Eddie Dwyers' final buzzer

Eddie Dwyer left this to his friends:

Subject: The final buzzer Sent: Saturday, December 23, 2006 12:35 AM
To all of my colleagues, let me say how proud I have always been to
be able to say I was part of you.
After nearly 37 years in the sports department I covered my last
game tonight (Friday) for a newspaper I have loved since I was 7.
I hope this New Year and all of the years to come brings you an
abundance of success and happiness, as the kids and coaches I covered
over the many seasons did for me.
Have a wonderful holiday season and, to those in the newsroom and
sports department who gave me a warm sendoff to my game earlier tonight,
you will never know how much it meant to me.
THANK YOU, Eddie Dwyer.

More leavings

Friday, Dec. 18 was a busy, bittersweet day. Diane Griggs, Steve Talbott and Rosemary Kovacs`
left the building. Standing O's all around.
It was weird and sad.

Gary Webb Scholarship Fund

Gary Webb's friends sent this along. Webb was a reporter downtown and in Columbus before he left for the West Coast.

Dear Journalists and Friends,

My family,Gary's mother Anita,brother Kurt,children Ian,Eric,Christine,and I are writing you today with a request to help honor my husband Gary Webb.As you might know Gary died tragically December 9th 2004,at age 49.I have been searching for an appropriate way to remember and honor him,paying tribute to his great love for journalism.

The University of Missouri School of Journalism,with the help of faculty member Steve Weinberg,former executive director of Investigative Reporters and Editors has offered to host an annual scholarship fund for a promising young student of journalism.I can think of no better way to honor Gary,to reinforce his journalistic values,and to celebrate the successes he enjoyed during his career. My children and I would participate in helping to select the student;this is something to which we are all very much looking forward to as a way of remembering Gary.

We need to raise $10,000 for the scholarship to be self-perpetuating.To all you journalists,I know that your salaries can be tight,but I hope you will consider a donation to honor Gary's spirit. This scholarship is a way to help others,so that maybe a little bit of good can come from a terrible sadness.

If you are interested,please write a check to the University of Missouri-Columbia,and add to the memo line "Gary Webb Fund."
Send the gift to:
Catey Terry,M.A.
Director of Development
Missouri School of Journalism
102 Neff Hall Columbia,MO 65211-1200

Thank you very much for considering this request,and please don't hesitate to send this email along to someone who knew Gary,or cared about his work.

Sincerely,Susan Bell Webb

Ellers' note

Any buy-outer who did not get a post card invitation to get on the PD alumni lunch club, send an email to the mail list keeper: Dick Ellers at GeeRichard@aol.com

Bill Sloat's goes public

Bill Sloat, down in Cincy, has a blog. Try it: http://thebellwetherdaily.blogspot.com

Check out the photos

For some photos from the Big Farewell Bash check out http://flickr.com/photos/rosebud

There is a set of photos from the party. you can click on and do the slideshow or go through the photos individually.

Strang's farewell

On Nov. 22, 2006, Editorial writer Jim Strang walked out the door. Here is his farewell note:

Friends:

I was going to write a thank-you note for the fine going-away party last week, and I truly enjoyed that bash.

But then I got to thinking: I've been enjoying a party here at Ohio's Largest for 33 fun-filled years, rubbing minds daily with some of the finest people ever to grace our craft.

George Condon. Chuck Heaton. Hal Lebowitz. Jim Flanagan. Bob Daniels. Lou Mio, who was so instrumental in getting me hired back in 73. Chris Jindra, Dave Molyneaux and the days of the Swamp. Don Bean. E.J. Kissell. John P. Coyne. Bob McAuley, who helped me back out of a barful of angry, drunk truck drivers during that strike in '74. Bob Snyder. Dennis Ryerson. Bob Stock. Ray Osrin. Mary Anne Sharkey. All my colleagues here on the editorial page -- and even Brent Larkin. The list of wonderful people goes on and on; the song the presses sang every night will never end.

But I won't be singing along with those engines of truth and justice any more. My band is off to its next gig. I pray you remember me as fondly as I will remember you. I'll see your work, if not your faces, every day, and I expect to see great things.

My love and admiration to you all

Jim Strang

Hortator@centurytel.net

-30-

Jo Ann Pallant, who left about two weeks ago, has this message for everyone:

HOLIDAY BOOK SALE

To the 64 buyout people: if you have already left the building, you are invited to attend the Holiday Book Sale this year. It is Wednesday, Dec. 6 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. and half-price Thursday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to noon.


She was escorted out of The PD with flowers and friends and a standing ovation.

Party video available

Get it while it's hot...

A video of the Big Buyout Bash is now available on the internet. The video, which captures the entire event at Massimo's, is available by clicking here: http://www.newimagemedia.com/plaindealer/

When the page comes up, the video will load and play automatically on your computer screen, so turn your speakers up. If you scroll down on that page, you can download a copy of the video to your computer. By doing so, you can easily burn the video to a CD or DVD.

The video will only be available on the web for about a month, so if you're interested in keeping a copy of the video in perpetuity, make a copy for yourself.

Many thanks to New Image Media, a local Cleveland video firm, for their post-production and web hosting services to put this video on the internet for our use. And to Chris Seper for letting us borrow his digital video camera.

Also, if you want to buy a "yearbook" of all the retirees, it costs $10. AJ Janke is taking orders.

Please forward this message on to retirees who have already left.

Thanks. Regina Brett

A Cleveland Press friend says hello

We're famous. Betty Klaric, a former Press reporter sends this message:
Hi Rosie:
Someone forwarded to me the PD Alumni News with comments and pictures of the farewell party.
I just wanted to say farewell to my former colleagues and Guild members. I will miss "seeing" you in my morning PD as will the rest
of the city. You all have my very best wishes.

Betty Klaric

Thanks for the Party

Here's some of the thank yous sent to GroupWise after the big going away bash on Wed Nov. 15:

POST BUYOUT BASH SYNDROME Nov 16
Re: What a party
From Regina Brett, an organizer of the party:
Anyone else still feeling buzzed from last night's laughter?
Thank you all for giving our "Class of 2006" a great sendoff.
Special thanks go to Sue Klein, Kaye Spector, AJ Janke, Mike McIntyre and Scott Stephens. Without those 5, we'd all still be
wondering, How are we gonna say goodbye to 64 people?
If you're interested in getting a copy of the "yearbook" of the 64 retirees, see AJ. She's taking orders.
A video of the evening's entertainment will go up on a website shortly. We're working on it and will give you details as they come.

Last night was a great reminder that even though we're losing 64 co-workers, we've got an amazing bunch of colleagues still here.
//

From Bill SLoat:
The sweetests flower that grows
I give you as we part.
For you it is a rose
For me it is my heart.

-- Frederick Peterson -- At Parting
//


I want to thank everyone for a wonderful and fun partylast night
From: CAROL MALINOWSKI
//

We needed that remembrance as much as the people leaving did. And you worked incredibly hard and well. It was funny and sweet and
cathartic. Pls fwd this msg to anyone I've forgotten. Thanks! Grant Segall (not leaving)

//

What a blow-out last night!

I can only hope that the rest of my life can compare. Thanks to everyone for the spectacular celebration. It was a wonderful
display of what The Plain Dealer really is and has been to so many of us. I do appreciate each and every participant and moment of
the evening. Thank you sincerely, Pam Whitmore

//

I'm sorry that I missed this part of the show last night, but thank you all so much for a truly spectacular send-off. What a blast.

On my first day here in 1985, Mairy Jayn Woge, then one of the federal courts reporters, plopped herself in the seat next to me and
started dictating a story. Feeling insecure and freaked out by the majesty of a newsroom filled with so many great reporters and
colorful characters, I apologized to Mairy Jayn and told her I was a rookie and didn't understand why she wasn't writing the story
herself. Said she: "That's just the way we do it here."
What a strange and wonderful place this has been for the last 21 years! In fact, I was feeling so rueful last night that I've
decided to change my mind. I'm staying.
Just joshin'.
Ted (Wendling) of the Columbus Bureau

//

>>> MIKE MCINTYRE 11/16/06 10:00AM >>>
I am not going to ask why someone tore off their red Chico's blouse at last night's Big Buyout Bash, but it's obvious that a
photograph of Jim Strang as the head of the NRA is too much for some people to resist.

The shirt, if you or your spouse is missing it, is on the empty desk across from Nellyn. Come claim it, no questions asked.
//

Dear Plain Dealer editorial family:
Thank you for a wonderful, classy farewell party. I had a wonderful time. Thanks to all the hard work from the committee. The
booklets, the roses, the newspaper pin, the "retirement what to do" wheel, the pressman's hat, such fun. It was good seeing former
editorial people at event. The video and presentation were very professional. Editorial really knows how to give a party.

It's only been a week at home and I still feel as though I'm on vacation. Wait I am still using up vacation days, so I am still on
vacation. So thanks again for a great party.

Jo Ann Pallant


Dear Friends,
I didn't think it was possible to out-bash Jack Hagan's farewell, but the Buy Out organizers managed, even without anybody's mother
giving them the Italian salute.
A heartfelt "Thank You" seems so inadequate for all that volunteer work --- from the little newspaper bundle pin to the diploma
presentation. The pressman's hat was an oustanding touch of nostalgia. I tossed mine in the air, then scrambled to get it back -- a
souvenir to treasure.

Like so many others, I don't know where this business we call newspapering is headed. But with colleagues like you, I feel it's in
good hands.

Now I'm ready to enjoy a "NIce Big Cup of . . .
Lou Mio.
//

I know it's a lot of work to put together a party for just one or two
people. But last night, the committee found a way to have a wonderful party
for 64 people. The book, the lapel pin, diplomas and all represent a lot of
hours and I really appreciate it. It was a wonderful send off.
And it was nice to learn someone still knows how to do a pressman's
hat.
Thanks to everyone.
Tom Gaumer
_thomasg663@aol.com_
//
To all whom this may concern: Of course, I am late with my response in regards to the party the other night. But here goes.. I
really enjoyed myself (even though none of you think that you should dance at a party) and just think I wasn't going to come. But
I'm glad, because not only did I get a chance to party with all my colleagues, I also got one last chance to see JoAnn, Mr. Peery,
Jack Hagan, Bill Carlson and so many others that I am going to miss. The food, music, program and the memorabilia was put together
with so much CLASS and TIME. You really put your foot in it. And like Rosemary mentioned.. Let's have a class reunion
Your co-worker, Janice! (Rankin)
//
After years of planning seminars & parties for others, it really feels funny to be on the receiving end. I had so much fun last night. You all worked so hard to make it such a wonderful event, even the Gino Strippoli moment. As far as the red blouse, I told
you I'm a confidential secretary & I cannot & will not tell.
Thank you so very much. Yeah, I finally got a pressman's hat. :)
Cherie (McDaniel)
//

All I've got to say is .... Who are all you people???
Really, though I only know many of you through bylines and telephone contact, it's been an honor and pleasure to be a colleague.
And man, you guys throw one hell of a farewell soiree. Can't put enough thanks in here to express my gratitude for all the hard
work that I know went into putting that fine and fun event together. It was a blast and well done. Mucho Gracias!! TC Brown (Columbus bureau)

//
..To anyone who had anything at all to do with thinking up, planning, carrying out or even attending last night's party for the
departing. The well wishes were great and so were the gifts, the music, the food and everything else. I felt special and I'm sure
everyone else from the Class of 2006 did, too.

-- haki (christin)




Jane Scott didn't make the party, but shortly after this message went out:Greetings:
If you're going near the vicinity of Jane Scott's place later today and would be willing to make a stop, I'd be grateful. Jane left
her coat at Jac's bar last night, which I discovered long after she'd left. I thought for a moment about what it might fetch on
eBay, but I figured Jane deserves to be warm.

Thanks
Karen


To everyone involved in the party, thank you for the great send off you gave all of our buy-out staffers, especially my longtime
teammate on the high school staff, Jack McDermott. But then anything Sue Klein touches has no choice but to turn out fantastic.
Unfortunatley, thanks to another controversy at St. Edward High School, I was locked to my desk and could not attend. But from
my heart, thank you for recognizing me and the wonderful gift of recognition.
I will cherish these last days as I leave after my shift on Dec. 22. I hope to cover a high school basketball game that night
and then drive off into a winter moonlight.
Again THANK YOU! May the future be as big and bright as your hearts.
- Eddie Dwyer

//
To the
thoughtful group of you that put the party together......You need to do it for a living!!!!!!! You'll never go
broke!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Of all the parties I've been to the past 22.5 years at the Plain Dealer, this was the BEST other than the 150th anniversary event at
the ZOO (smile).

You know Rosie always give sound advice, so listen to her now and plan our 5th reunion (SMILE).

Thank you so much for such a FUN FILLED evening! I will keep my press hat forever and will wear my pin often!!!!! It was in a way
sad, but Mike kept us laughing and it was good seeing our ex-co workers.
I for the first time (in my life) could not eat all my food due to excitment....Now you know that must have been one helluva party!
You guys are G R E A T!!!!!! Nellyn Brown
//

FAREWELL NOTES:
not really goodbye, just ...
From: CAROLYN JACK Sent: Friday, November 10, 2006 5:19 PM
a chance to thank all of you for eight great years of your company and your friendship. and i'd like that to continue even though i
will no longer have a desk in the building, so please stay in touch, as will i.
all the best,
carolyn
cmjack@sbcglobal.net

To my PD family. It has been wonderful working with all of you. My 40 years here have been very special to me. I will miss seeing
you each day. Conversations with Daisy, my cat, will not be the same.
Thanks to all of you for your support over the years. Good-bye.
Jo Ann Pallant
P.S. Pay those I.O.U. bills in the book on the book cart!!!
//
Colleagues: When I arrived at The Plain Dealer in 1967 as an apprentice in the Rockefeller Project for the Training of Music
Critics, I planned to stay in Cleveland for only nine months. But when the management created a job for me, I thought it would be
more fun to write reviews and features than to pursue a PhD in musicology. I have never regretted the decision., since I have met a
fascinating array of people -- in the newsroom and on my many beats. I will miss the stimulation (but not the stress of daily
journalism). Goodbye and best wishes to all. Wilma (Salisbury)



.

The Party People!






















Many thanks to all the people who worked long hours to put this party together. Special thanks to Stuart Warner, Mike McIntyre, Sue Klein and Regina Brett.

For He's a Jolly Good Fellow

Years of thinking deep thoughts has made Jim Strang's head just a little too big for his graduation cap, but he wears it proudly anyway.

Seems Like Old Times...

PD veterans Bob Snyder and Jack Murphy amuse Margie Frazer with stories of the "old days".

Hold the Phone!

Estella Johnson, minister of first impressions, leaves a lasting impression on all her colleagues, including retiree Bill Carlson, at the Massimo blast.

The Final Front Page

At the buyout party on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2006, the "graduates of the class of 2006" were called to the front of the room to get their diplomas from editor Doug Clifton and Metro Bossette Elizabeth McIntyre and handed a scroll that was a special front page, which included tiny photos of every editorial person taking leave. We'll post the story later.

'Graduation' party 11/15/06

Those who are leaving for greener pastures, top, the buyouts, are applauded by those stay behind. A wonderful party celebrating the event was held Wednesday night, Nov. 15, 2006 at Milano de something Italian with more than 150 people. It was a graduation party, they said, for a new life, a new beginning. Lotsa laughs, lotsa memories, lotsa toasts, lotsa drinks. More photos will follow. This photo was taken by Bill G.

We are about 3 going away parties behind. Honest, more photos to come.

Caroline Jack's farewell note

Here's Caroline's goodbye. But she was a little camera shy.

Friday, November 10, 2006 5:19 PM

a chance to thank all of you for eight great years of your company and your friendship. and i'd like that to continue even though i
will no longer have a desk in the building, so please stay in touch, as will i.

all the best, carolyn

McAuley's Party

Bob, Diane, Regina











Margie, Ellen, Ted














November 3, Bob McAuley


















David, Jill, Kevin


















David, Ted, Rosie

Last Friday Wilma Salisbury, music and dance critic left. Here's her farewell note:

Friday, November 3, 2006 7:45 PM
Colleagues: When I arrived at The Plain Dealer in 1967 as an apprentice in the Rockefeller Project for the Training of Music
Critics, I planned to stay in Cleveland for only nine months. But when the management created a job for me, I thought it would be
more fun to write reviews and features than to pursue a PhD in musicology. I have never regretted the decision., since I have met a
fascinating array of people -- in the newsroom and on my many beats. I will miss the stimulation (but not the stress of daily
journalism). Goodbye and best wishes to all. Wilma

Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006 was Joanne Pallant's last day, after 40 years. Cake and cookies and balloons and tears.
Here's her farewell note:To my PD family. It has been wonderful working with all of you. My 40 years here have been very special to me. I will miss seeing
you each day. Conversations with Daisy, my cat, will not be the same.
Thanks to all of you for your support over the years. Good-bye.

Jo Ann Pallant

P.S. Pay those I.O.U. bills in the book on the book cart!!!

Friday night, Nov. 3, the medical team hosted a good bye farewell party for Bob McAuley, whose last day will be Nov. 10. A slew of past and past present PD people crammed into the upper room of the Market St. Wine Bar to toast the longtime PD goodguy. Here he is with one of his gifts, a Sirius radio.

Margie is not looking at the clock to see when she can run out the door. Doug is not going to time her....They're watching TV.....Margie's last day is Friday, Oct. 27, 2006

Oct. 26, 2006.

The photo department gave Mike Levy and Richard Conway a sendout party. Do you think they're happy to leave? Their last day is Oct 27, 2006. Richard's been at the PD 47 some years, Mike, 17 years.

Richard Peery, former Guild President and obit writer, is resting in peace, at home. Here he is at his desk on his last day in October.

Stephen Beard, artist, has left for the Indianapolis paper. He cleaned out his Polynesian desk and walked out two weeks ago.

From Richard Ellers, mail clerk who sends post card notice for each
quarterly lunch.
This are no dues, very informal bunch.
You want on our list send your name & address to me @
426 Central Pkwy Warren, Ohio 44483
or
_GeeRichard@aol.com_ (mailto:GeeRichard@aol.com)
Hope to see some of you Oct 27 @ Hornblowers

Plain Dealer Editorial Retirees and Expatriates gather for lunch at various restaurants the last Fridays of January, April, July and October. Next Luncheon: Noon, October 27 at Hornblowers just East of the Ninth Street Pier. If you can join us, please phone
Pauline Thoma @ 440-331-6995 or Janet French @216 221-2318