Recent Writing

Readers want assurances that stories are accurate, fair and not tainted by ethical lapses. A single error in judgment – Jayson Blair’s fabrications at the New York Times, for example — damages the believability of that newspaper and all the press in general.

Election coverage is demanding and filled with potential pitfalls, especially in community newspapers where resources always are stretched to the limits and where editors face a battery of ongoing decisions and questions.

Should the Minneapolis School Board have to disclose the terms of its separation agreement with Supt. Thandiwe Peebles, who resigned under criticism? Is it proper for the Kandiyohi County Board to select a new county administrator outside of a public meeting? Should residents be excluded from Cannon Falls Township Board meetings where officials discussed property-related issues surrounding a land-use dispute?

Editors routinely hold their breath in anticipation of reader reaction following in-depth stories that culminate weeks-long investigations. The packages are typically prepared, reviewed and scrutinized again with painstaking care. The reality is that the everyday decisions – and resulting reports – in small-town newsrooms usually generate the greatest kickback.

Worthington High School forfeited its football opener this fall as school officials feared whether an inexperienced squad would be in physical jeopardy against its opponent. The team was shorthanded after “a large number of players” were suspended for drinking.

By identifying youths, are newspapers really looking out for their best welfare? Yes, though it may not be immediately recognized by students, parents or coaches.

A resident was honored as Good Neighbor by a local civic club. A city employee won statewide recognition for service to community.
Most editors would likely agree that both citations deserve mention in the individuals’ obituaries. Families and readers would expect no less.

A letter arrives at a newspaper office, heaping great compliments about the excellent customer service at a local business. Better yet, the business is the hometown grocery store, the newspaper’s largest advertiser.

Suicide reports stir the strongest emotions among grieving families and friends. These stories prompt the most strident complaints that newspapers are sticking their nose into personal affairs. Newspapers also face resistance from authorities regarding release of information, even though cause of death is public information under many state laws.

Is the suspension of high school athletes newsworthy? Absolutely, and especially when it affects a game’s outcome.
By identifying youths, are newspapers really looking out for their best welfare? Yes, though it may not be immediately recognized by students, parents or coaches.