These columns were
written during the unfolding controversy in 1998 over fabrications by
two Boston Globe columnists. The last act, in which Barnicle
resigned, isn't commented on in the narrative.
*
* * * * * * *
The Boston Globe has a pattern of concealing
information from the public. It covered up the existence of fabrications in Patricia Smith
columns for a number of years. At the same time, it has been engaged in a years-long
holding action designed to protect one of its star columnists, Mike Barnicle, from
allegations that he invented information and took ideas from other writers.
Unfortunately, the Boston Globe still hasn't come clean with readers. Now
it is trying to distract attention from the role of its top editors in concealing the
information.
The time is long overdue for a significant change at the
newspaper, both in staff and in the way it defines its mission. |
