FCC commissioner says government bailout of journalism is a bad idea

Baker Says Government Should Stay Out of Journalism
Commissioner believes it's dangerous for Washington to resolve field's fundamental challenges

From Broadcast and Cable

Keeping journalism free from government interference is a vital part of American democracy, FCC Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker told The Media Institute in Washington.

"I oppose the proposition that at the first sign of a challenge the government should step in and fix it," she said. "Our nation has flourished for over 200 years with a strong independent press as a check on government abuse. This tradition should not be discarded so easily."

She said tomorrow's journalist won't be a "a man with a fedora and a typewriter," but that the core attributes should remain" objective, fact-based reporting that uncovers the truth about power and powerful interests, private and public.

Rest of story.

DC SPJ chapter looking for board candidates

Applications welcome for D.C. Pro board seats

In the spring, the D.C. Pro chapter will elect its 2010-11 board of directors.

The positions of president, vice president, treasurer, corresponding secretary and recording secretary - all of which are members of the board - are elected each year.

In addition, there will be four   three at-large seats on the board up for election.

The board meets once a month at the National Press Club.

If you're looking for a way to get involved with SPJ, this might be your opportunity. We're always looking for new people who'd like to help.

Anyone who would like to run for an officer position or other board seat must contact Bob Webb, the chairman of the nominations committee, by Feb. 22. His e-mail address is rewebb@aol.com.