Congratulations on Pulitzer Prize

Dave Lanson, Las Vegas

Wednesday, April 22, 2009 | 2:05 a.m.

I offer a hearty well done to the Las Vegas Sun for the hard work and community compassion that led it to garner the first Pulitzer Prize for a Southern Nevada newspaper. I am sure all editors, reporters, photographers and everyone else on the newspaper’s team rightfully takes pride in this accomplishment.

As a longtime newspaperman, I was taught that the road to prestige was to follow a selfish agenda and blame all those who disagree as “Nanny Staters” and “Government-Lovers” while continuing to do the toadying for the powerful and greedy here in the valley. Being the newspaper of “no” simply mimicked the success of the political party of “no” in Washington.

Your prize reassures me that the true path to success and professional fulfillment can be reached by adhering to the true responsibilities of journalism: Stick to the facts, uncover the truth and provide a voice for those who are too often silenced in our society.

From myself and all true journalists who care about our readers and role in society: Our hats are off to you. Congratulations, you earned it!