When newspapers neglect their obligations

Darin at the Branson, Missouri Blog has a well-written examination of the problems for a community when its sources of information become nothing more than trumpets for the local Chamber of Commerce.

Darin notes that neither the Branson Daily News nor the Branson Daily Independent features the type of daily local crime and records coverage that should be a staple of local newspapers:

One of the great things about America is the government's obligation of accountability to the public. The press has an obligation as well. It is our sacred duty to be accountable - to be a custodian of fact and to report the truth whether or not it suits our selfish purposes. We all have prejudices and preconceived notions - it takes a constant effort to check ourselves and put our own interests to the side to ensure we're fulfilling our public duty. This is a shield of virtue as we wield a sword of truth.