Community First Media Announces Acquisition Of Local Newspapers

Community First Media, Inc., of Shelby has announced the purchase of the Kings Mountain Herald, The (Cherryville) Eagle and the Belmont/Mt. Holly Banner News from Gemini Newspapers, Inc., effective June 27.

Gemini acquired these three newspapers in August 2008 from Republic Newspapers, Inc. of Knoxville, TN.

Community First Media, is the publisher of Shelby Shopper & Info and the Rutherford Weekly community newspapers.

CF Media president Greg Ledford said, “We are excited to take on the challenge of preserving the unique charm and character of these newspapers while recognizing the need for complimentary growth. Our goal is to help our communities thrive and benefit through all our publications.”

In announcing the sale, The Herald’s co-owner, Wendy Isbell said, “We have always believed that local newspapers should be locally-owned and are pleased to have continued that tradition here. I am confident the sale of the papers to another local owner will keep the quality of coverage up to the expectations of the community. These are very good newspapers staffed by people who care deeply about the communities and the people they cover.”

Cribb, Greene & Associates of Charlottesville, VA
 represented the company in the sale.