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After more than three decades in the news business, Jim Johnson has joined BenitoLink as managing editor starting in September.
Originally from Santa Cruz, Johnson started his career as a sports stringer with the Santa Cruz Sentinel and as a ports reporter with the Watsonville Register-Pajaronian, before moving on to various editor and reporter roles with several community newspapers.
Most recently, Johnson worked for 15 years at the Monterey Herald as a reporter where he covered Monterey County government and water issues along with general news.
He attended Cabrillo College and San Jose State University, where he graduated with a degree in mass communication.
Johnson moved to San Benito County to be near family in 2007 with his wife, Margie, who was raised in Hollister and attended local schools.
BenitoLink Executive Director Leslie David said, “This is an exciting time for BenitoLink because bringing on Jim means we will now have a dedicated editor who is a very experienced journalist.”
BenitoLink staff reporter Noe Magaña said, “The team is very lucky to have Jim join the newsroom. He brings in a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help us provide the community with the information they need and want.”
In addition to journalism, Johnson worked for four years as a public affairs specialist for the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey.
Regarding his role at BenitoLink, Johnson said, “I have a deep appreciation for local news and I’m looking forward to helping make a difference at BenitoLink and working in my hometown again. This kind of local news outlet is the future of journalism in many ways.”
David added, “With over 30 years in the business, he can really help some of our less experienced reporters develop their skills. Jim has a nice way of communicating with the team. Already we are producing more stories and better quality work. I am very thankful he chose to join BenitoLink.”
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