By Mary Lois Roney Santa Monica
Shock and disappointment overcame me upon seeing the sensationalized picture of Mr. Weller with a stamp across his face, as if he had been on a “most wanted” list (SMDP, Oct. 21, Page 1). This was a strange departure from the high quality of journalism we have come to expect of the Santa Monica Daily Press. In fact, the rest of the article showed your usual evenhanded treatment of the news reporting comments by civic leaders, friends of the Wellers, and even jury members concerning his years of community service and loyalty. Perhaps the students and community members you so beautifully and routinely spotlight for their achievements are wondering if it is worth continuing their efforts, or if the moment they are involved in a tragedy you will print their picture with a brand across their face as some news source of lesser quality than the Daily Press might do.
You, in my opinion, owe an apology to the Weller family and to your disappointed readers as well.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on October 24, 2006. Read the original PDF.