Jim Buchta Reassigned?

More Turmoil at Star Tribune

The stager I work with most often, Lori Matzke, mentioned in passing that her regular Saturday column in the Star Tribune is ending. The column was a highlight for many readers, and juxtaposed "before" and "after" staging shots with Lori's (always insightful) commentary.

That's one less reason for people to read (or buy) the paper, which is not a good omen for a publication already in bankruptcy protection, and suffering a precipitous decline in advertising and subscription revenue.

Lori also mentioned that the "dean" of the Strib's real estate reporters, Jim Buchta, had been reassigned to the Travel section. Not sure what the motive was -- and I haven't independently confirmed it.

However, Jim's byline has been conspicuously absent from the real estate section lately.

If true, that would be a real loss: Jim's regular articles (many with me as a source!) were always well-reported and well-documented, and gave readers real insight into the Twin Cities housing market.

P.S.: I wish this was only an April Fool's joke . .