Hagadone Media Group acquires Keokee Publishing assets in retirement transition for founder Chris Bessler

SANDPOINT — Hagadone Media Group has acquired the publishing and media assets of Sandpoint-based Keokee media + marketing, marking a leadership transition as longtime publisher Chris Bessler steps toward retirement after decades of serving the North Idaho community.

The acquisition includes Sandpoint Magazine, SandpointOnline, the Town Crier weekly newsletter, and the regional publishing imprint Keokee Books, all of which have become trusted sources of storytelling and information for residents and visitors throughout the Inland Northwest.

Bessler founded Keokee in 1990 and built the company into one of the region’s most respected independent publishing companies, known for high-quality editorial content, photography, and thoughtful coverage of North Idaho’s people, culture, and landscape.

“Chris has created something truly meaningful for this community,” said Clint Schroeder, president of Hagadone Communications and Hagadone Media Group. “Sandpoint Magazine, SandpointOnline.com, and Keokee Books have long celebrated the character and natural beauty of North Idaho. We’re honored to continue that legacy and invest in their future.”

Since its founding, Sandpoint Magazine has earned a loyal following for its high-quality storytelling and visual journalism. Meanwhile, SandpointOnline and its Town Crier newsletter have become widely used platforms for local news, events, and community engagement.

Through Keokee Books, the company has also published numerous titles documenting regional history, outdoor recreation, and the unique natural environment of the Inland Northwest.

Bessler said the transition represents a natural next chapter for both him and the publications he has shepherded for years.

“It’s been a privilege for 35-plus years to publish stories about this remarkable region and the people who call it home,” Bessler said. “It was important for me as I hand off Sandpoint Magazine and our book publishing and media products, that they go to a successor that could meet two requirements – first, that the new company would have the resources to ensure their continued success. And second, and most important, that this new company would have a true commitment to our region and our communities. I believe there’s no question that the Hagadone Media Group shares this deep commitment to North Idaho, the people here, and to the strong community journalism that is so important to help our residents appreciate and value all the things we have in common here.”

Hagadone Media Group plans to continue publishing the titles while exploring opportunities to expand its reach across both print and digital platforms.

Bessler will remain involved during a transition period to assist with introductions to advertisers, partners, and community stakeholders while ensuring continuity for the publications and their audiences. While Keokee’s media products are transitioning to the Hagadone Media Group, Keokee’s very active agency services for marketing, website design, and hosting continue as always. 

“While this is a big step to retirement, I’m not there yet,” quipped Bessler, noting that he’ll still be ensuring operations for Keokee’s diverse agency services.

Hagadone Media Group, headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, operates newspapers, magazines, digital media platforms, and printing operations across Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Hawaii.

“Our focus is simple,” Schroeder said. “Honor the legacy Chris built while ensuring these publications continue to thrive and serve the Sandpoint community for years to come.”