Letter to the Editor--Navajo Times

The letter was published June 26, in the Navajo Times. They really do publish a great newspaper.

June 19, 2008
Box #681 Ganado

Letter to the Editor:

Thirty years ago I was a “stringer” for the Navajo Times, sending in news from the Utah side of the reservation for 3 years. After that I taught journalism for 19 years and have continued to have a vested interest in the Free Press and what the newspapers of America publish.

Since moving to Ganado last fall, and again reading your paper, I have been very impressed by the quality of the reporting, done by the Navajo Times Staff. Though I’m sure sometimes reporters must be a thorn in the side to tribal government, and other agencies, we need to remember it is a good thorn: the kind that pricks us into action, pokes at our conscience, and even causes bad to fester until it is eradicated. Without a Free Press such as this, we would be poorly informed and bad decisions and actions would be swept under the carpet. We should all give a “high five” to your dedicated staff.

The leads of each article are universally strong and unique, thus enticing your audience to read” the rest of the story." It is not easy to wield the pen (or keyboard) consistently day after day in such a consistent and professional manner. The use of analogy, metaphor, allusion, and even puns keep us mentally alert and interested as we read. I salute the skills of your writers.

The other strength I see in the Navajo Times, that was missing in the early years, is the superlative photographs, and feature stories that “show us” the events and unique things happening across the reservation in the schools, hospitals, chapter houses, businesses, sports, and everyday lives of the Dine’. Your photographers are exceptional, and capture the essence of the moment without being intrusive. I am so impressed by the quality and quantity of photos you are able to publish, week after week. What a treat! Having the luxury of publishing in color periodically is also a wonderful addition that we should thank your advertisers for. Congratulations on the wonderful job you do. Keep meeting those deadlines, and doing such quality work. It is much enjoyed and appreciated.

--30—

J. Wilcox
Ganado, Az