Getting Access 2: Public Records, Open Meetings & More Good Journalism

PEN Arizona proudly supports the Society of Professional Journalists for an informational session to help journalists improve their newsgathering and refine their skills in accessing public records, open meetings, and using devices in government halls. To earn the trust of a skeptical public, effective, impactful, responsible journalism is not only truthful and accurate but also transparent and accountable. Proper, solid documentation of facts-often through gaining access to public records and meetings-is a major component of building and maintaining that trust. Arizona journalists are invited to find out how to get better access to public records and meetings and know what you can and can’t do with cameras, cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices in courtrooms and government halls at this workshop. 

Admission is free and includes a continental breakfast and a light lunch.

Learn More and RSVP Here

Speakers

Gabriella Bachara, reporter, 12News
Melissa Blasius, investigator, ABC15
Joe Dana, watchdog reporter/anchor, 12News
Jimmy Jenkins, criminal justice reporter, The Arizona Republic/azcentral
Peter Limperis, esq., media law attorney, Miller, Pitt, Feldman & McAnally, P.C.
Morgan Loew, investigative reporter, Arizona’s Family, and ASU faculty associate in media law
Cody Lillich, investigative producer, Arizona’s Family, 3TV and CBS5
Justin Lum, investigative reporter, Fox10
Wayne Schutsky, field correspondent, KJZZ-FM

NOTICE OF FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHY: By attending an SPJ/ALMA event, you are entering an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. By registering for this event, you are agreeing to these terms: 1. You consent to photography, audio recording, video recording and its release, publication, exhibition or reproduction to be used for promotional purposes, advertising, inclusion on websites, social media or any other purpose by SPJ and its representatives. 2, You release SPJ and ALMA, its employees and each and all persons involved from any liability connected with the taking, recording, digitizing, or publication and use of interviews, photographs, computer images, video and/or or audio recordings, and you waive all rights to any claims for payment or royalties in connection with any use of these materials. 3. You also waive any right to inspect or approve any photo, video or audio recording taken by SPJ or ALMA or the person or entity designated to do so by SPJ or ALMA.

HEALTH AND SAFETY STATEMENT: Masks are not required for this event. An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public location where people are present; we cannot guarantee you will not be exposed to COVID-19 or other illness during your visit. Visit the CDC website for the latest guidance. If you have been exposed, are sick, have illness symptoms of any kind or are caring for someone with COVID-19 you should not attend the event. Additional information about symptoms is available via the CDC website. Participation is at your own discretion and risk.

In Collaboration with 

This event is sponsored in collaboration with the Valley of the Sun pro and ASU campus chapters of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and the Arizona Latino Media Association (ALMA).