Respecting your time with quick-hit video fact-checks

Is it just me, or are people who are privileged to be employed right now busier than ever? Even with much of the country shut down or slowed down, there just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day. Whether this rings true for you or not, I highly recommend you check out PolitiFact’s Youtube video series, the Truth-O-Meter Minute. Each video is a brief, bite-sized opportunity to keep yourself informed with fact-checks on the latest headlines.

At a time when facts are more critical than ever, many of you have asked, “What is PolitiFact’s agenda?” It’s a totally understandable query, since we all want to trust our news sources — especially during this infodemic of misinformation. PolitiFact Editor-in-Chief Angie Drobnic Holan gives you an in-depth answer to this question in our new PolitiFAQ series.

Giving you an insider’s perspective on the state of local journalism

(Sara O’Brien)

“I really loved it. I'm excited that this will be ongoing. This is incredibly helpful and heartening!”

These kind words are just one of many positive remarks we received from Poynter supporters who attended last month’s Poynter Perks gathering on fact-checking.

Please join us for our next conversation and Q&A on July 30 at 4 p.m. Eastern where you’ll hear directly from Poynter President Neil Brown. You’ll get an in-depth discussion on the value of local news and Neil’s perspective on misinformation, disinformation, who to trust and what’s at stake.

This free, 30-minute gathering is exclusively for Poynter donors. We will take you behind-the-scenes to see the work we’re doing to make good journalism better thanks to your generous support. 

Register to attend so we can send you the Zoom link. Have a specific question for Neil now? Reply to this email and your question could be at the front of the line!

Register Now

Highlighting the debate on opening schools

(AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos)

As millions of families prepare for school to begin next month, the debate continues on how to keep children safe. Educators are suing their states’ plans to reopen schools. Families are exploring “pandemic pods” and “microschools” as alternatives to all-virtual teaching. Learn more from Poynter’s Al Tompkins’ analysis on this incredibly divisive issue. And as a bonus, he’ll answer the question, “Just what on earth is Maskne?”

Helping you chill out this summer

How do you unwind after a long week? Pre-pandemic, you could often find me on a Friday evening having a cocktail at my local watering hole. And speaking of water ... Al Tompkins shares the latest happy hour craze that’s sweeping the country thanks to social distancing: the inflatable backyard kiddie pool.

Please consider making a contribution toward our mission today so we can continue to keep you informed tomorrow. If you recently made a donation to Poynter ... thank you!

Be well,


Josh Herrington
Development Director
[email protected]

Poynter Foundation Board Members: 

Brian Tierney, CEO, Brian Communications
Michael Dreyer, President, Tampa Bay Trust Company
Frank “Sandy” Rief III, Attorney, Allen Dell, Attorneys at Law
Liz Sembler, Board Member, Corporation for Public Broadcasting