National Press Club Statement on the Death of Russell Baker

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Jan 23, 2019, 08:01 ET

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Following is a statement by Alison Kodjak, President of the National Press Club, on the death of Russell Baker.

It seems an understatement to say we are saddened by news of the death of Russell Baker, a journalist well known for bringing joy to those who appreciated his column in The New York Times for many years.

Mr. Baker is well remembered at the National Press Club as the 1989 recipient of our Fourth Estate Award, the Club's highest honor.

Mr. Baker began his career at the Baltimore Sun on the police beat and later served as a foreign correspondent. He went on to cover the White House for The New York Times. He was the winner of two Pulitzer Prizes and a George Polk Award.

After he stopped writing his column, Mr. Baker enjoyed a distinguished "second act" as host of the popular PBS program Masterpiece Theater where he introduced productions of Shakespeare and others. He was 93.

Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534

SOURCE National Press Club