Toasted Posties

Quarter of Merc staff to be laid off

2007-06-02T06:07:00.000-07:00

Forwarded by a Toasted Postie:

Mercury News plans to cut one-quarter of newsroom positions this summer

By John McManus
Posted May 31, 2007

Sixty more newsroom positions – almost one in four -- are to be eliminated at the San Jose Mercury News this summer after a layoff moratorium negotiated with the local Newspaper Guild expires, Grade the News has learned.

John Bowman, executive editor at the San Mateo County Times until last week, said the staff reductions were discussed at an April meeting he attended at the Mercury News along with top editors of MediaNews, which now owns every paid daily newspaper around the San Francisco Bay but the San Francisco Chronicle. The proposed cuts would affect 24% of the 250 member Mercury News staff.

Mr. Bowman said he disclosed the layoff plan and resigned as executive editor of the Times because he was fed up with MediaNews' policies of trying to run newspapers short-handed.

"They're way past the point of diminishing returns, of penny-wise, pound-foolish," Mr. Bowman said of MediaNews' operations in the Bay Area.

David Satterfield, managing editor of the Mercury News, refused to discuss staff cuts. "I'm not going to talk about that sort of thing," he said. "We don't share that widely. "I think it has been a difficult start to the year," Mr. Satterfield added. "That's the word we keep getting from our advertising department."

Kevin Keane, vice president for news/California Newspaper Partnership-North, said, "I'm not in charge of the Mercury News. I'd prefer not to comment."

Susan Goldberg, who resigned as executive editor of the Mercury News in May and this week joined the Cleveland Plain Dealer in the same capacity did not respond to a phone call or an email message concerning the staff cuts.

Both Mr. Keane and Ms. Goldberg were at the April meeting in which the staff reductions were discussed, according to Mr. Bowman.

"Sixty is huge; oh my God!" Mercury News business reporter Elise Ackerman, exclaimed. "As far as I know nothing has been decided," commented Mercury News reporter Julie Patel. "If that's true, it would be devastating for the quality of the journalism that we do. It would definitely affect the public because there are fewer people providing quality information, translating public issues and engaging people in things that impact them."

Ms. Ackerman said the public has yet to realize how vital newspapers are in making a region a good place to live and do business.

A resident of downtown Oakland, Ms. Ackerman said prior MediaNews' cuts at The Oakland Tribune have deprived citizens of an effective champion against city corruption and mismanagement.

"The Tribune is actually doing a pretty good job of covering things that are important to me, but there are some really important things that aren't being covered right now," she explained.

Among those are corruption in city hall and a soaring crime rate. The FBI is investigating a "pay to play" atmosphere in city government, she said, but not the newspaper.

"The Tribune reporters are good and hardworking, but this stuff doesn't get covered in the newspapers because they don't have the staff."

"When a newspaper becomes so weak it's not an effective counterbalance to the incredible arrogance of some public officials, it can't play watchdog for the public," Ms. Ackerman added. "I'm afraid the same thing will happen in San Jose."

At the Mercury News, she continued, "my colleagues go the extra mile to find out what's going on at city hall. They try very hard to keep city council accountable. It's a much more successful area as a result." Businesses are reluctant to locate in Oakland, she said, because of concerns about municipal corruption and crime.

"Any more cuts would obviously hurt the paper, hurt the community, hurt employees," said Luther Jackson, executive officer of the San Jose Newspaper Guild. "A paper is a critical part of the fabric of the community."

Jackson said the Guild would have to be notified of any reduction in force greater than 50 employees. He had received no such warning, he said Wednesday. The Guild negotiated a moratorium on further staff cuts until July when it agreed last December to accept the elimination of 35 Guild positions at the Mercury News. The newspaper employed approximately 380 journalists at its peak in 2001, Managing Editor Satterfield said.

Dennis Uyeno, lead salesman in the classified advertising department of the Mercury News and a San Jose Newspaper Guild vice president, said losses in the newsroom "will make it much harder to sell ads. If you want to sell advertising, you have to have a quality product."

He said many at the Mercury News had been hopeful MediaNews owner Dean Singleton would have used the resources of the two-time Pulitzer-winning paper to improve MediaNews' other Bay Area newspapers.

Former San Mateo County Times editor Bowman said the April meeting at the Mercury News may have been a factor in Ms. Goldberg's departure as executive editor. She had tried to spare the Mercury News some of the 60 position reduction, he explained, but was told the other MediaNews properties were already operating on such thin staffs they couldn't absorb further cuts. After the meeting, "she seemed pretty defeated," Mr. Bowman said.

Reductions in staff have been common at newspapers across the country in recent years. The San Francisco Chronicle announced May 18 that it would trim 100 newsroom jobs from its 400-member staff in coming months. Newspapers have been losing both subscribers and advertisers to the Internet, according to figures compiled by the Newspaper Association of America. Their most recent data shows those losses are accelerating.

While staff cuts at the Chronicle came in the context of a newspaper reportedly losing millions of dollars a year to operate, MediaNews reported a $4.3 million profit in the first quarter of 2007. According to a May report in the Denver Post, MediaNews' flagship paper, the profit was fueled by the acquisition of former Knight Ridder newspapers, such as the Mercury News, Contra Costa Times and St. Paul Pioneer Press.

MediaNews' owns 61 daily newspapers and 120 nondaily publications

Tom Overton services, eulogy

2007-04-21T10:07:00.000-07:00

There are several services for Tom Overton:

There will be a visitation today (Saturday) from 5-9 at the Pace-Stancil Funeral Home, 302 Crockett, Cleveland, TX.

There will be another visitation Sunday from 4-9 at the Pace-Stancil Funeral Home, 302 Crockett, Cleveland, TX.

There will be a Rosary Sunday at 7 p.m. in the midst of the visitation.

The funeral service will be Monday at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s church, 702 E. Houston Street, Cleveland.

To accommodate those who can’t get to Cleveland, there will be a memorial service at 2 p.m. Friday, April 27 in the Chapel of St. Basil, 3802 Yoakum on the University of St. Thomas campus.

-- Fred King

Forgot something … any of us is welcome to say a few words about Tom at the service. Just let Judy Overton know in advance so she can alert the presiding deacon. Her e-mail is tover62331@aol.com.

Thanks Fred

Tom Overton passed away

2007-04-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

Via Tom's family, friends and coworkers:

Tom Overton passed away peacefully Thursday night, April 19, at about 11 p.m., surrounded by family.

A funeral service will take place Monday, April 23, at 11 a.m., at St. Mary's Church, 702 E. Houston St., in Cleveland. There will be a rosary the night before; details are not yet available.

In addition, to accommodate those who can't get to Cleveland on Monday or Sunday night, a memorial service will take place Friday, April 27, at 2 p.m., at the Chapel of St. Basil, 3802 Yoakum, on the University of St. Thomas campus.

Brenda G.'s eulogy for Vic*

2007-04-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

Query: What’s the word most Posties think of when they think of Vic Edmonson?

For many of you, that word, more than any other, evoked memories of Vic. Former Post features desker Robin Dalmas, now of Redmond, Wash., said that “Vic distilled a six-word sentence, ‘I have a question for you,’ into one simple word that we understood immediately. How could writers and editors not love that?”

Vic was one of the first people I met when I went to work at the Houston Post in December 1990. He was the first friend I made there and continued to be my friend when our lives took us in different directions after the Post closed in 1995.

At first I didn’t know what to make of him. When I would greet him or thank him for helping me, he would make a comment about buying small bearded people pizza. He did it in such a deadpan manner that I wasn’t sure if he was going to give me trouble down the road. Instead, he came to be the Postie I relied upon most of all.

In April 1995, when it became apparent that the Post would close soon, Vic and I agreed that we’d call each other the minute either of us heard any news. When my phone rang April 18 at 9:30 a.m., I knew what it meant. That was the shortest conversation we ever had, because Vic had more people to call.

Another onetime Post newbie, features writer Randall Patterson, offered this story:

When I came to the Post, Vic gave me the tour of the building. Such an enormous place it was, and I was already giddy when Vic opened a door into the pressroom and the roar and spectacle of the giant presses churning out the big-city newspaper. Whatever they were printing lay on pallets, in stacks of thousands, and I was thinking about where I was, in a sort of reverie as I reached for a single copy, and heard Vic, behind me, telling me to put that back, that stealing is forbidden at the Houston Post, and I could get fired. He was so decent and vivid, I don't think I'll ever forget him.

Martha Liebrum, the former Post features editor and assistant managing editor, had a keen appreciation of Vic’s abilities. She explained it this way:

You said Vic was my right-hand man, but in fact, he was much more: He was my left brain ... the part that’s supposed to be linear, logical and calm.

Before Vic, I paid most attention to what I valued: good and accurate stories. The administrative stuff was necessary but of least interest to me. Vic helped us build a reputation for running efficiently. He didn’t help; he caused us to have that reputation.

Before Vic, I almost always managed to have people come in for a scheduled appointment, and I’d be shocked because I had lost my notes about the schedule. After Vic, no more awkward moments.

He took on a tremendous burden in watching that people got paid, that their overtime was on the check, that their expense accounts cleared F&A.

He put up with a lot of guff from some of our hard-to-live-with personalities, but he still got the job done, facing down fire-breathing dragons who shall go unnamed.

When he finished a long day in Features, he’d often work overtime in Sports, or wherever he could. He was loyal to the Post and would have been there forever, as I would have been if it had stayed in business.

I’ve worked at a variety of things since The Post and often thought how much many of those enterprises would have benefited from having Vic there.

Lori Colvin, former features desk editor, agreed, saying, “He was more than Martha’s right-hand man; he was everyone’s right-hand man. And I suspect things won’t be any different up there in his new heavenly place. He will probably be St. Peter’s right-hand man!"

Vic had dirt on all of us. He loved to hear the latest gossip but seldom contributed any, saying he was out of the loop. But we all knew better. Just as securely as he locked those Features file cabinets at the end of the week, walking off in his Friday flip-flops, Vic took his secrets with him when he left this world.

Ken Hoffman, a columnist at the Post and now at the Chronicle, offered this anecdote that pays tribute to Vic’s finely tuned attention to detail.

Dick Clark was having a TV special about the history of rock ’n’ roll, and I scheduled a phone interview with Fabian.

Remember him? Big teen idol from the early ’60s. Went by one name, sort of like Charo or Fabio or Bono.

Fabian was late calling me, so I went out for lunch with Rusty San Juan.

When I got back to the Post, there was a note on my desk from Vic.

It said, “Mr. Forte called for his interview.”

Now let's imagine that conversation.

Fabian calls and asks for me. Vic says I'm not there, but can he take a message?

Fabian says, sure, tell him that Fabian called.

Vic says, OK, but is Fabian your first or last name?

Uh, it's my first name. I'm Fabian.

May I have your last name?

Huh? OK, it's Forte.

In 40 years, he hasn't used his last name. He's just Fabian.

I get a message that Mr. Forte called.

Vic took casual Fridays seriously. His ensembles almost always included flip-flops and often included tank tops. On Friday evenings, he made a point to tell people who left before him to drive carefully. On one such evening, Mark Hanna, the Post’s entertainment editor, prepared to leave. As usual, Vic said, “Drive carefully.” Mark stopped, looked at Vic, said, “No, Vic. I’m going to drive like hell,” and prepared to storm off. Vic looked a little stunned but didn’t miss a beat. He smiled and told Mark to “drive like hell,” establishing a new Friday routine.

Jay Frank, the Post’s radio reporter, offered the following anecdote:

One day I was working on a column and called Brent Musburger, the longtime CBS sportscaster (now with ABC). His assistant said he was out but that he'd call me back in 45 minutes. So I decided to go downstairs and get something to eat. I got my usual ham sandwich, with an added treat — navy bean soup. If you recall, it was actually pretty good.

When I came back, there was a message on my desk that Musburger had returned my call. When I called him back, I thanked him and told him I was working on a column on whatever.

"No problem; we'll get to that. But first, how was that ham sandwich?" he asked. "And did you have the navy bean soup with it?"

I said something like, "Wow. How did you know that?" I was sort of puzzled as to where he got that piece of information. What else does he know?

"That fella who answered the phone filled me in," he said. "Very polite young man ... and good with details."

"Yes, he is," I replied.

Ernie Williamson, the Post’s executive editor and now assistant managing editor at the Chronicle, made the following observation.

As years roll by, I find myself reminiscing more and more about the good times at the Post. It’s strange, really. Lower pay, fewer resources and some strange bosses. But we had a good time, largely because we had the best people.

Vic certainly would be among the most memorable. He would, and could, do almost anything asked of him. And he did it well.

Former assistant entertainment editor Rebecca Goodballet recalled that Vic “was always donating blood. One time he came in to work and told Ann Valentine that he had given blood for her, even though she didn't need it.”

Former Features reporter Clifford Pugh, now style critic at the Houston Chronicle, said Vic “had an unbridled capacity for seeing the good in life and the good in people. Vic was a major reason I have such fond memories of the Post. Even when I think of him now, I can’t help but smile and have a good feeling about life.”

The last time Vic and I talked, the conversation drifted toward TV, as it inevitably did. I told him I had been watching a lot of “Magnum P.I.” reruns lately, knowing it was one of his favorite shows. He said the thing he liked about Magnum was that even though the characters would give each other a hard time on a regular basis, they would have done anything for each other when one of them was in need. He frequently made that same observation about his Postie friends. It’s the sort of thing he would have called an odd coincidence.

I’ll conclude with a comment from Lynn Ashby, former editor-in-chief of the Post, now editor of H magazine. “Vic was always a happy soul in a city room that was not always that happy. He had a way of making me smile. In a world that was bold font, he was italics.”

— 30 —

* Except for the "drive like hell" story, which she saved for the after-party.

Vic Edmonson, Chronicle obit

2007-04-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

Houston Chronicle obit, April 13 editions:

Vic Edmonson, former Houston Post employee, dies at 46

By MELANIE MARKLEY
Copyright 2007 Houston Chronicle

Wayne Victor Edmonson, a much-loved character who handled administrative duties in the features department of the Houston Post before it closed, died Saturday from illnesses related to diabetes and chronic heart problems. He was 46.

Former Post editors and reporters say Edmonson was highly efficient and a stickler for detail when it came to his job, which involved answering phones, overseeing expenses, and doing other administrative tasks. Edmonson also wrote occasional reviews and kept track of entertainment listings in the newspaper.

Ken Hoffman, a Houston Chronicle columnist who then worked for The Post, recalls a time when Edmonson took a call from singer Fabian, who was responding to Hoffman's request for an interview.

Hoffman, who had gone to lunch when the call came in, returned to find a message from Edmonson.

"Mr. Forte called for his interview," the message read, even though Fabian, the one-time teen idol and singing sensation, had never been known by anything other than his first name.
Hoffman said the message typified Edmonson's approach to the job.

"Every little detail had to be perfect," Hoffman said, "so when Fabian calls, it's Mr. Forte."

Clifford Pugh, another former Post reporter now at the Chronicle, said Edmonson's attention to detail could drive people crazy, but he did his job with such zeal and enthusiasm that it was hard not to love him.

"He had an unbridled capacity for seeing the good in life and the good in people, which in our business isn't always the case," Pugh said.

Friends say Edmonson was an avid Trekkie who loved science fiction, collected comic books and considered pizza — especially Hawaiian pizza — the most perfect food in the universe. He also tried to see every movie that came out. Last year, said former Post colleague Brenda Gunter, he saw 224.

Martha Liebrum, who was features editor at The Post before she became assistant managing editor, said Edmonson started as a copy messenger before moving to the features department and taking the job as administrative assistant.

Liebrum said Edmonson was more than just her right hand.

"He was my left brain," she said, "the part that's supposed to be linear, logical and calm."

Edmonson, who had bachelor's degrees in journalism and English, started working at The Post while still in college and remained there until the newspaper closed in 1995.

Edmonson then took a job as a ticket sales agent for Continental Airlines, where he was promoted to a customer service position and then to a similar position for Continental's Disney Vacations branch. He worked there until his death.

Survivors include his mother, Frances "Becky" Edmonson of Houston; a sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Jessie Robinson of Houston, two nieces and a cousin.

A memorial service was scheduled Thursday evening.

Tom Overton in hospice care at home

2007-04-11T19:43:00.000-07:00

Excerpts from e-mail circulated at University of St. Thomas:

Tom Overton, director of public affairs, has now entered another phase in his long and courageous battle with cancer and is receiving hospice care at his home. We recognize that all is in God's hands now and ask that you please keep Tom and Judy, Matt and Nathan in your prayers.

If you would like to include a card or message to Tom, we will make sure he receives it! As of April 11, Tom was still receiving visitors and Judy really appreciates anyone who can come by to see him.

Their address is 1202 Plum Grove Road, Cleveland, TX. I would suggest calling Judy ahead of time: 281-659-1373.

Many thanks,

--Sue

Susan E. Bradford
Executive Director for Institutional Advancement
University of St. Thomas

Vic Edmonson, 1961-2007

2007-04-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

From Brenda G:

Wayne Victor Edmonson, 46, passed away Saturday, April 7, at 4:57 a.m., due to illnesses related to chronic heart- and diabetes-related conditions. His close friend Bill Bates, whom he had known since high school, was at his side when he concluded that final journey.

Born Feb. 25, 1961, in Houston, to Wayne and Frances "Becky" Edmonson, Vic, as he was known, lived in the Westbury-Sharpstown area until moving with his family to Missouri City during junior high.

He graduated from Dulles High School in 1979. During high school, he began working at Burger King, where he met several lifelong friends, and rose to the rank of manager while in college. He also was a past master counselor, the highest ranking in the DeMolay Lodge No. 1336 in Bellaire, a Masonic preparation group for young men, leading his group to receive a first-place award with an essay he wrote for a statewide competition. He attended Houston Baptist University on a full academic scholarship, graduating with bachelor of arts degrees in English and journalism.

In 1982, while still in college, he got a job at the Houston Post as a contract copy messenger. In 1984, he transferred to the features department and full-time employment, serving in an administrative role supporting features editor Martha Liebrum. He continued in that position, later supporting Julie Gilbert when Liebrum became assistant managing editor and Gilbert became features editor, until the Post closed in April 1995. During his 13 years at the Post, Vic made many friends in the features department and across the newsroom. He distinguished himself as a skilled administrator, assisting the Post's leaders in managing budgets that grew sparser and more challenging each year. He also contributed regularly to the newspaper's entertainment listings. His finest moment at the Post, however, was when the newspaper published his review of the film "Star Trek: Generations" in 1994.

As the Post moved toward closure, Vic began suffering from ill health. Instead of immediately seeking employment when the newspaper closed, Vic spent that time seeing his family through the long process of his father's decline, until Mr. Edmonson passed away later that year. In early 1996, he took a job at Continental Airlines as a ticket sales agent. He continued there until his death, being promoted to a customer service position and then to a similar position for Continental's Disney Vacations branch. Just as he did at Burger King and the Post, Vic made numerous longtime friendships while serving in various areas at Continental.

He was preceded in death by his father. In addition to his mother, survivors include his sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Jessie Robinson, of Houston; two nieces, Megan, of Redding, Calif., and Danielle, of Houston; and a cousin, Joyce Shea, of Detroit.

A memorial service will take place Thursday, April 12, at 7 p.m., at St. Philip's United Methodist Church, 5501 Beechnut at Renwick, in Houston.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Philip's United Methodist Church, 5501 Beechnut St., Houston TX 77096-1005; checks should be addressed to “St. Philip’s UMC” and specify "In Memory of Vic Edmonson."

Bud Bentley passes away

2006-12-28T07:37:00.000-08:00

From Fred:

Bud Bently, who was The Post’s art director when he retired in 1983, died on Christmas Day. His obit is in today’s Chronicle.

ALBERT FRANKLIN BENTLEY III died on December 25, 2006.
Mr. Bentley was born on Bentley Hill in Temple, Texas, on May 28, 1913, the second son of Cleo Pace and William Gladstone Bentley. He was the grandson and namesake of A.F. Bentley, a civic and business leader, as well as a pioneer builder of early Temple.
Mr. Bentley had a long career as a newspaper artist and cartoonist with The Houston Post, where he was well known for his byline as Bud Bentley for almost forty years. He retired as Art Director in 1983.
Mr. Bentley started his newspaper career in 1940 with The Houston Press, then joined the Army Air Force in 1942.
In addition to his military duties, he was Editor-in-Chief of the popular, award-winning newspaper "Tailspin" at Ellington Field.
After completing his service in the Air Force, Mr. Bentley joined The Houston Post in 1946 to begin his long career there. Mr. Bentley was a member of the Baseball Writers of America, the Sigma Delta Journalistic Fraternity, and a founding member of The Press Club of Houston.
When he retired from the Houston Post, he turned his abundant intelligence and energy to his lifelong passion of handicapping horse races at his favorite thoroughbred course, the Fairgrounds in New Orleans. He and his beloved wife enjoyed many wonderful, well-deserved years there.
Mr. Bentley is survived by his wife, Patricia Keenan Bentley, a third generation Houstonian. The couple was married in the rectory of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in 1944. A daughter and four sons were born to them: they are Patricia Ann Wambold of Lake Forest, IL; Robert Leland Bentley of Los Angeles; William Keenan Bentley of Studio City, CA; Albert Brian Bentley of Houston; and Barry Lester Bentley of Columbus, OH.
A son-in-law and three daughters-in-law also survive: Melissa Wilson Bentley of Studio City, Richard Lawrence Wambold of Lake Forest, May Doyle Bentley of Houston, and Rosalie Weilend Bentley of Columbus.
Nine grandchildren also survive. They are: Lauren, Carolyn, and Robin Wambold of Lake Forest; Chet and Wyatt Bentley of Studio City; and Julia, Bryan, Mary, and Carol Bentley of Houston.
All of the members of his family cherish the many years that we were privileged to spend with him and remain devoted to his memory.
Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from six until eight o'clock in the evening on Friday, the 29th of December, with a Vigil service scheduled to begin at seven o'clock, in the Morrow Chapel of The Settegast Kopf Co.
A graveside service will be conducted at ten o'clock in the morning on Saturday, the 30th of December in the Mausoleum Chapel at Holy Cross Cemetery, 3502 North Main Street.

Published in the Houston Chronicle on 12/28/2006.

Tom Overton update

2006-11-11T11:25:00.000-08:00

Tom is in rehabilitation a week after his surgery. He sustained some nerve damage and is learning how to walk again. It's a slow going process, but hasn't affected Tom's terrific, optimistic outlook. He is in Room P326 at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

The wonderful people at St. Mary's Church in Cleveland are having a Garage Sale 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday to cover the cost of Tom's ongoing treatments. A chili lunch for $5 per bowl will be offered after the 11:30 a.m. Mass Sunday. There will also be a small auction of items in which the proceeds will go toward Tom's treatments.

-- via Fred King

MediaNews mows through the Merc newsroom

2006-11-09T06:09:00.000-08:00

From Melanie Hauser:

"... MediaNews, the national newspaper chain that owns the Oakland Tribune and recently purchased the Contra Costa Times and the San Jose Mercury News, has unveiled its proposal to cut wages for new reporters at the Merc by more than thirty percent. ... "

" ... The wage proposal was immediately denounced by union leadership as insufficient to attract and maintain top-quality journalists in the ultra-expensive Silicon Valley. ..."

"... The wage proposal comes as no surprise for followers of MediaNews. The company prides itself in cutting costs. It’s also required under a business model that calls for going deeply into debt to purchase more newspapers. Click here for the company’s latest annual report. ... "

" ... MediaNews has told the union that if it does not meet its contract demands by November 30, then it will move forward with plans to lay off 101 employees in December, including 69 union members of which 40 would come from the newsroom. ... "

21 laid off at LA Daily News

2006-11-05T19:25:00.000-08:00

By James Rainey, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
October 31, 2006

The company that publishes the Los Angeles Daily News laid off Publisher Tracy Rafter and 20 other employees Monday.

Although the Los Angeles Newspaper Group did not publicly announce the changes at the San Fernando Valley-based paper, employees said the cuts were described as a streamlining move.

Rafter was replaced by John C. McKeon, president and chief executive of the Los Angeles Newspaper Group, which owns the Daily News, the Pasadena Star-News and six other Southern California newspapers. It is the local arm of privately held MediaNews Group Inc. of Denver, controlled by William Dean Singleton.

Singleton is known as a resolute cost cutter who likes to own papers in clusters so that he can combine reporting, advertising and printing operations.

MediaNews is believed to be close to a deal to buy another suburban Los Angeles paper, the South Bay Daily Breeze, now owned by the Copley chain.At the Daily News, four jobs will be lost in the newsroom and several other reductions will come from the management ranks. The paper's union represented 110 non-management employees before the layoffs.

Although employees were saddened by Monday's action at the 151,000-circulation paper, they had feared much worse — perhaps the loss of one-fifth of newsroom staff. Early this month, speculation had swirled in the newsroom that Rafter and Editor Ron Kaye would be ousted for resisting cuts.

"I don't think anyone is happy about this," said Brent Hopkins, a general assignment reporter and union shop steward. "But … they didn't just slash and burn."

McKeon and Rafter could not be reached. Kaye told his staff that he planned to stay on the job.

-- thanks to Melanie Hauser for passing along

Ann James Freelander celebration today

2006-11-04T07:02:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that the family of Ann James Freelander is inviting her friends and former co-workers to a celebration of her life today (Nov. 4) at 7 p.m.

It will be held at the Stag's Head Pub, 2128 Portsmouth (713-533-1199). Go to the pub's Oak Room, which is a separate room to the far left as you enter the pub.

The Stag's Head is at the corner of Portsmouth and South Sandman in the Shepherd Plaza Center, which is just south of Richmond between Shepherd and Greenbriar. (It is the same pub where the wake was held for Doug Freelander.) There will be complimentary appetizers and a cash bar.

For more information, you can call Ann's daughter, Sherrill Montgomery, at 1-936-520-9989.

This will be the only gathering for Ann; we hope everyone can attend ....

Thanks

Tom Overton having surgery today

2006-11-02T06:02:00.000-08:00

Postie Tom Overton is having surgery on his back Thursday, Nov. 2, his 53rd birthday.

Judy Overton says his mobility has become greatly compromised in the past 12 hours, so the doctors will revisit his spinal area and remove a mass that is encroaching on that area.

This is a delicate surgery like the last one six months ago and could take up to eight hours. Surgery will be at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Right now he's in Room Purple 319. Tom was to undergo an embollization on Wednesday, November 1.

Judy and Tom thank you for your prayers.

Wake for Ann James Freelander

2006-10-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

From George Flynn:

The family of Ann James Freelander invites all her friends and former co-workers to a celebration of her life.

This wake will be at 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 4, at the Stag's Head Pub, 2128 Portsmouth (713-533-1199).

It will be held in the pub's Oak Room, which is a separate room to the far left as you enter the pub. The Stag's Head is at the corner of Portsmouth and South Sandman in the Shepherd Plaza Center, which is just south of Richmond between Shepherd and Greenbriar. (It is the same pub where the wake was held for Doug Freelander.)

There will be complimentary appetizers and a cash bar. For more information, you can call Ann's daughter, Sherrill Montgomery, at 1-936-520-9989.

This will be the only gathering for Ann; we hope everyone can attend....

Thanks

Judy King's obituary

2006-10-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

From Fred:

Judith (Judy) Louise Croom King, born October 25, 1945, and born again in the fall of 1972, entered the presence of her Lord Jesus Christ on Oct. 21. Her husband and son were at her side.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pitser Blalock and Fletcher Metcalfe Croom and brother, Hunter Metcalfe Croom. Survived by husband, Fred King; children: Thomas Blalock & Anna Lee King and Sarah Elizabeth & Christian Duncan Farmer; grandchildren: Juliette Louise King, Robert Thomas King, Victor Alexander Farmer, Anastasia Alexandra Farmer, Dennis Duncan Farmer, Dima Thomas Farmer, and Anya Elizabeth Farmer; great-grandson, Nickles Grande Farmer; sister and brother-in-law, Emily Anne Croom and Robert Shelby.

Also surviving are an aunt, Mary Katherine Earney; and Fred's siblings and their spouses, Audrey VanDemark, Mary and Dan Posey, Tim and Peggy King, Terry King, Alan and Janet King, and Tyra King; and cousins, nieces and nephews.

Judy and her Bellaire High School sweetheart, Fred, had their first date in November 1962. Judy was co-valedictorian of their class, 1963.

She earned a Bachelor of Journalism degree with special honors in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin in 1967.

Judy and Fred married July 1, 1967.

Judy was the author of six published books, including The Greatest Gift Guide Ever and Breast Cancer Answers. She finished the second edition of Breast Cancer Answers just weeks ago as that disease ravaged her body. The books were delivered Oct. 18 and she got to hold one. The book became her ministry to women fighting the disease and the effects of the treatments.

She owned Judy King Editorial Services, helping scores of authors present their ideas clearly in good English, and was president and founder of www.GivingCenter.com.

Judy was a Girl Scout leader for many years, and five members of her troop earned the Gold Award. When her health permitted, she was a leader in the churches she and Fred attended and a Sunday school teacher.

Despite her great academic, community and professional success, what Judy loved most was spending time with her family. She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother and an eager, humble servant of the Lord.

A memorial service for Judy King will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Tallowood Center, 10405 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024. (That's on the eastbound service road, just inside Beltway 8.) A reception for family and friends will be held there immediately afterward. Care for children age 5 and under will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to a charity serving Russian orphans, HOPES from the Father, 906 Shadberry Drive, Magnolia, TX 77354; or the Angel Tree project of Prison Fellowship, PO Box 1550, Merrifield, VA 22116-1550.

In the Kings' 1999 Christmas letter, sent just weeks after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Judy wrote, "Friends have provided such wonderful support - and earnest prayers. God is sustaining us, and we know His timing is perfect ."

Ann James Freelander died today

2006-10-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

Everyone --

Ann James Freelander died this morning from liver complications, at her home in Conroe. Her daughter Sherrill is overseeing things and can be reached at 936-756-7436 if needed.

Ann's wish was to be cremated. There will be a memorial wake in Houston in the near future. Details will follow when those are worked out.

-- George Flynn

Addendum: Houston Chronicle story

Judy King died this morning

2006-10-21T08:57:00.000-07:00

From Fred:

A child of God who also was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend is home. Judy died this morning about 5:35.

Tom and I were with her. She had been discharged from Memorial City about 7:15 p.m. Friday and was brought to our house by ambulance. About midnight, as Tom and Anna talked to her, she smiled and her eyes focused and she nodded appropriately. That was the only response from her from about 6 p.m. Friday until she died.

Never any indication of pain although her breathing was very difficult.

We expected to have several more days, even weeks with her, based on what her oncologist told me Wednesday or Thursday. But, most important, Judy had great visits with all her children and grandchildren this past week. I know that was a great answer to the prayers of many of you. We have been loved and supported so much through this. Judy was buoyed by that.

She will be cremated, per her wishes. There will be no private service.

Fairly solid plans are for having a memorial service about 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Tallowood Center, Attingham at Katy Freeway. That's a long block inside the West Belt. (It's a shopping center our church bought. The part nearest the freeway service road is a restaurant called 59 Diner.)

No flowers. She had some suggestions about memorials if you're inclined. Details later.

Will let you know final plans later.

It would make my life a bit simpler if you sent any replies -- although none is necessary -- to fredking@pdq.net.

Ann James Freelander seriously ill

2006-10-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

Everyone --

The family of former longtime Post writer Ann James Freelander reports that she is in very bad health and may not recover. She had gall bladder surgery recently and was re-hospitalized from complications of that and a failing liver.

She is under heavy medication, and under in-home medical and hospice care. Her daughter Sherrill says she has been drifting in and out of consciousness since last night -- doctors do not know if she will be able to recover. Sherrill will be back early afternoon today and will accept any calls on Ann's behalf.

Ann's phone number is 936-756-7436; her address is 3109 Wilson Rd., Conroe TX, 77304.

Ann is the widow of former city editor Doug Freelander. As everyone who knows her quickly came to realize, Ann could be a cantankerous, ornery tiger at times -- as well as a full-time, incredibly tender, loving, compassionate person who cared deeply about those in her life and work. She's showed her toughness, stamina, sheer will -- and selflessness -- in working major Post beats (and stories -- from the Frank Sharp Sharpstown scandal to the Dean Corll/Elmer Wayne Henley serial murders and so on) during the 1960s and 70s.

Please join us in praying that her unique kind of spirit can get her through the challenges of this ordeal. Her daughter Sherrill says she'll pass along the sentiments of those who want to call.

Thanks.

-- George Flynn

Tom Overton back at M.D. Anderson

2006-10-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

Tom Overton of St. Thomas U. is back in MD Anderson.

His room phone is 713 834 8728.

Still has his sense of humor and says hisspine is compressed, not collapsed.

-- Fred
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: TOver62331@aol.com
Sent: Thu 10/12/2006 11:09 PM
To: King, Fred (DCO)
Subject: Tom Overton update

Hi, Fred,

Tom is back at MDAnderson since Monday afternoon. He has a collapsed spine
and the doctors have begun radiation and are possibly looking at surgery as
an option again as well.

He is doing great! He is in Purple 820. I never remember the room phone
number, but his cell is 713-906-7910. If he doesn't answer, he may be on
another call or in treatment. Please leave a number so he can call back.

We are not sure how long he will be at the hospital this time around. If
anyone chooses to email, I will get them to him.

All the best,
Judy Overton

Gates lends money to MediaNews

2006-08-21T18:38:00.000-07:00

A Toasted Postie in Florida sends this in:

Gates Foundation among MediaNews lenders (Aug. 21)

SEATTLE (AP) - The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation was among a few dozen banks, insurance companies, mutual funds and others entities that loaned $350 million to MediaNews Group Inc. for its purchase of four newspapers from publisher McClatchy Co.
The Seattle-based Gates Foundation, the world's largest philanthropy with an endowment of about $30 billion, contributed an unspecified amount of money toward the transaction, according to an Aug. 8 filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission by MediaNews Group. Others listed as contributors include General Electric Capital Corp. and Blue Shield of California.
Spokeswoman Monica Harrington said she could not confirm how much the foundation had contributed to the loan. A message left with the foundation's investment team Monday was not immediately returned.
Jody Lodovic, president of Denver-based MediaNews, said he did not know how much of the loan came from the Gates Foundation, but was pleased it had contributed. "It seems like even new media people understand and believe in the value of traditional media, so we're certainly happy to see them participate," Lodovic said.
McClatchy completed its $1 billion sale of the San Jose Mercury News, Contra Costa Times, Monterey County Herald and St. Paul Pioneer Press earlier this month, finishing its disposal of a dozen newspapers picked up in its recent acquisition of Knight Ridder Inc.
Denver-based MediaNews, a privately held company headed by William Dean Singleton, bought the Mercury News and Contra Costa Times to establish itself as the largest newspaper publisher in the San Francisco Bay area. Hearst Corp. bought the Monterey and Minnesota papers but is turning both over to MediaNews in exchange for a stake in MediaNews' operations outside the Bay Area.
MediaNews already owns the Oakland Tribune and a cluster of suburban papers in the Bay Area. Its other properties include The Denver Post, The Salt Lake Tribune and The Detroit News.
The Gates Foundation awarded about $1.36 billion in grants last year, much of it for public health initiatives in developing countries. In the United States, its donations focus on education and technology in public libraries.
The foundation's loan to MediaNews is part of a broad investment portfolio designed to fund the endowment. The foundation's assets include more than $4 billion in stock in companies including oil behemoths BP PLC and Exxon Mobil Corp., club warehouse chain Costco Wholesale Corp., and pharmaceutical makers Merck and Co. and Schering Plough Corp., according to a recent SEC filing.
Most of the foundation's money came from donations of Microsoft Corp. stock from Bill Gates, the software maker's co-founder and chairman.
In June, billionaire investor Warren Buffett, the world's second-richest man behind Gates, announced that he would begin giving about $1.5 billion a year to the Gates Foundation, essentially doubling the pot of money the philanthropy doles out each year.

MediaNews eyes the Internet

2006-08-21T18:35:00.000-07:00

Melanie Hauser passed this along about three weeks ago. Sorry ...

MediaNews looks to set standard for papers online (Aug. 1)
By John Simerman
CONTRA COSTA TIMES
MediaNews Group Inc., the pending owner of the Times, hopes to harness its newfound Bay Area newspaper dominance on the Internet with a regional Web site that aims to be a model for how old-guard newspapers can work and make money online.
Denver-based MediaNews and its owner, William Dean Singleton, are discussing a regional Internet collaboration among its 11 Bay Area newspapers and possibly its lone regional rival, the San Francisco Chronicle.
Joseph Lodovic, the company's president, told the Times last month that the company was in "very preliminary" talks with Hearst Corp., owner of the Chronicle and SFGate.com, about a joint Internet venture that could be run under the BayArea.com name.
It was not clear whether the Web site would replace any of the individual newspaper sites or direct Internet users to the existing sites.
Hearst has helped finance the MediaNews purchase of the Times, the San Jose Mercury News, the Monterey Herald and the St. Paul Pioneer Press in Minnesota from McClatchy Co., but it will not have any direct ownership of those papers. A Department of Justice decision Monday cleared the way for the sale later this week.
Singleton has noted the region's technology strengths and said there is "no better place in the country to come up with new ideas and new plans in melding online and print than in the Bay Area."
But Singleton has been reluctant to discuss details of those ambitions and was tight-lipped about his plans Monday, calling any talk about them "premature."
"I didn't say we didn't have a vision," Singleton said. "We haven't formulated it into a plan yet. We'll begin exploring those issues this week."
That kind of collaboration would be aimed at stanching the tide of readers who gravitate to Yahoo, Google News and other news aggregators that dominate the Internet market. A survey released Sunday by the Pew Research Center found that MSNBC, Yahoo, CNN, Google and AOL crush even the biggest national newspapers.
The same survey found that while newspapers' online editions have helped stem more severe losses in readership, they have not done much to add an audience or compete effectively with their online rivals. Very few people read the local newspaper online only, and when they do, they do not read very long, mostly scanning headlines.
That has made it difficult for newspapers to make money from online advertising. Just 5.5 percent of newspaper industry revenue comes from online sources, according to the Newspaper Association of America.
To draw more traffic, some newspapers have begun to team up with traditional online rivals and develop search engines that let readers easily link to related stories, pictures and video from outside sources.
Local news and information are not enough, said Greg Sterling, an Oakland-based media analyst.
"Google and Yahoo have conditioned people. They're overwhelmed by the amount of information online. Search engines have been the only way to manage information," he said.
"If newspapers in a local market can effectively do the same thing, they will have an opportunity really to generate revenue. I think now the recognition is they need to offer more value, better functionality, more content."
Ultimately, the goal is to entice readers and add to the "clicks" upon which ad sales are based.
Some publishers see a future in which readers make "micro-payments," a few pennies each time they click on a story, picture or video.
Ultimately, online newspapers will need more than one way to tease money from the Internet, said Bill Mitchell, online editor of the Poynter Institute, a Florida-based journalism think tank.
"The idea of news organizations coming to grips with the reality of their readers relying on a variety of news sources and figuring out a way to generate revenue from that reality seems to me to be smart on both counts," he said.
A collaborative Bay Area news site could be "far more comprehensive than anything provided by any one of the newspapers," said Mitchell.
It also may help cut costs, through economies of scale. The dark side, some fear, is that it becomes a justification for cutting back on newsrooms and competition among local papers.
"The question that's raised by the economies of scale is, what percentage of them would be poured back into the journalism, and what share would be saved for the owners?" said Mitchell.
Newspapers are also seeking more from the big Internet news sites.
Singleton acknowledged that MediaNews was in ongoing talks with Yahoo. Such a deal reportedly would package newspaper content from MediaNews and other newspaper companies; the papers could get a cut of the revenue from ads tailored to news searches.
Both Yahoo and Google have recently agreed to "pay-per-click" deals with the Associated Press and other big newspaper companies, marking a shift in how newspapers collaborate with the big Internet firms that have siphoned away readers and revenue.
Brian Nelson, a spokesman for Yahoo, declined to discuss the negotiations or the pay-per-click model. He said the company has long struck deals to drive more Web traffic to newspapers or other content providers, or for recognition alongside a story.
"Every deal is different and every partner wants something different," he said.

James O. Holley remembered

2006-07-24T15:40:00.000-07:00

I forgot this column was on the old Posties site. Jim Bishop of the Victoria Advocate remembers Holley, whom he fondly calls "James O.," to his readers on National Boss's Day. I don't know the date it ran, but it was before February 2001.

A Houston Post history lesson

2006-07-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

If you missed Lynn Ashby's fantastic column from the 10th anniversary of the Post murder, read it now. We've posted it online and it's archived on the site. Ashby reminds us of the Post's extensive history, all the way back to the Alamo. Here's an excerpt:

... At its demise, The Post (The was part of the name) was one of the oldest businesses in Texas. It had been The Daily Post, The Post-Dispatch and had gone bankrupt a couple of times as The Houston Post. But we traced our heritage back to the Telegraph and Texas Register in San Felipe, and in our library I could read old microfilm copies of the paper's news, ads and legal notices sprinkled with names like James Bonham, Stephen F. Austin and William Barrett Travis, who wrote a letter to the editor ending with, "God and Texas -- Victory or Death!!" The paper ran the Texas Declaration of Independence signed at Washington-on-the-Brazos. But its most famous edition was news of the fall of the Alamo. The same issue ran a report about Col. William Fannin and his men being ready to face Santa Anna at Goliad. As Sam Houston's army passed through San Felipe, the publishers, Gail and Thomas Borden, loaded their presses on ox carts and joined the escape. They dumped their presses into Buffalo Bayou and fled to Galveston. Another version has it that Santa Anna's soldiers did the dumping. The April 14th issue of the paper was still inside the presses when it was dumped, and the move caused the Bordens to miss what could have been the paper's biggest story -- the Battle of San Jacinto one week later. ...

2 Holley kitties need homes

2006-07-24T11:15:00.000-07:00

Carolyn Allen is taking care of several of Jim Holley’s many cats, which he loved dearly. Jim left money for their care and vet bills until Carolyn or I can find homes for them. Thanks for considering helping. -- Fred King

These are two kitties looking for homes. They were Jim Holley's cats and are in need of good homes. They have had their rabies shots and health checks and are spayed. If they will eventually be indoor/outdoor kitties, let us know and we will get their HIV and feline leukemia shots for you.

I am attaching pictures, just remember they are not at their best in the pictures with things being turned upside down and having to stay in kennels.

Bandit (top) is very friendly. Grey and white longhair.

Blackie (right) is shy and someone who is used to being around cats might want him. Black longhair.

We will have some more as they get their vet visits done with.

Email me if you are interested in adopting. Please, they need homes.

Carolyn Allen, scallen@pdq.net

Jim Holley's cats

2006-07-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

Carolyn Allen and Fred King are seeking good homes for Jim Holley's cats.

We already have placed half or more (we hope) of them.

It appears all are full grown. Carolyn is taking them to a vet to get vaccinations for rabies, distemper and kennel cough.

Pick a gender and contact Carolyn to arrange pickup.

If you plan to let the cat outside some, your cat will be vaccinated for feline AIDS and feline leukemia before you get it.

Such a deal! And such a nice way to honor Holley's love for these animals.

Contact Carolyn at scallen@pdq.net.

Jim Holley funeral

2006-07-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

Funeral for Jim Holley will be Monday, July 3, at Resthaven, 13102 North Freeway. That's outbound between Greens Road and Rankin.

Visitation at 1 p.m., funeral at 2 p.m.

Jim Holley died

2006-07-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

From Fred:

Jim Holley, long time employee of The Houston Post, died Saturday morning.

He had been in poor health for a long time and got very ill with a bad infection a few days ago.

There will be a service but his daughter wants family scattered across the country to have a chance to attend so no date has been set.

Jim was an assistant managing editor over the Austin Bureau, Washington Bureau and, as I recall, Business section, when I got there in 1973.

He succeeded the founding editor of Sound-Off, Bill Bedell (?sp), and did that until the end of The Post.

Felton West scholarship established

2006-06-13T22:43:00.000-07:00

From Jorjanna Price via Fred King:

The Writers’ League of Texas has honored the late Felton West, a veteran newsman and long-time Austin resident, by issuing a scholarship in his memory.

The League’s Bess Whitehead Scott scholarship committee awarded a $1,000 journalism scholarship in West’s name to Tramese Darcell Andrews of Garland. Andrews, 20, is a journalism student at Baylor University.

West was an award-winning reporter and editor with The Houston Post. In five decades, he covered two U.S. presidents and seven Texas governors while serving as the Post’s bureau chief in Washington, D.C., and Austin.

West and wife Jean retired to Liberty Hill where he served a term on the city council. He was a charter member of the Bess Whitehead Scott scholarship committee, which is named for his high school English teacher. Scott helped him get his first job at the Post as a copy boy. He died last year at age 79.

Donations to the BWS Scholarship Fund are welcome. To make a donation in Felton West’s name, please include a note with that information. Gifts to the fund, administered by the non-profit Writers’ League of Texas, are tax-deductible. Make checks payable to “WRITERS’ LEAGUE OF TEXAS BWS FUND” and send to:
Writers' League of Texas
1501 W. 5th St.
Suite E-2
Austin TX 78703

Message from Tom, who's back home

2006-06-07T19:54:00.000-07:00

Hi, all!

Thanks for the thoughts, prayers, calls, good karmic feelings etc.

I am at home now and I feel a bit sore and a lot tired.

Two things you can't do at a hospital: exercise, and sleep though the night.

The drugs made Faulkner and Joyce not only enjoyable but understandable.

Tom Overton

Tom Overton update

2006-06-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

Via Fred:

He came through the surgery, 9.5 hours, well. Now able to have visitors.

He’s at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, in the Purple Section, Room 309. Use Elevator E and Garage 3. Phone is 713 792 6276.

Visiting hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. He does not want flowers, candy bars, etc.

Hopes to go home Tuesday.

NYT asks, 'Who is Dean Singleton?'

2006-06-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

Toasted Posties Kelly Laskosky and Melanie Hauser both pass this story along from the Times. Ugh.

Joe Rutland in Laredo

2006-05-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

Here's some excerpts from an e-mail from Joe Rutland, whom I hadn't heard from since he left the Chron in 2002. Good to hear from you Joe! ...

Whazzzupp!!!

God, I looked at the blog after making some perusals of the Web site and I'm glad I found the blog. Seeing Brenda's photos and all of those smiling faces brought a warm memory in my heart.
As a catchup (and I'll go Reader's Digest on it, OK) ... I'm now News Editor at the Laredo Morning Times in Laredo, Texas. Yeah, THAT Laredo ... where National Guard troops will be heading in June and, of course, that wonderful "fence" thing is going to work. Yeah, uh-huh. Whatever.

Before, I was living in Austin and commuting to Killeen to work for the Killeen Daily Herald paper as a copy editor/page designer. I was there for 15 months ...

So I also spent three months working for the Kerrville Daily Times, where (for a brief period of time) I worked within spitting distance (uh ... maybe the wrong words to use) of Doug Mitchell, who was sports editor at the time. ...

In the midst of all this, my father died in February 2004 after a long battle of numerous health conditions. My mother is currently in hospice care in Kingwood, about 40 miles north of Houston. ...

Should you wish to venture into my world of healing, rants and raves, my blog online is http://stateofhealing.blogspot.com and I simply offer this about my blog to you. It's me ... it's where I'm at in life right now and I don't expect everyone to like it or like me from what's written. But it's all me ... raw feelings, emotions and truths. ...

joerutland@sbcglobalnet (home e-mail)
jrutland@lmtonline.com (work e-mail)
512-968-4732 (cell phone)

Sorry y'all

2006-05-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

Man, I need to check the Gmail more. Sorry I've neglected things!

Rich Luna out in Ventura

2006-05-27T19:02:00.000-07:00

From E&P via Melanie Hauser:

Managing Editor Luna Is Out At 'Ventura County Star'

By Mark Fitzgerald
Published: May 22, 2006 1:55 PM ET

CHICAGO -- Managing Editor Richard Luna has left the Ventura County Star, days after the head of human resources for parent E.W. Scripps Co. finished an investigation into how the paper disciplined him for violating the company's ethics code.

... Publisher Tim Gallagher confirmed Monday that Luna had left the paper. "Friday was his last day of employment," Gallagher said.

... Earlier this month, Star officials acknowledged, in response to a report on E&P's Web site, that Luna had been disciplined for pressuring a sports reporter into getting him credentials to attend the NCAA championship basketball game in Indianapolis in April. Luna did not cover the game, and, according to the paper, sought credentials for other games that, in the end, he did not attend. ...

Melanie also sent this link earlier from the Ventura County Star earlier ...

Star disciplines its managing editor for ethics violation

Prayers for Tom Overton

2006-05-27T18:53:00.000-07:00

From Clifton and Fred:

Many of you guys know Tom Overton from The Houston Post and University of St. Thomas.

He asked that I forward this. Hold him and his Judy, kids and doctors in your prayers for the next few days. Cancer doesn’t take a holiday, it seems.

From: TOver62331@aol.com
Sent: Thursday, May 25, 2006 7:51 PM
To: King, Fred (DCO)
Subject: hospital

Hi, Fred,… On Friday, I go into MDACC (M.D. Anderson Cancer Center) for embolization---where they stop up arteries likely to bleed during surgery. I'll be out on Saturday, with any luck. Then on Tuesday, I go in to MDACC for 12-14 hours of surgery to remove tumors on left ribs 5 & 6. Because the two surgeons who will work on me have to maneuver around nerves, essential blood vessels and all that crap near the spinal cord, this is a delicate and tricky procedure. I am simply asking the praying public to consider me and my Judy during this procedure. I'm going to be "out of it" during the whole procedure; I've got the easy part. Pray for Judy and those in the waiting room, and for the hands and minds of two surgeons, Drs. Walsh and Prabhu.

Thanks,
Tom Overton
The Post '78-'84

MediaNews Group haps

2006-04-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

By SETH SUTEL
AP Business Writer
NEW YORK (AP) - Six weeks after announcing a deal to buy the nation's second-largest newspaper company, McClatchy Co. has agreed to sell four Knight Ridder Inc. newspapers to MediaNews Group Inc. for $1 billion.
The four papers - three in California and one in Minnesota - are among 12 that McClatchy has said it intends to sell because they don't meet its acquisition criteria, which include being located in rapidly growing markets.
The deal announced Wednesday increases the profile and reach of MediaNews, a privately held company based in Denver and run by William Dean Singleton. With financial backing from Hearst Corp., another newspaper publisher, MediaNews will wind up owning the San Jose Mercury News, the Contra Costa Times, the Monterey County Herald and the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
Singleton's interest in the newspapers had been widely known. The three northern California papers complement his existing holdings, which include The Oakland Tribune and the Marin Independent Journal. MediaNews owns a number of newspapers in geographic clusters, which helps reduce production and other costs and also allows for group advertising sales.
McClatchy would have faced antitrust difficulties owning the St. Paul, Minn. paper since it already owns the Star Tribune in the neighboring city of Minneapolis.
As he prepared to leave the Mercury News to drive to a meeting at the Contra Costa Times, Singleton said no layoffs are currently planned at the Bay area paper.
Singleton planned to be in St. Paul on Thursday to meet with Pioneer Press employees. He told the Pioneer Press that he intends to compete vigorously with the Star Tribune and plans to retain Par Ridder as Pioneer Press publisher.
Knight Ridder CEO Tony Ridder said he will closely monitor how the deal affects the Mercury News - his hometown paper. ``I think Dean will do a good job,'' Ridder said outside the Mercury News. ``I have his cell phone and e-mail addresses and if I see anything I don't like I plan to let him know.''
The agreement calls for MediaNews to acquire the San Jose Mercury News and the Contra Costa Times, which will then be folded into the California Newspaper Partnership, an entity in which it has a 54 percent stake.
The other two stakeholders in the partnership, industry leader Gannett Co. and the privately held Stephens Media Group, have agreed to contribute their share of paying for the two papers, according to a joint statement from McClatchy and MediaNews.
Separately, Hearst, publisher of the San Francisco Chronicle, will buy the Monterey County Herald in California and the St. Paul Pioneer Press and then transfer them to MediaNews in exchange for a stake in all newspapers MediaNews owns outside of the Bay Area.
Once the deal closes, MediaNews would become the fourth-largest newspaper company in the country in terms of circulation, with about 2.7 million daily circulation and 53 daily newspapers, following Gannett, the new McClatchy and Tribune Co.
Knight Ridder was forced to put itself up for sale last fall following a revolt of its three largest shareholders, who were frustrated with the company's lagging stock price. Unlike several other newspaper publishers including McClatchy, The New York Times Co. and The Washington Post Co., Knight Ridder was not controlled by a family through a separate class of stock.
McClatchy announced a deal to buy Knight Ridder in mid-March for $4.5 billion in cash and stock, plus the assumption of $2 billion in debt.
McClatchy intends to keep 20 other newspapers owned by Knight Ridder, which together with the 12 it already owns will make the company the No. 2 U.S. newspaper company after Gannett.
Once the deal is complete, McClatchy will have eight additional Knight Ridder newspapers to sell: the American News in Aberdeen, S.D.; the Akron Beacon Journal in Ohio; the Duluth News Tribune in Minnesota; the Grand Forks Herald in North Dakota; the Philadelphia Daily News and The Philadelphia Inquirer; The News-Sentinel in Ft. Wayne, Ind. and The Times Leader in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
---
AP Business Reporter Michael Liedtke contributed to this story from San Jose, Calif.
---
On the Net:
http://www.poynter.org/column.asp?id=45&aid=100550
http://www.mcclatchy.com/
http://www.medianewsgroup.com/
AP-WS-04-27-06 1004EDT

Denver Post newsroom downsizing

2006-04-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

Post plans to reduce newsroom staff by 25
The paper cites industry woes in offering payouts to workers who leave voluntarily.

By Aldo Svaldi
Denver Post Staff Writer

The Denver Post plans to reduce the size of its newsroom staff by about 8 percent, the newspaper told employees Tuesday.

The Post has targeted a voluntary reduction of 25 positions out of around 300.

"As of today, there are no plans for layoffs," said Post editor Gregory L. Moore. Unionized and management employees were informed of early-retirement and voluntary-separation packages, with payouts based on tenure at the paper. There is also an option to keep health-insurance coverage at current employee rates or take a lump-sum payment.

The Post declined to estimate cost savings.

The newspaper industry lost more than 2,000 jobs last year, according to Editor & Publisher, an industry publication. There were an estimated 54,134 newsroom jobs in 2004, according to the American Society of Newspaper Editors.

The Boston Globe, The New York Times, the Chicago Tribune and the Los Angeles Times have all announced job cuts in recent months.

"The failure of the economy to bounce back for newspapers now forces us to make some of the same choices," Moore said.

Most major newspapers are losing print readers to online sites and are restructuring to better compete with other media.

The severance packages that are offered either meet or exceed union requirements and won't be protested, said Tony Mulligan, administrative officer of the Denver Newspaper Guild. "I don't believe that the newsroom is overstaffed. It concerns me to see job reductions. Everybody is already busy," Mulligan said.

John Temple, editor, publisher and president of the Rocky Mountain News, said, "Nothing like that is planned at the Rocky."

The Denver Post is owned by Denver-based MediaNews Group. The Rocky Mountain News is owned by Cincinnati-based E.W. Scripps Co. They share revenues under a joint operating agreement, and the owners split net income.

Staff writer Aldo Svaldi can be reached at 303-820-1410 or asvaldi@denverpost.com.

Post reunion April 29

2006-04-17T17:50:00.000-07:00

Post reunion will be at my home on April 29 from 10 am until 2 pm. There will be plenty of room. If you want to bring drinks please do so - I will provide ice chests and ice. Isn't far from the park we have used in the past. Above is a map. Click the map to get a bigger version.

Cliff Cargill
2519 Forest Ridge
Missouri City, TX
281-261-5801

Saturday's do for Fred

2006-04-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

From: Gardner Selby [mailto:wgselby@statesman.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2006 12:51

Pals:

Over morning caffeine, I intended to send post cards plus after Saturday's do for Fred, but this will have to sub in before the week slips away.

It was a bittersweet gathering that John & Company corraled, but I'm lingering on sweet: The shaded yard of all back yards. The watch-your-back-and-head tree swing. The tables of food, especially the green chili, smoked chicken and sticky chocolate cake. The Negra Modelo and Miller Lite, the semi-circles of rickety collapsible chairs, the redolent-of-cool breeze, the clinking of glass on glass, the thump of basketballs on driveway concrete and, of course, the obstinate (obstreperous?) microphone squeeching every few minutes like skeeters (or perhaps an editor) from another planet.

Probably no one among writers-in-attendance took a transcript of the Fred mems. But I've already told the Red Tomato table cloth story enough for it to stick to my bedraggled repertoire (who preserved that tale?) and even attempted Molly's recall of FB as The Houston Post's highest-ranking, just-look-at-his-appellido employee from Mexico (as always, though, missing her word play and timing, completely). [It has since occurred to me that if I meet my Truck-of-Mack, folks won't have Liberty Bar tales, though I give permission for someone to shake the door at Aranda's on South First past Oltorf and tell 'em I'll be late for breakfast; no one there will say I would have made a waiter.]

Simply put, it had to be John's duty and what-else-have-you pleasure to call the gathering. And for that he gets everything we give him, no? But there's a swig more that resonates outside the love and respect for one taken and forgive me if I preach: This is it--You and yours, me and you and the guy who kept his shades affixed even in the indoor bathroom, (now don't get squeamish), Saturday sunshines and rarely cool breezes, the scarce moments we get to share howdys and recollections before drive times and after disasters. This is it. I didn't know Fred well, but I'll guess he's nodding or at least raising an eye brow.

Even if you couldn't touch down Saturday, thank you for being part of it, remembering it, savoring it, protecting it, holding on to it. I don't know when I'll next pause to take note, but I bet you make it happen. [In olden days, I'll guess, it was easier for folks to remember it together, though I concede spending an eon since doubling as the father of human parrots who invariably intone: "Where are you?" And no, I do not reply that I am here, always have been here, right here, because that would only distress and you shouldn't do that with parrot daughters.]

Here's to more sweet than bitter. And John? Send the leftovers now.

Saludos,

g.

Another paper afoot?

2006-04-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

Ex-Postie Steve O. posts this interesting piece on his Brazosport News blog.

Could another paper be in Houston's future?

Reminder on Pachanga for Uncle Freddy

2006-04-06T05:49:00.000-07:00

Everything is on course. The weather will be mild and dry.

Please emphasize all welcome but bring lawn chairs and ice with beverages.

We plan on activating the mike about 5 p.m.

Also bring anything you want to place at the memorial. Items of curiousity encouraged.

-- Mary Lenz via Fred King

(Pachanga info here)

Reunion April 29

2006-04-04T17:43:00.000-07:00

The reunion will be at my house this year (weather proof). I have plenty of room - large patio.

The date is April 29th. I live at 2519 Forest Ridge in Missouri City (not far from the park). I will send a map in a week (have to leave now - emergency fishing trip!)

Cliff Cargill
281-261-5801

Kathleen Cloud Molony

2006-04-03T14:06:00.000-07:00

Marla Cloud Molony gave birth to Kathleen Cloud Molony at about noon Saturday at The Woman's Hospital in Houston. Husband Jim and sister Tamia were on hand. Marla had to have an emergency C-section because of the position of the baby; she is doing well and expects to leave the Woman's Hospital Tuesday.

Baby Kathleen is 19 inches long and weighs 6 pounds, 1 inch. She's doing well, except for a nasal problem that is causing her to be kept in ICU for closer observation. She'll be transferred to Texas Children's for surgery, which is scheduled on Thursday. Marla says that at this point, the doctors don't seem worried about it being a major problem.

If you'd like to send flowers, please send them Tuesday or later to their home address, 2507 Plantation Court, Pearland TX 77584.

-- via Brenda Gunter

Stinky doings

2006-03-24T15:54:00.000-08:00

LA Times link on Stinky from Felix Sanchez:

You probably have this..... but if not, check it out. It's an LA Times business story on Dean Singleton and his possible acquisition of some more papers out here in California. Felix SanchezHouston Post, 1995

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-singleton22mar22,0,7460811.story?coll=la-home-business

Thanks Felix!

Pachanga for Uncle Freddy

2006-03-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

Just days before he checked out, Fred made it very clear that when his time came he didn’t want any funeral services or dreary memorials. And as we all know, what he enjoyed most was "good groceries," a glass of red and a good laugh among friends.

So, in keeping with his explicit wishes, his family and friends are throwing an "Exit Laughing" backyard party for him on April 8th in San Antonio. All friends of Fred are invited, whether you knew him as Blackie, Uncle Freddy, K5QLF or just plain Fred.

Children welcome, but leave the flowers, tears and house pets at home.

So come with your best Fred stories and be prepared to tell them on stage, or rather on the stump. The best story tellers will be awarded the coveted "Green Eyeshade," worn by the great man himself in the newsroom, or a similar item, like the "Que Me Ves Pendejo" gimmie cap.

Or, if you like, write them down and e-mail them now while the impulse is fresh and we’ll compile them as a gift for Evelyn at the party.

Also please bring any Fred memorabilia you have - from old stories to photos to framed scorpions - for public display at the shrine among the burning candles.

We'll also be passing one of Fred's hats - literally - for his chosen causes - the ACLU and NPR Radio - so please bring your checkbook.

We'll be cooking large pots of pozole from Fred's recipe and some other basic chow, but will rely upon Fred’s friends and fans for the rest. It’s a potluck affair, so please bring beer, booze, ice or your favorite home cooking. And whatever you bring, bring it large, because we expect a mob. Lawn chairs are also a good idea.

Details:

When: 3 p.m. until it ends, April 8th. Rain or shine. Tents will be provided. Optional drinks afterward at the Liberty Bar in downtown San Antonio.

Where: 8631 Post Oak Lane, San Antonio. It's just across Loop 410 from the Bonavita home. Directions below. When you turn into Post Oak, park in the lot of the Church of Christ at the corner of the access road, and then walk half a block to the house.

For more info call Nicholas Bonavita (512-217-8744) or John MacCormack (the host) at 210-854-8544. And if you have any more ideas of how to celebrate the life of one of the great guys, please don't be shy about suggesting them.

Directions to MacCormack's House which sits in the northeast corner of San Antonio, right off Loop 410 between Starcrest and Nacogdoches are as follows:

From Loop 410, exit Starcrest and go west along the access road about a half mile, past Alamo Toyota and across Salado Creek Bridge. Make right turn at Post Oak Lane (between Church of Christ and Lazy-Boy Store.) Leave your car in church parking lot and walk a half block up Post Oak to sounds of barking dogs and loud music. Come directly to the backyard.

-- From Mary Lenz via Fred King

Harry Wilson has died

2006-03-23T09:06:00.000-08:00

Harry Wilson passed away today. Don't have any information. I'll let you know when I know.

-- From Boyce Maxwell via Cliff Cargill

If you remember Fred ...

2006-03-22T11:12:00.000-08:00

Folks:
I'm writing a political column in Austin for Thursday and wondered if you had a Fred moment stuck in your head, preferably from his time covering state politics in Austin. If so, fire at me please soon.
Thanks.
Gardner (Selby)
Austin American-Statesman

Bad news ... Fred Bonavita has died

2006-03-22T10:47:00.000-08:00

Bonavita was known to most of us as a long-time member of The Houston Post’s Austin Bureau.

The below, from the San Antonio Express-News’ internal Web site, was forwarded to Mary Lenz. She sent it to me for distribution. More details will be provided as we get them.

From the SA Express-News:

Fred Bonavita, a "newsman's newsman'' who adhered to basic, honest journalism and eschewed the trends that come and go, died late Monday of a cerebral hemorrhage.
The former state editor for the San Antonio Express-News was 70. Bonavita collapsed at his San Antonio home after awaking early Sunday with a severe headache. He was taken to Northeast Baptist Hospital where he remained in a deep coma until he died.
He had just returned from a weeklong family road trip to Santa Fe, N.M., one of his favorite haunts, with his wife Evelyn, their son Nicholas and daughter-in-law Lauri.
"We were so happy we made the trip. It was the first time we actually spent a lot of time with our new daughter-in-law. Fred was especially happy," Evelyn Bonavita said.
With his green eyeshade, white beard and old school values, Bonavita defined the best of newspaper journalism for many of his colleagues. "It was more than the just the way he looked and acted. It was the way he cared about the language, accuracy and fairness," said Craig Thomason, an Express-News assistant managing editor who worked shoulder to shoulder with Bonavita. "He loved life and laughter."

-- Submitted by Fred King

Baby news from Dianne Beirne Rose

2006-02-09T20:19:00.000-08:00

Via the e-mail underground from Denver:

Hannah Grace Rose entered the world at 7:18 p.m. (Mountain time) today.

8 pounds, 8 ounces, 20 inches long. Nice head of hair, long arms, long legs, long fingers, and absolutely beautiful baby girl, proud grandmotherreports.

Dianne and Wes and Hannah all doing well.

Congratulations!

Get well Fred!

2006-02-05T15:32:00.000-08:00

From Fred:

I had hip replacement surgery Monday and am home recovering rapidly. Judy is doing well.

See you on down the road ...

Fred King

Bob Berger passed away

2006-02-05T15:31:00.000-08:00

J.D. Smith reported that Bob Berger has died. Services for Berger will be at

Sacred Hearts Catholic Church
6502 CR48
Manvel, Texas

Viewing will be from 6PM to 7PM Sunday Feb 5 Followed by a Rosary at 7:00PM at the Church.

Funeral Services will be held Monday February 6 at 10:00AM at the church.

Harry Wilson in hospital

2006-02-01T08:09:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago Harry Wilson fell at his house and went into the hospital. To make a long story short he got a stint put in and is recuperating. He is in good spirits and is in the Concierge on Eldridge. 281-899-2500 Room # 9.

Regards,
Jim Cahanin

courtesy Cliff Cargill

Bob Berger hospitalized

2006-01-29T23:41:00.000-08:00

Bob Berger is SE Memorial with pneumonia and a staff infection and is not responding to the antibiotics. Helen is asking for everyone's prayers for his healing.

Please send out to the Post family.

Thanks,
Connie

Where to have the April 29 reunion?

2006-01-20T20:58:00.000-08:00

The April 29 Post reunion coming up. Some have questioned the reunion being held outside or at all. Last year we had about 15 people come. The weather was bad early and may have caused some to not come.

If any one can get another location (free) that is indoors let me know. I would have no problem with having it at my home. I live in Missouri City and it is much easier to find my home than the park we have been using. I have a large protected patio and if the weather is bad we can go inside. You could bring a lunch and drinks (I would provide ice chests and ice) -bringing adult beverages would be OK.

Please give me your opinion. Do you plan on coming? I really need a head count! Would you favor having at my home or somewhere else? If somewhere else -where?

Let me know your opinion ASAP.

Hope everyone is OK

Thanks

Cliff Cargill 281-261-5801

Denson definitely not screwing up America

2006-01-18T20:50:00.000-08:00

Thanks to former Post editorial cartoonist Lambert Der deragon53@yahoo.com for passing along this tidbit about a former Post reporter:

Poster Bryan Denson receives prominent mention in Bernard Goldberg's latest book, 100 PEOPLE WHO ARE SCREWING UP AMERICA (AND AL FRANKEN IS #37). Goldberg writes, "Bryan Denson, a reporter for the OREGONIAN in Portland, one of the most knowledgable journalists in the country on the subject of the Earth Liberation Front and other domestic terrorist organizations" and quotes Denson from his ELF articles.
Goldberg also quotes Denson from his ELF article for MAXIM magazine in March, 2004. The ELF is ranked 23rd on the 100 list.
Locals who made Goldberg's 100 list:
98. Sheila Jackson Lee; 53. Anna Nicole Smith; 45. Ken Lay; and 12. Dan Rather.
Michael Moore receives the #1 honor.
Editorial cartoonist Ted Rall is #15 for his comments on the death of Ronald Reagan who Rall described as burning in Hell, "turning crispy brown right about now." "The man was the scum of the earth." Rall on former NFL player Pat Tillman being killed in Afghanistan, "a cog in a low-rent occupation army that shot more innocent civilians than terrorists to prop up puppet rulers and exploit gas and oil resources." Rall adds Tillman was an "idiot" who "got killed by the Afghan resistance."
Goldberg is the author of the NEW YORK TIMES #1 bestseller BIAS and the bestseller ARROGANCE. He has won eight Emmy Awards including six as a CBS News reporter.

Marguerite Barnes dies at 88

2005-12-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

Marguerite Johnston Barnes, a noted Houston historian and journalist died Tuesday. She was 88.
Barnes was born Aug. 7, 1917, in Birmingham, Ala., to Robert C. and Marguerite Johnston, longtime educators who instilled in their only child a love of education.
She came to Houston in 1946 and worked at the Houston Post for the next 37 years as a columnist, foreign news editor, associate editor and assistant editor of the editorial page.
She was the author of two books, Houston, the Unknown City 1836-1946, and A Happy Worldly Abode, Christ Church Cathedral 1839-1964, which she published under her maiden name. The latter was a history of the Christ Church Cathedral, an Episcopalian church established in 1839 and one of the oldest churches in Houston.
In an interview, Barnes once said, "I always felt Houston has never gotten acknowledgment for its leaders at a national or international level. You always hear that they're from Texas, but never from Houston."
She always believed that Houstonians had contributed to changing the world.
A daughter, Patricia Ricks, said Barnes developed an attachment to the city, its people and history that remained with her throughout her life. "She was just very, very proud to be a Houstonian and she wanted that story told," Ricks said.
While in Houston, Barnes worked at the Post and developed a close friendship with Oveta Culp Hobby, editor of the newspaper. In her eulogy of her longtime friend, Barnes described Hobby as "one of the greatest leaders the United States has ever produced."
Barnes graduated from Birmingham-Southern College in Alabama. Her first job was with the Works Progress Administration. She later started work at the Birmingham News. During World War II, she worked as the Washington bureau chief for the News and the London Daily Mirror.
In 1946, she married Charles Winn Barnes, a former college classmate, in Washington. She moved with her husband, a geologist, to Houston later that year.
In 1947, Hobby hired Barnes to work at the Post. "They just took to each other," Ricks said.
Hobby's son, former Texas Lt. Gov. Bill Hobby, said his family and the Barnses grew close through the years and often spent time together.
"She was one of the most gracious people, certainly that I've ever met," he said. "By the time she'd been here two years, she knew everybody in town."
Barnes is survived by her husband, Charles; three daughters, the Rev. Susan J. Barnes of Austin, Patricia Ricks of Newport Beach, Calif., and Polly Coleman of The Woodlands; and a son, Steven Barnes of Austin.
A memorial service will be at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Christ Church Cathedral, 1117 Texas. Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

David Westheimer 1917-2005

2005-11-10T07:52:00.000-08:00

Via Fred King comes news that David Westheimer has died. Here's e-mail the family sent out:

We are saddened by the loss of our friend and father David Westheimer. He passed quickly and peacefully surrounded by his family and close friends on November 8th, 2005.
Sincerely,
The Westheimer Family
-----------------------------------

Novelist DAVID WESTHEIMER passed away Tuesday, November 8th, 2005 at UCLA Hospital from heart failure. He was 88 years old.

Born in Houston, Texas, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rice University in 1937. He began his successful writing career at the Houston Post in 1939 as an assistant editor in the amusement department, then became radio, magazine and television editor before leaving the paper in 1960. He would return to the paper as a columnist in the 1980s.

His first novel, SUMMER ON THE WATER, was published by MacMillan in 1948. During the span of his career he wrote many books. He is perhaps most well known for best sellers VON RYAN'S EXPRESS and MY SWEET CHARLIE. MY SWEET CHARLIE became a Broadway play and later, a TV movie that won Patty Duke an Emmy. Twentieth Century Fox made a film on VON RYAN'S EXPRESS, starring Frank Sinatra. David also wrote numerous teleplays and adapted the screenplay DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES into a popular novel.

David served as Captain in the Air Force between 1941-45, spending three years as a POW in Italian and German prison camps. He remained in the Air Force Reserve, serving as a Lieutenant Colonel until he retired.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dody (also a former Houstonian and graduate of Rice); his two sons, Fred and wife Susan; Eric and wife Karen; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. No services planned, at his request.

Bobby Mills service Oct. 8

2005-09-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

A memorial service and celebration of his life and first love, The Houston Post, will be held for Robert "Bobby" Mills at the Museum of Printing History.

Robert started his 25-year career at The Houston Post as an apprentice machinist in the composing room. He moved into the systems department in the mid '70s where he maintained the computers from the editorial department to the loading docks. He was the supervisor on the night shift when the newspaper closed.

The service will be:
5-7 p.m., Saturday Oct. 8, 2005
Museum of Printing History
1324 West Clay (between Allen Parkway & West Gray off Waugh)
Museum directions - 713-522-4652
Rita Mills - 713-937-9184

Good wishes amid Rita

2005-09-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

9-23

Good luck to all you folks. This is one time I won't miss Houston. Be safe.

Dick McCann

Heartless scum

2005-09-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

I've turned off the comments feature. Heartless spammer scum have invaded. E-mail me and I'll post your comments or news.

PIOs still needed at the Dome

2005-09-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

Via Fred:

I am volunteering in the Joint Information Center at the Dome today. There is still a great need for PIOs to help answer phones, media tours and other duties. Chuck Wolf is the manager of the JIC and said that he is moving to two shifts - 6 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 11 p.m. That is EVERYDAY that they need these shifts covered. So, as you can observe that is a lot of man hours to cover.
Contact Chuck Wolf 832-667-3192. Chuck will probably be busy, so whomever answers the phone may be able to help you.

Thanks,
Lorri V. Jones, Southern Region Bureau Chief
Ag N More News

Gay Elliott McFarland-Scarborough dies at 59

2005-09-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

By CLAUDIA FELDMAN
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle
Gay Elliott McFarland-Scarborough, a local writer whoworked for the Houston Post and the Houston Chronicle and was an advocate for the mentally ill, died Friday. She was 59.
"She was durn-near perfect," says her mother, Glenna Elliott, "but she didn't have a very easy adult life."
Popular with newspaper readers, she wrote a syndicated column, HomeFocus, and worked for such varied institutions as Quilts Inc., Memorial Hermann Hospital, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, the UT Health Science Center at Houston and the Mental Health Association of Houston.
While she was working in the field of mental health, she wrote a brochure on postpartum depression that has been distributed throughout the state and translated into Spanish. It will be translated into Vietnamese.
McFarland-Scarborough's personal life was more challenging. After an early marriage that ended in divorce, she found happiness with writer John Scarborough in 1979. Three years into their marriage, he died of heart disease, and she was left to raise their infant son, Slade. His ongoing challenges with Asperger Syndrome, a developmental disorder related to autism, made her a fierce advocate for all those touched by the disorder.
In 1990, McFarland-Scarborough discovered she had Stage 4 breast cancer, and she battled multiple cancers on and off for 15 years.Toward the end, she asked for a little help from her friends because she could no longer juggle her demanding cancer treatments and Slade's everyday needs.
A group of 30 friends, representing all the stages ofMcFarland-Scarborough's professional life, became known as Gay's Angels. Along with her family, they helped her with problems big and small. What she didn't understand, friend and colleague Pam Lewis said, was that Gay helped the volunteers more than they helped her.
Another devoted ally was Sister Alice Potts, an 81-year-old nun whom McFarland-Scarborough had profiled early in her journalism career. After the story was published, the two remained friends, and at the end of McFarland-Scarborough's life, Potts checked on her daily.
"She was such a phenomenal person, such a gifted person," Potts said."Oh my, it was hard to see her with cancer that was out of control."
McFarland-Scarborough was born July 14, 1946, in Alexandria, La. She and her family moved to Houston in 1949, and she attended public schools. She graduated from the University of Houston in 1968, worked at the Post for the next 10 years, then got her master's degree from the creative writing program at UH.
From 1979 on she worked at a variety of jobs, starting with the Chronicle, then Quilts Inc., then assignments in the medical center.
In 2000, she came to the Mental Health Association.
"She was a person who understood how hard things can be for people,"said friend and MHA colleague Leslie Gerber. "For her, advocacy was a heart-felt mission, not just a job."
McFarland-Scarborough is survived by her son; her parents, Glenna and Quenton Elliott Sr.; brother and sister-in-law, Quenton Jr. and Meg; and many other relatives and friends.
Arrangements for a memorial service are pending.

Bobby Mills died

2005-09-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

Via Fred King ...

Robert passed away about 7:20 on Friday night ........ he is in a much better place, but I am going to miss him so I can't even begin to tell you ........ he had suffered so, that his passing was truly a blessing ........ I am headed to Madisonville to made arrangements tomorrow, and we hope to have the funeral up there on Wednesday......... I am planning a memorial service in Houston at the Printing Museum (since he was a journeyman printer) in 2-3 weeks ........ will keep you posted........

Rita

Nola.com needs temporary Web help

2005-09-01T13:46:00.000-07:00

Nola.com, the Picayune site, is setting up a remote office in Baton Rouge and is looking for some temporary Web help. If you know of anyone who might be interested, have them contact Eliza at the address below.

ewing@cleveland.com

Eliza Wing
President and ceo Cleveland.com
216-515-2516 (ph)
216-515-2515 (fax)

PR help needed at Astrodome

2005-09-01T12:30:00.000-07:00

From: Mary Lenz via Fred King
Subject: PR help needed at Dome evacuation
Hey Fred,
Catarina_Cron@hctx.net is helping Gloria Roemer of Harris County with media for the Dome to Dome evacuation. They need five volunteers for free to help with media calls. Just take calls and read a short message.
They are absolutely swamped and need help now.
Her contact info is this e mail address and 832 326 4126. Are there any toasted posties willing to give her a hand?

Mary Lenz
Public Information Officer Governor's Division of Emergency Management Texas Department of Public Safety
(512) 424-2138 mary.lenz@txdps.state.tx.us

Bobby Mills in hospice

2005-08-15T13:36:00.000-07:00

From Pam Johnson via Cliff:

Bobby Mills is back home and is now in hospice care. The doctors say a few weeks, maybe a few months.For those of you that couldn't remember Bobby I attached a photo of him from 1986. This was taken in Engraving right next to the first Chemco Camera where I worked for several years. ( Note the box on the wall, next to Dick Harris' old office.)

Rita said keep them in your prayers.

Pam Johnson

Here is his address if anyone cares to send him a card:

Robert Mills
11010 Hanning Lane
Houston, TX 77041

Watch out, Detroit

2005-08-04T05:58:00.000-07:00

Stinky's outfit has taken over the Detroit News, if ya haven't heard:

"I don't foresee a day when (Detroit) does not support two newspapers," said William Dean Singleton, vice chairman and CEO of MediaNews Group, the new owner of The News. "We would not have come to Detroit to (oversee) the withering away of a newspaper."

Stinky also quoted here in E&P.

Addendum: Stinky also quoted in the deja vu section of the Detroit News:

On Wednesday, William Dean Singleton, vice chairman and CEO of MediaNews, vowed to build a stronger and better Detroit News and said there are no plans to cut the newspaper's staff or reduce benefits.
"Our job is to see that we kick butt here," he told a newsroom packed with staffers during a 4 p.m. announcement. "Things are not going to change much."

Bobby Mills very ill

2005-07-28T19:29:00.000-07:00

Bobby Mills, a tech at the Post for years, is in Ben Taub Hospital in Houston with cancer of the lining of the brain and is in much pain.

Rita Mills asks for prayers.

He underwent an emergency tracheotomy because of paralyzed vocal cords. His prognosis isn't very good at all, Rita writes. "We just have to take it one day and one step at a time," she told Fred King.

Thanks to Fred and Cliff Cargill for passing this along.

Not a disparaging word

2005-07-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Journalists at the York (Pa.) Daily Record are in Guild contract negotiations with Stinky, whose legal team is making some breath-taking demands. To wit:

* no disparagement of the company whether this occurs on or off company property.
* no raises over the entire contract (three years).
* elimination of night differential pay.
* a work week increase from 37.5 hours to 40 hours and overtime paid only after a 40-hour week, not a nine-hour day as currently allowed.
* institution of random drug-testing.
* reduction in bereavement time off, vacation, and sick days, as well as elimination of severance pay.
* prohibition against operating a Web blog without company permission or that "may reveal the employee's personal opinion."
* elimination of a byline-withholding option for employees.

There oughta be a law.

Editor & Publisher

Boyce Maxwell, Tommy Ledbetter

2005-07-26T18:38:00.000-07:00

Boyce Maxwell has had a stroke and is in Room 1743 at St. Luke's. I understand he can be called in the evening in the room at 832-355-4626. During the day he is going thru a lot of therapy. Call him and wish him well.

Also Tommy Ledbetter has had quad bypass surgery. He should be going home soon and will be doing a lot of walking.

Regards,

Jim Cahanin

Missouri City reunion pic

2005-07-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

Cliff Cargill sent along this photo of the Houston Post reunion gathering in Missouri City April 30. I'm sorry to say I only know one person in this photo, Fred King, far right in the back, but if anybody has cutline information to pass along, please do, thanks. And thanks Cliff for sending this! ... Addendum: Seated at the table are, left to right, Roger Small, Milton Linder and Cliff Cargill.

Variations on a theme

2005-07-10T21:56:00.000-07:00

MediaNews' Singleton's New Pay Package: $1 Million-plus

By Mark Fitzgerald, E&P.com

Published: July 06, 2005

MediaNews Group Inc. Vice Chairman and CEO William Dean Singleton will receive annual cash compensation of $985,950, a one-time cash bonus of $100,000 and annual cash bonuses that could be as high as $500,000 under an employment agreement disclosed in a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing Tuesday.

Singleton's annual bonus will be determined by a comparison each year of actual operating profits to budgeted profits.

The new employment agreement was approved by MediaNews directors July 1, and will expire Dec. 31, 2009, but will be automatically renewed for successive one-year terms unless either party gives notice 120 days prior to the annual expiration date.

The board also approved a new employment agreement for MediaNews President Joseph J. Lodovic IV that includes annual cash compensation of $655,200, with annual increases of 5 percent, or higher, if approved by the board. Lodovic will receive a one-time $100,000 cash bonus and an annual cash bonus of up to $400,000 subject to the same profit formula as Singleton.

MediaNews also approved a new restricted stock unit (RSU) plan for top executives that creates a new class of non-voting Class B common stock that does not pay dividends. The plan, approved June 29, according to the SEC filing, is "intended to encourage retention and reward performance of selected senior management."

The RSU plan provides contingencies for the stock in the event MediaNews should make an IPO (initial public offering). The Rocky Mountain News, which is in a joint operating agreement with MediaNews' Denver Post, quoted Singleton as saying the language was only technical.

"We have no plans to go public," Singleton told the paper.

Investing in the future, for now anyway

2005-07-07T19:55:00.000-07:00

Dean Singleton is expanding in Salt Lake City: " ... Our new facility is fresh and modern and offers our news and editorial staffs more efficiency and improved technology, along with views that remind us of why we love the state of Utah. ... "

The Salt Lake City Weekly puts its spin on things. I've requested a photo.

Jim Crowther's Chronicle obituary

2005-07-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

Mike Hallo died

2005-07-06T17:53:00.000-07:00

Another sad note, from Cliff Cargill:

FYI - I am late with this - been out of town.

Cliff

As an explantion as to who Mike Hallo was. He worked in the production mail room for about forty years before he retired about fifteen years ago. (I may be of a little on the times, but not much,)

-----Original Message-----From: WILLIAM CLACK (snip)

Mike Hallo Sr. passed away at 1 a.m. July 4, 2005. Visitation will be Wednesday night and funeral services Thursday at 10 a.m. Both will be at Rosewood Funeral Home.

One-time Post VP Jim Crowther dies

2005-07-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

Al Shire pointed out a short death notice in today's Chron on Jim Crowther, who was The Post's general counsel, then vice president. Crowther was 75 and died on Monday, the Fourth of July.
From Bill Hobby's secretary, Al got this additional info:
Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Geo H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering. Funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday, again at Geo H. Lewis. Funeral home's phone is 713 789-3005.

Houston Post archives

2005-07-02T06:58:00.000-07:00

They are not available online at the Houston Chronicle. Here's an explanation from ombudsman James Campbell in his new blog at the Chron. At the bottom of the blog post, there is a list of where you can find archived Post material:

P.S. The Houston Public Library's Bibliographic Information Center has the Houston Post microfilm from 1880-1995, and the Houston Post Index from 1976-1994. They keep the 1880-1900 microfilm in the Texas and Local History Department, and the 1901-1995 microfilm is in the main library. University of Houston's main library has the Houston Post microfilm from 1880-1995. They have the Houston Post Index from 1976-1979, and from 1987-1994.

Felton's memorial service

2005-06-27T13:28:00.000-07:00

From Jorjanna and Fred:

For folks wanting to attend the Wed. services for Felton, here are some general directions. A cremation already has been held, so the family is calling this a memorial service.

Anyone who attended the funeral last year for Felton's son should know this is NOT the same church. The Fellowship Baptist Church, which Felton and Jean helped found, is quite small. The memorial service will be held instead at 1st Baptist.

Wednesday, June 29, 2 p.m.
1st Baptist Church in Liberty Hill
15611 West Hwy. 29
Liberty Hill TX 78642
(if you search for this on Yahoo mapping, use the zip code; the address won't work. church phone is 512/515-5673.)
Liberty Hill is a small town northwest of Austin. It's actually in Williamson County, north of Leander. From Austin, go north on Hwy. 183. Exit at Hwy. 29, also called Seward Junction. Turn left and follow Hwy. 29 into Liberty Hill.

I'm advised the church is just after the 3rd stop light. It's a white 2-story rock blg. across the street from the new Dollar General store. If anyone needs more information, I'm at 512/239-0154.

Felton's obit in the Chron

2005-06-26T06:54:00.000-07:00

Burgin's free-tabloid tale

2005-06-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

Banjo Jones points to this story about former Post editor Dave Burgin's aborted Daily Flash in Oakland, Calif.

Felton West has died

2005-06-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

Felton West, dedicated journalist and lifelong Houston Post employee, passed away Thursday night after an intense battle with cancer. Services will be held in Liberty Hill on Wednesday afternoon. We will provide more details as they become available.
-- From Mary Lenz & Jorjanna Price via Fred King

At right is a Statesman article someone sent me long ago about Felton's run for office in Liberty Hill in 2002. The jump has disappeared from my archives if I ever had it. If you click on the article it will give you a larger version to read.

NAHJ deserves better

2005-06-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

From the NAHJ convention: "In an interview with The Latino Reporter about an attachment on an e-mail received by a reporter (Mariana Guerrero), the National Association of Hispanic Journalists’ Hall of Fame inductee (Gerald Garcia) threatened to pull out of the ceremony. Later, however, he said he misspoke and will accept the award. ... "

E-mail brouhaha is here

Mariana's story is here

Photo found online matching description

Comment on Garcia?

2005-06-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

A Latino Reporter writer, Mariana Guerrero, is looking for comment from a Toasted Postie for a story on Gerald Garcia. Latino Reporter is publication of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, which is convening in Fort Worth this week and recently put Garcia into the NAHJ Hall of Fame ...

Qaddumi on reunion in HBJ

2005-06-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

Brenda Gunter points us to this opinion page article, Ten years later, Post Toasties still toasting by the Houston Business Journal's Thora Qaddumi, a former Postie, about the reunion. It ran April 29. Thanks Brenda and Thora!

Craig Hartley's reunion photos

2005-06-02T22:56:00.000-07:00

See former Houston Post photographer Craig Hartley's photos of the April 23 reunion here: http://home.att.net/~hotdog321/toasted2.htm ... Thanks Craig!

Update on the Angel of Death

2005-05-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Gerald Garcia
READ ME: Garcia in NAHJ Hall of Fame
This has been going around the e-mail circuit ... one ex-Postie's favorite comment by another ex-Postie is this:

Garcia gives me hope that I can fulfill my lifelong dream of being inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame.

Update on Felton West

2005-05-24T17:42:00.000-07:00

From Jorjanna Price:

Several folks have asked for an update on Felton, so I’ll share what I know after talking with him on the phone this weekend. Felton completed the 15 radiation treatments (for brain tumors) and is now hairless and feeling a little weak. i noticed his voice was not as strong, but he showed no lack of vigor.

He talked at length about all the people who have contacted him and the many interesting stories he hears about what people have done with their lives. one contact was Henry Holcomb, who worked in the Austin bureau in the ‘70s, went to the Star-Telegram and now is at the Philadelphia Inquirer. Henry’s wife is a hospital chaplain, and Felton said he had an hour-long conversation with her that was quite helpful.

Since leaving the hospital, a bunch of his kids and grandkids have been to visit and to ferry him to doctor appointments, which gave Jean a needed rest.

Now that radiation is over, a mild chemotherapy is due to begin. but rather than having to go to a medical facility, this new procedure merely requires taking a pill on a regular basis. it’s pricey – $2,500 a month. Felton and Jean are waiting to hear how much Medicare will cover.
Again, Felton really gets a charge from emails, cards and phone calls. so plez encourage folks to remember him with any sort of news or interesting tidbits. Felton recently lost some addresses from his computer, so if anyone needs his email, it's few2@ev1.net

Marty Graham checks in

2005-05-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

I was there, remember? I still miss everyone (well, almost everyone).

Marty Graham

Brenda's photos

2005-05-04T12:54:00.000-07:00

If you haven't seen Brenda Gunter's photo page, CLICK HERE to see it. It's a lot of fun. Thanks Brenda!

Felton West in hospital

2005-04-28T09:37:00.000-07:00

From: Jorjanna Price
To: Fred King
Subject: Felton West

Dear Fred:

While all of us were enjoying the reunion Saturday night, Felton West was being admitted into the North Austin Medical Center. He has begun treatment for lung and brain cancer.

I saw Felton last night and he was in great spirits - telling jokes, kidding nurses and jabbering on the phone. I took the pictures of the old Houston Post from the blogsite, and he and Jean loved pouring over the photos. In the 1953 pics showing Felton on the desk, he was attending UH during the day and working nights. Jean worked in the same building in the Post advertising department. They remembered living in a nearby rooming house and sharing a bathroom with two other couples (wow!).

Plez tell folks that Felton loves hearing from old friends. For now, his hospital phone is 512/901-5407.

He might go home Fri. or Sat. but with instructions to return daily for 20 days of radiation treatment. His home address is 209 Barrington Drive; Liberty Hill, TX 78642; phone is 512/515-6452; email is few2@ev1.net.

At the reunion, several people asked if Felton is still on the Liberty Hill city council. His two-year term ended, but he continues to be a thorn in the side of the old-boy establishment. He recently appeared before the council to protest passage of a zoning ordinance that had not been made public before the vote. Go get 'em, Felton.

Jorjanna Price

The old days in pictures

2005-04-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

Newsroom in the 'old old' Houston Post building, 1953, an election night. Thanks to former Postie Al Shire for providing some fantastic photos from The Post's past and providing names to boot. That's slot man Tony Anthony champing on that cigar in the foreground. You can almost smell it. Al is planning to have these photos at the April 23 get-together. ... Also don't miss the remembrances of former Post scribes David Westheimer, Campbell Geeslin, Walter Cronkite and Leon Hale, gathered up by industrious former Postie Liz Bennett. Thanks Al and Liz!

Lynn Ashby

2005-04-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

Former Post columnist, now with Houston Community Newspapers, remembers when.

Raglands still on the move

2005-04-20T12:54:00.000-07:00

Laura,

Wish we had gotten the word of the reunion sooner. Of course, we don't stay in one place long enough to be traceable. As it is we will be moving into our new house in Atlanta on Saturday. We'd been living/working in L.A. (Don) and Mexico City (Tessie) from fall 2000 until a year ago, after stints in Phoenix, L.A. (the first time) and Miami. Seems like it wasn't that long ago that we were drinking to our dead-end futures after the Post's demise. So many gray hairs and added pounds ago. Our best to all our old mates. We'd love to hear from you.

Don Ragland

Banjo Jones remembers

2005-04-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

More great remembering from ex-Postie Banjo Jones.

Rev up the way-back machine

2005-04-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

Ripped off from Banjo Jones' blog: The 'golden age' of Houston columnists

Jerry Fordyce checks in

2005-04-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

I finally stumbled across the site, didn't know it was there. Very happy to find it, it was great to see so many familiar names. I was disappointed, however, that my name wasn't included. If you please, I'd love to hear from the old gang, seven years in the Post sports department made for a few friends. Thanks much!
Jerry Fordyce, now at The Palm Beach Post

From Alan Cone

2005-04-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

I'll be arriving in Houston late Friday afternoon with my family left behind in South Florida. So, I'll be in the mood to tour the new parts of town, including checking out the new bars. And if anyone wants to share a hotel room, contact me.

Down to the wire

2005-04-17T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hey Post Toasties:

We are just days away from the celebration and the "yes" file just keeps growing. If you haven't read the messages take a read through them. It's worth it. Whether or not you plan to attend the April 23 festivities please check out the blog created by Laura Haynes Weisman at: http://toastedposties.blogspot.com/. Words of wisdom from Leon Hale and memories of the Houston Post have been posted to the site.

For those of you planning on taking part in the celebration here is the current headcount: 139 Post Toasties have confirmed and 13 have said they are going to try and make it (this probably does not include James Campbell who told us today he would try to stop by for at least a few minutes once he heard Tom and Linda Nelson were coming). For those of you who have not responded one way or the other, please give a click "yes, maybe or no" so we can get a pretty solid head count because we need to let the folks at the Cadillac Bar know how much food we need (Pete Brewton: we figure you will be at the cash bar ignoring the food and grousing about the lousy atmosphere, blaming it on former President Bush and the CIA).

Don't forget April 23 -- celebration day -- starts at 10:30 a.m. with the panel discussion on "How Media Coverage Has Changed Since 1995" at the Jungman Branch Library, 5830 Westheimer. Call Jim Magill, SPJ president, at 713-658-3229 to RSVP.

Some people plan on bringing photo memories of their days at the Post to the reception. If you want to join in this type of trip down memory lane, please make sure your pics are marked so you don't lose them as they are passed around.

If anyone wants to get together Friday night for drinks or dinner, you can use the e-vite feature (e-mail guests, individuals or groups of individuals) with the links in the light blue box in the center of the e-vite page. That's it for now. E-vite, by the way, will send out an automatic reminder a week before the event . So please excuse the extra message in your e-mailbox.

Looking forward to April 23. See you at The Cadillac.

Mike and Eileen

For reference, your link to this Invite is: http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?inviteId=ZRHSKRSKMSBKIVOVQYSY

Saturday meeting reminder

2005-04-08T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hi, Folks,
Beverly, Liz and I can meet at the Jungman Library tomorrow morning, 4/9, at 10:30 a.m.
It's at 5830 Westheimer between Fountainview and Chimney Rock. Hope some others can make it. If not, don't worry I'll find you to follow up with requests for ideas/ volunteers.
I am not in the office today, but at home if you need to reach me. 281-589-2858.
See you soon, eileen

Reunion committee meeting April 9

2005-04-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

SPJ/Post reunion committee:
We'll hold another meeting Sat. April 9, at the Jungman Branch Library at 5830 Westheimer at 10:30 a.m. for those who can make it to hash outsome logistical needs for the seminar and party.
We may need some help settingup the library meeting room on the 23rd, etc. I'll figure it out this week, but would like everyone to check their calendars now.
thanks to all. eileen