1. Freebies are items of value, either merchandise or special consideration, offered to reporters.

2. The Talon Marks and its reporters shall not accept freebies.

3. Any freebies received or offered through mail or at junkets belong to the Talon Marks. They are to be distributed at the discretion of the editor-in-chief and adviser, or his/her designee. Items that can be accepted include, but are not limited to:

a. free records

b. free books

c. free admission to movies, plays, concerts, etc. for which admission is charged.

4. Handling freebie offers

a. All phone or personal invitations or offers should not be accepted until approved by the editor-in-chief.

5. Any and all violations of the freebie policy shall be considered a serious infraction and violators shall be brought before Editorial Board for disciplinary action.

a. For first infractions a verbal warning will be issued.

b. For subsequent violations the student's final semester grade will be lowered by a grade level.

6. Reimbursement

a. Reimbursements will be made when staffers attend movie, plays, or concerts for reviews or sporting events assigned by the Editor-in-chief and pay with their own money.

b. Reporters shall not attend entertainment or other events requiring admission on their own initiative with the hope of obtaining reimbursement. Reimbursements shall not be allowed if event was not assigned by the Editor-in-chief.

c. A bill for expenses shall be submitted to the editor-in-chief when reimbursement is desired. Proof of attendance includes a story and receipt or ticket stub with date.

d. A form for reimbursement is available from the adviser, or his/her designee, or the editor-in-chief. Once the request has been approved, reimbursement can be made. The form must be filled out prior to the Talon Marks business meeting. Request for reimbursements must be made within 30 days of the event.

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