(UPDATED VERSION)

The Media General subsidiary that oversees the Tampa Tribune, NBC affiliate WFLA-Ch. 8 and several other bay area news platforms, today announced the elimination of 85 full-time positions in its Tampa platforms.

John Schueler, president of Media General's Florida Communications Group, would not specify names until he was sure every affected employee had been notified. But he said the reductions included more than 20 newsroom positions; the FCG Web site TBO.com reported 25 full-time newsroom positions eliminated.

This news comes two months after the company eliminated 65 jobs in Tampa, leaving some industry observers to wonder how FCG can keep all its platforms going. Schueler said that attempts to boost their advertising share were working, but not well enough to stave off the cutbacks.

"We're working hard to keep as many feet on the street as we can," he said, expressing hope this might be the last job reduction implemented at the company. "We're doing it like everyone else is -- (asking) staff to pick up duties when we let others go." 

The only confirmed name among the departures is morning anchor Bill Ratliff (left), who announced his June 25 retirement from the company weeks ago.

There are rumors about some veteran Tribune reporters who may be involved, but until I can confirm them, I won't publish any speculation.

According to the Web site, the cuts included 17 people from the Tribune newsroom, six from WFLA and two open positions.

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