AUGUSTA, Ga.—Keith B. Martin has been named general manager of Desert Media Radio Group, a Palm Springs, Calif.-based seven-station radio group owned by Morris Communications. The announcement was made today by William S. Morris IV, president of the parent company, and is effective immediately.

Martin brings with him nearly 20 years of experience in radio. Most recently, he served as general manager of KEZN-FM in Palm Springs, Calif. In 1999, Martin left retirement to take the helm of both KRLT-FM and KOWL-AM in Lake Tahoe, Calif.

Martin served as president and chief executive officer for 21st Century Communications for seven years before retiring in 1997. Earlier in his career, Martin launched and managed a new station in Yuma, Ariz., and also was general manager for WLAG-AM in LaGrange, Ga., while simultaneously serving as controller for WJYA-AM and FM in Atlanta.

"Keith has a reputation for tremendous leadership skills and has demonstrated a sharp business sense over the years in several different markets," said Morris. "We are confident that his wealth of experience will have a significant and positive impact on Desert Media Group."

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.