Republican Names Industry Veteran New Editor

Veteran newspaperman Thomas R. Martinez is the new editor of the Watonga Republican.

Martinez’s first day was Oct. 19.

"I am excited to have Thomas leading The Republican," said Publisher Brett Wesner. "He brings a rich history of community journalism experience and a deep understanding of the role community newspapers should play. I am very much looking forward to the future of The Republican under his leadership."

Martinez was previously assistant managing editor in charge of digital and production at the Victoria Advocate in Victoria, Texas.

He brings 25-plus years of experience across all platforms and within differing capacities in the newsroom. He believes strongly in community journalism and has devoted his career to it.

He was an award-winning sports editor in Greeley, a cops and night reporter in North Platte, Nebraska, and an editor and writer in Fort Morgan, Colorado, among his stops.

He is an award-winning columnist, taking first place in the Colorado Press Association contest in 2015 for his columns in Fort Morgan.

Martinez believes in both the watchdog role a newspaper plays in the community and its role of providing community news at a micro level.

“I look forward to learning about the good people of Watonga and Blaine County and telling their stories,” Martinez said. “As editor, I want to provide a balanced and thorough news coverage of the Watonga community.”

He also believes a good newspaper has a strong presence online. He looks forward to enhancing the Republican’s online efforts, both with new ideas and strengthening what it currently does on its website and social media channels.

Martinez can be reached by phone at 580-623-4922 or email at editor@watongarepublican.com, or readers can become friends with him on Facebook, facebook.com/thomas.ra y.martinez.

He welcomes news tips or conversations with readers through any format.

Martinez is an Army veteran who fought in the Gulf War, an avid sports fan, enjoys motorcycles and likes home and garden projects.

Martinez replaces Connie Burcham, who left to pursue other opportunities.

He will also be the editor and general manager of Cordell Beacon and the editor of the Hinton Record.