Last We Checked Reporters Should Keep Things Professional

I've been taking a stand against journalists following poor decorum just because it's online.  So here we go again…

Yesterday, NBC Washington reported the story "Teen Burns, Stomps American Flag" that happened over the Fourth of July weekend.  The teen was charged with desecrating a flag and disturbing the peace.  Fine.  Whatever.

But author Jim Iovino continued, stating, "However, the last time we checked burning a flag was still legal in the United States."

As one diligent commenter, Pat, pointed out: "'Last time we checked…'???? You're a reporter writing a story about burning a flag and you didn't bother to check to see what the law currently is?"

Good call, Pat!  Yes, this is "local" news, but it is still news (and was noteworthy enough to get a Drudge Report link).

So I have an idea: You're writing the story now, why don't you check again now?!  "Last time" you may have been on a two day mescaline trip through the New Mexico desert.

Oh, you'd prefer to use cute language to make yourself feel superior to your readers?  I guess you've earned that right after all the diligent reporting you've done for the Washington local online news.

Last time we checked, you need to get over yourself!