Blake Bell has been named president of Atmore Newspapers, Inc., and publisher of The Atmore Advance and its associated media products.

Bell was most recently publisher of The Madison Journal in Tallulah, La., and is a former news editor of The Atmore Advance. He succeeds Michelle Uriegas, who is leaving to become a fifth grade teacher at Escambia County Middle School.

Bell begins work this week.

“My family and I are very excited to be back home in Atmore and I am honored to be re-joining the staff of The Atmore Advance,” Bell said. “This community, as well as this newspaper, are near and dear to my heart, and I am looking forward to serving the residents of Atmore and the surrounding areas.”

Bell grew up in Atmore and is a 2001 graduate of Escambia County High School. His first association with The Advance was writing for the newspaper while still in high school. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama.

“Blake’s long-association with the newspaper and his strong community ties make him an excellent choice to lead The Advance and @MORE magazine,” said former Advance publisher Michele Gerlach. “We are pleased to have him rejoin the team.”

Uriegas said she enjoyed her time with The Advance.

“I am thankful for the opportunity that I was given to be publisher here,” she said. “I am confident that Blake will do a great job.”

Bell and his wife, Stephanie, have two children, Sawyer and Colin.