Viewers’ Voice for 6 p.m. Monday, February 25

By John Carlin
WSLS10 Anchor
Published: February 25, 2008

Our report on Christiansburg police officer Gary Fields, who’s been nominated for a national award by America’s Most Wanted contained an error according to this viewer.
(e-mail)
Let me start by saying that I admire Gary Fields and feel for what he and his family are going through at this time, but, to hear you report that he was a “First Responder” to the tech shooting upsets me quite a bit.  … There were (I believe) 12 “First Responders” that day and they are all named individually in that report.  To report that a Christiansburg officer who traveled to tech to assist was a “First Responder” is absolutely incorrect … The 12 “First Responders” shot the locks off of the doors, entered Norris Hall (some without protective gear on) while shots were still being fired, not knowing what they would encounter …
(Carlin on Camera)
WSLS responds: We use the term “first responder” somewhat generically to refer to “emergency officials” who respond to any emergency.  As you know that often means, police, EMT’s, firefighters, and others.

In our story, reporter Angela Hatcher actually made note of the fact that Fields wanted to give credit where it was due.  Here’s that portion of the report.

From Angela’s Story:  “Gary Fields is one of the most humble men I have ever interviewed.  In fact, as we were talking, he kept wanting to turn the attention away from himself.  He wanted to focus on all of the first responders here at Virginia Tech that day.  He says especially the Virginia Tech Police.”

Please know that we share your admiration and in no way meant to demean the actual 12 people who arrived first.
Editors Note:  This viewer’s complaint was edited for clarity and time constraints.  It was clearly written by a loved one who wishes the heroic efforts of someone close to her could be publicized.  It was very clear that her exception was with our use of the term “first responder” and not with Gary Fields.

The winter storm predicted for Friday missed the Roanoke area… This Roanoker blames the weather and our broadcast for a loss of business.

(e-mail)
… Last night, you warned people to “not go out unless it was absolutely necessary”; all of this before any precipitation hit the ground.  This morning—no rain—no sleet.  Please help local businesses and not make such bold warnings before anything happens.  How about a general warning like “please be mindful of the weather if you are planning to go out tonight”.  We, like other small businesses like mine, lose thousands of dollars a night when weather is predicted & warnings like that are broadcast. 
Roanoke native & business owner

WSLS Responds:  Our primary responsibility is for people’s safety.  When the national weather service issues a winter weather advisory and VDOT asks for people to stay off the roads so crews can do their work - sometimes before the weather hits, we feel we must pass that information to viewers.