26 February, 2009

Final salute to The Rocky Mountain News

The Rocky Mountain News announced today it is printing its final edition Friday (tomorrow) -- two weeks shy of its would-have-been 150th anniversary.

This is a sad day for newspapers everywhere.

"It's strange to cover your own funeral," the RMN Twitterfeed read a few minutes ago.

And earlier, I shuddered at this: "Temple tells reporters that a lot of stories they've been working on will not see the light of day."

My grief is especially acute over this newspaper fold, over all other folds and staff cuts announced in the last year. I am not sure exactly why, but maybe because of the examples used in my journalism classes from that paper. It was a model for doing many things the right way. I grew attached to it early in my journalism career, before I was even a full-fledged cub reporter.

A lump formed in my throat as these Tweets came through:

"In news meeting, puffy-eyed Managing Editor is handing out assignments. The conference room is quiet but everyone is engaged."

"People are worried about their futures but the focus is still on the paper and web site."

"Newsroom atmosphere: Designers are huddled around white boards, looking at story assignments. Editors are huddled with reporters."

In honor of the paper's last day, and in memory of its longstanding status as Colorado's oldest newspaper, I share with you one of my favorite special reports, ever. And it just happened to be published at The Rocky Mountain News.

Apropos of this occasion, the special report is entited "Final Salute." Pull out your hankie, and enjoy.


RIP, Rocky

Uncover hidden racial biases

So, there's been a lot of talk about racism this Black History Month. Aside from the New York Post snafu, it's been a pretty good one, says opinionator Charles Blow at the NYTimes.

He wrote a column you should read.

As encouragement to have more frank dialogue about the still-not-dead racism in America, he suggests readers take this Implicit racial bias test for themselves, to see what, if any subconscious racial biases they might have. It's rather cool, and only takes about 10 minutes of your time. Prepare to be surprised, and don't get offended. Read Blow's column first, to understand the importance of uncovering these hidden prejudices.

The Race ('Black - White' IAT) is the one everybody's been taking. Including me.