News-Argus purchases Plymouth newspaper
By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on January 4, 2006 1:52 PM
Sale of the Roanoke Beacon was announced today by Gary R. Cunard, editor and publisher.
The weekly newspaper was purchased by Wayne Printing Co. Inc., of Goldsboro, which publishes the Goldsboro News-Argus.
Cunard, who also owns the Franklin Times of Louisburg, indicated negotiations had been underway for some time.
Mary Wayt, who has been serving as general manager of The Beacon has agreed to assume the duties of editor/publisher.
Hal Tanner Jr., president of Wayne Printing Co. and publisher of the Goldsboro News-Argus, said he was delighted. "We have been impressed with the newspaper and the work Gary Cunard and his staff have done over the years."
Cunard purchased the newspaper from the Doward Jones family in 1998.
"Acquisition of the Roanoke Beacon reflects the confidence of the News-Argus management in the viability of the present and future of this area. We feel the Roanoke Beacon can play a significant role in supporting the growth and prosperity of the community and its people," Tanner said.
"We appreciate not only Mrs. Wayt's willingness to accept the duties of publisher but her enthusiasm over the opportunity to have an even greater role as the Beacon enters a new era."
Cunard said the News-Argus has long been recognized for its journalistic quality and fairness as well as for its advertising excellence.
The newspaper has a long record of service to the community and state.
While a staunch supporter of the military and especially its neighboring Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, the News-Argus editorially has strongly criticized the Navy's efforts to force the Outlying Landing Field on the people of Washington and Beaufort counties.
"While the corporate headquarters of The Beacon and the News-Argus will be in Goldsboro, The Roanoke Beacon will always be a local newspaper sensitive to the needs, wishes and goodwill of the people of Washington County," Mrs. Wayt said.