AUGUSTA, Ga. - Morris Communications Corp. today announced the sale of the residential dial-up portion of its Internet access business in three markets. The Morris-owned company, Networks, will continue to be a provider for digital subscriber line (DSL) services, Web hosting and other commercial services.

The markets soon to be serviced by EarthLink are Augusta, Ga., Grand Island, Neb., and Topeka, Kan. Residential customers of Networks in Pittsburg, Kan., and Dodge City, Kan., will not be affected.

"We decided to sell these properties in order to focus on our commercial services," said President Will Morris. "This plan better supports the current strategy in the online operations of our newspapers."

"Our customers should experience a smooth transition to the EarthLink network," said Michael Romaner, director of Morris Digital Works, the online services division of Morris Communications. "EarthLink is a quality operation known for great customer service."

Residential customers of Networks in the affected markets will be informed of their service options. The transition of residential customers to the EarthLink network is expected to be take place before the end of June.

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 additional information, see www.morris.com.