The Newton Daily News is seeking a new editor after parting ways with Bob Eschliman, its former editor.
Eschliman’s departure was announced Monday, nearly a week after he received statewide media attention for his personal blog addressing the Queen James translation of the Bible.
In his blog, Eschliman stated, “I’d like to talk a little bit about deceivers among us, most notably the LGBTQXYZ crowd and the Gaystapo effort to reword the Bible to make their sinful nature ‘right with God.’” He concluded his blog entry with, “If you ask me, it sounds like the Gaystapo is well on its way. We must fight back against the enemy.”
Daily News management learned of the blog posting last Tuesday afternoon and suspended Eschliman on Wednesday. He remained under suspension until Monday’s decision.
Daily News Publisher Dan Goetz said a search for a new editor would begin immediately.
“This was a very difficult situation,” Goetz said. “I cannot directly comment on a personnel matter. We are moving on.”
The Daily News is owned by Shaw Media, and a column from Shaw Media President John Rung appears on page 4A of today’s paper.
“Last week, Mr. Eschliman expressed an opinion on his personal blog that in no way reflects the opinion of the Newton Daily News or Shaw Media,” Rung stated. “While Mr. Eschliman is entitled to his opinion, his public airing of it compromised the reputation of this newspaper and his ability to lead it.”
Rung also stated, “Mr. Eschliman has a right to voice his opinion. And we have a right to select an editor who we believe best represents our company and best serves the interests of our readers.”
Eschliman had been employed at the Daily News since June 2012.