Patricia Bennett named publisher of Daily Independent

Patricia Bennett

Patricia A. Bennett, a veteran newspaper advertising executive, has been appointed publisher of The Daily Independent in Ashland, Ky., and its affiliated publications. She replaces longtime publisher Eddie Blakeley, who resigned recently.

Bennett has been the advertising and regional sales director of The Daily Item in Sunbury, Penn., for more than nine years. She began her career at the newspaper more than 34 years ago, moving up from graphic artist to sales representative to ad sales manager to overall director of the ad department.

In addition to The Daily Independent, she will serve as publisher of four affiliated weekly newspapers: Morehead News, Grayson Journal Enquirer, Olive Hill times and Greenup County News-Times.

"Patty Bennett brings a strong track record for driving revenue, engaging the business community and strengthening the value of print and online content," said Steve McPhaul, executive vice president of newspaper operations for CNHI, parent company of Ashland and Sunbury papers. "She grew up in the newspaper business and is committed to putting out top-notch community newspapers."

Bennett said her focus is to serve the greater Ashland, Morehead, Grayson, Olive Hill and Greenup County communities with newspapers that reflect the needs and wants of readers while also working with local businesses so they can thrive.

"I'm looking forward to working with the talented people who produce these quality newspapers in print and online," she said. "It is an exciting time in our business, and I'm eager to learn more about the communities they serve and the organizations, businesses and readers who reside within the communities."

Bennett was active in community, civic and business organizations in the Sunbury area, and plans to do the same in Eastern Kentucky. "I enjoy playing a role in helping to make communities a good place to live, work and do business," she said.