Former Picayune Item Publisher Linda Gilmore has returned to resume her role as president of Picayune Newsmedia, LLC, and publisher of the Picayune Item, the Poplarville Democrat and their affiliated print and digital products.

Jeremy Pittari, who was formerly managing editor before accepting the publisher role when Gilmore resigned six months ago to move closer to family, will assume a new role as associate publisher and editor.

“We were disappointed when Linda resigned to move closer to family, but we understood because family comes first,” said Boone Newspapers’ Vice President Dennis Palmer. “Jeremy has done an excellent job leading the newspaper, but Linda’s experience and the good work she did while publisher of the Item for many years earned her an opportunity to return in the same role.” 

Gilmore says, “I look forward to continuing the work I accomplished as publisher of the Picayune Item for four years. It is my intention to help our community grow and thrive as Picayune and Pearl River County move into the future.”

Gilmore’s first day to resume her role as publisher was Jan. 15.

Pittari said he is looking forward to working with Gilmore again.

“Linda has an understanding of newspapers that I know she will share as we work together to present the news fairly to our readers,” Pittari said.

Item managing editor Jesse Wright will transition to sister publication, the Bogalusa Daily News, beginning Jan. 18.

“I enjoyed working with everyone at the Picayune Item. It’s a great newspaper and it serves a great community,” Wright said.