Just a few days ago, communities across Wyoming and Nebraska were stunned by the news that nine of our local newspapers had been shut down. As someone who has spent more than two decades working in community journalism, I felt that loss as deeply as anyone.
These publications are not just businesses. They are the record-keepers of our lives, the watchdogs of our government, and the gathering places where communities see themselves reflected. To imagine our counties without them was unthinkable.
That is why I am proud to share that, together with Robb and Jen Hicks, we have reached an agreement to purchase these newspapers and bring them back to life. Our priority has been to rehire the staff and resume publishing immediately, because our communities cannot afford even a temporary silence.
This was not the simplest path forward. Creditors and financial pressures could easily have carried the day. For that reason, I want to express my sincere gratitude to JJ Tompkins of News Media Corporation. Rather than turning away, he chose to work with us, ensuring employees were paid and that these newspapers had a future. In an industry where closures often happen without notice or care for the people left behind, his decision mattered.
I also want to thank the staff members who stood by these publications even in their darkest hour. Their professionalism, dedication, and belief that a solution could be found kept the spirit of these newspapers alive when the presses went silent. We would not be here today without them.
Most of all, I am grateful to the readers and community members who made their voices heard. In the days after the closure, you spoke out — on social media, in conversations, and directly to us — about what these newspapers meant to you. Your passion affirmed what I have always known: a local paper is the lifeblood of a community. But that lifeblood depends on the community’s support. If you value your local paper, I ask you to invest in it, to read it, and to stand with it in the months and years ahead.
For my family and for me, this fight has always been personal. My wife, Shaylee, and I have made our lives here in Wyoming. Robb and Jen carry a multigenerational legacy of Wyoming journalism. We understand what is at stake, and we are committed to preserving these newspapers for the people who call these counties home.
The past week has been a reminder of how fragile local journalism can be. But it has also been a reminder of its strength — when communities rally, when staff persevere, and when leaders step forward to protect it. I am honored to be part of that effort, and I look forward to continuing to serve you as publisher.
These newspapers are yours. Together, we have saved them. Now, together, we must help them thrive.
Although the doors may have shut, we never left. We are excited to do this the Wyoming way.
Rob Mortimore
(Robb and Jen put together an incredible editorial for the Buffalo Bulletin last week, titled ‘The place we call home.’ They hit the nail on the head. Take a few minutes to read it: https://tinyurl.com/3btvy6f7)
