Pikes Peak Media Company Leads Revival of the Colorado Springs Independent and the Colorado Springs Business Journal
Colorado Springs, CO- February 15, 2024- Entrepreneurs Kevin O’Neil and JW Roth have established Pikes Peak Media Company (PPMC) and, through this new venture, have taken ownership of two key local publications, The Colorado Springs Independent and the Colorado Springs Business Journal. This strategic move aims to revive and sustain these publications, while ensuring that these critical components of the Colorado Springs media landscape remain operational and under local ownership.
Former Colorado Spring Independent Publisher, Fran Zankowski, has been named Interim Publisher and will oversee the search for a new Editor, Publisher and additional Editorial Staff. Fran most recently oversaw the Colorado Springs Independent and Colorado Springs Business Journal until its closing in December of 2023 and was previously with the publications for over a decade.
“The Colorado Springs Independent and the Colorado Springs Business Journal have a 30-year legacy of outstanding journalism,” said Fran Zankowski, Interim Publisher. “Collaborating with JW and Kevin has been exciting as we propel the papers to new heights with expanded city-wide coverage. With their advocacy, the publications are set to grow and become a thoughtful voice for the city.”
Under PPMC's stewardship the publication’s printed distribution will be drastically increased to upwards of 30,000. With printed copies directly mailed to households and placed in traditional distribution racks across the Pikes Peak region. This distribution initiative aims to triple the previous readership and engage a larger footprint of neighborhoods in the region, heralding an exciting new chapter for these publications. The initial phase and publishing schedule will commence with the Colorado Springs Independent in Spring 2024, followed by the revival of the Colorado Springs Business Journal.
JW Roth, co-founder of PPMC says “As a 5th Generation Coloradan, I take great pride in providing my hometown with another trusted, civic driven, and relevant publication. This opportunity offers the Independent and the Business Journal a chance to thrive under unprecedented stability. From the feedback that we are hearing, this is a welcomed change in historical landscape.”
“As a native of our region, I have invested in many businesses and organizations in Colorado Springs and this opportunity fit my focus on building a stronger community where a diverse range of voices are heard.” Says Co-founder of PPMC, Kevin O’Neil. “A robust media landscape telling all our stories makes our community better, so I am pleased to be in a position to support this effort for Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region. We are excited to engage with our unique neighborhoods, industry, arts and culture, academia, non-profits, civic organizations, and the military to showcase what makes us one of the best places to live and work.”
Yemi Mobolade, Mayor of Colorado Springs said in response to the news of the revival, “I applaud and appreciate the efforts of these local leaders to lead a resurgence of the Colorado Springs Independent and the Colorado Springs Business Journal. These publications hold a unique place in the Colorado Springs media landscape, offering a platform for diverse perspectives and contributing to the civic life of Colorado Springs. Our local news outlets serve a core public service and are critical to community building. The information shared through these outlets is vital in giving residents the information they need to improve their quality of life.”
“We are excited about PPMC’s acquisition of the Colorado Springs Independent and the Colorado Springs Business Journal, creating jobs, and bringing in new energy and diverse perspectives to continue to inform and tell the Colorado Springs story,” said Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President & CEO of Colorado Springs Chamber & Economic Development Corporation. “Kevin O’Neil and JW Roth are visionaries that love our region and are invested in driving the growth and prosperity of the Pikes Peak region. Today’s announcement is an affirmation of their commitment to our region.”
Following its hiatus, the Colorado Springs Independent and Colorado Springs Business Journal, a cornerstone of the community for three decades, is now primed for a remarkable resurgence. PPMC's acquisition encompasses all rights to the brands, trademarks, copyrights, and associated events of both the Colorado Springs Independent and the Colorado Springs Business Journal.
About Pikes Peak Media Company: Pikes Peak Media Company (PPMC) is a dynamic media enterprise founded by Kevin O’Neil and JW Roth, dedicated to revitalizing, and enriching the media landscape in Colorado Springs. Through strategic acquisitions and innovative initiatives, PPMC aims to foster community engagement and deliver quality content to audiences across the region.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Mackenzie Tamayo and Chloe Hoeft at pikespeakmediaco@gmail.com
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