Tony Ronzio Leaving LSJ for KJ

As someone who knows and repects Tony Ronzio and his intellectual integrity and writing talent, I say a hearty CONGRATULATIONS!

Fair winds and following seas.

J -

What congratulations? I'm not saying you're wrong. I'm just wondering what it is you're congratulating.

Best,
skf

Tony is one of the few remaining "thinking" journalist in Maine. There are others, but they are far and few between at our dailies. Tony was fair, thoughtful and unbiased...I hope his style survives at the KJ. He will be sorely missed at the Sun Journal, which has grown some very good talent in recent years. Good luck, Mr. Ronzio!

Congratulations on a little actual unbiased journalism reaching Augusta. Here's hoping he got a raise!

I met Tony recently, and liked him a lot compared to other such critters I've met.

What is the relative size of the two papers? Are we sure Tony is taking a step "up" in this context?

It might also be said that advancing in a dying industry is a bittersweet experience.

Circulation at the KJ is smaller than the SJ, but this is a step up in management responsibilities for Tony, Plus, he lives in Hallowell, so the commute is a lot shorter.

He is an excellent writer and a class act. We worked together on some legislative issues this year. He is also next in line for the Maine Press Association's presidency in 2010. I echo the congratulations.

Disclaimer: I'm executive director of the MPA.

I have a conflict of interest because Tony will now be in a position where he could ax my column. That said, before I knew that, I thought Tony was a good guy. He listens and does not come at every issue with a preconceived judgment. I called him and congratulated him when I heard the news and I think his hiring was a smart move by the new management of the KJ.