Much went awry in the handling of these two articles: a new freelancer was not properly vetted; e-mail in which she disclosed her personal relationship was overlooked; an editor wanted to accommodate a respected staff member even though she knew his essay was flawed. – New York Times public editor Clark Hoyt. READ MORE

The MTA is also quietly screwing freelancers.

You know: along with everyone else. So Governor Paterson was glad-handing folks outside the subways this morning, and it's a miracle no one took a swing at him. Last night the New York State Senate passed the heinous stupid MTA bill, which no one likes. Here's one more reason to hate the MTA taxing jobs: there's an additional self-employment tax! Yes, make sure you kick all the people who just got laid off who are trying to start small businesses. (Cough!) Spotted by an eagle-eyed smart friend, the self-employment tax is ludicrous. READ MORE