This is the email that was just sent out to all the freelancers:

Due to the financial repercussions of the current recession, we are temporarily scaling back on freelance rates for editorial contributions to the features in Variety. As you are probably aware, Variety has recently had substantial staff reductions and other major reductions in costs in order to weather the economic crisis that is affecting virtually all businesses and which is especially acute in the media sector. As of April 1, our $.75 per word rate is now changed to $.50. This will be the rate in effect until further notice.

Steven Gaydos

We’re sure this just means that the stories are a third longer. Right?

At least they’re upfront about it. Good for you, Gaydos.

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