An article in the Conway Log Cabin Democrat reports that the newspaper, along with other newspaper properties of Georgia-based Morris Publishing, has been sold to GateHouse Media, a national chain with other properties in Arkansas.
Two things:
* Morris is getting out of the newspaper business entirely.
* The article quotes a Log Cabin official as welcoming the news.
“We are excited about the new available resources and opportunities with GateHouse Media and anticipate a new synergy to emerge with the existing GateHouse properties across the state. We will continue to evolve as a multi-platform media company that includes print and digital solutions for both our readers and advertisers.”
The record in Arkansas to date is not encouraging for a greater investment in news coverage. GateHouse has reduced staffs and publication frequency and consolidated a number of Central Arkansas publications. Its properties include Fort Smith, Pine Bluff, Arkadelphia and Hope newspapers and weeklies in Pulaski and nearby counties. It recently closed the organization’s state Capitol bureau.
This is not a good time to be in the newspaper business. But I repeat myself.
UPDATE: Arkansas Business reports more details about the transaction.