Meet your new newsletter host

The title of my 2024 TEDx San Diego talk was “Your local newspaper is dying — why you should care.”

Local news has been fading. We should care because it creates connections, fosters community and weaves narratives that bind us together. 

That’s why I’m pleased to have this opportunity to deliver hyperlocal news about downtown San Diego.

I’m Ron Donoho, a veteran writer who’s been editor of the monthly San Diego Magazine and alt weekly San Diego CityBeat. I also run the downtown-centric news website The San Diego Sun. 

I live in downtown’s East Village and have resided all over town — in the Marina District, Little Italy and Cortez Hill. I’ve watched the rise and fall of the Gaslamp Quarter and continue to keep an eye on its future viability.

It’s a privilege to cover my 92101 neighborhood. I consider it my responsibility to report on homelessness and political discord as well as new restaurants and civic accomplishments.  

Last week in The Sun, I wrote about how media outlets can shine a light on social safety net nonprofits facing federal budget cutbacks. My work as newsletter host of Downtown News will be distinct — and an exciting chance to cover more stories that help build community.