Robert Speer is retiring after over 30 years in the alternative press. Last week Speer stepped down as editor of the Chico News & Review, the paper he co-founded in August 1977:

[News & Review President/CEO Jeff] vonKaenel said that, though the CN&R has evolved, much of the initial spirit—of which he calls Speer “the architect”—remains.

“The News & Review’s and Chico Community Publishing’s DNA really was formed by Bob and his vision to have a community paper that represents many voices, a sense of fairness and a sense of potential for what a community can become,” vonKaenel said.

This is not Speer’s first retirement or extended leave of absence, and he has served the paper in various capacities over the years including as arts editor, associate editor, and multiple stints in the chief’s seat, and as an interim editor of the Sacramento News & Review. During his times away from the organization, he edited a weekly in Boise, Idaho, worked at Butte College, and briefly pursued a career as a screenwriter.

Managing editor Melissa Daugherty has been named as Speer’s successor. Daugherty joined Chico News & Review in 2007 and has served in “almost every major role at the paper” since her arrival.