What Side Are You On?

In today's Pioneer Press, Craig Westover gets (perhaps) the final word on the Maxfield Elementary reporting scandal. (The Star Tribune wouldn't let Nick Coleman devote a FOURTH column to this subject would they? Maybe they would, if they're adhering to an "if at first you don't succeed" policy. The fourth time could be the charm!)

It's good to see Westover stay on the high road, which is always the best way to refute the arguments of someone like Coleman (perhaps I should take my own advice sometime). Given the Pioneer Press's usual policy against directly engaging the rival newspaper in arguments, this column represents kind of a benchmark. Could this be the start of an old fashion newspaper feud? I hope so, it will be good for the readers.

Both papers seem to want to avoid it and I'm not sure why. At least the Pioneer Press should welcome it. As the clear underdog, they need the publicity. And if they stay on the facts, using the professional level discourse we've seen lately, it's an argument they can't lose. And it will create a stark contrast for the news reading public over who is a better source for local information and commentary. Which of these would you rather invite into your home every morning?

The Star Tribune:

YOUR SCHOOLS ARE BURNING!

Or the Pioneer Press:

A reasonable person will immediately note that well-to-do people who send their children to private and religious schools and select schools by choosing where to live already have school choice. Who does not have a choice in education? Low-income kids in inner city schools - the very kids that for some unfathomable reason the education establishment insists must stay in schools that are fighting for "survival."

Posted by Saint Paul--Link