John Arthur left the L.A. Times newsroom Friday, eight days after being told that a masthead reorganization meant his services as executive editor were no longer needed. Staffers, including managing editor Davan Maharaj but not top editor Russ Stanton, gathered in the building's first-floor globe lobby to fete Arthur. His email to the staff:

From: Arthur, John
Sent: Friday, July 10, 2009 9:25 PM
Subject: -30-

Friends,

For 23½ years I've been a small part of one of the world's greatest news organizations. I can't tell you how much fun it has been, and how wonderful it was to work with some of the best people around. It was an honor to have been one of your leaders. And while the paper's reach is not as wide as it once was, your ambitions must remain as high as ever. This staff must push daily for the highest level of excellence. Accept no substitute.

Be good, be strong and stay in touch.

All my best,

John

After the jump, staffers pose for a photo in front of a banner from the old Times Valley edition, which Arthur led.