Hi everyone,

As you may (or may not) know, this Friday will be my last day at the IE Weekly. Hard to believe that I have been in the seat for 20 fast-paced months, but I wanted everyone to know that it's been a lot of fun pumping this shit out with you. Contrary to what the bulk of the letters and phone calls I've received would indicate, I have a feeling . . . no, I am certain that this paper is something categorically better than a fish rag. I am biased, of course, and perhaps a month's distance will be enough for me to resolve it isn't worthy to wrap my fish in, either. I doubt it. I have never curried any special favors with fish.

To presume to read your mind, yes, this may seem like an utterly stupid time to voluntarily walk away from an editor's job, given the state of things. Eh. But it was voluntary, and it's not one of those 'read deeper' types of things. I don't resent being tied to a dying animal, because I don't think alt-weeklies are (necessarily) dying. This one in particular is the only show in town, and it has the feel of something necessary. It's just that me and the IE are fed up with each other. In fact, if you happen to see the IE, say goodbye for me, as we're no longer on speaking terms.

I will be editing an endless stream of content for Amoeba Music's new site, and will have a few well placed trolling poles in the freelance waters to boot. Actually, having written it down, it does seem sort of utterly stupid -- so feel free to draw your own conclusions.

At any rate, starting this weekend, please file your assignments to the new editor of the IEW, the very capable Roberto Hernandez, at rhernandez@ieweekly.com. Roberto has been briefed on what everybody does and why, so feel free to drop him a line. He is a cool cat, all piss and vinegar. I think he'll fit right in.

Please also jot down my new email address if you wish to stay in touch:
xxxxxxx.

It has been a pleasure working with you, my friends.

Very best,
Chuck