A letter from the editor

0 Comments | Insight on the News, July 22, 2002 | by Paul M. Rodriguez

Dear Readers,

Truth be told, even seasoned news-dawgs get nervous about certain stories. Beyond pressures to meet deadlines, ensure copy is accurate and that a story is reported in context, dealing with snarling editors like our own Scott Stanley (INSIGHT's authentic Lou Grant) and possibly offending or otherwise irritating sources, some stories just make folks edgy.

What brings this to mind is John Berlau, a talented young writer with no compunction to be anything but what he is: a dogged newsman who writes stories to keep government officials accountable--to you.

One way to do this is to compare what officials said they were going to do, what they actually have done and what they say they have done. In addition to the "normal" hassles of reporting any story from Washington, sometimes one comes along that makes palms sweat. Normally, it is those on whom we report who get sweaty palms.

But one series Berlau wrote on Charles Rossotti got the town buzzing. Not just because of what John uncovered but, rather, because of who Rossotti is: U.S. commissioner of internal revenue. John had the "temerity" to ask for the man's personal financial-disclosure reports and then compared portfolio holdings with contracts for services at the IRS. The result exposed potential conflicts of interest by Rossotti.

Many in Washington kidded John for putting his real name on those stories. Other than frying in hell, the most petrifying thing many folks can think of is an IRS grilling. Even members of Congress joke nervously about it. So has John. But he did his job.

The result, besides enquiries from Congress and the announcement that Rossotti would sell millions in stock, is the first-place award for national political reporting bestowed by the National Press Club. Congratulations John! (We'll let you know where to send a file to John and NPC judges.)

Meanwhile, your INSIGHT team has lots more inside for you to consider.