Village Voice Media or "VVM" began in 1970 as a weekly alternative newspaper in Phoenix, Arizona. The company, founded by Michael Lacey (editor) and Jim Larkin (publisher) was then known as New Times Inc. and the publication was named New Times. The company was later renamed New Times Media. By 2001 the company had grown to 13 newspapers in major cities across the United States. Most of these publications were acquired via purchase from then current owner/publishers.