By Karin Winner
Editor, The San Diego Union-Tribune

"In these post-O.J. Simpson days, as we chronicle the developments of one 'gate' after another, the readers' representative is that vital link between us and our constituents. You provide the proper measure of constructive criticism and consciousness-raising, but also diligently defend our First Amendment rights."

"These are times when that freedom is under constant attack, often unfortunately because we've abused it."

"All of you as mouthpieces for credibility, arbiters of fairness and good taste, and judges of what's right and wrong, play a huge role in convincing readers that newspapers are an essential ingredient in a free society."

"Your job and mine share the same goals and many of the same responsibilities -- which makes it all the more imnportant that we support each other."