Mark Smelzer Appointed Publisher of JCK Magazine

New York, NY, July 2, 2004 - Mark Smelzer has been named the new Publisher of JCK (Jewelers' Circular Keystone) magazine, Reed Business Information's (RBI's) flagship jewelry publication, which is relocating from King of Prussia, PA to New York City. Smelzer, formerly Associate Publisher of Variety, assumes the role vacated by former JCK Publisher Frank Dallahan, who elected not to relocate after seven years with the publication.

Smelzer will be based in New York and report into RBI's Retail Group. He will also lead the New York-based jewelry publications, which include New York Diamonds and Israel Diamonds & Precious Stones.

"I am thrilled to have Mark join the Retail Group as Publisher of JCK, the jewelry industry's leading publication," said Retail Group VP/Group Publisher Larry Oliver. "Mark brings to this position an unparalleled level of experience, expertise, enthusiasm and drive that will enable JCK to further grow its franchise in the industry it serves," he continues, adding, "Mark is a consummate professional and I look forward to seeing his ideas and vision implemented for JCK going forward."

Smelzer brings 13 years of magazine industry experience to this position. Upon receiving his MBA at the Anderson School of Business at UCLA, he joined Buzz magazine in Los Angeles as an assistant in the advertising department, rising to the role of publisher. Smelzer went on to join Variety's Los Angeles office as the Managing Director of U.S. Sales.

Next, with online advertising rep firm L90, Smelzer was an early pioneer in the development of online advertising for such entertainment industry sites as Hollywood.com. He then rejoined Variety as Associate Publisher, overseeing sales and operations of the New York office, as well as Variety's national consumer advertising. As a part of the consumer division's explosive growth, Smelzer was instrumental in the launch of VLife, Variety's successful consumer lifestyle publication.

"I couldn't be more excited about this opportunity," said Smelzer. "I've been given the helm of the jewelry industry's gold standard brand. It's a book with an amazing staff of people, an overwhelming share of market and solid revenues and margin. At the same time, it's surrounded by opportunities for growth and development. Best of all, I have the full support of Frank Dallahan, one of this industry's best-known and best-respected individuals."

JCK's move to New York will take place in phases through the end of the year to minimize customer disruption. Staying with the magazine is its Editor-in-Chief Hedda Schupak. Frank Dallahan has also agreed to stay on in a consulting role to facilitate a smooth transition to New York.

"I look forward to assisting with the move and working with Mark," states Dallahan.