Has WCCO dumped Paul Douglas?

By C.J., Star Tribune

Last update: April 4, 2008 - 4:47 PM

Paul Douglas' bio has disappeared from the WCCO-TV website.

"Gone," said a broadcasting source who could say no more. The popular meteoreologist looks like the first big-ticket staffer to be let go in these company-wide cuts mandated by CBS, said a second source.

My Friday afternoon call to the longtime Twin Cities meteorologist has not been returned. He hasn't been in all week, and was either ill or was not scheduled to work this week, according to a source, thus making it easier to conceal what would be considered a monumental loss.

Douglas is a brilliant businessman, who has sold meteorologically based companies.

To reader Bill, I have to say, you were onto something in this Wednesday e-mail:

"Wondering if there is something going on with Paul at WCCO? He's been missing in action for over two weeks now and I haven't heard anyone say a word about where he is or what's going on. Did I miss his leaving? Who are all the new weather 'guys' at WCCO and WHY? Thanks --

Bill Sommerness."

C.J. is at 612.332.TIPS or cj@startribune.com. E-mailers, please state a subject -- "Hello" doesn't count. Attachments are not opened, so don't even try. More of her attitude can be seen on Fox 9 Thursday mornings.