This morning (Monday 4/28/03) there was a cryptic note on the front of the Chron's Technology and Business section informing readers that tech columnist Henry Norr was no longer working for the newspaper.
For those folks who do not read the Chronicle or its online version sfgate.com, Henry covered tech issues and wrote a regular column for Macintosh users. His writing has always been informative and with a much-needed touch of good humor, something that is often lacking in newspaper and technology writing.
There are at least two rumors floating around regarding why Henry got the axe. The unofficial-official reason is that Henry cut work one day last month, participated in an anti-war demonstration and was arrested, and he was fired because he violated the newspaper's personnel policies by taking an unauthorized day-off.
The unofficial-unofficial reason is that he was fired for his apparently left-leaning political views.
As I said, these are both unsubstantiated rumors and The Chronicle has taken a "no comment" stance, but sources say that the paper claims that Henry falsified his time card, which lead to his dismissal.
It will probably be awhile before the dust settles and the reason(s) for his firing become clearer. There may also be other information that is available but which I didn't find during my quick reading of a few websites. What I have read so-far qualifies as Internet Speculation in my book. For those interested in finding out more about this, a search of "Henry Norr" via Google will turn up a number of hits, including an audio interview with Henry (which I have not had the time to listen to...).
Whether the reason for his firing is bad judgment on Henry's part or because of Henry's political views (or a combination of the two), I am going to miss his writing and his support of Macintosh users. I hope that he finds another venue for his work and continues his fine reporting on technology and Mac issues.
[ 04-28-2003, 11:43 PM: Message edited by: Mayo ]
