Ralph Routon, a veteran journalist with a rich history in Colorado Springs media, has been an integral part of the journalistic landscape for over two decades. Having served in various roles, including sports editor, columnist, and executive editor, Routon’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the local media scene. He currently holds positions on several boards, including Citizen-Powered Media, the Creative Alliance of Manitou Springs, and the Manitou Arts, Culture, and Heritage tax board. Notably, Routon assumed the role of Interim Co-Publisher of Sixty35 Media following the departure of Amy Gillentine in February 2023.
During a recent livestreamed event titled “IndyFinity,” held on December 16, 2022, to commemorate 30 years of the Independent’s history and discuss the future of Sixty35 Media, Routon, along with other esteemed guests, engaged in a series of conversations. Unfortunately, Cara DeGette, a Senior Reporter and former Editor-in-Chief at the Independent, was unable to attend, prompting reminiscences of her contributions instead.
Among the participants was Fran Zankowski, Publisher at Boulder Weekly and former CEO of the Independent and the Colorado Springs Business Journal. Zankowski, who joined from Washington DC, brought valuable insights to the discussion.
Nick Raven and Dave Gardner co-hosted the event, with Nick Raven directing the video production.
The overarching theme of the event was the evolution of Sixty35 Media, a new nonprofit digital and print journalism initiative consolidating newspapers like the Independent, Colorado Springs Business Journal, Southeast Express, and Pikes Peak Bulletin. This initiative aims to enhance coverage of arts and entertainment, business, government and politics, neighborhoods, and civic affairs across the community.
As Sixty35 Media looks towards the future, individuals are encouraged to become supporting members or make donations to ensure the sustainability and success of this vital journalistic endeavor.