Hear ye, hear ye! Let the trumpets sound and the confetti fall, because the Portland Mercury is thrilled to announce our newest publisher... James Deeley!

Now you may be wondering: What is a "publisher" and more importantly, what is a "James Deeley"? I’m here to happily answer those questions. 

A publisher is the mama bear of newspapers—which means they oversee all operations. Plus they make sure we stay on budget, dream up new, innovative ways to improve, while also providing support for every single employee to ensure they have everything they need to get the job done right!

In answer to your second question, a "James Deeley" is one of my (and the Mercury's) most trusted friends and boosters, and has been so for the last 22 (!) years of our 25-year history. For the vast majority of that time, James has either worked in or led the Mercury's advertising department while being a staunch defender of our editorial vision.

“We’re here to stick up for the city we love," James says about the Mercury, "showcasing what’s great about it while also fighting to fix what needs fixing. No matter what national narrative is being pushed, Portland is still a beautiful, passionate, artistic community, and we’ll always remind people of that. Our role is to be a voice for the marginalized, to hold power to account, and—just as importantly—to make you laugh your ass off along the way.”

In short, he gets us. And he gets you, too! Plus, he has extra special love for small businesses—like ours—which makes Portland one of the most unique cities in the nation. You can walk into just about any small, longtime shop, bar, or restaurant in the city, and they'll probably know James from his advertising days, and how he was always there to listen, help, and offer words of support as well as terrific ideas. 

Personally, I could not be more thrilled to partner up with James in his new role. For 22 years, James has been a true friend and supporter of the editorial department, cheering us on and never hesitating to defend the three founding principles of the Mercury: news, entertainment, and trouble. He's here for us, and here for you, too. 

Congratulations, James! 🎉🙌🏻❤️