Thursday, December 04, 2008

Part 1 | Real Time Comments Thurs. open forum

This section is now closed to new comments; please go to Part 2.
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117 comments:

  1. Jim12/04/2008 12:19 AM

    Oh, boy: A fresh, clean open-comment threat, just waiting for your comment. Go!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:20 AM

    EVERYONE please read Jim's comment above where you type your blog comment. It might help things around here. Just let it go!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:22 AM

    Jim, you just keep getting more and more recognition. There's got to be some money in this for you somewhere.

    http://us.rd.yahoo.com/finance/external/allthingsd/SIG=13njlqnbv/*http://mediamemo.allthingsd.com/20081203/fired-newspaper-reporters-still-reporting-for-fired-newspaper-employee-blog/?reflink=ATD_yahoo_ticker

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  4. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:25 AM

    He was fired because he refused to drink teh kool aid Freedom makes its journalists drink. He is a superb editor.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:29 AM

    Yes, Great Job Jim.
    You, and your readers/posters have become a source. That's the way to do it.

    I've seen lots of links to this place, in many online stories.

    How do you make a Troll turn green?
    Post your TRAFFIC STATS!

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  6. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:31 AM

    Good luck to everyone who is now gone. This is just breaking my heart.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:31 AM

    1) all / some else being equal, does gannett tend to lay off based on seniority?
    2) is there a rumored next round of layoffs across the board in january?

    ReplyDelete
  8. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:35 AM

    All the comments seem to be Jersey, Jersey, Jersey and Knilands, Knilands, Knilands... can we get some other people on here????????










    (Tho', I gots to say Knilands truthtellin' is right on.)

    ReplyDelete
  9. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:37 AM

    Reno appeared to be a mix.
    61 total, although I doubt there were 400 on the payroll (more like 325). So the percentage was a high one.

    It was quite a mix. Short timers, long timers, part timers.
    Young folks, older folks. Advertising seemed to be hit the hardest.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:39 AM

    Buffy, Mitzi and Ditzi seem to spend a lot of time on here trashing HNT. Maybe they should get out of the office more and sell some advertising. Jack up the push up bra and get out there girls!

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  11. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:42 AM

    all i can say is it's over, for now - In Phx - i was laid off - then moved to a new position. atleast there are still some people that can recognize real talent. many friends and co-workers suffered the same fate, all i can say is we don't ever have to be ok with it, we just have to accept it. we choose to be involved with a company that will continue to make cuts. last time i looked we weren't shackled to our desks. everyone has a choice.

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  12. Anonymous12/04/2008 12:43 AM

    Did the serverence package include insurance benefits or were they terminated? I know the buyouts included benefits but curious about severence.

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  13. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:10 AM

    12:43 Anon - all indicators from earlier posts as well as memos posted state health insurance continues for length of severance payments.

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  14. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:25 AM

    As long as you enrolled for benefits in 2009, your health insurance will continue. In other words, if you didn't enroll for 2009 because you thought it might be you or for some other reason, then your bennies run out at the end of 2008. Otherwise, your bennies will run out at the end of the month in which your severance runs out. That should be written into any layoff letter you receive.

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  15. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:26 AM

    I'll have health insurance through the duration of my severence. After that, I'll be shopping around. Going through cobra would be way too expensive.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:35 AM

    Anon 1:05 - Yes there are/will be lots of new folks to the blog - I happen to be one of them after a co-worker shared it with me. Not just newsroom folks either - Info Center whatever they want to call it! (Will always be newsroom for me.) I am not newsroom/editorial - have worked in Circulation/ Production/Operations for over 20 yrs. I am hoping they get this over with everywhere so we can see where the dust settles and figure out just how we are gonna continue to print our products and continue to be the important viable voices in our communities.

    It has been difficult and painful all over the country in our industry and today marks a very sad and dark day. Sad commentary on bottom lines and the lengths a company - our company- will go to to achieve what they see as "acceptable losses" despite how good it has been - yes I was reading the profits thread too! We all know and heard for years how Gannett was a bean counting company and it has proven true over and over. No I am not whining about it, and I know I have a choice, but I also remember working for another owner who at least considered the impact of decisions and timing. There is never a good time to do what they are doing but it cetainly ensures that all payments will be made (or the majority) by the end of the 2nd Q 2009. Next yrs financials should prove most interesting with the changes previously announced and the actions this week! Unfortunate that it is between the holidays.

    For those have a problem with posters staying anon. - it has been pointed out how easily enough mngt. is to show you the door, rather than allow true, honest feelings expressed. O yeah, that is why they have that free (and confidential, sure whatever!)EAP program . . .

    My heart goes out to everyone who lost their jobs - whether voluntarily or forced. And pray for those of us left, that we don't ever forget! There is no joy in seeing colleauges leave!

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  17. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:36 AM

    True. Benefits will last through the end of severence pay. Also, hope fellow lay offers know that they can apply for unemployment, too.

    I don't know if it depends on the state, but I think you can apply immediately.

    Don't wait. Go at it right now.

    God speed. I was laid off on Tuesday. I know the road ahead will be long, because the whole economic situation is grim. But realize that when one door closes, another opens, no matter how difficult it may seem now.

    Keep the faith, and good luck!!

    ReplyDelete
  18. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:39 AM

    Re: Health insurance. MediaBistro has some great rates for their AvantGuild members. We shopped around fo a really long time; this worked the best for our family. Good luck to everyone.

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  19. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:40 AM

    What I haven't seen addressed yet is the possibility of "survivor's guilt" among those who remain employed. Has anyone seen any evidence in newsrooms that took major hits (APP, Cherry Hill)?

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  20. Anonymous12/04/2008 1:48 AM

    What was the male vs female ratio in Reno??? TP is intimidated by men and surrounds himself with women. I'd bet there is a sexual bias suit with the layoffs there.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:01 AM

    Sent you $10 Jim. I'd have easily paid at least that much to anyone that supplied the information I've gleaned from the blog. Thank you sir, we all appreciate your time spent here.

    Everyone, send Jim a couple of bucks...he doesn't have to do this for us.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:04 AM

    I have heard some of my co-workers today talking about "survivor-guilt" quietly around the office - and asking each other to not loose touch "if" they were (un)fortunate enough to be left looking at the empty desks and then going onto talking about better times and how sad for X and gosh they just bought a house, just got married . . . . ., just had a baby -

    We all knew it was coming but certainly didn't even begin to comprehend the emotional impact of what it really was gonna look like after the decimation. And we can all trust it isn't over yet! Over half the desks were empty this morning and have been for several years and I certainly am not "proud" of it - 10 yrs ago folks shared work spaces and today the desks are used for storage! Too many faces of friends gone. More days than not it was already hard to get excited about a career I have loved and a job I love. For me today was another indicator of what I don't like!

    Yeah, a sick day coming tomorrow - but wait do I dare? O - Wait I don't get any, lost those several contracts ago!

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  23. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:06 AM

    All this carnage is too much! It reminds me of Jonestown. Bodies strewn everywhere. Local voices being snuffed out one by one. Our presses are being primed to print USA Today instead. Utterly sickening...
    4th Estate News Service

    ReplyDelete
  24. Jenny12/04/2008 2:08 AM

    Hi Jim,

    I stumbled across your blog while reporting on a story and think you're doing a great service here. I left newspapers back in 1999, but still have a lot of friends in the business and am waiting to hear how a few Gannett staffers fared.

    In any case, I wrote a story about buyouts/layoffs on mediabistro.com earlier this week that might be helpful to some people (http://tinyurl.com/6kthjc). Unfortunately, it does require full membership to the site, though.

    I also am editor of The Golden Pencil, and posted some information on the blog as well: http://tinyurl.com/63ovgn

    The blog is about freelance writing, but my hope is to also help recently laid off newspaper and magazine staff make the transition into freelancing if that's what they want to do as a second act.

    In any case, really like your blog and love your videos.

    -Jenny Cromie
    (http://www.thegoldenpencil.com)

    ReplyDelete
  25. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:09 AM

    Lafayette, LA (repotedly) closed a sattelite office today. Publisher said cuts weren't coming until the 10th here, but the 3 people at the Houma Quik Quarter office I guess were the 'getting your feet wet' of the layoffs. It's still a secret at the other offices.

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  26. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:13 AM

    12:37 re: Reno. The 61 is somewhat misleading, as at least 15 of them were from bureaus, weeklies and a satellite commercial printing plant.

    Reno publisher told us today that the rumored cuts early '09 are untrue. There are no planned company-wide cuts, but that each paper would be assessed on its own market conditions. He also said the community papers becoming wraps for USA Today rumor was also bogus, in that USA Today is larger than most community dailies in page counts, and would not be a cost-saving measure.

    However, the same guy told us in the 2007 buyouts that those cuts were expected to get us through 2008. Well, those didn't even come close, as we're all now painfully aware.

    By the way, anybody know what the publisher's wife is getting paid for? She didn't get cut.

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  27. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:18 AM

    what's the word in Guam?

    ReplyDelete
  28. Jim12/04/2008 2:38 AM

    To the poster who goes by the name RKNIL: You are no longer welcome on this blog because you have abused your privileges. Please do not come back.

    To everyone else: Abusive posters can destroy blogs, message boards and other online forums. I choose to allow anonymous commenting because of this blog's sensitive topics. The best way to deal with abusive posters is to deny them the attention they crave. Please, IGNORE them!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:41 AM

    @2:13 a.m.

    She's getting paid for the same thing she got paid for in Lafayette -- absolutely nothing.

    Worked there before and after TP was publisher and can't say I ever saw the lady in person.

    Of course, though, that didn't stop them from giving her an office when we moved into the new building.

    Yay nepotism.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:44 AM

    What's going on in Monroe?

    ReplyDelete
  31. Anonymous12/04/2008 2:49 AM

    yes there is survivors guilt. i realize it is far worse to be unemployed right now, but it's not easy having been left behind either. people you spent every day with are no longer there - just empty space. your friends, people who saw you through the hardest of times, given you that laugh, or knowing smile when you needed it most are gone. and it will just never be the same again. these layoffs have closed a chapter of life - no matter what side of them you were on. and that's just sad.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Anonymous12/04/2008 3:02 AM

    I don't work for a Gannett paper here in Ohio, but watching this makes me sick to my stomach as a journalist. It just seems like the entire media is falling into an inescapable death spiral unless you happen to write for the Internet.

    Newspapers are getting the most attention, but local TV stations are in just as bad a shape and radio is even worse off than print - a station here in the Cleveland area just laid off every radio personality on staff and have gone to a "shuffle" style computerized format.

    It's just really sad to be watching this all unfold, especially since a friend of mine works at the Detroit Free Press, and I don't know if they will be safe. My other friends at Gannett papers have all dodged the bullet so far, but who knows what will happen next.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Anonymous12/04/2008 3:31 AM

    Thanks Jim, Our troll can fling his poo on some other blog now.

    On Reno.
    TP does appear to prefer female managers, it's very noticeable.
    His wife the "carpetbagger" has an office, a title (advertising Ops manager), not sure what her actual job is. I just know that she is displacing a local. Perhaps she is feeling a little GUILT right now.

    On the layoffs, they seem to be a fair mix of male and female, I can double check on that. But TP already had his harem in place before this eventful day.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Anonymous12/04/2008 3:41 AM

    I have spent half my life trying to get away from journalism, but I am still mired in it - a low trade and a habit worse than heroin, a strange seedy world full of misfits and drunkards and failures.
    -Hunter S. Thompson

    From a Production guy, still mired in it...

    ReplyDelete
  35. Anonymous12/04/2008 4:43 AM

    From Tim Chavez, www.politicalsalsa.com: I've been reporting on the carnage in Nashville and ran a nauseating statement from publisher/disaster Ellen Leifeld. Mark Mr. Multi-Personalites Silverman is the editor here.
    Does anyone know any names of the folks cut at The Tennessean? The only one I have is Susan Leathers, a community editor at WAM bureau. She probably made a salary in the 50s. That was the only layoff down there.
    Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Anonymous12/04/2008 5:34 AM

    First off, thanks to Jim for hosting this blog. His dedication and perseverance have helped all of us get through this difficult time. I know it's sure helped me. No matter how thankless this seems, Jim, you're a great person and an inspiration. Thank you for providing us this forum. By doing this, you've made a difference in thousands of people's lives. And we appreciate it.

    I was laid off this morning. I was as mentally prepared as I thought I could be -- what with having the least seniority in my department -- but nothing can prepare you for the anguish of losing your job. The moment the EE calls you into his office, everything seems surreal. It feels like I dreamed the whole thing. It's just hard to believe that everything I've worked for and believed in can vanish, just like that.

    To Gannett's credit, I have been treated as fairly as can be expected. I've nothing to complain about. I could tell my EE was severely uncomfortable during the process. Really, the whole thing lasted less than five minutes. I was given my papers, thanked for my service, and I left.

    The big thing I'll miss, though, is the people I worked with. What's weird is that, throughout this whole day, as I've had time to absorb what happened, I realize that what's most important is not the job, or the benefits, or the compensation, but rather the people I've spent my daily life with for the past three years. That's the anguish I'm feeling today. My boss and my colleagues are like my family. And the thought of not seeing them every day has been killing me. I'm in my early 20s, so of course I'm going to move on and get another job. But I'll never forget the people who helped forge my early life. I'm walking out of this job with a whole lot more knowledge than I had walking in, and it's all thanks to my colleagues. These people taught me, influenced me and inspired me. I've realized that instead of feeling sorry for myself, I ought to be thankful for having the opportunity to work with such good, decent and caring people.

    After all, it's people who make the difference ... people you interact with who provide the wisdom you need not only to succeed at your job, but at your life.

    Since I left the office this morning, what's been breaking my heart is the idea of not being able to be around the people I've grown to cherish. I miss my job, for sure, but it's the people I'm leaving behind I'll really miss. I haven't been around for long, so call me a young idiot if you want, but it's people who bring meaning into your life.

    My life is going to be a whole lot emptier now without the people I've grown to love and respect.

    Good people deserve to be recognized. If you have a good boss, a good colleague or a good subordinate who has influenced your life for the better, let them know. I may be young and dumb and deserving of of my layoff, but one thing I believe in is cherishing the good people and keeping them close.

    I just wish I didn't have to leave them.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Anonymous12/04/2008 5:38 AM

    Still clickin' on the ads, clickin' on the ads, Jimbo.

    Seeing as Mr. Jim has too much class to mention this himself, I'll do the honors.

    Gannett Blog is an independent purveyor of truth, share-er of wisdom, and location of worldwide water cooler - without any financial support from the Gannett Foundation, Freedom Forum, Poynter Institute, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting or anyone else.

    If you have valued the information and personal stories posted here over the last few days, please slip a five or ten in an envelope and mail it to the address in the right side rail column. At the very least, click on any interesting ads on the site if you are interested.

    Thanks, Jim. I can't imagine going through this process without the information here.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Anonymous12/04/2008 5:49 AM

    Nobody has yet to bring up the matter, "What If." What If, the situation for Gannett turned around. Ads come back, READERS, come money, money comes back. Then would GCI, bring back some of the people, they are laying off?

    ReplyDelete
  39. Anonymous12/04/2008 5:57 AM

    JIM! GO TO BED!

    ReplyDelete
  40. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:01 AM

    Several good friends of mine were laid off at USAT yesterday. There were lots of tears in the newsroom, and online. I failed economics so pardon my lack of understand, but I simply will never get how a PROFITABLE company can justify these cuts. Gannett sucks.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:09 AM

    From: Hammer, Randy Sent: Tuesday, December 02, 2008 1:53 PM To: Asheville-Colleagues Subject: Staff reductions

    "Everyone who was affected by the reduction in staff has been notified.

    "We had 16 layoffs, including four people who volunteered.

    "It is a very sad day and we are losing good friends and co-workers who have contributed a great deal to this company.

    "Beginning tomorrow and continuing through the rest of this week, managers will hold a series of staff meetings to discuss the impact on their departments."

    Compared to some other publisher's statements, does this sound rather terse (considering the human impact)and insincere to anyone else?

    ReplyDelete
  42. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:15 AM

    http://tinyurl.com/6gp62x

    In case y'all didn't realize it.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:22 AM

    From: Hammer, Randy Sent: Tuesday, December 02, 2008 1:53 PM To: Asheville-Colleagues Subject: Staff reductions

    "Everyone who was affected by the reduction in staff has been notified.

    "We had 16 layoffs, including four people who volunteered.

    "It is a very sad day and we are losing good friends and co-workers who have contributed a great deal to this company.

    "Beginning tomorrow and continuing through the rest of this week, managers will hold a series of staff meetings to discuss the impact on their departments."

    -- Does anyone else think this sounds terse (considering the circumstances) and somewhat insincere, compared to some of the other publisher's statements? Or is Mr. Hammer just too humbled by it all to show his sensitive side?

    ReplyDelete
  44. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:30 AM

    From Tim Chavez at www.politicalsalsa.com:
    To the good man who lost his job and feels emptier now that he won't be around his colleagues, I know exactly how you feel. God bless you for wanting to make a difference.
    That was my mission, too, as a columnist and editorial page editor for Gannett for 14 years. Then I got leukemia three years ago. I almost died, but still wrote from my hospital bed until Aetna said no more.
    I tried to return to my job in Aug. 2007 and was told it had been eliminated. I was devastated.
    But my life is better now. Really. I write a blog no one really reads. But look what Jim has done. He provides such a great public service.
    I have had time to get out into the community as simply a good person and make a difference. You sound like a much better person than me. I bet you can find people in need wanting you and your presence to give them hope and help.
    I'll keep you in my prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:31 AM

    According to local reports, in addition to 16 jobs, Asheville is closing a satellite operation. What is that? The (weekly) Black Mountain News? The (weekly) Madison News-Record? The (neighboring) Haywood County bureau office?

    Thus far, the C-T has published no information on this week's layoffs or office closings, and this market's radio and TV - well, "Here's an oldie from Travis Tritt" and "Wheel of Fortune at 7 tonight."

    ReplyDelete
  46. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:41 AM

    If the internet is "the future" of newspapers, that future is dim indeed.

    One example: Gannett's own website listing of its newspaper properties describes one location as "recently an All American city" (some 30 years ago designation); among the dozen Largest Employers listed fully half have been closed for more than a year; and staffing and regional population figures are at least three years out of date, if not more.

    What does that say for GCI as an information (formerly newspaper) company?

    ReplyDelete
  47. Anonymous12/04/2008 6:53 AM

    12:35 am

    What's your exit? Hee hee, only kidding! Hearing from NJ is at least a little better than Knilands. We got laid off too and we have something to say. Whether you like it or not, we're in this too.

    So NJ, party on...

    ReplyDelete
  48. Anonymous12/04/2008 7:16 AM

    Does anyone have a take on Phil Currie's role or non-role in the Jonestownian December at GCI?

    - Was he asked to resign?
    - Did he step down in objection to the layoffs?
    - Did he seize an opportunity to bail out while massive retirement benefits were in place?
    - Does he have another job in another company in the bag?

    What's the inside story?
    Jim?

    ReplyDelete
  49. Anonymous12/04/2008 7:27 AM

    Any body have info on Cherry Hill
    N.J.cuts.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Teresa12/04/2008 7:52 AM

    Jim, you were quoted again - more PR. http://www.theprogressivepolitico.com/financial-stories/read-all-about-it-alex-ames-9.html

    ReplyDelete
  51. Anonymous12/04/2008 7:53 AM

    1:40 AM: Survivor guilt can exist outside the newsroom, you know. Every department took a hit in Cherry Hill and believe it or not, those of us in production and advertising and circulation and finance and IT and building services have hearts too.

    My heart hurts, especially when I see the empty desks. Which is all day long.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:03 AM

    can we get a list of names at particular papers and can it be at a prominent place in your blog? some of us have worked around the country and care about our colleagues elsewhere but don't know what's going on with them. Please try to post names.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:23 AM

    Everyone be sure to stay on the benefits/HR departments about your pension and other bennies. I left USAT (voluntarily) in early Oct. and was told I'd get pension paperwork within 30 days. By Nov. 24 I'd gotten nothing, so I called and left a message at HR. Still no response. The other day I called and asked for the retirement benefits dept. and they said they were working on my paperwork and had not received notice until Nov. 24, the day I called. I guess it pays to harass these people.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:29 AM

    Can anyone tell me what happened in Production @ Des Moines?

    ReplyDelete
  55. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:30 AM

    Can anyone tell me what happened with Production @ Des Moines?

    ReplyDelete
  56. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:34 AM

    Here's a example of how unaware some people who work in a newsroom really are and a forecast for what lies ahead for those papers and more importantly, the readers:

    Sarah Overstreet, long time columnist for the News-Leader, wrote her last column and a short glance box (I'm sure it was not written by her but by the copy desk) invited readers to sent Sarah email farewell notes.

    Sweet idea.

    Duh! The email address is wrong and the messages are bouncing back to readers.

    Nice work!

    ReplyDelete
  57. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:41 AM

    Thank you Jim. I just sent you a $10 spot.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Shirley in Texas12/04/2008 8:45 AM

    Is it over?
    Can people stop being fearful again? Can they go back to doing what they do so well, reporting the news and making politicians and CEOs uncomfortable? Can they go back to giving voice to those who would otherwise be unheard?
    Are there enough of them left to be able to be effective? Will "good enough" be good enough? Who is going to cover the vacant beats, or were those beats eliminated when the reporters were shown the door?
    How big will my paper be Monday?
    Could some editors (who likely are as shell shocked as the troops) post here telling us what is going to be expected and how they plan to operate in the future?

    ReplyDelete
  59. doglover12/04/2008 8:49 AM

    6:22 a.m.
    I don't think it sounded terse. To be honest reading all of those memos from pubs was getting ho-hum, them going on and on. Just give it to me straight without all the grandstanding.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:56 AM

    The DMR is crazy to have laid off Duffy. He is one of the foundations that defines the identity of that paper, a truly national class cartoonist who chose to stay in Iowa. This is a loss on par if they had laid off Yepsen or Hansen.

    ReplyDelete
  61. Anonymous12/04/2008 8:56 AM

    Well, the USAT layoffs are pretty much done, so I can once again stop reading this blog.

    Jim, I think you're well-intentioned but ill-informed. I still remember when you thought USAT.com's rotating lead photo was a cost-cutting measure, and it's a pity you really didn't know what to do with the profit data you received. If you're content letting this blog be a venue for people to vent without much insight into the business, you don't need to make any changes, though I'd imagine most of that conversation will drift off to Facebook eventually because people can make more personal connections. If you take it to the next level and stir up some honest discussion about what it'll take to get the industry's decline under control, great, but I think there are other venues for doing that.

    That's harsh criticism, I know, but I hope you'll take it as constructive criticism.

    For those who need this blog as a place to mourn and let off some steam, peace be with you. But for the sake of those of us still employed, please don't take the contents herein as anything more than that. And please think about the way your comments here reflect on your dedicated colleagues whether they're still in or on the way out.

    Cheers.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:03 AM

    The Springfield News-Leader newsroom lost five positions -- one unfilled reporter position, three who took buyouts -- the national editor, a section editor and a layout person -- and a local columnist who had been at the paper 22 years, involuntarily. The paper ran her final column today, along with an editor's note saying it was her final column, and anyone wanting to e-mail her could do so at her N-L address. I guess her computer access wasn't totally eliminated.

    A former (long, long time ago) Gannetttoid who's now in academia.

    ReplyDelete
  63. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:05 AM

    Speaking of NJ, I'm surprised as any they didn't touch the sports dept. in this round. Look at the C-N sports section today:

    Full page-plus on Rutgers football (they play tonight) ... half-page AP feature on instant replay (filler) ... nothing on Charlie Weis returning to Notre Dame next year (former head coach at Franklin Twp. HS) ... nothing on Tommy Tuberville out at Auburn (he only won a nat'l championship) ...

    And McLean wonders why people are dropping the C-N!

    ReplyDelete
  64. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:06 AM

    Let's never forget those who have been lost this week. Many will never work in the business they once loved again. The personal challenges they will face in the coming weeks, months and years will be profound. Whether you were personal friends or just respectful colleagues, please remember those who were released. Give them a call, write them an e-mail. You never know what even just a little reaching out now and then can do to help someone through a particularly bad day. One of my close friends was lost, through no fault of his own, and is having some profound problems finding any logic in why he was chosen. I have to say, this was one of the most talented and good people I've ever met in this harsh business. I feel so bad, and regardless of whether he lands on his feet or not, I will never let go of our friendship. One of the things that choked me up was when he said he feared people would forget him and his years of service and sacrifice. I said that wouldn't happen. I pray everyone will help and keep the names of these people alive at all Gannett properties.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:08 AM

    http://www.news-press.com/article/20081203/NEWS01/81203094/1075

    The News-Press lays off workers

    news-press.com staff

    The News-Press eliminated 63 jobs this week, the second time this year that the anemic economy has prompted cutbacks at the newspaper.

    Fifty-six employees were laid off; seven employees voluntarily accepted buyouts. An additional 20 open positions were eliminated for a total workforce reduction of about 14 percent.

    The job cuts occurred throughout the company, with the largest number occurring in the printing and manufacturing area...

    (snip)

    ...The company also is taking steps to reduce its newsprint use by decreasing waste, combining sections in the daily newspaper and eliminating some non-daily print publications.

    Earlier in the year, 46 jobs were cut at The News-Press.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:12 AM

    So among the moves Appleton made was dumping its SE, a damn good photog who was just as strong in the multimedia realm and a reporter.

    Yet the paper decides to hold on to its "special projects editor/writing coach" (love that last title) who is universally loathed within the newsroom because he fabricates facts (just read the comments or listen to the feedback on the street) and spends too much time worrying about what color a person's hair is or in what hand he was holding a glass.

    He edits stories to read the way he would write them (or so I'm told), thus losing the voice of the author. And his efforts in leading a group package on the state of drinking in Wisconsin this past summer was buried by the excellent reporting of a certain paper in Milwaukee, which tackled the same subject.

    Amazing how that position, given the shrinking size of that staff, was considered a keeper.

    Rumor has it that the reporters have tried to voice their displeasure when working with this self-described talent (who calls himself a writing coach, anyway?), but it apparently falls on deaf ears.

    Unacceptable.

    ReplyDelete
  67. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:13 AM

    NASHVILLE:

    Anyone have any names or positions of CIRCULATION dept lay offs at the TN?

    We didn't get the invite to the meetings yesterday and NO ONE WILL TELL US who got cut.

    ReplyDelete
  68. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:17 AM

    Is anyone resigning as a result of the layoffs. Did your boss come over and say, "OK, now you do their work."? What is ahead for graduating seniors in journalism? Will Gannett rehire any of these folks if a job opens up at another paper? Would love to see signs of working through the process with valued contributors. I wonder if some had the option that was heard in the 80s at some companies... "Sorry, you can accept this transfer -- or not." The "or not" wasn't really an option.

    ReplyDelete
  69. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:19 AM

    Attention my people from the Poughkeepsie NEWSROOM: Kathy M., Kathy N., Jim S., Dave W. and John F., you will all be missed greatly!

    Thanks for your many years shooting, reporting, and editing. The staff, the Journal and community lose A LOT with your departures.

    Keep in touch.

    ReplyDelete
  70. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:21 AM

    6:22 Asheville

    Yes it sounds like a Gannett document with fill in the blanks.

    Tell me why retail advertising with horrible numbers is still without cuts.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Shirley in Texas12/04/2008 9:24 AM

    Are you following reader reaction to the cuts on your paper' website? A Des Moines Register reader posted this comment in reaction to the firing of Brian Duffy, award winning political cartoonist whose are appeared daily on the front page. It is an epitaph to veteran newspaper men and women.
    nonbiased wrote:

    The problem with cutting Duffy is that it sends a message to all the young employees who were spared. Instead of injecting them with confidence, it lets them know that no matter what they do, or how long they stay, they are expendable. They work in a field where years of experience are a problem, because each year brings a bit more of a salary. At some point, managers have to conclude: this guy is untouchable. Yes, he makes a lot of money. Yes, many people would say his job would be about the best job you could have. You don't have to worry about the factual errors or the elusive source. Draw your cartoon. Get your check. Have a good time. Sure, he makes a great salary. Sure, when he's gone, he doesn't need to be replaced. But there are three words for those who let him go... He earned it. He did. And letting him go tells him that his years of service didn't matter. 25 years, and still, you're in the bottom 10 percent. Even with only a decade left until retirement age. Good bye.
    12/3/2008 11:39:17 PM

    ReplyDelete
  72. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:28 AM

    To the Asheville questions: The bureau, and I use that term loosely now, is in Haywood. It is basically down to one reporter putting the paper together. The operation will likely close once the building lease expires next year. AC-T pays $3,500 to rent a huge space that is 90% wasted space. As far as Randy Hammer, he is hiding out on the fourth floor while he sends his goon squad out to make the cuts. While he is in a tough position, he has made it worse by not communicating to anyone but his real tight circle of higher ups. His communication style is very cold and distant. Basically he does not talk to anyone.

    ReplyDelete
  73. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:30 AM

    What positions in Reno were eliminated other than bureaus/weeklies and printing plant? Especially interested in news, marketing and any department managers.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:35 AM

    Layoffs coming again in february!

    ReplyDelete
  75. zokuga12/04/2008 9:44 AM

    Who was lost from the Iowa City Press Citizen? Someone said 6 jobs overall yesterday.

    ReplyDelete
  76. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:46 AM

    Has anyone heard anything about Detroit?

    ReplyDelete
  77. Anonymous12/04/2008 9:50 AM

    Reporting from Cherry Hill, NJ (Courier-Post).
    The last two days were very sad. Over 50 people gone like they were never here! Watching so many leave us. Some should have gone a long time ago but others did nothing to deserve what they got. Those good people came to work every day and gave their best in return for what they got paid.

    On Tuesday when this all began, we saw a few people who volunteered to take the layoff get the news that their offer to leave was accepted. They were very happy and relieved and left the place with smiles and some tears but mostly grinning from ear to ear.

    What is so sad is that what was obvious for so long continues. There are certain favorites who kept their jobs even though they should have been shown the door. the obvious ones are those in the advertising department. There are so many in that department who are useless but have been kept for whatever reasons. They must be friends of the advertising director or have something that keeps them in place here. Quietly, many of us are walking around scrtching our heads about this. Wilmington, Delaware got rid of there advertisng director, why is ours still here? How can this be? Anyone understand why this is allowed to go on?

    I am still here for now. God bless those who are out on their own now. they are probably much better off and will land on their feet for sure.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:12 AM

    PARTIAL OHIO REPORT: At Fremont, the last full-time receptionist position at the News-Messenger has been made part-time. Circulation worker is to fill-in.
    Full-time photographer left there about three weeks ago, and that spot will remain open for the foreseeable future. Part-timers will be getting the assignments. In addition, the full-time photog at Port Clinton, Fremont's sister newspaper about 15 miles to the north, already is being assigned some of that work. Also eliminated at Fremont was a part-time circulation position.
    At the News Herald at Port Clinton, no cuts so far and non expected. Only a skeletal crew there, barely enough to keep the front door open.
    Both papers over the past two years have undergone extensive downsizing, probably resulting in Wednesday's cuts being minimal.
    A year or so ago, the press at Fremont, which also printed the News Herald, was shut down. Both papers are now printed at Mansfield.

    ReplyDelete
  79. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:23 AM

    I was not aware that at Reno, the wife of the publisher was employed by the newspaper. That is amazing to me. How does anyone allow that to happen?

    The newspaper group I presently work for does not allow this - period. No relatives working in the same building. Yes, I have seen this problem at many newspapers. A publisher's spouse is hired at the paper when the new publisher breezes into town. Just excess baggage.

    I am glad to be working where this is not permitted. In my company, no publisher could ever get away with that. Guess that's one of the things we should be grateful for here! Ha!

    ReplyDelete
  80. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:24 AM

    local tv stations had reports on the Reno Layoffs..

    ReplyDelete
  81. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:36 AM

    test

    ReplyDelete
  82. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:39 AM

    Tim Chavez: You're incorrect in saying no one reads your blog. I read it. I also read you when you were at The Tennessean. I usually didn't agree with you then, and I still usually don't agree with you, but I respect your views. Wishing you good health in the new year.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:41 AM

    I just have to say I no longer work for Gannett, but Harris Siegel was not only one of the most talented people I've ever met, but also hands-down the best boss I ever had. I wish him and everyone who must move on the best of luck. Good things will come.

    ReplyDelete
  84. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:47 AM

    Jim,
    I know you worked in the Newspaper aspect of Gannett, but don't leave out the TV people. They have been taking a huge beating as well. Most of the profits that were posted by TV stations, went to help the Newspaper industry. We in the Gannett side of TV are bigger than most of the newspapers, but have already had 15% of our workforce cut. Just keep that in mind, please.

    I do appreciate reading your blog and all the information it has to offer. I am soon to be an "outed" Gannett employee, and love the fact that the greedy Gannett cannot silence you! Keep it up!

    ReplyDelete
  85. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:49 AM

    layoffs are happening all over America. If every company had a blog, it would sound just like this one. its not a uniquely gannett issue.

    ReplyDelete
  86. Anonymous12/04/2008 10:50 AM

    8:56: Is that you, Ken Paulson?

    ReplyDelete
  87. Shirley in Texas12/04/2008 10:58 AM

    Anon 9:42 ...
    Yepsun has interviewed for a job as the director’s position at the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at the University of Southern Illinois in Carbondale.. So at the very least, he's looking.

    ReplyDelete
  88. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:00 AM

    You won't believe this.
    Yesterday, one paper that's shutting down its press operations posted layoff news on its website. Naturally, readers posted comments.
    Now today, the comments are gone!
    How's that for building community!

    ReplyDelete
  89. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:09 AM

    8:56 if USATers want to drop in a flame bomb and leave, fine. But how, exactly, did Jim misuse the profit margin data he got?

    ReplyDelete
  90. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:10 AM

    I am having a much more difficult time with this then I thought. I thought I wanted it, but now I am feeling high anxiety and even suicidal thoughts. This is all I knew, it was my life. I was one of the ones who put work above my life.....now? Is gannet offering any employee assistance?

    ReplyDelete
  91. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:12 AM

    10:47 has a point. I would love to see the TV profit statements, because I hear TV profit margins are truly staggering. And yet GCI now is in the process of thinning out TV newsrooms with cuts even deeper than newspapers.

    ReplyDelete
  92. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:14 AM

    The Iowa Independent lists the names of the newsroom people who were asked to leave yesterday.

    The most prominent staffer laid off was Brian Duffy, the editorial cartoonist at the paper since 1983 who followed in the footsteps of Pulitzer Prize winners Jay Norwood Darling and Frank Miller. Duffy’s dismissal ends a century-long tradition at “The Newspaper Iowa Depends Upon” of running an editorial cartoon on its front page.

    The others laid off this week from the newsroom include Tim Brown, a company librarian; Cindy Lane, who works on the paper’s calendar; Conrad Schmidt, a photographer for the paper’s suburban editions; Juli Probasco Sowers, a suburban and outdoors reporter; Jamie Suhr, a copy editor on the sports desk; Ken Seeber, a copy editor on the news desk; Stephanie Cox, a member of the online staff; and Tammy Cole, a graphic designer.

    Todd Bailey, the paper’s online sports editor, and Randy Witke accepted accepted the company’s offer of a voluntary buyout.

    ReplyDelete
  93. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:18 AM

    Is the employee assistance service open to people while they are receiving severance pay? Anyone know?

    ReplyDelete
  94. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:19 AM

    Anon 9:53 (I think)
    RE: If every industry doing layoffs had a blog, it would sound just like this.
    Every industry or major employer should have a blog.
    In some trades/businesses, I'll bet some of the posts would be meaner than the worst on this one, too.

    ReplyDelete
  95. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:21 AM

    This blog is irresponsible. You have created a place where negativity rules and it makes everything far worse.
    Jim, I know you think you are doing a good thing here and I know Gannett managment is not perfect, but as a blue collar guy, I believe this blog has made everything worse for me. Oh I know the high and mighty reporters will run to your defense but they are not perfect either. They will feel like crap when they no longer have a voice at all....meaning laid off. You are in some way responsible for more layoffs. But I believe you are too arrogant to take that inner look.

    ReplyDelete
  96. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:25 AM

    Jim hates Gannett and has wanted this for along time. So when you no longer have a job, think twice about Jim's role in all this. He is unemployed too and had a vendetta against Gannett (those who know him know how deep it is) so he started this blog under the guise of "free speech". All it really is a pile of garbage spewed from about 100 pissed off people. The gang mentality caught on here and now thousands of people are wondering why they wished for this when in reality, they liked their jobs.

    Good work Jim...hope you can sleep at night. I bet you actually liked your old job too.

    ReplyDelete
  97. Jim12/04/2008 11:25 AM

    11:10 am: I, too, have despaired in my life -- including when Gannett laid me off the first time, in October 1991.

    First, call a friend; the best antidote to suicidal thoughts is a conversation with another person. If you can't do that, go to the yellow pages or online, and look up suicide help lines. Then call. And let us know how you are doing.

    ReplyDelete
  98. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:28 AM

    December 4, 2008

    As you know, The Visalia Times-Delta/ Tulare Advance-Register, along with Salinas and other Gannett units, have been asked to sharply reduce expenses in response to the worsening economy. Those expenses include payroll and newsprint.



    The payroll savings asked of Visalia/Tulare and Salinas was more than the 10% company-wide average. In reviewing both units’ operations with Salinas, we quickly came to the conclusion that there was no way to achieve these savings independently and continue to get our products out to our customers.



    To get to our reduction goal, we developed a plan to consolidate paper planning, pre-press/ad production, copy editing/ pagination, and some finance operations into Visalia. But further reductions were needed. This week, Visalia/Tulare is eliminating 13 positions and saying good-bye to 8 valued colleagues. Of the 40 positions Salinas is eliminating, they are saying good-bye to 21 this week and another 14 over the next 60 days, as consolidation continues. Visalia will hire a few copy desk and pre-press positions, and we will enlist your help to make this transition a success.



    There are some additional changes to let you know about: The Visalia/Salinas Marketing and Consumer Sales Director position (formerly Circulation Director) has been eliminated. The advertising department name will change to Sales and Marketing, assuming consumer sales functions and the marketing of our products and services. The production department will be renamed to Operations, assuming all circulation operations functions. And, as of Dec. 29, pre-press will become part of the Sales and Marketing department.



    As we consolidate certain functions with Salinas, and with some Visalia department heads having oversight there, it is important to note that Salinas remains an independent unit. Continued conference calls to share ideas and some limited travel between the two sites will be essential and mutually beneficial.



    Despite these dramatic changes, it is critical that we move forward and that we continue to provide outstanding service, produce quality products, and position ourselves to remain vital to the community.



    This is a difficult and challenging time for all of us. Yet we still have a sound business model, a very strong team of talented individuals, and tremendous opportunities for success. We don’t need to wait for a better economy to improve our outcomes here – working together we can keep the progress going, and achieve excellent results.



    Amy Pack, President & Publisher

    ReplyDelete
  99. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:29 AM

    I love my job. I will be here until they throw me out. I hate all the negativity on this blog and wont be stopping by again. I had no idea it was this ugly.

    ReplyDelete
  100. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:30 AM

    11:25, Get a life and a clue as you try to make people think that this is Jim's fault. If Gannett tried communicating better with employees they wouldn't flock to this site for information.

    ReplyDelete
  101. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:31 AM

    11:10 AM--Find some help. I'm certain (or would hope) you can get it from employee assistance, but if not contact or go to your emergency room. It is understandable how you might feel. However, without even knowing who you are or where you are, I can tell you that you are much more than your job.

    I hope you get help and find value in your life.

    ReplyDelete
  102. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:34 AM

    First of all, 11:10, I'm sorry to hear about a fellow journalist going through such pain. I went through it about two years ago from a Gannett paper, and it was painful at first. But then the darkness gradually faded over weeks and months until I found a new joy that I hadn't felt while I worked for the company.

    Right now, I urge you to reach out to the people who are closest to you. Please don't wait for Gannett to do something about it. I don't know what kind of arrangements the company has made with the people who were let go, but I think it wouldn't hurt to contact help agencies locally in your city that specifically with suicidal thoughts. Also, please reach out to your closest friends, neighbors and family members and explain to them what you are going through. Someone will listen to you and will help you through this very troubling time.

    ReplyDelete
  103. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:35 AM

    11:00 am - Which newspaper was irresponsible enough to do THAT? How can you allow comments to be posted, then wipe them out when you don't like what you hear?

    Wow! If there were anyone actually in charge, I'd say that should be looked into - but what's the point? No one cares about what is happening at the papers as long as the numbers add up!

    Again, what paper did this, 11 a.m.?

    ReplyDelete
  104. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:35 AM

    Anom 11:21 AM & 11:25 AM,

    Please explain to me how Jim is responsible for the lay-offs Gannett is doing. Did he run the company into the ground? Are his actions responsible for the Gannett stock being at $8.90 per share (when I started with the company it was at $70.00 per share)?
    I think it is time for both of you to put down the Gannett kool-aid and find someone else to blame for the situation at Gannett.

    ReplyDelete
  105. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:36 AM

    I work for USA Today.

    I am here to say I love my job. Have been at it over 20 years.
    I won't lower myself to bashing everyone around me. I am glad I have had the ride. I could have taken a different path but glad to have taken this path. My employer has been good to me.

    Good luck to all.

    ReplyDelete
  106. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:38 AM

    To blame Jim is a huge disservice to the many of us who are following a very sad situation. Jim has treated the people here with compassion and understanding. This blog provides a place to vent for those who would risk their livelihoods to do it in their workplace.

    ReplyDelete
  107. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:38 AM

    This was posted on the Talking Biz News blog of UNC biz journalism prof. Chris Roush:


    Looking for info on Gannett biz journalists who have lost jobs
    December 4th, 2008

    The Gannett Co., the largest owner of newspapers in the country, has begun laying off more than 1,500 employees around the country this week.

    Some of those employees are business reporters and business editors. For example, Cincinnati Enquirer business editor Carolyn Pione is now gone from the paper. I’ve also had unconfirmed rumors of a business editor in Florida losing their job.

    If you have details of business news desk workers at Gannett papers who have lost their jobs this week, please e-mail them to me at croush@email.unc.edu. All correspondence will remain anonymous unless you’d prefer to be quoted.

    I’ll post all of the names that I can get by the end of Friday.

    The reason for doing this: I’d like to commemorate their work in business journalism, and by exposing their names to the general business journalism public, maybe someone will offer them a new job.
    Posted by Chris Roush |

    ReplyDelete
  108. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:39 AM

    Who else was cut at the Register besides the newsroom staff?

    ReplyDelete
  109. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:40 AM

    11:35 you are so typical of the problem with this blog. It is only for the disenchanted and the negative. God forbid should free speech include anyone who has positive thoughts or comments or divergent thinking. The negative people frequent this blog.

    Good luck. I am positive you will be laid off. And we will all be better off without you.
    Negative people are cancerous to any business.

    And negative and arrogant are the worse combination of personality traits.

    ReplyDelete
  110. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:41 AM

    I disagree with some of these posters who criticize this blog as being negative and a vendetta against Gannett.

    Frankly, Jim's blog is doing a great service right now.

    It allows all of us the opportunity to vent our frustrations, and take out our anger at this company in the way we know best - by writing.

    Yes, sometimes we have typos here, but we write so fast and with such passion sometimes that we want these comments posted so quick.... well, that is why we all need copy edits! ha!

    Anyway, this blog is a great release for our feelings. It is ... theraputic. What better way for us to vent? Kick the cat? Yell at a sales clerk? No, Jim is providing the perfect outlet for all of us - a healthy, harmless avenue to debate the issues and our tragic loose of many good colleagues.

    The motivation behind what many people are writing is irrelevent. The point is we all are angry and feel bad right now.... and when we write to this blog and vent our feelings, we feel better.

    Thanks Jim! And hang in there!

    ReplyDelete
  111. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:42 AM

    Jim did not cause this. Does anyone seriously think that is true? And by the way, I'm sick at my stomach watching the GCI stock rise this morning.

    ReplyDelete
  112. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:43 AM

    11:10, do you need help finding a professional in your city that can help you with your suicidal thoughts?

    If so, post your city name and I will do what I can to find a 1-800 number or a local phone number for you.

    ReplyDelete
  113. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:44 AM

    I love my job too and will be extremely sad if I lose it. Maybe there is a little truth to this blog creating a gang mentality of negativity. If I get laid off, I will focus on positive change. I doubt I will spend endless hours on a blog. Its a little sad.

    ReplyDelete
  114. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:45 AM

    In fairness to the News-Leader, the ME has written a note to readers about the email screwup concerning Overstreet...it reads:

    "Sarahoverstreet@news-leader.com is a special address we set up so we could forward any messages to Sarah's home account. It was not working very early this morning, but it is now."
    12/4/2008 10:09:20 AM

    ReplyDelete
  115. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:46 AM

    11:43 you are a kind person. Someone needs to help the person with suicidal thoughts. NOW!

    ReplyDelete
  116. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:48 AM

    Jim did not cause it but I agree the forum may have contributed to the further demise.

    ReplyDelete
  117. Anonymous12/04/2008 11:49 AM

    11:10, I once put my job above everything else, and then Gannett bought us and shut us down. I was devastated and felt like I'd lost my identity. But the experience helped me re-shuffle my priorities and now I'm grateful for that. It took a while to get there, I admit, but once you can put some time and distance between you and this layoff, you just might find that it will end up being a blessing. I'm in a much better job and my personal life is great. The same will happen for you. There is so much more to you than what you do for a living.

    ReplyDelete

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