Bushman, 75, has been in the newspaper business for nearly 60 years.

Terry Christensen, general manager of the Daily Freeman-Journal, will become publisher of The Messenger and the Daily-Freeman Journal.

Christensen began his newspaper career at the Daily Times Herald, in Carroll, prior to becoming general manager of the Daily Freeman-Journal in 2010. His career has included work for the Lincoln Journal Star, Lincoln, Nebraska; and the Omaha World Herald. He was advertising director of The Messenger from 2004 to 2007. He also worked in the grocery business for 22 years.

He and his wife, Tammy Christensen, have two sons and two grandchildren. He is a member of the Webster City Lion’s Club and Hamilton County Crimestoppers.

Terry Christensen

“My family and I are grateful for this opportunity,” Christensen said. “Following Larry Bushman’s footsteps will be a challenge. His knowledge and passion for our products is why he was such a successful leader for more than 45 years.”

“Knowing the staff at The Messenger is a hard-working, diligent group of people will certainly help with this transition,” he said.

“I am eager to spend time with the people and businesses in Fort Dodge and the surrounding area.”

“Although the ways in which people receive their news has changed over the years, I truly believe The Messenger and Daily Freeman Journal will continue to be our communities’ source for news, sports and advertising.”

Bushman said, “We extend a welcome to Terry in his new role as publisher of The Messenger. He brings a tremendous amount of newspaper experience and leadership to this important position.”

“It has been a privilege to work for The Messenger,” he said. “The Messenger has served its readers and advertisers with quality local and area news products for over 161 years.”

Bushman and his wife, Sandy Bushman, who is a Realtor for Coldwell Banker Associated Realtors, have three children and six grandchildren.

“Sandy and I will be spending more time with grandchildren,” Larry Bushman said. “And traveling will be a high priority.”

Although he is retiring, Bushman will maintain an office in Fort Dodge and function in an advisory role for The Messenger’s corporate newspaper group.

Bushman will continue to be an active participant in the growth and improvements of Fort Dodge and the region. He has been a member of the First American Bank Advisory Board. Also, he is a member of the Fort Dodge Noon Rotary Club, Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance Board of Directors, GFDGA Finance Committee, GFDGA Ambassador Group, and Fort Dodge Country Club. He is also on the board of the Webster County Improvement Corporation.