Times Media Group Expands Its Reach with Acquisition of Two California News Outlets

(David Minton/ Staff Photographer)

Times Media Group (TMG), a major publisher of over 60 publications and websites across Arizona and California, has expanded its portfolio by acquiring two prominent Southern California news groups: Firebrand Media based in Laguna Beach and Century Media Group serving the Inland Empire.

Steve Strickbine, president of TMG, commented that these acquisitions highlight the company’s commitment to growth amidst a challenging landscape for many media publishers. “At Times Media Group we’re a bit contrarian,” said Strickbine.

Firebrand Media publishes several local outlets including Laguna Beach Independent, Newport Beach Independent, and Coast Real Estate Guide. It also produces the award-winning Laguna Beach Magazine and Newport Beach Magazine. Firebrand is recognized for its success in custom publishing, encompassing various magazine titles for private companies and organizations nationwide.

“Firebrand’s dedication to excellence and journalism makes them a natural fit for us,” Strickbine noted. “Their custom publishing capabilities open new opportunities for our advertisers and readers.”

Steve Zepezauer, founder and general partner of Firebrand, will join TMG as the director of custom publishing. “With TMG’s resources and shared vision, we are excited for the next chapter,” Zepezauer said. “Our publications will serve and inform our communities better than ever.”

Century Group Media, TMG’s other recent acquisition, has been operating weekly community newspapers in California’s Inland Empire for 37 years. The deal includes publications such as Redlands Community News, Yucaipa News Mirror, and Fontana Herald News. Jerry Bean, the company’s founder, plans to retire after 66 years in the newspaper business. Bean praised Strickbine’s approach to integrating traditional journalism roles with modern digital platforms.

Strickbine expressed pride in the company’s growth. “More than a million readers look to our publications weekly for local news,” he said. “We are honored to be trusted as a reliable news source in a rapidly changing media environment.”

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