isn't just feel-good fluff; it builds trust and social cohesion, essential for collective problem-solving. During crises like natural disasters, local outlets become lifelines, delivering real-time updates on shelters, road closures, and relief efforts when broader networks can't keep up.
Yet, public access news faces threats. Ad revenue has plummeted as digital platforms siphon funding, forcing many small outlets to shutter. The rise of social media, while democratizing information, often spreads rumors faster than facts, undercutting credible local reporting. In response, some communities have turned to nonprofit models, crowdfunding, or public funding to sustain newsrooms. Others rely on volunteer-driven public access TV or radio, proving that grassroots efforts can fill the void.
The stakes are high. Without local news, communities risk becoming fragmented, uninformed, and vulnerable to external agendas. A 2022 study found that areas with declining local coverage see more partisan polarization, as people turn to national echo chambers. Public access news counters this by grounding discourse in local realities, not abstract ideologies.
In short, public access news isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. It empowers residents to shape their futures, keeps watchdogs on alert, and knits communities together. Supporting it means investing in democracy at its most tangible level: the places we call home. As corporate media retreats, local voices must rise, ensuring no community is left in the dark.
Here is some interesting news about Pickleball communities:
Pickleball communities are vibrant, inclusive hubs uniting players of all ages and skill levels through a shared love for this fast-growing sport. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball's accessibility fosters tight-knit groups where camaraderie thrives. From local courts to global online forums, these communities are transforming recreational and social landscapes.
Local pickleball clubs, often found in community centers, parks, or private facilities, serve as the heartbeat of the sport. They host open plays, clinics, and tournaments, creating spaces where beginners learn alongside seasoned players. For instance, clubs like those affiliated with USA Pickleball organize round-robin events, encouraging friendships and healthy competition. Many communities, such as retirement villages in Florida or urban parks in Seattle, have dedicated courts, with players gathering daily for spirited matches and post-game socializing. These local scenes often extend to potlucks, charity events, or court clean-up days, strengthening bonds beyond the game.
Online, pickleball communities flourish on platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and X, where groups like "Pickleball Forum” or "Pickleball Addicts” boast thousands of members. Players swap tips on paddle selection, share videos of trick shots, or coordinate meetups. Apps like TeamReach or PicklePlay connect players to nearby games, ensuring no one misses a rally. These digital spaces also amplify voices advocating for more courts or inclusive play, driving the sport's growth.
Pickleball's low barrier to entry—affordable equipment and simple rules—makes it a magnet for diverse crowds, from teens to seniors. Communities often emphasize inclusivity, with adaptive programs for players with disabilities gaining traction. As pickleball surges, with over 36 million players in the U.S. alone (per 2024 data), these communities are more than just sports groups—they're social lifelines fostering fitness, connection, and joy, one dink at a time.
The post Terry Kelliher on Pickleball, Sports and Local News and Community Communication on Kell News Radio appeared first on Building Fortunes Radio Network.
