Hey you all.

I can’t say I’m happy to be leaving this proud newspaper. But I am
relieved, excited, and inspired by the prospect of a new adventure –
both yours and mine.

You guys are in for an amazing ride on the spinning platforms of news
and information, a ride into an unmapped world of challenge and
surprise. It’s going demand your intellect, imagination, resilience
and determination. In other words, it’s going to require you to
continue to be great journalists, driven by curiosity and that
instinctive need to chronicle the events of our time, in our place.
It’s not just the newspaper industry that’s convulsing. It’s the
culture. What a story!

As for me, I don’t think I’m capable of leaving this place
voluntarily. I’m so invested here on so many levels, I really think I
needed some help getting to the door. I deeply appreciate the
incredible work you people have produced, especially during and since
last fall’s “reinvention” and subsequent layoffs. Despite all the
losses, I believe the paper is kicking it. The website is crackling.
That’s a tribute to your taIent, the same talent I know you’ll bring
to your new partnership with FOX61.

Meanwhile, I’ll be working on my own reinvention. Whatever my next gig
is, I aim to make it meaningful and fun. That’s what it’s all about –
keeping it fun, keeping it new, maintaining a sense of wonder and
purpose.

If anybody wants to take a hike in the woods, play a round of golf or
share a shot, please let me know. (cell: 960-543-9017…email
btroessner@yahoo.com)

Keep the faith.

Bobbie