I can't resist posting this xtra normal episode by spexorama: I Am An Assignment Editor.  It so nicely describes what I do on the news desk.  The frustration I sometimes feel when I try to explain my job shows eloquently.  Of course I know how important the position of the assignment editor is in the newsroom, and in trying to explain/show that importance, I admit a tiny bit of embellishment may be added.  There are certainly days where I feel like a glorified telephone operator, or intern!