For the residents of Owosso and Shiawassee County, the name The Argus-Press is synonymous with local news, community connection, and the steady rhythm of daily life. After an incredible 170 years of continuous publication, and 131 years under the steadfast ownership of the Campbell family, a significant chapter in the newspaper’s history has come to a close. The Campbell family has announced the sale of The Argus-Press to Boone Newsmedia, Inc. (BNI), marking both an end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new one.
Humble Beginnings
From its humble beginnings as the Owosso American in 1854, The Argus-Press has been a vital thread in the fabric of Shiawassee County. Through generations, it has chronicled local triumphs and challenges, celebrated milestones, and held a mirror to the community it serves. The fact that it remained an independent, family-owned operation for so long – four generations, to be exact – speaks volumes about the Campbell family’s deep commitment and passion for local journalism.
For the past several decades, Tom Campbell, the owner, president, and publisher, alongside his wife Cathy Campbell, the advertising director, have been the driving force behind The Argus-Press. Their combined dedication, spanning decades of navigating industry shifts and upholding journalistic integrity, has been truly remarkable. Tom’s journey, from joining the company in 1982 after graduating from the University of Michigan to leading it as publisher, and Cathy’s ascent from a high-school co-op student to advertising director, paints a picture of unwavering commitment and deep-rooted connection to the newspaper and the community it serves.
Passing the Torch
In a heartfelt statement, Tom Campbell expressed his pleasure in passing the torch to another family-owned organization, Boone Newsmedia. His words highlight the careful consideration taken in finding a buyer who values the Owosso community and is dedicated to keeping the presses running locally, a crucial factor for the local economy. The Campbells’ decision to retire in early summer after the transition marks a well-deserved new chapter for them both.
Boone Newsmedia, Inc., based in Alabama, brings a wealth of experience in community journalism, managing over 60 publications across seven states, including Michigan. Their pledge to continue The Argus-Press’ long-held values of quality journalism and support for local businesses offers a sense of continuity and reassurance for the Owosso community. Steve Stewart, president and CEO of BNI, emphasized their honor in succeeding the Campbell family and their commitment to serving the community with first-rate news and effective marketing solutions.
The formation of Owosso Newsmedia, LLC, a new Michigan-based company under the BNI umbrella, further underscores their commitment to the local operation. This acquisition signals BNI’s broader dedication to producing meaningful publications that serve the needs of their communities, fostering civic engagement, and supporting local economies.
The Legacy Continues
While the departure of the Campbells marks the end of a significant chapter, the acquisition by Boone Newsmedia promises a continuation of the vital role The Argus-Press plays in Owosso and Shiawassee County. The search for Tom Campbell’s successor as publisher is underway, and the community awaits the announcement in the coming weeks, eager to see who will lead this long-standing institution into its next phase.
The legacy of the Campbell family’s dedication to The Argus-Press is undeniable. Their commitment to community service and journalistic integrity has shaped the newspaper into the cornerstone it is today. As Boone Newsmedia takes the helm, the hope is that they will build upon this strong foundation, ensuring that The Argus-Press continues to be a trusted source of information and a vital voice for the Owosso community for many years to come. This transition is not just a business transaction; it’s a passing of the torch in the ongoing story of a community and the newspaper that has chronicled its journey for over a century and a half.
