Savitskie had the facts, but he ignored the story

How fortunate we are to have Saint Jeffrey Savitskie (All That JAS) serving as arbiter of personal and professional morality in the north country.

When Mr. Savitskie wrote "Thief has nothing to cry about" (Aug. 27, 2009), he knew the facts, but he didn't know the story.

I used to say to young reporters, "A moving van is parked in front of the mayor's house. How many different stories could explain that fact?" Those who would never be good reporters said, "The mayor is moving away." Others, who were already good reporters, gave me multiple scenarios to explain the moving van. I said to them, "Go out and find the story."

Mr. Savitskie had the facts, but he didn't have the story. His mean-spirited portrayal was enough to make me cry, and I don't do that often. Mr. Savitskie is, of course, entitled to express his opinion. I'm just grateful I don't have to share it.

Betsy A. Baker

Potsdam