RITA THOMAS TO BECOME PUBLISHER IN YORK

AUGUSTA, Ga.—Rita L. Thomas has been named publisher of the York , (Neb.) News-Times, succeed-ing Mark A. Drudge. The announcement was made today by William S. Morris IV, president of Morris Communications, parent company of the News-Times.

Thomas will assume her new responsibilities May 19.

Thomas has been publisher of the Yankton (S.D.) Daily Press & Dakotan since May 2000, and prior to that was general manager of The Grand Island (Neb.) Independent. Both are Morris-owned daily newspapers.

"Rita has been an excellent employee for us for many years and continues to make a strong contri-bution," said President Morris. "We believe her back-
ground and experience are an ideal match for the leadership role in York."

Drudge has accepted a new position as regional advertising sales account executive. He will be working with The Grand Island Independent, the York News-Times and other sister publications in central Nebraska.

Morris Communications is a privately held media company with diversified holdings that include newspaper and magazine publishing, outdoor advertising, radio broadcasting, book publishing and distribution, and online services. For more information, visit www.morris.com.