Second-generation newspaperman Jim Moser is handing over the string of papers he established two decades ago, having “found a partner that understands the responsibility that comes with local ownership”.
The president of Moser Community Media – whose father published the Brenham Banner-Press for 41 years – is selling to Times Media Group, which is expanding its community news footprint into Texas.
Moser Community Media, also known as Texas Local Media Company, published 32 community newspapers throughout the state. Dirks, Van Essen & April is representing Moser in the transaction, which is effective from March 2.
TMG says the publications will continue operating with an emphasis on editorial independence, community engagement, and local accessibility. Offices will be maintained throughout Texas convenient to the communities the newspapers serve.
“Local journalism matters because local communities matter,” said founder and publisher Steve Strickbine. “Our mission has always been simple and unwavering – to serve as a protector of community and a defender of truth. We invest in local news because informed citizens build stronger towns, stronger economies and stronger families.”
“We are not coming in to strip away what makes these papers special.”
Strickbine founded Times Media Group in 1997 after leaving a career as a practicing CPA to pursue publishing entrepreneurship. His first publication, an eight-page community newspaper serving North Scottsdale with a circulation of just 5000, was “built on hyperlocal reporting, disciplined financial management and close relationships with advertisers”. Nearly three decades later, that model has grown into a portfolio of more than 100 print and digital titles across Arizona, California and Colorado, printing more than 1.1 million copies. The company also owns distribution and custom publishing firm AZ Integrated Media.