Today was the last day for veteran newsman and respected journalist Jim Hunter, who has served the county as its public information officer since he left the Citrus County Chronicle.

This makes his second retirement in three years, the first from the Chronicle as its senior reporter, and then from his county post, which he has been serving since June 2008.

In his place is Deborah Bloss, former secretary and executive assistant to former Assistant County Administrator Eber Brown, who was recently fired by County Administrator Brad Thorpe.

In addition to her other administrative duties, Bloss will be sending out the normal press releases for commission government, as well as being a facilitator for getting information for reporters and connecting them to department and administrative officials, when appropriate.

She can be reached by phone at 527-5211 or by email at: deborah.bloss@bocc.citrus.fl.us.

Hunter said he and his wife plan to remain in Citrus County. He said he intends to take some time off and then work part-time writing, consulting and free-lancing while enjoying the simple pleasures of life, including reading, writing fiction and enjoying the outdoors.