Continuing a Legacy: The Future of Southern Jewelry News

The jewelry industry is built on stories—stories of craftsmanship, family, dedication, and community. Southern Jewelry News and Mid-America Jewelry News have been telling those stories for over 34 years, becoming trusted voices and respected resources for jewelers across the country. These publications have helped shape the identity and connection of our industry, and their impact runs deep.

As Jewelry Store Marketers takes on ownership of Southern Jewelry News and Mid-America Jewelry News, I want to acknowledge the extraordinary leadership that brought us to this moment. For the past 26 years, Bill Newnan and Chris Smith, the former co-owners of SJN and MAJN, have guided these publications with integrity, consistency, and a genuine commitment to the jewelry community. Their dedication has ensured that these publications were not only informative but meaningful—an anchor in an industry built on relationships.

I also want to recognize the remarkable contributions of Elesa Dillon and Martha Osswald. Their editorial direction, industry insight, and steady hands have kept SJN’s voice authentic, relevant, and trusted. Their work has preserved the publication’s character and reliability, and I am deeply grateful that they will continue this journey alongside me, working with the Jewelry Store Marketers team to carry the legacy forward.

To honor all that has been built, we created a special video titled:
“A Walk Through History: The Legacy of Southern Jewelry News.”

As I step into the role of steward for Southern Jewelry News and Mid-America Jewelry News, I want to be clear:

The heart and soul of SJN will remain.

This is not a change in identity—it is a continuation of legacy, supported by new tools, new energy, and new opportunities to grow.

With the support of the Jewelry Store Marketers team, we will be introducing:

• Expanded digital reach and publication platforms
• Increased resources and educational content for the industry
• More ways for jewelers to learn, connect, and share their stories
• A more substantial community presence both online and in-person

But the foundation stays the same:
We will continue to tell the stories that matter.
We will continue to be a trusted resource.
We will continue to serve this industry with respect and authenticity.

I am honored to carry forward the legacy that Bill and Chris built, grateful to continue working alongside Elesa and Martha, and committed to helping Southern Jewelry News grow into its next chapter—strong, connected, and more impactful than ever.

Thank you for being part of this journey. The best chapters are still ahead.

— Guy Pineda
CEO, Jewelry Store Marketers
Publisher, Southern Jewelry News & Mid-America Jewelry News