Gambit: The Voice of New Orleans Alternative Journalism
In the vibrant cultural landscape of Louisiana, Gambit stands as a cornerstone of local independent media. Established in 1981, this free alternative weekly newspaper—a type of publication that typically focuses on counter-cultural perspectives and local community issues—has spent decades documenting the unique pulse of the New Orleans metro area.
Operating in a tabloid format, Gambit provides a comprehensive look at the city, blending hard-hitting reporting with essential lifestyle guides. From the corridors of local government to the hidden gems of the culinary scene, the publication serves as a vital resource for both residents and visitors.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Founded: 1981 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Ownership: Owned by Georges Media (since April 9, 2018).
- Circulation: 36,000 papers distributed weekly to 400 locations.
- Digital Presence: Operates via BestofNewOrleans.com and the Blog of New Orleans.
- Core Focus: Local politics, arts, music, food, and environmental issues.
Editorial Focus and Content
Gambit is renowned for its diverse coverage, ranging from investigative journalism to cultural curation. Its reporting spans local politics, news, film, and the arts, ensuring that the community remains informed on critical environmental and social issues.
Signature Features
The publication is well-known for several recurring segments that engage its readership:
- Opening Gambit: A dedicated section for political news briefs.
- Thumbs Up & Thumbs Down: A weekly commentary highlighting the city's "heroes and zeroes."
Beyond its pages, Gambit is a champion of the local arts scene, sponsoring the Big Easy Theater Awards and the Big Easy Music Awards to honor the city's most talented performing artists.
Political Stance and Endorsements
While Gambit publishes weekly editorials and provides endorsements for many local political races, it adheres to two strict exceptions. The paper does not endorse candidates in national elections, nor does it endorse in judicial elections, based on the long-standing belief that judges should be appointed rather than elected.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Evolution and Expansion
Over the years, the publication has undergone several identity shifts. Originally founded as Gambit in 1981, it was renamed Gambit Weekly in 1996, before returning to its original name, Gambit, in January 2009.
To keep pace with the digital age, the organization launched the Blog of New Orleans on October 1, 2007. This platform supplements the main website, BestofNewOrleans.com, by providing daily updates on sports, cuisine, and local culture. The media group has also expanded its portfolio to include CUE, a monthly home and fashion magazine, and BRIDE & GROOM, a semi-annual wedding guide.
Journalistic Excellence and Contributors
The quality of Gambit's journalism is reflected in its roster of contributors and its accolades. Current political editor Clancy DuBos also serves as a political analyst for WWL-TV. The paper has previously employed notable writers such as Chris Rose, Jeremy Alford, Andrei Codrescu, and Ronnie Virgets, as well as author Michael Tisserand and former Louisiana Democratic Party spokesman Scott Jordan.
The publication's commitment to social justice has earned it significant recognition. Former writer Katy Reckdahl received the James Aronson Award for Social Justice Journalism in 2002 for her work on homelessness, as well as a Casey Journalism Center Medal for her reporting on the Tallulah Correctional Center for Youth.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Jeanne Exnicios Foster |
| Editor | John Stanton |
| Headquarters | 823 Camp St. New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Distribution Day | Tuesday (Distribution begins Sunday afternoon) |
| Parent Company | Georges Media |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Gambit?
Gambit is owned by Georges Media, the holding company for The New Orleans Advocate, which purchased the publication on April 9, 2018.
How is Gambit distributed?
The paper publishes 36,000 copies every Tuesday, which are distributed to 400 different locations across the New Orleans metro area starting on Sunday afternoons.
Does Gambit endorse political candidates?
Yes, Gambit issues endorsements for many political races, but it specifically avoids endorsing candidates in national elections and judicial elections.
What other publications are associated with Gambit?
In addition to the weekly paper and the Blog of New Orleans, the group publishes CUE (a monthly home and fashion magazine) and BRIDE & GROOM (a twice-annual wedding guide).
What awards does the publication sponsor?
Gambit sponsors the annual Big Easy Music Awards and the Big Easy Theater Awards to recognize excellence in New Orleans' performing arts.