Over the past week information has come to our attention regarding an issue that we take very seriously. During the coverage of the Joseph vs. Wallowa basketball game on Feb. 8, our reporting contained a very regrettable, yet unintentionally misleading, characterization of the play of one of Wallowa’s players.

A photo cutline used an adjective that, unbeknownst to the reporter, holds a unique and particular meaning within the context of basketball. And in that context, the term carries a particularly negative connotation, the weight of which was not intended by the reporter or anyone here at the Wallowa County Chieftain. To that player, and the entire Wallowa athletic department: we apologize.

Journalism is a trade, the English language is our tool belt. Sometimes we choose the wrong tool, but here we will always work fiercely to hone our craft and correct our errors.

The young people of Wallowa County are not just our pride; they are our future leaders and our hope. Thank you for your understanding.