Augusta, Ga. - Pete Esser has been named publisher of The Shawnee (Okla.) News-Star. The announcement was made today by Will Morris, president of Morris Communications.

Esser succeeds John Tucker in the Shawnee position. He will assume his new responsibilities July 16.

Since 1993, Esser has been publisher of The Oak Ridger, Oak Ridge, Tenn., a Morris-owned daily.

"Over the years, Pete has been publisher of three newspapers in our group and has a wealth of experience in the news industry," Morris said. "He also has a strong history of community involvement."

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 computer services. For more information see the company's Web site at www.morris.com.