JACKSON, Wyo. — After nearly four decades of publishing the first issue of The Village Focus, publishers Wade McKoy and Bob Woodall have announced the sale of the Focus Group Magazines to Keli Lessing (Via 89, Inc). The deal was finalized on December 4.
Since 1984, photographers McKoy and Woodall, owners of parent company Focus Productions, Inc, have published three annual free magazines: Jackson Hole Skier, Jackson Hole Dining Guide, and Grand Teton & Yellowstone Adventure Guide under the banner of The Focus Group Magazines. The established magazines serve as recreation and dining guides for both locals and visitors to Jackson Hole.
“For nearly four decades I’ve lived a skier’s life while shooting and writing about our resort community and putting it all together in The Focus Group magazines,” McKoy said.
Woodall added, “It has been an amazing run and now is the time to pass the torch. As we head into the next decade, we’re ready to pursue new adventures and start our own individual chapters.”
Over the years, McKoy and Woodall produced some of the valley’s most memorable action photographs from their quirky ski-bum headquarters in The Hostel at the base of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The magazines have a venerable history in the valley with devoted readers and advertisers. McKoy plans to continue his journalism, and Woodall, his photography. Both said they look forward to having more free time.
The purchaser, Ms. Lessing, is an accomplished businesswoman who recently spent time in Jackson Hole working in the National Parks. She now owns the three magazines and their digital and social media properties and plans to relocate to Jackson Hole soon. Lessing will build on the magazine’s “insider” appeal and move the magazines forward to enhance digital and online content.
“I’m humbled to become part of an iconic Jackson Hole business that has been serving the community for so long. I promise to continue the tradition of excellence in local print media while continuing to support local businesses,” Lessing said.
Independent publisher Mary Grossman (Minds Wide Open, Inc.) represented Focus Productions Inc. and facilitated the sale. No interruption of the 2020-21 publishing schedule is anticipated. Lessing welcomes freelance writers and photographers who are interested in submitting photos and stories for the magazines to contact her via email.
