Blurred Boundaries

I've been taking a little time this last week to work on a story over a little boy with Autism and the therapy that he's using that seems to be working. I spent lots of time with him and his family and my problem came in distancing myself...they made me feel like a part of the family, the let me observe every facet of their lives. 

When it came to editing my story I found myself wanting to send my story to the mother for approval...just to make sure that I don't post anything she might be uncomfortable with. But that seems like it should go against all of my journalism principles. So I didn't. 

This week was just the first time I ever saw the lines between a reporter and a private citizen blur, and it took a little struggling on my part to see through them.

The Seattle Post-Intelligencer announced today that it will be moving to online only, and next Tuesday will be its last print edition. 

I can't decide if this is it embracing the online age, or folding its print edition due to budget constraints. I wouldn't be surprised if it was both. 

Do I think that's a good idea?

No. And that might be blasphemy to my convergence roots, but oh well. 

I know in the internet age, there are still those resisting buying a computer. And I guarantee there are some living in Seattle. And they're going to be cut off from the SPI's coverage. And I think that's a bad move.

I know the paper can't account for the people who refuse to get computers, but I can't help but feel that's their way of turning their back on the old times and their loyal readers.

Possibly, if I saw their subscription and internet volume numbers, I might change my mind...but for now...I can't say that I agree with it.