Mark Thomas Named Station Manager at News Talk 970 WGTK-AM

"Mark Thomas brings a wealth of radio experience to his new position at WGTK," said Jon Horton, vice president of operations. "His market familiarity will be a strong asset towards taking WGTK to a new level."

Thomas most recently served as director of sales for the six LM Communications Radio Group stations in Lexington, KY. He was previously vice president/general manager at Clear Channel in Frankfort, KY. In his position as station manager for the Clear Channel Louisville AM cluster, Mark held numerous positions including director of sales for the AM stations and the Kentucky News Network. He also served as vice president/general manager for the Clear Channel AM stations. Thomas began his career as a news anchor/reporter at WZBN/WKZN Zion, IL, later moving into the same positions at WIFE Indianapolis and WHAS Louisville.

Active in the Louisville community, Thomas has served on the board of directors for the Kentucky Derby Festival and the Police Foundation. A two-time president of Louisville Radio Broadcasters, he was chairman of the Kentucky Broadcasters and currently sits on the board.

In addition to its radio properties, Salem Communications owns Salem Radio Representatives(TM), a national radio advertising sales force; Salem Web Network(TM), an Internet provider of Christian content and online streaming; and Salem Publishing(TM), a publisher of Christian-themed magazines. Upon the close of all announced transactions, the company will own 99 radio stations, including 65 stations in 23 of the top 25 markets. Additional information about Salem may be accessed at the company's website, www.salem.cc.

Released September 22, 2006