Hearne: Derek and the Dominos; Whitlock ‘Expanation’ M.I.A.

Seems like only yesterday, Kansas City Star ombudsman Derek Donovan was assuring readers that Jason Whitlock would return…

Actually, it was June 22nd and here’s what Donovan wrote for all to see:

“Jason Whitlock will return

I’ve had a lot of questions about where Jason Whitlock has been recently. Many readers have wanted to hear his opinions on the Big 12 shakeup, in particular.

He’s taking some personal time off, but will return. He hasn’t set a date yet that I’m aware of.”

That seems pretty clear, doesn’t it? Clear as mud.

Now two silent-as-can-be months later – on the heels of Whitlock blowing that party line out of the proverbial water – still no word from Donovan. The guy who is supposed to be the “readers rep,” remember?

Look, it’s understandable that to a large extent “personnel” matters are not for public consumption. Even if you buy your ink by the barrel and make a living forcing everybody else in town to come clean.

That’s just the way things are in Corporate America.

That said, how about at the very least some sort of tap dance explaining that this was a very sensitive, evolving issue and it was difficult to discern early on?

Actually, if you can believe Whitlock, it was pretty clear from the get go that there was trouble in paradise. And if Donovan had a do-over, he’d probably stuff those words back into his keyboard.

Too late.

So at least give the readers you represent the courtesy of a mea culpa. Something. Anything.

Then again, maybe the Star’s editors and advisors are working that out as we speak.

How about this Sunday? You know, the day the Star ran all those “vacation” ads.