Nine Wyoming newspapers closing their doors
By Dahl Erickson
August 6, 2025
For the staff of nine long-time Wyoming newspapers, they were informed their positions were now terminated and their services no longer required on Wednesday as their parent company ended their operations.
The News Media Corporation (NMC) sent out letters to the employees of the Kemmerer Gazette, the Bridger Valley Pioneer, the Uinta County Herald and the Pinedale Roundup that their “employment with NMC and/or its affiliated companies will end permanently.”
In addition, the Torrington Telegram, the Lingle Guide, the Guernsey Gazette the Platte County Record-Times and the Lusk Herald will also be shuttered due to the move.
The information provided stated “over the past months and years, we have explored every possible avenue to sustain our operations and preserve our team. Unfortunately, due to financial challenges, a significant economic downturn impacting our industry, revenue losses and increasing expenses, and the recent failure of an attempt to sell the company as a going concern, we have reached a point where continuing business is no longer feasible.”
NMC and Wyoming Newspapers Inc. has been the ownership of a large number of newspapers in Wyoming and other states for many years as the list of privately owned papers dwindled into the single digits. The Star Valley Independent is one of those few individually owned papers.
According to the letter, “this was a difficult decision, and it is no way a reflection of your individual performance or dedication to the company. We understand this news will be difficult and we want to ensure that you are supported during this transition.”
NMC outlined bullet points for a final paycheck, benefits, assistance with job placement and HR support which will be available through August 27.
The Wyoming Press Association issued the following statement:
“The Wyoming Press Association Board of Directors is disheartened to learn of the immediate closure of eight of our member newspapers. These publications were staffed by hardworking professionals who had their communities’ best interests at heart.
The loss of these newspapers is already shocking loyal readers and advertisers, and the impacts of these closures will undoubtedly have a ripple effect. We regret that News Media Corporation’s decision to cease business operations is impacting tens of thousands of Wyomingites, and dozens of loyal employees.”
“The sudden actions taken by News Media Corporation are not indicative of the state of newspapers in Wyoming. There are still dozens of newspapers who are fierce advocates for their communities, whether through reporting on local high school sports or holding their local governments accountable. Newspapers represent the soul of Wyoming, both speaking for and to the communities they serve.”
“The Wyoming Press Association remains committed to supporting our member newspapers across the state in their tireless service to communities. We are also encouraging any of our members who have job openings to list them with the Wyoming Press Association in an attempt to keep these talented individuals in the state and continuing to contribute to the vital journalism still being done by Wyoming newspapers.”
Early reactions came through online from the Herald who stated via Facebook “we are sad for our outstanding and loyal staff and the wonderful communities we had the opportunity to serve.”
Posts across Facebook have popped up on these newspapers with statement of “Wyoming Newspapers Inc. has ceased operations effective August 6, 2025. We have greatly appreciated the community’s support over the years.”
