Just got off the phone with Jeanette Trompeter, who was released from WCCO about 10 a.m. this morning after four years of being in their employment.  Trompeter has always been a class act both on and off the camera, and she remained so in our conversation. Here are some excerpts:

Q: How are you doing?

A: It’s settling in a little bit.

Q: I know you felt a little vulnerable during the last round of cuts. Did you see this coming?

A: I don’t think you can be in this industry right now and not be thinking about it. But it was so sudden. So sudden.

Q: What did they give you as a reason?

A: Economics.

Q: How did you react?

A: They told me I should go home and let it sink in. I had a good cry and then I walked my dog. I’ve barely had a chance to call my agent.

Q: Will you be allowed to take a broadcasting job immediately in the Twin Cities?

A: I don’t know. I don’t know. It’s all so new.

Q: What are your immediate plans?

A: I’ve been having a love affair with the Twin Cities. I really love the people here and I appreciate all their support. I want to stay in broadcasting as long as I can, whether it’s here or someplace else.

Q: The irony, of course, is that you just won an Emmy as the area’s top newscaster

A: I know, and I just had a good job review. I just didn’t think this would happen now.

Q: Any messages for your co-workers?

A: Honest to God, WCCO is a magic place. I was going to get my purse after I was told, but I ran into someone from engineering and I just started to cry. The rank and file people there are amazing.

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