A Sad Day at the Los Angeles Times

We knew this day was coming, so it came as no surprise when I heard that Jeff Johnson was terminated as publisher of the Los Angeles Times today.

I dropped my daughter Joanna off at school about eleven this morning and headed to the Credit Union, near Times Mirror Square, with my music blaring I was unable to hear my phone ringing off the hook. As I made my withdrawal from my savings account, the lady behind the desk asked if I had heard the news? What news I asked? She said that Jeff Johnson has resigned.

I was speechless, only for a moment, but I was saddened almost to tears. I had only had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Johnson on three occasions, and I was impressed with him everytime we met. He is what I call a people person, very easy going and likeable.

As an employee of the Los Angeles Times and a subscriber to the newspaper, I enjoyed watching the changes taking place under Jeff's leadership. And when Jeff stood up and said enough, I knew he was no longer a Tribune man, but a Los Angeles Times man.

When Dean Baquet is let go we will have many writers following him, so Tribune will have the cuts they desire, without having to issue pink slips.

We didn't get to know you well Jeff Johnson, but the stand you took will be remembered for years to come.

So Be It,

Edward