Sedona, AZ — By Tommy Acosta…

Sometimes it can be a challenge wearing two hats, one as an editor and the other a reporter.

As a reporter, you just want to get to the truth and get it out there come hell or high water.

As an editor, you have to temper the zeal of your reporters and make sure what you print is fair, thorough and will not lead to legal repercussions.

There are different kinds of news stories to consider as well.

In a standard, straight-forward news article there is very little leeway, especially in controversial issues.

In such stories it is vitally important all parties are interviewed even if one or more of the parties involved decline or remain unavailable. If so, the reporter must be able to say something to the effect that “so-and-so, at the time of this writing (refused) was not available for comment.”

In this way none of the parties involved could say they were ignored or blown off.

In an editorial opinion, the writer can say pretty much rely solely on their own opinion as long as it is clear it is only an opinion or observation and nothing else.

In an interview, the writer is bound by the parameters of the one being interviewed and must seek to convey responses as accurately as possible.

Interviewees can express opinions, ask questions and convey beliefs as long as the reporter does not affirm those beliefs in subjective context…unless, of course, it is an editorial laced with quotes from an interview.

Sometimes an editor has to make a choice whether to play it safe or step out of the box to get a story out that no one else would print.

Each editor must be respected for the choice they make because it is not an easy one. There are many variables to consider, including backlash, legal or otherwise.

As an editor, I have to walk that tightrope as well. Do we play it safe or do we get it out?

Let our readers be the judge.