Reporters on the Job

• By the Book: Correspondent Simon Montlake was curious to see how much those caught in the spotlight tried to exert backdoor pressure on the powerful independent agency that tackles corruption in Indonesia (see story).

"I went to see Amien Sunaryadi, a highly respected ex-commissioner," says Simon. "I asked if he ever got unexpected calls, from politicians or other senior people, and he said he did.

So, Simon wondered – were the callers begging for help – or trying to intimidate him in some manner? Mr. Sunaryadi smiled and shook his head. "From their tone of voice, they were begging," he told Simon, with a touch of pride.

That in itself is remarkable, says Simon – that Indonesian civil servants are asked by their masters and peers for clemency. Sunaryadi said he listened politely to the callers – often "friends" of the accused – and then explained that the commission's investigations, once opened, can't be dropped.

• This Lighthouse Really Shines: Having grown up in Maine, correspondent Colin Woodard is not easily excited by lighthouses and the kitschy fanfare that often surrounds them. But New Brunswick's Cape Enrage station impressed even him (see story).

"You drive for miles on a narrow road, over the top of a deserted beach of stones, and wind up at this lighthouse perched on the edge of sheer cliffs overlooked the head of the Bay of Fundy," he says.

No wonder Frommer's named Cape Enrage as having the best view in Canada, Colin says. "It really is pretty staggering."

– Amelia Newcomb

Deputy World editor