• by March 9, 2003

The Online Publishers Association (OPA) announced on Friday that About/PRIMEDIA, Belo Interactive, Edmunds.com, Meredith Corporation and SportingNews.com have become its newest members, expanding its current membership to 24 media companies representing more than 400 websites.

In addition, Eric Christensen, vice president and general manager of Belo Interactive, Doug Olson, vice president and general manager of interactive media at Meredith Corporation and Mark Josephson, executive vice president, marketing and business development for About Inc., have been elected to the OPA Board.

"We're pleased that these five great media brands have joined our growing group of member companies," said Michael Zimbalist, executive director of the Online Publishers Association. "Their participation will further strengthen our organization and provide valuable insight into our industry as it continues to grow and evolve."

The OPA also gained four new associates - Accipiter, RealNetworks, Viewpoint Corporation and Interep Interactive - each of whom provide important services in support of the online publishing industry.