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12/03/2021

Times/Courier names David Gustafson editor

David Gustafson, a 24-year veteran of the newspaper industry, has been named editor of the Chagrin Valley Times, Solon Times and Geauga Times Courier.

A native of northeast Oklahoma, he began his journalism career as a cub reporter at his hometown newspaper and went on to lead successful newspaper operations there as well as Maine, Iowa and Mississippi.

Mr. Gustafson, 48, will be taking the reins from longtime editor Ellen J. Kleinerman, who is retiring. His first day was Monday.

“I’m excited to join such a talented team of writers and I’m looking forward to getting to know the community as well as its residents,” Mr. Gustafson said. “I’ve had ink in my blood – and on my hands – for a long time now and I’m proud to call Northeast Ohio my new home.”

Although he has lived in South Mississippi since 2009, Mr. Gustafson is no stranger to this part of the country. His father was born in Steubenville and was raised in the western New York community of Jamestown, where several family members still reside.

“I earned my winter wings a number of years ago while living and working in the western mountains of Maine, but I have to admit that it has been a few years since I’ve seen this much snow,” he said. “In fact, it has been a few years since I’ve seen any snow, but I’m ready. I think.”

Mr. Gustafson is the father of four sons including a set of twins who are sophomores at Ole Miss. His oldest son graduated in the spring from Middle Tennessee State University and his youngest son is a senior in high school who plans to attend Ole Miss next fall.

When he’s not reading, writing or editing news copy, Mr. Gustafson is an avid history buff and enjoys listening to live music, traveling and finding ways to be involved in the local community.

“I’m a firm believer in the important role that community newspapers play in areas like ours and it’s a responsibility I take very seriously,” he said. “I’ve watched the news industry evolve over the years, but it’s more important now than ever that we accurately and responsibly inform, engage and entertain our local readers.”

Ms. Kleinerman said she is confident the Times will continue serving readers well. “My mission from the start has been to pursue the best local news coverage for our readers across the Chagrin Valley. I am leaving the papers in good hands.”

Times Publisher H. Kenneth Douthit III said he’s thankful for the years of service from Ms. Kleinerman and he’s confident that Mr. Gustafson will continue to live up to the high standards she has developed during her tenure.

“Ellen has been an important part of our team – and our community – since March of 2014, and we certainly wish her well in her retirement,” he said. “David has big shoes to fill, but he brings with him a wealth of experience that we’re looking forward to take advantage of in the weeks, months and years to 

come.”

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