Wow. Yesterday's Morning Fizz turned into a bit of a public forum on KUOW's controversial decision to discontinue appearances by meteorologist Cliff Mass, who wanted to expand his commentary on the weather on host Steve Scher's "Weekday" show to subjects like education. Mass has argued that Scher "promised" him he would be allowed to talk about non-weather topics on a separate program.

In the comments, KUOW news director Guy Nelson said the station's policy is to book commentators on specific topics, not to allow them to speak on any topic they choose.

Nelson wrote,

The decision to end Cliff's segment is completely in line with standard best practice both here at KUOW and in public radio in general.

Standard best practice is to book guests to speak on specific agreed upon topics. If they don't want to confine themselves to the agreed upon topics, don't book them. This is standard at KUOW and public radio in general, and for a very good reason. If we allowed all guests additional airtime beyond the agreed upon topic to advocate for causes of their choice, or to offer their personal opinions on whatever they choose, we would quickly lose credibility with our listeners.

Here is another way of saying it: KUOW’s editorial rules differentiate between those who may give opinions on our airwaves and those who may not. Hosts and reporters are not allowed to take sides on issues. Guests are expected to stay within the parameters defined for them by the host and producer. The purpose of this policy is to keep the conversation focused, fair and balanced.

Mass responded in the comments: