Brandl, Peterson take over operations at Headlight Herald
A new era at the Headlight Herald has begun, with the longstanding newspaper’s first publication under new ownership.
Above The Fold Publishing, LLC oversaw its first edition of the Headlight Herald this week. Owners Per Peterson and Tara Brandl purchased the newspaper from longtime owners Jim Keul and Seth Schmidt. The business was turned over to Peterson and Brandl, effective Monday, April 1, 2019.
“Tara and I are thrilled to continue the great tradition of the Headlight Herald,” said Peterson, who will continue in his role as editor of the publication. “I grew up reading the Headlight, and feel honored to grab the reins and build on what is already one of the top weekly newspapers in the state.”
Readers will notice a bit of a different look to their paper, with new headline fonts, as well as a revamped logo which includes an image of a locomotive — an homage to Tracy’s longstanding railroad history.
The paper will also now be known as the Tracy Area Headlight Herald.
“We strive to put out the best paper every week for not only the residents of Tracy, but the surrounding area as well,” said Brandl, who will be the newspaper’s publisher. There are so many positive things going on in our area with businesses, groups, Tracy Area Public Schools. We want to acknowledge that in the name of the paper and bring the news of the area to our readers.”
The new Headlight Herald will also have a number of features for readers to enjoy. These changes will take place over time.
“There are numerous positives changes happening in Tracy, and I consider what is happening with the Headlight one of them,” said Peterson, who has worked at the Headlight Herald since January 2017 after a long career at the Marshall Independent. “Change is good, and we vow to make sure this change will be one that benefits all of our readers and advertisers.”
Brandl started in the newspaper industry right out of college, and “I love every part of it, from the local stories for the readers to working with business owners,” she said. “I look forward to continuing my career in Tracy. This is a growing community and a great town to raise a family. I’m excited to be part of this community for many years to come.”
Newspapers have been a part of Tracy’s fiber for the last 140 years, starting with the Tracy Gazette, which was established in 1879. The Tracy Headlight Herald was formed in 1920.