Washington Post sells access, $25,000+

The Virginian ^ | 7/2/2009 | Moneyrunner

[moneyrunner]

We knew this was coming ....

For $25,000 to $250,000, The Washington Post has offered lobbyists and association executives off-the-record, non-confrontational access to "those powerful few" — Obama administration officials, members of Congress, and — at first — even the paper’s own reporters and editors.

It's the speed at which the newspapers are prostituting themselves that's a little surprising. I'm surprised that the NY Times didn't think of it first. Or perhaps they did but the memo didn't get distributed to the press.

I'll forward this to Maurice Jones at the Virginian Pilot to see if he also sees a business opportunity. How's his house as a venue?

[Larry Lucido]

For $1000.00 I’ll get you access to my city councilman, parks superintendant, and the drain commissioner.

[a fool in paradise]

Media Schadenfreude and Media Shenanigans PING

[GOPJ]

With the newsroom in an uproar after POLITICO reported the solicitation, Executive Editor Marcus W. Brauchli said in a staff-wide e-mail that the newsroom would not participate in the first of the planned events — a dinner scheduled July 21 at the home of Publisher and Chief Executive Officer Katharine Weymouth.

Hats off to the newsroom - they're honorably.

As far as Katharine Weymouth is concerned - looks like more money than brains. May we assume she either married money ... or got it from DaaaDeeee? (born on third - thinking she hit a triple?)....

[GOPJ]

bttt