'Save the Press Telegram' Facebook Page Reportedly Ordered Removed

The "Save the Press Telegram" Facebook page posted a message there today that says the page was ordered removed on grounds that it violates the union contract by interfering with the company's ability to contract out work.

"The company has notified us that they believe this Facebook page violates our contract, which prohibits "interference" by the [Newspaper] Guild or its represented workers with the outsourcing of the Press Telegram's newsroom staff.

"We launched this page to educate the community about the importance of local journalism, but given the employer's response we will be taking it down tonight. Thanks to everyone for the overwhelming response. We hope you will continue to support the Press Telegram, its staff and the need for local journalism to remain local."

This same contract point has reportedly been cited with respect to the group's plan to request the Long Beach City Council's support in finding a way to spare numerous photographers and arts writers, who the group says have been notified their jobs will be eliminated. We will try to reach the ownership before closing time.