In observance of an American tradition, the week of October 945 has been set aside as National Newspaper Week. America's heritage has always included freedom of speech and freedom of the press. It is hoped that such rights will still remain for future generations of Americans.

There is also a special purpose associated with National Newspaper Week‑to teach the entire nation the value of its millions of newspapers, magazines, and other news media.

Most Americans could not possibly imagine the responsibility associated with publishing a newspaper. The responsibility is to inform the public of the happenings of the day in such a manner as to uphold the honor and dignity of the paper's name.

Truth and accuracy form the basic rules by which our nation's newspapers are guided. It is the duty of every reporter to report the news as accurately as he knows how.

It is also the privilege of each and every American to question the validity of the news, although it is hoped that this may never be the case in America.

In our own way it is the duty of the Westerner staff and its reporters to uphold this famed American tradition of telling the truth with as little bias and prejudice as is humanly possible. Although mistakes may be made, it is to our honor and credit to accept this responsibility.