Straus News Enters the Manhattan Neighborhood News Market
Later, the Straus family transformed WMCA Radio into New York's premiere talk radio station, with well-known hosts such as Barry Gray, who also wrote regularly for Our Town.
"We're committed to local news and covering the issues that matter to people's everyday lives," said Straus News Publisher Jeanne Straus, who lives in West Side Spirit territory. "We relish the opportunity to take over publishing these terrific papers in the greatest city in the world."
Tom Allon, the long-time publisher/editor of the Manhattan Newspaper Group, will remain as president and CEO of Manhattan Media.
"I'm very happy that we have found in Straus News a buyer who understands community journalism, the neighborhoods of Manhattan and recognizes the need to keep these five newspapers vibrant parts of our city," Allon said. "After more than a quarter century of being involved with West Side Spirit and Our Town, I look forward to being a regular reader of these award-winning publications."
Richard Burns, general partner of Isis and chairman of Manhattan Media, added: "We've been pleased and proud owners of the newspapers for more than a decade. They've not only played important roles in their communities but have also produced consistent financial returns for us. We know that Straus News has the know-how and commitment to make these papers a continuing vital part of the New York landscape."
Following today's sale, Isis continues to own and produce media properties like New York Family, the New York Baby Show, City & State (for professionals in city and state government in New York), as well as AVENUE magazine and Dan's Papers LLC in the Hamptons.
Owned for decades by the Straus family, the papers focus on neighborhood issues that matter to people's everyday lives, with a commitment to reporting the tough local stories while highlighting neighborhood successes and achievements.
The newspapers have won numerous awards for news coverage and editorial and advertising excellence, including first place for in-depth reporting for a series about heroin addiction and a prestigious National Education Writers Award.