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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.
Richard Roesler covers Washington state news from The Spokesman-Review's bureau in Olympia.
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Elizabeth Johnson on July 09 at 10:17 a.m.
Rich, you'll be sincerely missed. Thanks for the years of hard work. The decline of the Olympia press corps is a worrisome development. Judging from the paper and your blog, you were one of the hardest workers there keeping an eye on the saints and scoundrels in the marble halls.
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John Serben on July 09 at 11:29 a.m.
Hey Rich:
A sad day indeed. You have done a good job of equal coverage in Olympia and will be missed.
So much for a state hiring freeze.
Good luck in the new job.
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KevinTaylor on July 09 at 1:42 p.m.
Rich,
You have done a monster good job in Olympia (and in CDA before that.) I'll miss your reporting but understand your reasons to leave. Good luck in the new gig.
KT
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Lisa Brown on July 09 at 3:05 p.m.
Rich - Sad news for me. I have really appreciated your reporting. When I come back to Spokane after session, I get the sense that S-R readers are informed about the major challenges we face. I hope the paper keeps the position. Good luck with the OIC!
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Nick42 on July 09 at 8:51 p.m.
I'm sorry to see you go, Rich, as I've enjoyed both your reporting and your blogging. Good luck to you in your new position.
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Dan Hansen on July 13 at 8:46 a.m.
Spokane could not have asked for a better eye on the capitol. The newspaper may fill your spot (we all hope they do) but it would be tough to find someone as thoughtful, skeptical, diligent and thorough. That, and a fine writer, too.
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