Shaw Media sells Newton News to J. Louie Mullen of Eastern Iowa Publications

The Newton News has been purchased by a Wyoming publisher who owns more than 40 weekly newspapers across the country, including a few in Iowa.

Shaw Media, a publisher with news products in Iowa and Illinois, had owned Newton News since 1944. The sale was finalized on Nov. 4, and it includes the products made by Newton News, PCM Explorer, Jasper County Tribune and the Jasper County Advertiser. All staff members were able to maintain employment.

J. Louie Mullen, owner of Blackbird, LLC and Eastern Iowa Publications, has been reported to have a “hands-off” style to ownership, telling the Editor & Publisher in November 2022 that he is there more for support, does not micromanage staff and gives management an incredible amount of leeway.

Mullen was introduced to the newspaper industry at a young age. His parents had him and his brothers work as paper boys for the Sioux City Journal. His experience with news extended further when his father became publisher of a newspaper in Wyoming. Soon, even Mullen was called on to write stories.

Purchasing the Newton paper and its accompanying weeklies is as much of a personal choice as it is a business choice for Mullen.

“I’ve been coming to Newton since before I can remember,” he said. “I have family here, so it was a real treat to be given the opportunity to purchase the paper.”

When seeking out new opportunities, Mullen first looks at the community itself.

“I always try to find independent communities when I’m looking at an opportunity. The community needs to have a vibrant school, medical and business mix,” he said. “Your paper is just a reflection of your community and personality. Newton and Jasper County deserve to have that in perpetuity.”

Carrie Vander Weerdt, general manager of the Newton News, said, “I’m excited for the opportunities that this new ownership brings. I’m looking forward to the possibilities ahead, and I’m ready to work as a team to take our papers to the next level.”

Jamee A. Pierson, editor of the Newton News, said, “This new chapter in the Newton News story looks to be the best yet. We will continue to strive to bring the best product to our readers and be a trusted source for all community members.”