News, not the man, was most important

Our Voice

By: Hickory Daily Record Editorial | Hickory Daily Record
Published: July 21, 2009

Contemporary journalists would do well to emulate the late Walter Cronkite.

Cronkite was about the news and getting the facts. He had star power, but the evening news wasn't about him and his ego, it was about keeping viewers informed with the best information possible.

When Cronkite shared his opinion — which was seldom — it was a conclusion reached by what the news was telling him and the nation. He did not try to inflame, enrage or belittle. He didn't speak to viewers' basest emotions, but to their ideals and reason.

Mostly, Cronkite was dedicated to unbiased, thorough coverage of the news. He didn't throw in editorial comments. The news stood on its own.

Cronkite was a great reporter. He didn't back away from any assignment. Like a forensic detective, he followed the clues and went where the news led him. He didn't try to manipulate the facts or make the news fit his preconceived notions. He was passionate about his profession and dispassionate about presenting the news.

When he said, "And that's the way it is ..." that's the way it was. Not his version, not wishful thinking, not slanted. It was the news.

Cronkite used his considerable power to make sure the news on his broadcast was fair and honest. He probably could have affected politics and public policy, such was his stature.

But he wouldn't have been Walter Cronkite. He would have been just another talking head and not a journalist of impeccable character and quality.

The mark of greatness

Tom Watson provided a life lesson at Sunday's British Open. Instead of becoming the oldest golfer to win a major championship, he was beaten in a playoff by Stewart Cink, who had never won a major title.

Watson's conduct after the tournament eclipsed his performance on the golf course. He was disappointed. Who wouldn't be? But he was gracious, complimentary to the victor and showed immense character.

He was the personification of class.

Cink played superbly, including an improbable feat on the 18th hole, to have a chance at the title. His win is not tarnished, and we admire him for not letting up in the playoff. Cink is an honorable champion.

In the great scheme of things, the British Open is just a golf tournament. What Watson demonstrated is the full measure of a great man who happens to play golf for a living. Watson showed everyone what makes a winner.