Colorado Community Media has purchased seven community newspapers from Landmark Community Newspapers, expanding what is already the largest family-owned media company in Colorado.

The acquisition includes the Brighton Standard Blade, Fort Lupton Press, Commercial City Sentinel Express, Metro Advertiser, Canyon Courier, Clear Creek Courant and 285 Hustler.

“It is with mixed feelings that we sold this group of newspapers, which our company has owned for many years,” said Michael Abernathy, president of Landmark Community Newspapers.

“In today’s challenging times, we came to the decision that the communities we serve and our employees in the Denver area would be better served being part of a larger, Denver-based newspaper group.”

CCM now has 22 weekly newspapers, two monthly newspapers and two shopper publications within Douglas, Arapahoe, Adams and Jefferson counties. With the deal, CCM also acquired 12 new employees.

The company is owned and operated by Colorado residents Jerry and Ann Healey.

“We believe in the strength of community newspapers and are delighted to add these newspapers to our group,” Jerry Healey said. “We aim to continue the fine tradition of serving the communities that Landmark developed.”

Healey said CCM hopes to strengthen and preserve the newspapers for the future.

“Part of that mission is also to provide an economic platform to help local businesses grow and thrive,” Healey said. “Through this acquisition, we are now larger and stronger.”

The media merger and acquisition firm Dirks, Van Essen, Murray & April represented Landmark Community Newspapers in the transaction.

The details of the acquisition have not been disclosed.