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*We will dedicate ourselves to reporting the news
accurately, thoroughly,and in context.
*We will be honest in the way we gather, report and
present news.
*We will keep our word.
*We will hold factual information in opinion columns and
editorials to the same standards of accuracy as
news stories.
*We will seek to gain sufficient understanding of the
communities, individuals and stories we cover to provide
an informed account of activities.
*We will uphold First Amendment principles to serve
the democratic process.
*We will be vigilant watchdogs of government and
institutions that affect the public.
*We will provide the news and information that people
need to function as effective citizens.
*We will seek solutions as well as expose problems
and wrongdoing.
*We will provide a public forum for diverse people
and views.
*We will reflect and encourage understanding of the
diverse segments of our community.
*We will provide editorial and community leadership.
*We will seek to promote understanding of
complex issues.
compassion.
*We will correct errors promptly.
*We will strive to include all sides relevant to a story
and not take sides in news coverage.
*We will explain to readers our journalistic
processes.
*We will give particular attention to fairness in
relations with people unaccustomed
to dealing with the press.
*We will use unnamed sources as the sole basis for
published information
only as a last resort and under specific
procedures that best serve the public's
right to know.
*We will be accessible to readers.
*We will remain free of outside interests, investments
or business relationships that may compromise the
credibility of our news report.
*We will maintain an impartial, arm's length relationship
with anyone seeking to influence the news.
*We will avoid potential conflicts of interest and eliminate
inappropriate influence on content.
*We will be free of improper obligations to news sources,
newsmakers and advertisers.
*We will differentiate advertising from news.
*We will act honorably and ethically in dealing
with news sources, the public,and our colleagues.
*We will obey the law.
*We will observe common standards of decency.
*We will take responsibility for our decisions
and consider the possible consequences of
our actions.
*We will be conscientious in observing these Principles.
*We will always try to do the right thing.
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As written by M. Knuth:
A logical starting point is our Principles of Ethical Conduct, which are
displayed in more detail on this page. If you have any insights, questions
or comments about the principles, the paper or Gannett, please feel free
to give me a call (920) 457-7711, ext. 128 or e-mail me at
MKnuth@smgo.hannett.com.
Also, you can contact Press managing editor Jamie Wetter with questions
or comments at (920) 457-7711, ext. 202 or by e-mail at
JWetter@smgpo.gannett.com.