Stephen Hemelt has been named editor and general manager of L’OBSERVATEUR, lobservateur.com and affiliate publications.

Previously, Hemelt was editor of The Natchez Democrat in Natchez, Miss.

“My family and I are excited to move back to Southeast Louisiana and the unique home only the River Parishes can provide,” Hemelt said. “I am looking forward to raising my children in this truly unique place.”

J. Kennon, publisher of L’OBSERVATEUR, said Hemelt’s broad experience in community newspapers gives him a strong foundation to grow in his service to readers and the community.

“We are very excited and proud to have Hemelt join our team,” Kennon said. “We look forward to all the good things we will continue to accomplish together as a team.”

A native of New Orleans, Hemelt is 33 years old, married to wife Candace and has two children, 6-year-old Dominick and 4-year-old Mallory.

A graduate of Louisiana Tech University, Hemelt previously served as managing editor of The Daily Herald in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., prior to working in Natchez.

Hemelt also served as associate managing editor of The Daily Iberian in New Iberia, for three years and managing editor of The Jackson Independent in Jonesboro from 2004 to 2007.

“I will always be available with an open door to residents and readers who have suggestions,” Hemelt said. “In the process of helping our team report this community’s many amazing stories, I plan to do a lot of listening.”

Hemelt succeeds David Vitrano, who accepted a role as general manager and editor at The Daily News in Bogalusa.

Hemelt can be reached at 985-652-9545 or by email at lobnews@bellsouth.net.