I find the firing of Cecil Bothwell laughable! What kind of publicity did you think it would get? I found out via an e-mail from a new resident in Asheville, who is appalled at the publisher’s decision.
Cecil is a talented journalist and author who, I feel, will find it easy to become even more successful despite this turn of events. However, with this type of decision-making occurring at the Mountain Xpress, I’m not sure of the paper’s future. Fire the man voted best in Asheville by your own survey? Ha! Ha! Unbelievable!
Of course, there are certainly extenuating circumstances the reader may be unaware of, and my conjecture may inaccurately depict jealousy or professional intimidation by those who consider themselves his boss. Surely some complex issue arose to justify the poor timing and ultimately the poor decision to fire one of your best.
And of course, it is difficult to put one’s own pride or ego aside to admit a mistake or to reconcile or renegotiate for a diplomatic offer of reinstatement. But alas, I’m assuming he wants to return. Perhaps he’s realized the gift of his talent, dedication and enthusiasm was just a “job” to those who felt it best to let him go.
— Kam Parker
Asheville
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