One of many last bylines.

“I struggle horribly to do what I have counseled so many readers over the years:

Don't blame the messenger.

I don't intend to throw a pity party. I intend to find a job. For the first time in 32 years, it may not be in journalism.

I claim no special status. I deserve no more sympathy or consideration than millions of other American workers displaced by the balance sheet.”

— Denver Post columnist Jim Spencer, writing about being fired from the newspaper as part of another round of cost-cutting that is eliminating at least 37 reporters and editors.

So far in 2007, buy-outs and layoffs have cut an estimated 650 newsroom positions at major dailies around the country.
. . . . . . . . .