FlashAlert launches new feature to override local news release targeting

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- FlashAlert introduced a new feature Thursday that allows news organizations to override geographic targeting on news releases and automatically receive updates across broader regions.

The distribution network typically allows client organizations to target news releases to specific local markets, preventing media outlets outside those areas from receiving hyper-local content. The new override option enables newsrooms to automatically receive all releases distributed within selected regional markets or entire states, even if the originating sender did not select their specific city.

Under FlashAlert's standard system, a business or organization serving a small community such as Troutdale, Ore., or Chehalis, Wash., can choose to send a news release exclusively to local outlets. In that scenario, newsrooms in larger nearby markets like Portland, Ore., do not receive the release. The new override feature allows newsrooms seeking broader coverage to receive those localized releases regardless of whether the sender included their city.

Media outlets can select specific regions to receive all posted releases from, including Portland, Vancouver and Salem; Eugene, Springfield, Roseburg, Albany and Corvallis; Medford, Klamath Falls and Grants Pass; Bend and Central-Eastern Oregon; Spokane, Eastern Washington and North Idaho; the Columbia area encompassing Pendleton, Tri-Cities and Yakima; Boise and Southern Idaho; and Colorado Springs and Pueblo. Overrides can also be set for entire states, including Oregon, Wash. and Colorado.

The update is entirely optional and existing newsroom account settings will remain unchanged unless an outlet specifically requests the feature. FlashAlert is also soliciting feedback from news teams regarding potential network capabilities and tools to help improve newsroom efficiency.

FlashAlert CEO Eric Jacobson and irx, LLC, thanked participating news organizations in the announcement.

“Thank you for your ongoing partnership in the FlashAlert network,” Jacobson said. “We couldn't do what we do without you.”

Media outlets interested in enabling the regional override feature can submit their region selections by emailing support@flashalert.net.