Against the strong headwinds facing journalism (and newspapers in particular), the hyperlocal media space continues to thrive, delivering the type of relevant journalism that is essential to a functioning society and a vibrant community. Providing consistent, reliable news and information while growing a viable print media business requires engaged local ownership.

Keith Pepper, left, the new owner of Springs Publishing, and founder Steve Levene.

That’s why we are excited to announce the transition of Reporter Newspapers and its parent company, Springs Publishing, to a new, local owner, Keith Pepper. Keith is an Atlanta native who has deep roots in the community (he was born at Northside and grew up in Dunwoody and Sandy Springs) and will continue to operate the company with a focus on being present in civic, corporate and cultural events across our coverage areas.

As regular readers of this paper know, Springs Publishing founder/owner Steve Levene built a successful group of local papers by staying focused on the communities they serve. The Springs family includes the four Reporter Newspapers, plus Atlanta INtown and Atlanta Senior Life. These publications are produced by a committed and talented staff of journalists, designers and sales executives.

For 14 years, the Reporter has been the go-to source for metro Atlanta’s most dynamic and influential neighborhoods and cities. Our readers have come to rely on our journalists to know what’s happening: from city council meetings and local school issues to real estate and where to find the newest “best burger.”

By producing high-quality products that reach coveted audiences, local advertisers have been able to grow their businesses using simple but effective marketing plans to connect with their neighbors. It’s because of these engaged constituencies that Reporter Newspapers has been able to survive so many changes in the industry. The plan going forward is to lean into this market leadership and continue to cover the stories that are meaningful to our communities and to do it in fun, engaging and non-sensational ways.

We will keep it old-school with thorough research and clear, concise writing. At the same time, we will experiment with new ways to meet our readers in places they may not expect.

Continue to look for the Reporter in the mail and around town, but also please connect with us on social media. Spread the word: we’re all in this together. While our names may be on the masthead, we want this to be your paper as well! Please reach out with feedback or questions to publisher@springspublishing.com.

Keith Pepper is the publisher of Rough Draft Atlanta, including Atlanta Intown, Reporter Newspapers, and Silver Streak.

Steve Levene is the founder and former publisher of Reporter Newspapers.