AUGUSTA, Ga.—Robert O. Hale has been named publisher of the Juneau Empire, the Morris-owned daily newspaper in Alaska's capital city. The announcement was made today by William S. Morris IV, president and chief executive officer. Hale succeeds Donald S. Smith.

For the past nine years, Hale was publisher of the Walton Tribune, a semiweekly newspaper based in Monroe, Ga. Prior to that, Hale worked for Smith Newspapers for seven years, serving as publisher for nondaily papers in Texas, Arkansas and Kansas. Hale also worked in advertising sales and as a reporter and editor during his 22-year career in newspapers.

A Texas native, Hale is a graduate of Texas Christian University with a bachelor's degree in journalism.

"We are delighted to welcome Bob to our company. He brings solid experience in our industry plus great enthusiasm for community involvement," Morris said. "We think he is an excellent choice for Juneau."

"Bob has a strong track record of leadership. He will be a great addition to our Alaska publications group," said James C. Currow, Morris vice president for newspapers.

Morris Publishing Group LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Morris Communications Company LLC, a privately held media company based in Augusta, Ga.. Morris Publishing Group was formed in 2001 and assumed the operations of the newspaper business segment of its parent, Morris Communications. Morris Publishing publishes 26 daily, 10 nondaily and 23 free community newspapers in the United States.