Guild readies for job cuts -- again

The news came on Wednesday, and it had a familiar ring to it: Journal Sentinel Inc. to offer a "voluntary separation program" to its employees.

That would be a buyout package for volunteers followed by involuntary layoffs if enough people don't agree to leave.

We went through this in the fall, and this time the news was a little tougher. The company is aiming to eliminate 130 jobs in this round, more than double the number cut last fall. Managers have not indicated how the 10% cut would be spread among departments, but if it's proportional, on a full-time-equivalent basis, that would be about 25 newsroom jobs.

As happened last fall, the Guild is working to gather information and answer questions for its membership. A handout of frequently asked questions should be coming your way soon, and informational sessions will be scheduled if it will help newsroom staff get a better handle on what to do.

Also, on Thursday, the Guild filed a grievance over the way the company is handling the elimination of four bargaining-unit jobs at MKE, the youth-oriented weekly that is closing next week. Union leaders will be watching to see if similar issues arise in the newsroom downsizing. More details on that situation will be coming soon.

In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, bring them to your steward or to a Guild officer or board member.

In times like these, it's more important than ever for all of us to work together.