Learn the secrets of the Freedom of Information Act

Learn the secrets of the Freedom of Information Act, the invaluable reporting tool that too many journalists ignore. Through FOIA requests, appeals and even litigation, reporters and other professionals can extract invaluable documents from the federal government and uncover great stories.

Join three FOIA experts in a lively, practical-oriented discussion about filing effective requests, negotiating with government gatekeepers, finding likely sources and turning the law into your sword.

Nate Jones is FOIA Coordinator with the National Security Archive, an award-winning research institute and investigative journalism center based at The George Washington University. The archive has extensive experience with FOIA requests, particularly in the areas of diplomacy and military affairs.

Anne Weismann is chief counsel at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, a watchdog group. CREW frequently goes to court to fight for FOIA requests, and Weismann formerly served as a Justice Department official overseeing FOIA litigation.

Cori Zarek is an attorney-advisor with the Office of Government Information Services. The office serves as an ombudsman, helping review FOIA policies and resolve disputes between information-requestors and government agencies.

The panel will be moderated by Michael Doyle, a reporter with McClatchy newspapers.

The program, sponsored by the National Press Club Journalism Institute's professional development committee, is scheduled to run from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 12, in the Bloomberg Room.

The class is free for members and, $10 for non-members, but space is limited so reservations are required. Please e-mail [email protected] or call 202-662-7523.