Ben Sargent finished out his employment with The Austin American-Statesman last Friday. He announced he was taking a buyout a few weeks ago. He has been with the paper since 1974 and brought home a Pulitzer in 1982 and was a finalist in 2000 and 2001.
To commemorate his departure, Ben pulled from the archives seven cartoons – one for each president that has served during his time at the drawing table.
The local television station has also posted a story, including video, of Ben’s career at the American-Statesman.
Best line ever:
“Like most cultural icons Sargent’s has a wardrobe trademark that sets him apart, too.
“Somebody in the newsroom has to dress like a grown up,” Sargent said.”
Ben’s sartorial elegance is renowned at the AAEC conventions. I always wondered if he traveled with a steamer trunk to carry all the different suits and hats he wore.
Ben is one of the nicest human beings you will ever meet.