Through Citizens' Voice, we've given the public a way to openly question our news decisions.

We've tried to be open, not defensive, to your many inquiries.

Above all, Citizens' Voice has allowed us to build stronger ties and be more responsive to news needs.

Today, we extend that concept with a Citizens' Voice pledge.

We believe these assurances are the first of their kind in U.S. journalism because they are being made in unison by journalists at The Tampa Tribune, TBO.com and WFLA, News Channel 8.

This pledge is another indication of our responsiveness to this community.

``The pledge is our commitment to readers about the standards of excellence they can expect from The Tampa Tribune each day,'' said Gil Thelen, senior vice president and executive editor of The Tampa Tribune.

``The important principles are accuracy, respect and service. It represents a unique collaboration with our media partners.''

Adds Eric Land, president and general manager of WFLA: ``We believe that the major differentiation between WFLA's `Eight On Your Side' brand of journalism and others' is relevance. There is no better way to make sure that we remain on task than to commit our newsroom to serve the public. We are offering a level of integrity inspired by making a public pledge of our intent to be held accountable.''

Our Pledge To You

The News Center pledge is this:

We at The News Center hold ourselves to the highest standards of quality and ethics.

Although The Tampa Tribune, News Channel 8, and TBO.com are owned jointly, we make independent news decisions. Together, we make this commitment to the citizens of our community:

* We will provide timely and relevant news and information. We will present the news accurately, fairly and in context.

* When we make a mistake, we will correct it promptly.

* We will give voice to the voiceless and reflect the full diversity of life in the Tampa Bay area.

* We will serve as watchdogs for our community, exposing problems and exploring solutions. We will hold the powerful accountable.

* We will conduct ourselves with compassion and sensitivity to privacy.

* We expect you to hold us accountable.

If you have questions or concerns about our news coverage, call 1-800-527-2758, e-mail us at voice@TBO.com The News Center, 200 S. Parker St., Tampa FL 33606-2395.

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Jerve's Return

A number of Citizens' Voice inquiries have been about WFLA chief meteorologist Steve Jerve.

He has returned to the station after an overseas vacation and resumed his regular schedule.