It is with great pleasure and confidence that we announce the passing of the pen in our efforts to keep the residents of Central Navajo County informed and connected. After 55 years of dedicated service, we are thrilled to introduce Shawn White, a native-born Winslow resident and esteemed graduate of Winslow High School and ASU’s Cronkite School of Journalism, as the new owner and steward of The Tribune.
Shawn brings with him a wealth of energy, enthusiasm, and expertise that is sure to propel local news into the 21st century and beyond. As a proud product of our community, Shawn understands the unique needs, challenges, and aspirations of Central Navajo County residents, and is deeply committed to serving as a trusted source of information and a voice for our community.
When Debbie and I decided it was time to sell, we knew it could not be to just anyone. These communities deserve a publisher that would continue reflecting the journalistic integrity my father portrayed and passed on to the generations of editors and writers we employed.
I believe Shawn has demonstrated a passion for honest storytelling, a commitment to journalistic excellence, and a dedication to amplifying the voices and stories of those who call our community home. With his fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and tireless work ethic, we are confident that Shawn will build upon the legacy of the newspaper and continue to uphold the highest standards of excellence in journalism.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you all
When my parents (Paul and June) embarked on this journey over half a century ago, their goal was simple yet profound: to inform, unite and uplift our readership by providing quality journalism, insightful commentary, and a platform for community voices to be heard. Through the pages of our newspaper, we have chronicled the triumphs and challenges, celebrations and sorrows, milestones and memories of our towns and neighborhoods.
We have had the honor of bearing witness to the extraordinary resilience, compassion and strength of our communities, particularly during times of adversity and uncertainty. Together, we have weathered storms, celebrated milestones, and navigated the ever-changing landscape of our world with courage and determination.
As we turn the page to a new chapter in our lives, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you who has supported us along the way. Whether you were a loyal reader, a dedicated advertiser, a valued contributor, or simply a friend who stopped by to say hello, your presence has enriched our lives in ways we cannot fully express.
As Debbie and I embark on this new chapter, we carry with us the cherished memories, enduring friendships and profound gratitude that have defined our journey together. Though our paths may diverge, the spirit of community and connection that has animated our shared experience will always endure.
We want to extend our deepest thanks to each and every one of you for your unwavering support, loyalty, and friendship over the past 55 years. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve you, and we will forever hold the memories of our time together close to our hearts.
Thank you to all my family and co-workers
The Tribune has been more than just a newspaper to me—it has been a lifelong journey filled with memories of friendships. From the earliest days of stuffing inserts into the paper, to my years as a paperboy selling papers on the street corner, then advertising, production, circulation, staff photographer, The Tribune has been a constant presence in my life.
I worked with just about everyone that came and went over the decades. So, to each and every one of you who played a role in making The Tribune a success, I offer my heartfelt thanks. Your contributions, whether big or small, have made a lasting impact on the newspaper and the communities. I am eternally grateful for your dedication, hard work, and unwavering support.
I feel it is not enough to simply offer a blanket thank you. The individuals who assisted us in meeting numerous deadlines, ensuring the timely production of our paper, deserve special recognition. Their dedication often went beyond the call of duty, and their efforts were pivotal. Notable, after the loss of my father in 2013, their support became indispensable. Without them, overcoming such challenges would have been unattainable.
Of course, I have to start with my wife, Debbie who, contrary to the expectations of her friends has been able to work with me for over 30 years. Yeah, I’m surprised too. Thank you, Debbie.
Francie Payne loved Holbrook and the newspaper, so much she could not stay away. She worked here for 3 years, left for six, then came back and continued for another 30.
Linda Kor liked the adventure of moving from place to place, but found a home here at the paper for 17 years. Her daughter, Talaina Kor has worked part-time for the last 13 years. Linda’s boys, Brandon Fisher and Josh Kor, both worked at the paper, and continue to help out from time-to-time.
Lorna Barger, my sister was the smart one. She avoided the constant deadlines inherent in this industry. She would work at the paper at different times when we need extra help.
My Aunt Silvia Barger, when my aunt and uncle moved to Winslow, my aunt was drafted to help proofread.
Okay, to help move this along, I’m going to list the next seven together. Farmers are not the only ones who find having lots of kids on the farm a blessing. All grandpa Paul and grandma June’s grandkids helped in distribution, stuffing and labeling the newspapers. So, thank you to Patrick Frost, Robert Sample, Chris Barger, Jon Sample, Kim Barger Cochran, Rachel Barger, and Josh Barger.
Other current staff include: Linda Kor, Debbie Barger, Shawn White, Talaina Kor, Greg Perkins, Kathy Contreras and Tyler Adelman, Over the years, in no particular order, as they pop into my head: JoLynn Fox, Judy Douglass, Jill Cockerham and kids, sorry their names escape me. Bobby Sample, Bernie Montoya, Bill Wiegand, Mike Russo, Diane Ousley, Laura Parsons, Sam Conner, Janet Downs, Floyd and Maria Hunt, Sam and Carol Hostler, Amy Rosnovak, Naomi Hatch, Tammy Gray, John Maine, Michael DeWitt, Michael Nelson Jr., Danny Sanchez, Tana Sue Simonton, Bob Seymore, Ernie Montoya, Scott Self, Toni Gibbons, Jack Vicars Jr., Juanita Walters, Debbie Alvarez, Sonni (Maestas) Montijo, Stephen Fox, Judi Standiford, Teri Tafoya, Debbie McKee, Teri Walker, Lori Horsley, JoAnne Washburn, Nerita Flake, Shon Flake, Nick Worth, David Flake, Linda Turley Hansen, Luella Foree, Ivan Cheney. And the countless paper boys and girls through the 60’s, 70’s and maybe into the 80’s.
I know there are others, I would love to get their names. If you, or someone in your family worked for the Holbrook, Winslow or Snowflake/Taylor papers please let me know. Send email to matt@yourtrib.com.
With warmest regards and heartfelt appreciation to all,
Matthew and Debbie Barger
