Augusta, Ga. - Morris Communications today announced it has signed a letter of intent to purchase Fall Line Publishing Inc., owner and publisher of The News and Farmer of Louisville, Ga. The weekly paper also carries the titles of The Jefferson Reporter and Wadley Herald.

Current Publisher Joyce Beverly will remain with the paper and will continue to be responsible for its operation.

Morris Communications President Will Morris said the Jefferson County publication, which serves as the legal organ for Jefferson and Glascock counties, will become part of the company's community newspaper group. Minor changes will allow it to take advantage of the resources and synergies of the larger entity.

"This is a marriage of resources that makes good business sense for both parties," said Morris. "It means greater reach and better service for the readers and advertisers of many communities in both Jefferson and Glascock counties."

Morris added, "Joyce Beverly and her staff have perfected a blend of community coverage, substantive news reporting and excellent service to their advertisers, and we hope to extend elements of their program to our other community papers."

Morris Communications is a privately held media company with diversified holdings that include newspaper and magazine publishing, outdoor advertising, radio broadcasting, book publishing and distribution, and computer services.For more information visit www.morris.com.