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Things just don't add up at APTN

Author

Letter to the Editor

Volume

19

Issue

9

Year

2002

Page 5

Dear Editor:

I just read the article about the APTN board's plans to restructure the news operation, and wanted you to know my thoughts. Good article, well written and good timing.

Two important points just don't add up: the Sept. 25 meeting that occurred with staff and senior management, and later, your conversation with APTN CEO-Ron Nadeau on Oct. 23. You say Nadeau told you that he doesn't know anything about a $6 million deficit. Although, you also write that you have an unedited tape which suggests he does know.

Secondly, I find it highly offensive to learn that there is a possibility that any APTN board members might use their position on the board to benefit their own production companies. That shouldn't be. It seems obvious that APTN needs board members who are not looking towards cashing in, but who are looking towards building the network first. From the information in your article, this doesn't appear to be the case. Windspeaker ought to get a copy of the network's conflict of interest guidelines.

One last comment, again regarding the $6 million deficit. I would be really interested in seeing any audit information, if one is being done.

I have to end with a line from the Windspeaker editorial regarding the state of journalism in Indian Country. "There's too much bad about it to be doing much good."

Alex McKay