CityBeat: A History of Independent Journalism in Cincinnati
Founded in November 1994, CityBeat emerged as a vital voice for independent news in Cincinnati. The publication was established through the partnership of local entrepreneur Thomas Schiff and co-founder John Fox. Fox brought significant editorial experience to the venture, having previously served as the editor of Everybody's News, which was the only print source for independent news in Cincinnati at that time.
A Legacy of Journalistic Excellence
Since its inception, CityBeat has built a reputation for high-quality reporting and visual storytelling. The publication has earned numerous local, statewide, and national awards for both its journalism and design. A notable milestone occurred in 2005, when the Society of Professional Journalists named CityBeat the Best Weekly Paper in the state of Ohio.
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Ownership Transitions and Evolution
Over the decades, CityBeat has transitioned through several ownership structures to maintain its operations in a changing media landscape.
- 2012: The publication was acquired by SouthComm Communications.
- 2018: Ownership shifted to the Euclid Media Group.
- 2023: Following the dissolution of Euclid Media Group in August, the newspaper was sold to Chris Keating, operating under the entity Big Lou Holdings LLC.
- 2025: On December 10, it was announced that LINK Media had acquired CityBeat magazine from Big Lou Holdings.
Ownership Timeline Summary
| Year/Period | Owner/Entity | Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1994 | Thomas Schiff & John Fox | Foundation of the paper |
| 2012 | SouthComm Communications | Acquisition |
| 2018 | Euclid Media Group | Acquisition |
| 2023 | Big Lou Holdings LLC (Chris Keating) | Purchase after Euclid Media dissolution |
| 2025 | LINK Media | Acquisition from Big Lou Holdings |
Key Facts
- Founded: November 1994.
- Co-founders: Thomas Schiff and John Fox.
- Major Award: Named Best Weekly Paper in Ohio (2005) by the Society of Professional Journalists.
- Current Owner: LINK Media (as of December 10, 2025).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded CityBeat?
CityBeat was co-founded in November 1994 by local entrepreneur Thomas Schiff and former Everybody's News editor John Fox.
What awards has CityBeat won?
The publication has received various national, statewide, and local awards for design and journalism, including being named the Best Weekly Paper in Ohio in 2005.
Who owned CityBeat before LINK Media?
Immediately prior to LINK Media, CityBeat was owned by Chris Keating under the name Big Lou Holdings LLC.
When did Euclid Media Group own the paper?
Euclid Media Group acquired CityBeat in 2018 and held ownership until the company dissolved in August 2023.
What was John Fox's role before starting CityBeat?
John Fox was the editor at Everybody's News, which was Cincinnati's sole print source for independent news at the time.