Skip to content

Townsman publisher bids farewell

Karen Johnston announced her retirement earlier this month, effective April 29.
56147cranbrookdailyjohnston_1
Karen Johnston

Barry Coulter

The Cranbrook Townsman and Kimberley Bulletin are saying good-bye to long-time Publisher Karen Johnston.

Johnston announced her retirement earlier this month, effective April 29.

"It was a difficult decision to make," Johnston said. "But I'm at the right stage in life to pursue some new endeavours. And after 28 years in the business, I felt like I've come full circle."

Johnston joined the Townsman in 2007 as Advertising Director. Her husband, Russell Johnston, joined the team at the same time as press operator. Russell is staying on at the newspaper as Press Foreman.

Karen became Publisher of the Townsman/Bulletin in 2010.

"The most difficult part of the decision is leaving a business I love, and the incredible team I've worked with at the Townsman," she said. "Hard workers who've become personal friends."

"I do feel the changes here will be a successful model for the staff," she added.

Johnston will remain a friend of the Townsman and a subscriber. She will also remain active in the community in roles, as a volunteer and other capacities.

"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, Black Press President, Alberta and East Kootenay divisions.

"We have a great relationship with all of our local media partners, but especially with the Townsman and that always comes from the top down," said Chris Zettel, Communications Officer with the City of Cranbrook. "Karen has been beyond exceptional to work with and has become a great friend. I will miss working with her and I wish her nothing but the best wherever her path leads."

"Karen has been an asset in our community, both to her professional involvement with the Daily Townsman  and her extracurricular volunteer work," said Jason Wheeldon of Royal LePage East Kootenay Realty. "Her knowledge of media, and marketing assisted numerous clients in our practice and community organizations that we work with.   We will miss her terribly, but know that we can always call upon her expertise."

The Townsman wishes Karen Johnston all the best on her way forward into the future, as does the community.