Here's a media question for you...

[misanthrope]

...I'm very interested in getting as many responses and perspectives as possible.

What would you think about a local newspaper that is a proud member of the local chamber of commerce?

Is that a violation of journalistic ethics or ideals?

What does it say about the paper and those who run it?

Your thoughts?

[PetrusMonsFormicarum]

1. No more a violation

than newspapers or local broadcast media sponsoring food or toy drives. This kind of business, for better or worse, holds the public eye, and thus have unique opportunities to participate in community-building and local culture. Affiliation with a municipal/business organization like a CoC does not automatically create any kind of bias: I've seen "dirty dining" reviews just a column or two away from a restaurant's purchased advertisement.

[Oeditpus Rex]

2. No violation at all

Newspapers belong to chambers of commerce as a means of extending their exposure and being seen as pro-business.

Now, a publisher who's president of the downtown association...

And, yeah. I worked for one.

[misanthrope]

3. Is projecting an image of "pro-business" relinquishing neutrality?...

...From what I've seen, the "pro-business" defense is often used to justify aims that take advantage of consumers or citizens.

Chambers of commerce are often fond of obfuscation in service of propaganda. Can a member of the fourth estate be depended on for reporting all sides if they are a member of an organization with an interest in keeping things biased?