Longtime Townsman publisher retires from newspaper

Karen joined the Townsman in 2007 as advertising sales manager.

Karen Johnston, longtime publisher of the Cranbrook Townsman, has announced her retirement. — Photo courtesy Barry Coulter, The Cranbrook Townsman

Karen Johnston, longtime publisher of the Cranbrook Townsman, has announced her retirement.  She joined the Townsman in 2007 as advertising sales manager and has been publisher of both the Townsman and the Kimberley Bulletin since 2010.

Her retirement comes amidst a major change in the circulation frequency at the newspaper.  The Cranbrook Townsman goes from publishing daily five days a week down to a tri-weekly schedule of three days a week, and the Kootenay Advertiser, their sister paper, goes from twice a week to once a week distribution.  The Kimberley Bulletin will also become a tri-weekly.

"Karen has done an amazing job of ensuring our readers and advertisers receive excellent service and quality. I've enjoyed working with her immensely and will miss her positive energy and enthusiasm," said Mary Kemmis, president of Alberta and the East Kootenay division of Victoria-based Black Press.  Ms. Kemmis was quoted in an interview in the Townsman.

Karen Johnston's husband, Russell Johnston is the head press man at the Townsman and will stay on with the company.

Zena Williams, the current publisher of the Kootenay Advertiser, will step in and become the publisher of all three newspapers.

Though Karen may be retiring from 28-years in the newspaper business, she will be pursuing other interests including work as a volunteer in the community.  We wish Karen much success.