On Dec. 7, 1984, the last truck left Pacific Press Publishing Association bound for its new home in Nampa, Idaho, and the doors of the Press in Mountain View, Calif., were officially closed. Twenty-five years later, employees and retirees gathered together to mark the occasion with honored guests C. L. "Butch" Otter, Idaho governor; Tom Dale, mayor; Bob Kyte, former Press president; and Steve McPherson, Idaho Conference president.
"In the late 1970s," Bob Kyte said, "due to mounting financial challenges, it became increasingly apparent that relocation of the Press had become a necessity. Under the courageous leadership of Eugene Stiles, the Press made the difficult decision to move, and after considering more than twenty locations, Idaho was selected as the number one choice for optimum operating conditions and affordable living for employees."
While much has changed in the ensuing 25 years — the city of Nampa has grown from a population of 26,000 to almost 83,000 — the mission of the Press has not changed. As noted by Tom Dale, the work of Pacific Press has resulted in the whole world being impacted with the gospel story.
Otter congratulated Pacific Press on reaching 25 years of successful operation in Idaho, and said he looked forward to a close, ongoing relationship as Idaho and Pacific Press move together into a bright future.
With the impact of current trends in the publishing industry being felt at publishing houses across North America, it is likely the Press will also face new challenges in the future. In a letter which was read at the ceremony, Lowell Cooper, Pacific Press board chairman, wrote, "Pacific Press has faced and met great challenges in the past. There will be new ones ahead. It is our privilege to be in partnership with One whose plans and purposes will be accomplished regardless of the circumstances. So let us celebrate the past and embrace the future with confidence and courage."
The ceremony concluded with a prayer of dedication offered by McPherson.
C. L. "Butch" Otter, Idaho governor, congratulates Pacific Press on 25 Years in the Treasure Valley during the December 2009 celebration.
Tom Dale, Nampa, Idaho, mayor, affirms Pacific Press and their mission.
Pacific Press has enjoyed a favorable location adjacent to Interstate 84 in Nampa, Idaho, since 1984.
Construction on the new Nampa site continued during most of 1984.
