Leslie Thompson Named Publisher of The Argus Observer

The Argus Observer today announced that longtime editor Leslie Thompson will serve as its next publisher.

“I have complete confidence in Leslie's leadership. She’s a talented media professional, coupled with her strong and unbiased journalistic instincts and roots in Ontario, make her the ideal choice. Her commitment to the Western Treasure Valley is evident, and I am certain the newspaper will thrive under her guidance. We deeply value the community's ongoing support, and encourage everyone to rally around Leslie to ensure her future success,” said Wick Communications CEO, Josh O’Connor.

Last week Thompson marked her 11-year anniversary with the Argus Observer. She started as an assistant editor handling copy editing and page design. Thompson quickly expanded her role, contributing photography and reporting to special sections and breaking news coverage. By the following year, she had stepped into the editor position, where she led the newsroom through nearly a decade of change and innovation in the local media landscape.

“Under my leadership, the newsroom has continued a long history of enriching our community with award-winning journalism,” Thompson said. “For me, the biggest reward has been keeping the community informed while making myriad connections along the way.”

A native of southern Idaho, Thompson studied graphic design at the College of Southern Idaho and began her career at weekly newspapers in central Idaho, later transitioning into marketing and ultimately into the newsroom. She moved to Ontario in 2014 and has since become deeply embedded in the Western Treasure Valley.

“Someone once told me that Ontario is a jewel in the crown of Oregon — I wholeheartedly agree,” she said. “The area is a mecca for agriculture and natural resources and is rich with cultural history, all of which should be celebrated.”

As publisher, Thompson will oversee both the editorial, business and sales operations of the Argus Observer, guiding its continued role as a vital community institution. She plans to prioritize community engagement and long-term sustainability.

She will take over for departing Publisher Jeff Schumacher, who recently acquired newspapers of his own in Alabama.

“I am excited to step into the role of publisher,” she said. “I look forward to strengthening connections and building new ones. I plan to work closely with the community to ensure the newspaper’s lasting success.”

When she’s not in the newsroom, Thompson enjoys watercolor painting, hiking and spending time with her husband of 24 years and their 23-year-old son.