Major layoffs at Washington Times, Miami Herald

The Washington Times will lay off at least 40 percent of its 370 employees as part of a major overhaul announced Wednesday by the financially troubled paper.
In a statement, Washington Times president and publisher Jonathan Slevin said the cuts were part of a strategy to transform the paper from its traditional business model into a 21st century media company.
"We have developed plans to secure our position and advance our vital role in an evolving media marketplace and through challenging economic times," he said.
Acknowledging the tough times being experienced in the media industry and economy as a whole, Slevin said future plans had to be constrained by "current marketplace realities."
"In this regard, the company is aggressively working to achieve efficiencies of scale that must include significant staff reduction of its 370 personnel."
In a story on its website, the Washington Times said all employees were handed letters advising them that at least 40 percent of the workforce will be laid off in the coming weeks.