On August 19, 2009, former "Nashville Scene" publisher Ferrell announced that his Nashville-based media company, SouthComm Communications, was acquiring "Nashville Scene" from Village Voice Media. SouthComm was formed in late 2007 and spent much of its first two years acquiring media properties in Alpharetta, Ga., Nashville, Tenn., and Louisville, Ky. Southcomm also owned the "Nashville Post". Kotz was not retained as editor when the paper was purchased by SouthComm. Jim Ridley, who served as senior writer under Garrigan and managing editor under Kotz, was named editor. His tenure began with the September 3, 2009 issue.