New SE in Rochester

What happened to Batzold?

 

I heard that Batzold had some health issues, but nothing that would have ordinarily kept him permanently sidelined. The real issue is probably related to upper management. The exec editor happily drinks the Gannett corporate Kool-Aid (and goes back for refills) and the ME doesn't leave anyone with a warm and fuzzy feeling either.

Rumor mill says Rochester isn't hiring a body to replace Batzold, just sliding someone over part-time from the copy desk. That hurts because, like a lot of places, they've been short-handed for too long.

 

gannett taking the low road? surely you jest.

 

I'm serious. And don't call me Shirley.

 

Had to be done.

 

Good for Bradley, and hopefully Batzold's health improves.

Both great guys, both helped me get started in this biz a few years back. Bradley certainly brings a lighter side to the newsroom with him...

 

yes it did. good work newbie.

 

Bradley is a great editor who pushes writers to get better. He knows the area as well as anyone. It will do Rochester some good to have a new voice and a fresh perspective running the show. That said, Batz ran a strong section and hopefully everything is OK with him. If you wanted to know something about Rochester sports, he knew it. A good guy who dedicated himself to making the paper better every day while working within the Gannett framework.

 

New intell has surfaced in the last week or so. Bottom line is that Batzold got screwed. The ME has been like the north end of a southbound horse since Day 1. Batzold finally said "enough is enough."

Bradley is a good man. He'll have viable options when he decides it's time to pull the rip cord on Gannett.