The Observer has been sold to Black Press Group Ltd., owners Jeff and Dianne King announced on Tuesday.The change in ownership will take effect on September 1. The Kings have owned and operated the Observer since 1985."After 29 years, it's time to do something different, to face new challenges," Mr. King said, "Black Press is a savvy newspaper operator, with the expertise to see that the Observer does well in the coming years"."We are so pleased with the natural fit the Observer will have with our operations," said Lorie Williston, President of Black Press BC North, "the paper has been an important part of island life for almost 50 years, and will continue to be under our ownership".Black Press is the largest independently owned newspaper company in Canada, with more than 150 titles and 3,500 employees. It operates the Northern View in Prince Rupert and has its head office is in Surrey.Jeff King will remain with the Observer for a two month transition period, and will continue to write feature articles for the paper.The Observer has had only two owners so far; Doug and Mabel Leach (1969-1985) and Jeff and Dianne King (1985-2014). Starting September 2, it will have its third.