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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Eye On Olympia

Capitol press corps loses another…

And this time, it's me.

After nearly 9 years covering Olympia for an Eastern Washington audience, I'm taking a public-affairs job with the state insurance commissioner's office.

I love what I do, and am deeply grateful to the Spokesman-Review and to everyone who's clicked on this blog or read my stories. But given the worrisome state of newspapers -- round after round of layoffs, a pay cut, a furlough -- it would have felt irresponsible to not jump at a job that feels like a good fit and a new opportunity.

S-R management is still figuring out what to do, but early indications are that they'll replace me and keep the bureau open. That's good news. I've watched the permanent press corps here dwindle down to 8 people, and Eastern Washington in particular needs some eyes on the puzzle palace that Olympia can be.

I'll have more to add on my last day, later this month. For now, I'll end this the way I end all my e-mail replies to readers:

Thanks for reading.



Short takes and breaking news from the Washington Legislature and the state capital.