Below are excerpts of the letter employees of the New York Times' Regional Media Group, which includes the Hendersonville Times-News, received yesterday about the sale to Halifax Media. Posted on new media blog JimrRmenesko.com.

Frequently Asked General Questions for Regional Media Group Employees

1. Why are you selling the Regional Media Group?

While it was not planned, we were approached by Halifax Media Holdings LLC. We are pleased that the newspapers will be sold as a unit and that Halifax Media Holdings anticipates offering employment to the vast majority of employees. The sale of our Regional Media Group will enable The New York Times Company to continue our transformation to a multi-platform media company and further sharpen our focus on the development of our brands nationally, globally and in the northeastern U.S.

... 3. How many employees will be retained by Halifax?

That decision will be made by Halifax, but they have committed to making offers of employment to the vast majority of employees. You will be notified within the next 48 hours whether the buyer will be offering you employment.

... 8. Will the RMG employees receive severance?

Those benefits-eligible employees not offered comparable jobs by the buyer will be eligible to receive severance from The New York Times Company. The severance will be one week for every six months of service, with a cap of 26 weeks.

... 14. Are you planning to sell other Times Company properties?

As you know, it is our long-standing policy not to comment on acquisitions and divestitures.