“The Georgia Straight is a household name across the Lower Mainland. I grew up with it being a pioneer of independent thinking, and a passionate supporter of the arts,” said Farhan Mohamed, Overstory’s co-founder and CEO. “At its best, The Straight captured and explored the beating heart of Vancouver’s culture – and became part of it. We are committed to bringing that back.”

Overstory, which owns and operates many community and culture publications across Canada, bought the publication from Media Central Corporation, which had been struggling financially over the last two years. The purchase price was not disclosed.

            Overstory said its “first action” would be to reinstate Georgia Straight’s arts and culture focus, as well as beef up coverage of Vancouver-area events, entertainment, music, food and news. The company also says it is hiring, including an arts editor, music editor and food writer.

Meanwhile, The Tyee, has reported on how staffers who toiled to keep the paper alive and are now owed back wages, vacation pay, and severance payments.