Do you think you will be at your paper this time next year?

I don't even feel good about answering this question. In this business, you're one big mistake from being done for, and that's not even considering the state of the industry. I'm trying not to jinx it.

 

Newspapers are in a little more turmoil, but it's not by much. At least 4 of the 5 TV stations in my market have had layoffs. The number one station is owned by Gannett, so even though they've been very successful they've still had their payroll slashed.

 

I am safe, for now.
Paper has not done layoffs and would probably do a few round of buyouts, if anything. If that's the case, I haven't been here long enough to go for it.

 

The environment around me is far from stable, but I think my pass will still work this time next year. That's not going to stop me from pursuing an opportunity that fits Mrs. Editude and me in the meantime.

 

how old are you, sparky?

 

Ditto.

 

but how much more free work will you be doing a year from now, shots?

 

I voted that my tummy hurts. We've avoided layoffs so far, mostly because we've filled few of the jobs that have opened here over the past 7-8 years. But for reasons I won't disclose, there is a lot of uncertainty at our place for very valid reasons. I'm no spring chicken and am nearing the end of the line as it is, but this is a hell of an agonizing way to play it out after all these years.

 

Things are going well enough that I think I could be here in year, but I want out quicker than that.

 

My head AND my tummy hurt.

 

i'm pretty sre i'd be one of the last guys standing at my shop ... but at what cost to my personal life.

 

If my eight hours are more work-filled in 12 months than they are now, that's OK. No real problem with that.