The Oak Ridge Observer

The Oak Ridge Observer is a locally owned, weekly newspaper, which was launched in December 2004. You can find us at more than 80 locations in Oak Ridge and the surrounding area. The Observer begins arriving on stands at noon every Thursday, and has already been recognized for its widespread distribution and penetration into the local market.

In fact, the Anderson County Law Director certified the Observer as a newspaper of general distribution for Anderson County in October 2006. This important recognition now allows the county and all its cities, such as Oak Ridge and Clinton, to place their legal notices with us.

The Observer is highly respected among the business community, and is a member of the Oak Ridge Chamber, the Anderson County Chamber and the Knoxville Chamber, as well as a member of Business Networking International. Additionally, staff members are involved in Rotary, Altrusa, League of Women Voters, East Tennessee Economic Council, Oak Ridge Civic Music Association and Oak Ridge Humane Society.

Stan Mitchell, the editor and publisher of The Oak Ridge Observer, has worked at three
newspapers, two of which were daily, following a four-year stint in the Marine Corps where he served in the infantry. Prior to launching The Oak Ridge Observer, Mitchell worked as a reporter for The Oak Ridger. He graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a BS in journalism from the College of Communications. While serving in the Marine Corps, Mitchell traveled to many places around the world including Japan, South Korea, Spain, France, Italy, Malta and Sardinia. Prior to being discharged as a Sergeant, Mitchell participated in Operation Silver Wake, the evacuation of U.S. citizens from Tirana, Albania, in 1997, for which he received a Combat Action Ribbon.

Contact our staff:
Robin Biloski, business and community affairs.
Mike Blackerby, sports editor.
A. Conrad, graphics and classifieds.