When I first started my journalism career here at Ithaca College I'll admit it, I was a New York City snob who couldn't relate to people who had never lived there themselves. Boy was I in for a rude awakening.
And so I surged ahead in my narrow-mindedness and read the New York Times daily at the praises of my politics professor Marty (a local legend by the way). When one day in the throws of my research for my thesis paper on Hillary Clinton last semester I spoke with politics professor that turned my Manhattan world upside down. She asked me if I read the Washington Post, because after all I was asking her questions about Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign. I answered an indignant "no," (oh what a stupid girl I was) and she proceeded to chastise me for not reading the best newspaper for politics.
I have to say that once I saw the light...I've never really turned back.
Don't get me wrong -- I love the New York Times just as much today. But lately I find myself perusing the Washington Post website more often than not. When it comes to politics they just get it, especially for online journalism. Their comprehensive articles encompass not only what is going on in the Presidential campaign but what it all means for the average reader. They also use so many graphs and photographs that the page lights up when you go to it. Currently they have a large map of the United States to help explain the dates of the ever changing primaries -- very helpful and fun to use.
My other favorite part of the campaign coverage by the Washington Post is their section called On the Trail: A Daily Dairy of Campaign 2008. This is a great section of their coverage that has multiple reporters out on the actual campaign trail following around the presidential hopefuls. What a job! My only concern with this is the possibility of the reporter/candidate relationship being compromised. But in the long run I think I can fully trust the professionals at the Post to give me completely unbiased and accurate information. It's a great way to get fast and interesting information about any candidate.
And of course -- my third favorite thing about the Post's presidential coverage is Mr. Dan Balz. My rock star of journalism. I look forward to reading his articles in the section On the Campaign Trail, as he rides the circus with Hillary Clinton. It's not an easy job covering the former First Lady, but maybe that is why I like him so much. He does such a good job at not letting her get away with anything, but also treating her with a fairness that isn't always granted to her.
Overall I just wanted to say that I'm currently working hard to figure out the best way to land myself an internship at the Washington Post -- so if you know anyone who can help me out I would greatly appreciate it! (Nothing wrong with a shameless plug now and then....)
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Sunday, December 9, 2007
What really is Plagiarism?
I thought the readings for this week's blog were very interesting. The first two were about a former Missouri Professor, John Merrill, and the accusation of plagiarism.
First of all, the fact that the young reporter who worked for The Maneater, the college paper, was gutsy and a real journalist for first, reading the article and catching her quotes being used without proper credit given to her article, and second, because she had the guts to tell someone. I have to agree with her, if I saw someone in a major paper, even worse -- one that I respected highly, lifting quotes from one of my stories I would be so hurt and outraged.
Reading Merrill's response to losing his job at the paper and the accusation that he plagiarized made me a little confused. I just wonder how a man who says that he has had over 60 years in the journalism profession as both a teacher and a writer can make a mistake like that. Of course I understand that we are all human and that he probably didn't do it with intentions of plagiarizing a young reporter's work. But with the ever growing epidemic of copy-cats in journalism I can't seem to blame his editor for kicking him to the curb.
But I also thought his ethical argument for Kant's categorical imperative was interesting due to my recent studies of ethics. Though it reminds why the "good will" method doesn't always work. Even though someone as "good intentions" that doesn't mean it is always the right ethical call.
The last website we had to look at made me want to kick myself for not knowing it existed sooner. The Poynter Institute's helpful guide called "Places a Journalist Should Go for Politics" would have been great for me when I was writing my thesis on Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign last year. Some of the things like Project Vote Smart and OpenSecrets.org were things I already knew about.
But the website that one could use to find out about candidates permits or license's in a given state was pretty fun. And the magazine Governing.com is now probably going to be one of my favorites -- up there with anything Dan Balz from the Washington Post writes.
The area for state-by-state election laws will also prove to be helpful for writing any political story. Those things can always be so complicated and if one digs enough could probably find out some interesting things that most voters don't know about.
And as an aside...I loved that the Democratic National Committee's blog name is "Kicking Ass: Daily Dispatches from the DNC."
TOO FUNNY
First of all, the fact that the young reporter who worked for The Maneater, the college paper, was gutsy and a real journalist for first, reading the article and catching her quotes being used without proper credit given to her article, and second, because she had the guts to tell someone. I have to agree with her, if I saw someone in a major paper, even worse -- one that I respected highly, lifting quotes from one of my stories I would be so hurt and outraged.
Reading Merrill's response to losing his job at the paper and the accusation that he plagiarized made me a little confused. I just wonder how a man who says that he has had over 60 years in the journalism profession as both a teacher and a writer can make a mistake like that. Of course I understand that we are all human and that he probably didn't do it with intentions of plagiarizing a young reporter's work. But with the ever growing epidemic of copy-cats in journalism I can't seem to blame his editor for kicking him to the curb.
But I also thought his ethical argument for Kant's categorical imperative was interesting due to my recent studies of ethics. Though it reminds why the "good will" method doesn't always work. Even though someone as "good intentions" that doesn't mean it is always the right ethical call.
The last website we had to look at made me want to kick myself for not knowing it existed sooner. The Poynter Institute's helpful guide called "Places a Journalist Should Go for Politics" would have been great for me when I was writing my thesis on Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign last year. Some of the things like Project Vote Smart and OpenSecrets.org were things I already knew about.
But the website that one could use to find out about candidates permits or license's in a given state was pretty fun. And the magazine Governing.com is now probably going to be one of my favorites -- up there with anything Dan Balz from the Washington Post writes.
The area for state-by-state election laws will also prove to be helpful for writing any political story. Those things can always be so complicated and if one digs enough could probably find out some interesting things that most voters don't know about.
And as an aside...I loved that the Democratic National Committee's blog name is "Kicking Ass: Daily Dispatches from the DNC."
TOO FUNNY
Monday, December 3, 2007
Why does everyone hate Hillary?
So now it's come to the point where people are strapping pretend bombs to themselves and walking into Hillary headquarters.
Last Friday a man identified as Leeland Eisenberg walked into the Rochester, New Hampshire office of Hillary Clinton's presidential headquarters and took three people hostage.
Thankfully the day ended peacefully and without any injuries. Eisenberg apparently only had road-side flares attached to his chest.
As someone who might possibly be working in her Albany regional office next summer this event startled me a bit. In her Senate office in Albany I had to go through multiple levels of security before I was allowed upstairs to the offices. Perhaps her presidential campaign headquarters are not as secure.
Just something that has been sitting on my mind for a few days. I'm glad that every one is safe and that Hillary handled the situation correctly by canceling all events for that day. It's the least she can do I suppose. I mean I like her and all...but I don't think I'd take a bomb for her if it came down to it.
Last Friday a man identified as Leeland Eisenberg walked into the Rochester, New Hampshire office of Hillary Clinton's presidential headquarters and took three people hostage.
Thankfully the day ended peacefully and without any injuries. Eisenberg apparently only had road-side flares attached to his chest.
As someone who might possibly be working in her Albany regional office next summer this event startled me a bit. In her Senate office in Albany I had to go through multiple levels of security before I was allowed upstairs to the offices. Perhaps her presidential campaign headquarters are not as secure.
Just something that has been sitting on my mind for a few days. I'm glad that every one is safe and that Hillary handled the situation correctly by canceling all events for that day. It's the least she can do I suppose. I mean I like her and all...but I don't think I'd take a bomb for her if it came down to it.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Getting ready for the end...
Looking over the audio slideshows in the past week of class has actually gotten me excited for the upcoming final project. I know that sounds strange and even sounds that way to me but it would be nice to adventure on to something different.
After reading up on the three applications -- iMovie, iGarageband, and iPhoto -- I'm feeling the most nervous about iMovie. Though it doesn't seem to be as complex as I thought it would be. I'm really a technologyphobe...I have to admit it. I'm the old lady in the class who didn't understand how to get into webct...duh.
iPhoto is not a problem, I use that all the time on my computer and I know how easy it is to experiment with it. I'm hoping that once I sit down with iMovie I'll feel the same way about it.
Garageband was also foreign to me and I was a little confused as to whether or not we were actually going to be using that for our final project. It talked about recording a podcast, an audio file basically, and I figured maybe we would use that to create audio?
At any rate it should be fun!
After reading up on the three applications -- iMovie, iGarageband, and iPhoto -- I'm feeling the most nervous about iMovie. Though it doesn't seem to be as complex as I thought it would be. I'm really a technologyphobe...I have to admit it. I'm the old lady in the class who didn't understand how to get into webct...duh.
iPhoto is not a problem, I use that all the time on my computer and I know how easy it is to experiment with it. I'm hoping that once I sit down with iMovie I'll feel the same way about it.
Garageband was also foreign to me and I was a little confused as to whether or not we were actually going to be using that for our final project. It talked about recording a podcast, an audio file basically, and I figured maybe we would use that to create audio?
At any rate it should be fun!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Getting back in the swing of things
I hope everyone had a Happy Turkey Day -- I sure did enjoying the sunny days of Arizona. But sadly we must jump back into the final weeks of classes and push through till Christmas.
So the moral of the story is...I'm keeping this one short.
I just read an interesting article about Sen. Clinton's relationship with the media mogul Rupert Murdoch. I guess I never thought that they even had a relationship. But I suppose these things make sense due to the fact that she is the Senator of the state that he primarily employees.
According to the New York Times Clinton was questioned about how she felt about media outlets being owned by one person or company -- primarily what she thought about Murdoch. Of course -- Clinton danced around it.
Again I think this is part of that reality of politics. In order to be powerful you need money. I wish it wasn't like this just as much as the next Ithaca student...but it's not reality.
So I guess that's all I have to say.
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/11/25/in-iowa-clinton-is-pressed-on-murdoch/index.html?hp
So the moral of the story is...I'm keeping this one short.
I just read an interesting article about Sen. Clinton's relationship with the media mogul Rupert Murdoch. I guess I never thought that they even had a relationship. But I suppose these things make sense due to the fact that she is the Senator of the state that he primarily employees.
According to the New York Times Clinton was questioned about how she felt about media outlets being owned by one person or company -- primarily what she thought about Murdoch. Of course -- Clinton danced around it.
Again I think this is part of that reality of politics. In order to be powerful you need money. I wish it wasn't like this just as much as the next Ithaca student...but it's not reality.
So I guess that's all I have to say.
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/11/25/in-iowa-clinton-is-pressed-on-murdoch/index.html?hp
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Media Law/Ethics of Journalism
It seems this semester has been a real eye-opener for me as far as this subject matter is concerned. It's really hitting me hard for the first time -- what I do as a journalist effects everyone who reads it. And perhaps that is difficult to comprehend because I've never had anyone read my work outside of class up until this semester.
I'm also taking ethics right now so a lot of what was discussed in the chapter was basics of what I'm doing in ethics. Such as the Kant categorical imperative and the Potter Box which resembled what we call the SAD formula.
In the sidebar we read about ethics in digital journalism I was surprised and not surprised at the time same time that the ethical guidelines were the same. I feel that in digital journalism because of the urgency to get the news out fast there is more room for ethical errors. There should be a stronger emphasis on reporting accurately. Like that website we discussed in class where the news organization doesn't worry too much about whether or not the stories are completely true -- that's appalling to me.
One of the ethical problems that I have noticed the most this semester writing for the Ithacan is conflicts of interest and friendship in reporting. So many times I would want to cover a story because I was apart of the organization but couldn't. Or interview a friend that I knew would give me good quotes. But of course I didn't because that is against the "rules." And I'm glad that I was able to learn those lessons through real life experience.
I also thought the point made about when or if journalists are ever off duty. Now that I write for the school paper sometimes my friends wont say things in front of me about subjects they don't want public. It's kind of fun to have that power -- ok I'm over it...not really....no really! I'd like to know what the class as a whole thinks about that idea. Because sometimes I'll be in a conversation with people and something will spark my interest and knowing that I myself might not be able to report on it I can go and tell another reporter or editor about the story idea. Is that unethical?
And finally I wanted to tell everyone about my shock and horror to find out upon my arrival at Ithaca College that such a thing as a newshole existed. WHAT!?! They put the advertising into the paper first before the stories? The amount of advertising dictates how long the stories will be...hmmm....
These are just some of the things that have been milling around my brain lately.
I'm also taking ethics right now so a lot of what was discussed in the chapter was basics of what I'm doing in ethics. Such as the Kant categorical imperative and the Potter Box which resembled what we call the SAD formula.
In the sidebar we read about ethics in digital journalism I was surprised and not surprised at the time same time that the ethical guidelines were the same. I feel that in digital journalism because of the urgency to get the news out fast there is more room for ethical errors. There should be a stronger emphasis on reporting accurately. Like that website we discussed in class where the news organization doesn't worry too much about whether or not the stories are completely true -- that's appalling to me.
One of the ethical problems that I have noticed the most this semester writing for the Ithacan is conflicts of interest and friendship in reporting. So many times I would want to cover a story because I was apart of the organization but couldn't. Or interview a friend that I knew would give me good quotes. But of course I didn't because that is against the "rules." And I'm glad that I was able to learn those lessons through real life experience.
I also thought the point made about when or if journalists are ever off duty. Now that I write for the school paper sometimes my friends wont say things in front of me about subjects they don't want public. It's kind of fun to have that power -- ok I'm over it...not really....no really! I'd like to know what the class as a whole thinks about that idea. Because sometimes I'll be in a conversation with people and something will spark my interest and knowing that I myself might not be able to report on it I can go and tell another reporter or editor about the story idea. Is that unethical?
And finally I wanted to tell everyone about my shock and horror to find out upon my arrival at Ithaca College that such a thing as a newshole existed. WHAT!?! They put the advertising into the paper first before the stories? The amount of advertising dictates how long the stories will be...hmmm....
These are just some of the things that have been milling around my brain lately.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Taking the Gloves Off
It's about time...let's get down and dirty with this presidential campaign...that's what I say at least. It's not politics unless someone is slinging mud at another person, and anyone who believes otherwise is idealistic and foolishly young. I too hope for goodness and candydrops from our candidates -- but that is just not the business that is politics.
According to the Washington Post and The New York Times, last night at a Democratic dinner in Iowa Clinton and Obama went head to head giving speeches descrediting the other. Obama focused on Clintons secrecy in her campaign and wantingness to always give the right answers. Meanwhile Clinton continued push home her experience over other candidates. Though names were not named the rapt audience knew who each was talking about.
Let's get ready to RUMBLE!
I have to say, I like Obama. I know you are all shocked by this news. I do. I like him. I just wish he waited a little longer. I wish that he had a few more scars and wounds to show for his political years. But lucky for me...I'm registered independent. So I don't have to make the difficult decision that Democrats will have to make in the next few months. I get to just support the candidate that comes out on top, and in the meantime sit back and enjoy the show.
I guess my point of this blog is this: politics is dirty. It's like Hollywood but with unattractive actors. The lighting is the same, scripts are rehearsed and rumors fly around like new marriages. I think we all as voters would be better off keeping a healthy dose of skepticism in our midsts...but what do I know -- I'm just the old lady in the back of the room.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/10/AR2007111001574.html?hpid=topnews
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/us/politics/11cnd-dems.html?_r=1&ref=politics&oref=slogin
According to the Washington Post and The New York Times, last night at a Democratic dinner in Iowa Clinton and Obama went head to head giving speeches descrediting the other. Obama focused on Clintons secrecy in her campaign and wantingness to always give the right answers. Meanwhile Clinton continued push home her experience over other candidates. Though names were not named the rapt audience knew who each was talking about.
Let's get ready to RUMBLE!
I have to say, I like Obama. I know you are all shocked by this news. I do. I like him. I just wish he waited a little longer. I wish that he had a few more scars and wounds to show for his political years. But lucky for me...I'm registered independent. So I don't have to make the difficult decision that Democrats will have to make in the next few months. I get to just support the candidate that comes out on top, and in the meantime sit back and enjoy the show.
I guess my point of this blog is this: politics is dirty. It's like Hollywood but with unattractive actors. The lighting is the same, scripts are rehearsed and rumors fly around like new marriages. I think we all as voters would be better off keeping a healthy dose of skepticism in our midsts...but what do I know -- I'm just the old lady in the back of the room.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/10/AR2007111001574.html?hpid=topnews
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/us/politics/11cnd-dems.html?_r=1&ref=politics&oref=slogin
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Writing news for television and radio
Eeekkk!
That's all I have to say about chapter 19 right now....aghhh!
So as you can tell I'm slightly intimidated by writing for the television/radio medium. It's just that this baby journalist finally was starting to feel at home in her new skin as a print writer. I was starting to feel that I was getting it...tight ledes and what exactly a nutgraf is as apposed to a theme paragraph. I had hiked the mountain of "rookie" and starting to approach the valleys of decent writing.
And now I'm slammed with writing for broadcast. It's funny because I read this chapter in intro-journalism -- the two books are basically the same things so alot of the information was familiar to me. But I have to wonder how do you on dedicate one chapter on this genre of writing, even the formatting is complex to me. What do you mean I don't have to work about APstyle as much?!? My head is spinning!
But the reality is that hopefully with a good base in print journalism I should be able to make the transition smoothly...right? I'm hoping so because right now I'm feeling like the minow in the sea again.
The criteria for news is the same; timeliness, information, and important people. I get this...this is good. But then there is the added need for audio/visual impact with each story.
The writing style is also very different. Instead of writing in the past tense we are suppose to write in the present to emphasize the immediacy of the news. Writing tightly is also key -- there is no room for wordiness. This especially worries me...I love my adjectives like a love peanut butter cups -- I real and it's deep people.
And how the heck do you cue listeners into paying attention as the chapter suggests. Do I yell, "Hey listen!" Of course not. I'll have to come up with some catchy news lede that will be completely different from what I've been struggling to master for print.
What's a baby journalist to do?
That's all I have to say about chapter 19 right now....aghhh!
So as you can tell I'm slightly intimidated by writing for the television/radio medium. It's just that this baby journalist finally was starting to feel at home in her new skin as a print writer. I was starting to feel that I was getting it...tight ledes and what exactly a nutgraf is as apposed to a theme paragraph. I had hiked the mountain of "rookie" and starting to approach the valleys of decent writing.
And now I'm slammed with writing for broadcast. It's funny because I read this chapter in intro-journalism -- the two books are basically the same things so alot of the information was familiar to me. But I have to wonder how do you on dedicate one chapter on this genre of writing, even the formatting is complex to me. What do you mean I don't have to work about APstyle as much?!? My head is spinning!
But the reality is that hopefully with a good base in print journalism I should be able to make the transition smoothly...right? I'm hoping so because right now I'm feeling like the minow in the sea again.
The criteria for news is the same; timeliness, information, and important people. I get this...this is good. But then there is the added need for audio/visual impact with each story.
The writing style is also very different. Instead of writing in the past tense we are suppose to write in the present to emphasize the immediacy of the news. Writing tightly is also key -- there is no room for wordiness. This especially worries me...I love my adjectives like a love peanut butter cups -- I real and it's deep people.
And how the heck do you cue listeners into paying attention as the chapter suggests. Do I yell, "Hey listen!" Of course not. I'll have to come up with some catchy news lede that will be completely different from what I've been struggling to master for print.
What's a baby journalist to do?
Friday, November 2, 2007
Get ready kids....
I'm about to criticize Hillary Clinton.
I know -- take a second to digest all of this -- I know it's a big day for you all but please try to not scream and disrupt anyone around you.
I've gotta tell you, I didn't get a chance to see the debate in Philadelphia on Tuesday night because I was too busy spending hours trying to save Ithaca College at the Student Government meeting (you sophomores have no idea what I go through for you!)
So I only am getting this from second hand media coverage that I always tend to be a little wary of quite frankly. But as I was getting ready for class yesterday morning I was watching the Today Show (my guilty pleasure) and they were discussing Clinton's beating she took at the debate from pretty much everyone. Automatically I went into operation defend Hillary but then the more I thought about it I smiled and thought, "Hell ya they're attacking her, she's the front runner." And, "maybe this is what she needs to show the world how tuff and smart she is."
But instead she comes back with a lame video about the "pile-on politics" on her opponents?!? Hillary please! You're not helping me with this crap! Instead of standing up and taking it like the strong woman she is, she basically tried to stretch the debating into an attack on her gender. I've got to say that this is not helping her case. Why point out that she is different, everybody already knows it. As The New York Times points out this tactic only shows her ability to dodge questions. I've never been one to hide the fact that I understand Clinton's politics, secrecy.
But normally these things work for her, she's able to ride bellow the radar and let the other candidates fall apart around her as her machine rolls by. And to be honest I think that is what I've always loved about her...and what so many hate. But this new tactic of asking why me makes me shake my head. Maybe we need that old Hillary to throw on her headband, you know the one -- the First Lady that marched up the steps of highly powerful Republican Capitol Hill and fought for health care. The one that wore a pantsuit in her official White House portrait -- the first of the First Ladies. But instead she seems to be pulling back when right now the nation needs to see her push forward.
Clearly...I'm very upset about all of this...hold me.
I know -- take a second to digest all of this -- I know it's a big day for you all but please try to not scream and disrupt anyone around you.
I've gotta tell you, I didn't get a chance to see the debate in Philadelphia on Tuesday night because I was too busy spending hours trying to save Ithaca College at the Student Government meeting (you sophomores have no idea what I go through for you!)
So I only am getting this from second hand media coverage that I always tend to be a little wary of quite frankly. But as I was getting ready for class yesterday morning I was watching the Today Show (my guilty pleasure) and they were discussing Clinton's beating she took at the debate from pretty much everyone. Automatically I went into operation defend Hillary but then the more I thought about it I smiled and thought, "Hell ya they're attacking her, she's the front runner." And, "maybe this is what she needs to show the world how tuff and smart she is."
But instead she comes back with a lame video about the "pile-on politics" on her opponents?!? Hillary please! You're not helping me with this crap! Instead of standing up and taking it like the strong woman she is, she basically tried to stretch the debating into an attack on her gender. I've got to say that this is not helping her case. Why point out that she is different, everybody already knows it. As The New York Times points out this tactic only shows her ability to dodge questions. I've never been one to hide the fact that I understand Clinton's politics, secrecy.
But normally these things work for her, she's able to ride bellow the radar and let the other candidates fall apart around her as her machine rolls by. And to be honest I think that is what I've always loved about her...and what so many hate. But this new tactic of asking why me makes me shake my head. Maybe we need that old Hillary to throw on her headband, you know the one -- the First Lady that marched up the steps of highly powerful Republican Capitol Hill and fought for health care. The one that wore a pantsuit in her official White House portrait -- the first of the First Ladies. But instead she seems to be pulling back when right now the nation needs to see her push forward.
Clearly...I'm very upset about all of this...hold me.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Investigative Reporting
So this is why we all join this silly profession in the first place isn't it? Maybe we watched too many episodes of Superman and related with Lois Lane. I don't know what did it for me but every image of journalism I had as a child was of some muckraking son-of-a-gun reporter who wouldn't give in no matter what.
So why is that when faced with the idea of investigative reporting I get suddenly nervous and scared? As addressed in Chapter 18 this is one of the number one things that holds reporters back from doing a good job when investigating. And why is that, because I myself am guilty of that thinking also. I'm not saying that everyone feels this way but I'm sure some of us new baby journalists have to shudder a little at the thought of getting down and dirty.
Perhaps the reason is that when one is writing an investigative piece there is no room or margin for error. This is true no matter what type of story you are reporting on but the stakes are much higher when exposing someone or something like one does in an investigative piece. As pointed out in the chapter getting multiple sources to go on the record is one of the most concrete ways to avoid a libel charge. But come on, I've seen "All the President's Men," 800 times like the rest of you...what do we do with Deep Throat!?!
Ok -- I'm getting a little ahead of any journalistic possibility I might encounter coming out of school. But it has to be brought up. Sources. Hmm....such a tricky subject. The chapter gives a list of possible sources for a story one of which was the enemies of whoever you are writing about. That made me scratch my head. How do you know they aren't being completely biased? And even worse -- making everything up for fun? But to counter that the chapter also suggests speaking to the friends of your subject. So I guess that bias would balance out the other. But all so intimidating!
Another interesting thing I noted in the chapter was the mention of how investigative reporters feel like the writing in the chore they save for last. I found that oddly surprising. After all of that hard work wouldn't you be rushing to the good ole' typewriter to pound out the truth as you've found it to be. Call me a romantic but that's how I see it!
In the websites I thought it was a very interesting resource for reporters. One of the things that I thought about while perusing the sight was how did all these reporters come up with these ideas? Some of them including the one about the animal shelter throwing dead animals into a dumpster, must have been tip offs from citizens. But one that impressed me was the study of how athlete's weights may have an effect on them later on in life. The reporter was resourceful enough to use old rosters from the football line up from a span of 10 years to come up with an alarming growth. I thought that was pretty cool.
I was also impressed with the length of time some of these reporters were given to write the investigative pieces. On one story reporter Loretta Tofani was given 12 months to look into working conditions in China. To be committed to one story like that for so long doesn't even seem real to me. The patience and organizational skills one must have to conduct a controlled investigation is enormous.
Also to conclude I really liked the database of different story ideas and the links provided. Such things as agriculture, bus accidents, ferry accidents and Dam resources were on the large compiled list. Having those resources so easily organized and available makes you wonder what reporters ever did before the Internet!
So why is that when faced with the idea of investigative reporting I get suddenly nervous and scared? As addressed in Chapter 18 this is one of the number one things that holds reporters back from doing a good job when investigating. And why is that, because I myself am guilty of that thinking also. I'm not saying that everyone feels this way but I'm sure some of us new baby journalists have to shudder a little at the thought of getting down and dirty.
Perhaps the reason is that when one is writing an investigative piece there is no room or margin for error. This is true no matter what type of story you are reporting on but the stakes are much higher when exposing someone or something like one does in an investigative piece. As pointed out in the chapter getting multiple sources to go on the record is one of the most concrete ways to avoid a libel charge. But come on, I've seen "All the President's Men," 800 times like the rest of you...what do we do with Deep Throat!?!
Ok -- I'm getting a little ahead of any journalistic possibility I might encounter coming out of school. But it has to be brought up. Sources. Hmm....such a tricky subject. The chapter gives a list of possible sources for a story one of which was the enemies of whoever you are writing about. That made me scratch my head. How do you know they aren't being completely biased? And even worse -- making everything up for fun? But to counter that the chapter also suggests speaking to the friends of your subject. So I guess that bias would balance out the other. But all so intimidating!
Another interesting thing I noted in the chapter was the mention of how investigative reporters feel like the writing in the chore they save for last. I found that oddly surprising. After all of that hard work wouldn't you be rushing to the good ole' typewriter to pound out the truth as you've found it to be. Call me a romantic but that's how I see it!
In the websites I thought it was a very interesting resource for reporters. One of the things that I thought about while perusing the sight was how did all these reporters come up with these ideas? Some of them including the one about the animal shelter throwing dead animals into a dumpster, must have been tip offs from citizens. But one that impressed me was the study of how athlete's weights may have an effect on them later on in life. The reporter was resourceful enough to use old rosters from the football line up from a span of 10 years to come up with an alarming growth. I thought that was pretty cool.
I was also impressed with the length of time some of these reporters were given to write the investigative pieces. On one story reporter Loretta Tofani was given 12 months to look into working conditions in China. To be committed to one story like that for so long doesn't even seem real to me. The patience and organizational skills one must have to conduct a controlled investigation is enormous.
Also to conclude I really liked the database of different story ideas and the links provided. Such things as agriculture, bus accidents, ferry accidents and Dam resources were on the large compiled list. Having those resources so easily organized and available makes you wonder what reporters ever did before the Internet!
Friday, October 26, 2007
Happy Birthday Hillary...
Ok -- so the many other Hillary haters in the class can just stop reading right now...I mean it...I don't want any more blog comments criticizing my humorous take on the politicians that no one seems to love on this campus. So STOP READING!
Ok -- now that I've gotten that out of my system I have to admit, I completely forgot it was the Presidential candidate's birthday today. Thank God I was perusing the Washington Post website and found an interesting article not only pointing out that today is the day she celebrates her 60th (and by the way -- I only hope I look that good after surviving scandals, Monica Lewinsky, and the Iraq war vote the way that woman does!) with the 40th anniversary of John McCain's capture as a POW in Vietnam.
Isn't history funny like that. Especially after you look at what has recently happened in the last week. Both New York senators were caught earmarking funds for a Woodstock museum in upstate NY. Now I have to admit, I'm basis when it comes to this. Unlike the rest of my idealistic classmates, I understand that the earmarking of funds takes place all the time however unethical it may seem. And as a child who remembers the woodstock of 1996 and how badly my sister fought with my parents to let her go (thank God they didn't...remember the nastiness?) I appreciate Hillary and Chuck's attempt at giving upstate a jumpstart to its economy. We need it.
But anyways I'm getting off topic here. Why it is ironic is because as Hillary is supporting money that will go somewhat resemble her days as an anti-war protester "hippie" McCain was at the other end of the spectrum surviving in a POW camp. And her birthday and his anniversary fall on the same day. To be honest...you can't write this crap for a movie....people wouldn't believe it!
But this is why I love politics so much...it has the slightest resemblance to hollywood but with not-so-goodlooking people.
The moral of the story is...thank you John McCain for sounding the alarm on this country's practices in torture. And Happy Birthday Hillary -- ya' know I love ya'.
Ok -- now that I've gotten that out of my system I have to admit, I completely forgot it was the Presidential candidate's birthday today. Thank God I was perusing the Washington Post website and found an interesting article not only pointing out that today is the day she celebrates her 60th (and by the way -- I only hope I look that good after surviving scandals, Monica Lewinsky, and the Iraq war vote the way that woman does!) with the 40th anniversary of John McCain's capture as a POW in Vietnam.
Isn't history funny like that. Especially after you look at what has recently happened in the last week. Both New York senators were caught earmarking funds for a Woodstock museum in upstate NY. Now I have to admit, I'm basis when it comes to this. Unlike the rest of my idealistic classmates, I understand that the earmarking of funds takes place all the time however unethical it may seem. And as a child who remembers the woodstock of 1996 and how badly my sister fought with my parents to let her go (thank God they didn't...remember the nastiness?) I appreciate Hillary and Chuck's attempt at giving upstate a jumpstart to its economy. We need it.
But anyways I'm getting off topic here. Why it is ironic is because as Hillary is supporting money that will go somewhat resemble her days as an anti-war protester "hippie" McCain was at the other end of the spectrum surviving in a POW camp. And her birthday and his anniversary fall on the same day. To be honest...you can't write this crap for a movie....people wouldn't believe it!
But this is why I love politics so much...it has the slightest resemblance to hollywood but with not-so-goodlooking people.
The moral of the story is...thank you John McCain for sounding the alarm on this country's practices in torture. And Happy Birthday Hillary -- ya' know I love ya'.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Keeping the Beat
I'm not going to lie people...this whole beat thing is starting to freak me out. The idea that I'm going to be constantly thrown into topics -- such as the ever complex world of court reporting -- without having a clue is making my knees rattle.
But like Chapter 14 said, reporters who do well in the biz have a healthy appetite to try new things. And hey...I've always been game for new things -- it's just that my job never depended on it before!
Some of the principles discussed for coving a beat seemed pretty straight forward -- the ever popular "be prepared" was there. But I guess they can't beat that into our little journalism brains enough. Because whenever I think I'm prepared I suddenly am thrown a curve ball and have to stammer some form a of on-the-spot question. So yes...be prepared!
The author also brings up the very important point of how to connect with sources. I find in interesting in beat reporting how important your relationship is with your source. But that can lead to some tricky reporting if you think about it. But as the chapter pointed out you just have to remind yourself that you're not writing for your sources, you're writing for your readers. Also it is important and useful to find something in common with the person you are trying to get information from.
All of the beats mentioned we had read about previously except for schools and religion. The religion one made me scratch my head a little. Perhaps we could discuss that one in class more. I've never heard of the religion beat. It sounds complicated to me.
The school beat was one that I had heard of before but because I grew up in such a small community with only one...cough...newspaper...if you could call it that -- I never really thought about the newsworthiness of the school budget. But it's true, citizens are interested in what is going on in their town's institutions, epically in something that effects them so directly as their children's school.
Now onto the web information. These two chapters were a little harder to digest than the first three we read last week. Maybe because it didn't have all the excitement of a crime scene and more resembled a watered down version of Judge Judy. But I did learn a quite a bit though not much sank in because of the confusing legalese.
I did not know that motions were a good source to find out what was newsworthy. I liked that the author explained the different types of motions and what each meant. My personal favorite was the Mental Competency one, which asks for a psychological evaluation to take place. Let me tell you -- there are times when I wish I could pull that one out in everyday life!
The tip on being there for the jury selection was also very helpful. I always thought that those were boring, long, tedious and had no real advantage to going to. But as the author pointed out -- going to the selection can give you helpful tips on how to contact the juror after the trial is over to get an interview. Another way to be creepy and sneaky...I like it.
In covering the civil courts I was wondering how many papers actually have reporters on the civil court beat. As the author mentioned civil courts are not regularly where one finds a newsworthy piece. But as was mentioned there are those occasional "golden nuggets" that can make for an interesting story.
The tip about being careful of reporting damages being sought was a good one. So many times you read some outrageous figure in a news article and automatically you are basis against the defendant. But the reality is that we don't understand the actual damages that took place or what kind of strategy the legal team has using that figure.
Also I did not know that settlements can be public knowledge or kept a secret at the discretion of the presiding judge. Who knew? I certainly didn't. I do feel that sometimes when the figure is not given in high profile cases involving huge corporations it is not serving the greater public by withholding information about a company they may hold stock in or buy products from.
Just a thought...
But like Chapter 14 said, reporters who do well in the biz have a healthy appetite to try new things. And hey...I've always been game for new things -- it's just that my job never depended on it before!
Some of the principles discussed for coving a beat seemed pretty straight forward -- the ever popular "be prepared" was there. But I guess they can't beat that into our little journalism brains enough. Because whenever I think I'm prepared I suddenly am thrown a curve ball and have to stammer some form a of on-the-spot question. So yes...be prepared!
The author also brings up the very important point of how to connect with sources. I find in interesting in beat reporting how important your relationship is with your source. But that can lead to some tricky reporting if you think about it. But as the chapter pointed out you just have to remind yourself that you're not writing for your sources, you're writing for your readers. Also it is important and useful to find something in common with the person you are trying to get information from.
All of the beats mentioned we had read about previously except for schools and religion. The religion one made me scratch my head a little. Perhaps we could discuss that one in class more. I've never heard of the religion beat. It sounds complicated to me.
The school beat was one that I had heard of before but because I grew up in such a small community with only one...cough...newspaper...if you could call it that -- I never really thought about the newsworthiness of the school budget. But it's true, citizens are interested in what is going on in their town's institutions, epically in something that effects them so directly as their children's school.
Now onto the web information. These two chapters were a little harder to digest than the first three we read last week. Maybe because it didn't have all the excitement of a crime scene and more resembled a watered down version of Judge Judy. But I did learn a quite a bit though not much sank in because of the confusing legalese.
I did not know that motions were a good source to find out what was newsworthy. I liked that the author explained the different types of motions and what each meant. My personal favorite was the Mental Competency one, which asks for a psychological evaluation to take place. Let me tell you -- there are times when I wish I could pull that one out in everyday life!
The tip on being there for the jury selection was also very helpful. I always thought that those were boring, long, tedious and had no real advantage to going to. But as the author pointed out -- going to the selection can give you helpful tips on how to contact the juror after the trial is over to get an interview. Another way to be creepy and sneaky...I like it.
In covering the civil courts I was wondering how many papers actually have reporters on the civil court beat. As the author mentioned civil courts are not regularly where one finds a newsworthy piece. But as was mentioned there are those occasional "golden nuggets" that can make for an interesting story.
The tip about being careful of reporting damages being sought was a good one. So many times you read some outrageous figure in a news article and automatically you are basis against the defendant. But the reality is that we don't understand the actual damages that took place or what kind of strategy the legal team has using that figure.
Also I did not know that settlements can be public knowledge or kept a secret at the discretion of the presiding judge. Who knew? I certainly didn't. I do feel that sometimes when the figure is not given in high profile cases involving huge corporations it is not serving the greater public by withholding information about a company they may hold stock in or buy products from.
Just a thought...
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Covering Crime
So I have to say...this web reading was probably the most interesting thus far for me. Especially since last night I spent four hours riding around in an Ithaca City Police car.
Chapter One-The Crime Beat:
I thought it was really interesting how the author explained the writing for the crime beat automatically has the ability to produce great stories. I guess I never thought of it that way -- like the article said, its got everything: sex, violence, rage, revenge, victims, and occasionally happy endings. There's a reason why so many top TV shows in America are based off of police crime stories -- audiences like it and are interested. The same goes for news stories of the same genre.
I also didn't know that the crime beat was something I should be expecting as a more than likely job placement my first years out of the fish tank. The whole idea that the beat was used as a "sink or swim" technique was surprising to me. But I'm glad the author explained that so I could be prepared.
I also agreed with the whole "cops are leery of journalists and journalists are leery of cops" idea. Last night while riding along with one of Ithaca's finest (and funniest for that matter) he glanced at my notebook on more than one occasion and asked, "What are you writing in that thing?" Just a small example but I thought it portrayed that sentiments behind what the author was trying to explain.
The section discussing how this beat produces the most error in reporting was also an important fact to bring up. Most reporters, including myself, don't know the deference between larceny, theft and robbery. When I looked at the definitions it surprised me how easy it would be for a reporter to make one slip-up like that in a story.
I was also interested in the idea of creating a good source relationship with the police one might be working with on the beat. How do you keep a good standing with the police if you have to write a story unveiling some problems the department might be having. You of course can't always paint them in a positive light because that wouldn't be fair and accurate reporting. But if you produce an "anti-cop" story how do you keep the main sources of your beat talking to you? Something to think about...and worry about slightly...
I also appreciated the 12 questions included as something every journalist should keep near-by when working on a crime story. That is something I will definitely use throughout my career. The ideas for what to keep in your trunk were also great tips. But I have to ask, how do I get a media flack jacket...?
Chapter Five-Covering Crime and Its Victims
This chapter was helpful in navigating the ever uncomfortable world of interviewing victims. I have never had to do that for a story yet...but I know how uncomfortable I get sometimes just asking an older woman her age...how the heck do you talk to someone who just had something terrible happen to themselves or their family? Geezz...
I liked the key things that a reporter needs to have when covering crime: perspective, persistence and patience. Very true. I thought the tips from the Detroit reporter on how to get a source to talk to you were very helpful. The idea that rushing up to join the pack of reporters at the scene is not a good idea. But if you wait patiently, slip your card and number to the victim, and then wait awhile until you contact them again -- this could possibly give you a better story than if you had joined the pack of dogs searching for scraps of a quote. I also think this approach is more ethical on a human level.
One point of confusion though...how is a woman walking alone at night compared to a prostitute as a "high-risk victim"? Hmmm...chew on that one for awhile...I know I did.
Also, in the end of the chapter it discusses the use of rape victims' names in a news story. Previous practice has always been to never report the name of someone who has been raped. I agree with this practice. It is our job as journalists to inform the public of potential danger but also to minimize individual harm as much as possible. The author says that there is a growing trend from journalists my age pushing for the names to be printed if the victim agrees. They believe this will help fight off the stigma that surrounds rape victims and shed light on a taboo subject. Rape will always be taboo to me, yes I want to do whatever I can to prevent it from happening, but I don't believe making it more "conversational" will help that from being accomplished.
Chapter Seven- Covering the Courts
Surprisingly this chapter was a lot of fun for me. As I mentioned before I was a possible legal studies minor until I realized how time consuming writing those stinkin' briefs can be! But I do have a huge appreciation for reporters who cover the courts.
Many do it without having any legal training. I thought this chapter did a very good job of explaining the basics to someone who was brand new to the beat.
One of the most important things the author touched on was the duty of the reporter to turn the legal briefs into everyday human language that the average reader could understand. This is EXTREMELY difficult! These briefs can be hundreds of pages long, all written in lawyer mumbo-jumbo (that's a technical term in case you didn't know.) But it is the writer's job to condense this information and present it in an accurate but understandable manner.
I also liked the section of "you never know..." Being respectful to everyone is what gains you good sources. The example given of the janitor's helping the author find missing files was an excellent one. Being rude to a court clerk could come back to bite you in the...well you know. I think this is something young journalists should be reminded of. And use in all aspects of journalism and life...because you just never know...
Lastly I thought the list of possible sources was very helpful. For instance, I didn't know that a bailiff was a good source of information. But if you think about it they do have access to the behind the scenes stuff that reporters are banned from. A good tip!
Overall I think that this website is something that I will be frequenting often, and will use if and when I get assigned the "crime beat."
Chapter One-The Crime Beat:
I thought it was really interesting how the author explained the writing for the crime beat automatically has the ability to produce great stories. I guess I never thought of it that way -- like the article said, its got everything: sex, violence, rage, revenge, victims, and occasionally happy endings. There's a reason why so many top TV shows in America are based off of police crime stories -- audiences like it and are interested. The same goes for news stories of the same genre.
I also didn't know that the crime beat was something I should be expecting as a more than likely job placement my first years out of the fish tank. The whole idea that the beat was used as a "sink or swim" technique was surprising to me. But I'm glad the author explained that so I could be prepared.
I also agreed with the whole "cops are leery of journalists and journalists are leery of cops" idea. Last night while riding along with one of Ithaca's finest (and funniest for that matter) he glanced at my notebook on more than one occasion and asked, "What are you writing in that thing?" Just a small example but I thought it portrayed that sentiments behind what the author was trying to explain.
The section discussing how this beat produces the most error in reporting was also an important fact to bring up. Most reporters, including myself, don't know the deference between larceny, theft and robbery. When I looked at the definitions it surprised me how easy it would be for a reporter to make one slip-up like that in a story.
I was also interested in the idea of creating a good source relationship with the police one might be working with on the beat. How do you keep a good standing with the police if you have to write a story unveiling some problems the department might be having. You of course can't always paint them in a positive light because that wouldn't be fair and accurate reporting. But if you produce an "anti-cop" story how do you keep the main sources of your beat talking to you? Something to think about...and worry about slightly...
I also appreciated the 12 questions included as something every journalist should keep near-by when working on a crime story. That is something I will definitely use throughout my career. The ideas for what to keep in your trunk were also great tips. But I have to ask, how do I get a media flack jacket...?
Chapter Five-Covering Crime and Its Victims
This chapter was helpful in navigating the ever uncomfortable world of interviewing victims. I have never had to do that for a story yet...but I know how uncomfortable I get sometimes just asking an older woman her age...how the heck do you talk to someone who just had something terrible happen to themselves or their family? Geezz...
I liked the key things that a reporter needs to have when covering crime: perspective, persistence and patience. Very true. I thought the tips from the Detroit reporter on how to get a source to talk to you were very helpful. The idea that rushing up to join the pack of reporters at the scene is not a good idea. But if you wait patiently, slip your card and number to the victim, and then wait awhile until you contact them again -- this could possibly give you a better story than if you had joined the pack of dogs searching for scraps of a quote. I also think this approach is more ethical on a human level.
One point of confusion though...how is a woman walking alone at night compared to a prostitute as a "high-risk victim"? Hmmm...chew on that one for awhile...I know I did.
Also, in the end of the chapter it discusses the use of rape victims' names in a news story. Previous practice has always been to never report the name of someone who has been raped. I agree with this practice. It is our job as journalists to inform the public of potential danger but also to minimize individual harm as much as possible. The author says that there is a growing trend from journalists my age pushing for the names to be printed if the victim agrees. They believe this will help fight off the stigma that surrounds rape victims and shed light on a taboo subject. Rape will always be taboo to me, yes I want to do whatever I can to prevent it from happening, but I don't believe making it more "conversational" will help that from being accomplished.
Chapter Seven- Covering the Courts
Surprisingly this chapter was a lot of fun for me. As I mentioned before I was a possible legal studies minor until I realized how time consuming writing those stinkin' briefs can be! But I do have a huge appreciation for reporters who cover the courts.
Many do it without having any legal training. I thought this chapter did a very good job of explaining the basics to someone who was brand new to the beat.
One of the most important things the author touched on was the duty of the reporter to turn the legal briefs into everyday human language that the average reader could understand. This is EXTREMELY difficult! These briefs can be hundreds of pages long, all written in lawyer mumbo-jumbo (that's a technical term in case you didn't know.) But it is the writer's job to condense this information and present it in an accurate but understandable manner.
I also liked the section of "you never know..." Being respectful to everyone is what gains you good sources. The example given of the janitor's helping the author find missing files was an excellent one. Being rude to a court clerk could come back to bite you in the...well you know. I think this is something young journalists should be reminded of. And use in all aspects of journalism and life...because you just never know...
Lastly I thought the list of possible sources was very helpful. For instance, I didn't know that a bailiff was a good source of information. But if you think about it they do have access to the behind the scenes stuff that reporters are banned from. A good tip!
Overall I think that this website is something that I will be frequenting often, and will use if and when I get assigned the "crime beat."
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Blog Comments
lizzyswickedsweetblog.blogspot.com
"Gore for President"
newsreportingicjessg.blogspot.com
"Barackstars..."
fallingfornews2007.blogspot.com
"Why campaigns should start later..."
seagullatemycheetos.blogspot.com
"Campaign Map"
emokenews.blogspot.com
"Truest Republicans..."
archanatalk.blogspot.com
"Showdown Hillary and Michelle..."
amusante123.blogspot.com
"Wishy Washy Hillary..."
thestorysofar-jt.blogspot.com
"Seperation of Church and State."
"Gore for President"
newsreportingicjessg.blogspot.com
"Barackstars..."
fallingfornews2007.blogspot.com
"Why campaigns should start later..."
seagullatemycheetos.blogspot.com
"Campaign Map"
emokenews.blogspot.com
"Truest Republicans..."
archanatalk.blogspot.com
"Showdown Hillary and Michelle..."
amusante123.blogspot.com
"Wishy Washy Hillary..."
thestorysofar-jt.blogspot.com
"Seperation of Church and State."
Friday, October 12, 2007
Saving One Polar Bear at a Time
So I know this blog is suppose to be about the Presidential election but I figured former Vice President Al Gore's recent Nobel Peace Prize was worth mentioning in this forum. Because after all the man has found a new found life...saving polar bears.
I'm not poking fun, I've seen "An Inconvenient Truth," it changed my life. Don't believe me? Ask my roommates the craziness that overcame the apartment the night I came home after the viewing of the film in the Park Aud. I was running around like a crazy person shutting off all the lights and telling my roommates to buy smaller cars.
And now Al Gore has found a new political life. This once somewhat dorky Presidential candidate that lost -- must I remind you -- to our great leader President Bush, is now a bonafied rock star. Even enough to push supporters of the eco-friendly politician to start a group called Draft Gore.
So far according to both the New York Times and the Washington Post the newly born Gore is staying out of the Presidential ring. But you know how these things go...how many months -- no make that years -- did Hillary Clinton tell us New Yorkers that she had no intentions of running, meanwhile she was building funds for the biggest undertaking of her career.
So I guess all of us tree huggers, polar bear lovers are going to have to wait it out to see. I mean, I voted for him the first time around for President. Sadly enough...I was probably the only one in this class old enough too...hmmm....
And you know -- the man can't be half bad if Bon Jovi loves him....
I'm not poking fun, I've seen "An Inconvenient Truth," it changed my life. Don't believe me? Ask my roommates the craziness that overcame the apartment the night I came home after the viewing of the film in the Park Aud. I was running around like a crazy person shutting off all the lights and telling my roommates to buy smaller cars.
And now Al Gore has found a new political life. This once somewhat dorky Presidential candidate that lost -- must I remind you -- to our great leader President Bush, is now a bonafied rock star. Even enough to push supporters of the eco-friendly politician to start a group called Draft Gore.
So far according to both the New York Times and the Washington Post the newly born Gore is staying out of the Presidential ring. But you know how these things go...how many months -- no make that years -- did Hillary Clinton tell us New Yorkers that she had no intentions of running, meanwhile she was building funds for the biggest undertaking of her career.
So I guess all of us tree huggers, polar bear lovers are going to have to wait it out to see. I mean, I voted for him the first time around for President. Sadly enough...I was probably the only one in this class old enough too...hmmm....
And you know -- the man can't be half bad if Bon Jovi loves him....
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Crime and Punishment
Just like obituaries its every reporters fate to cover the crime beat in some backwoods small town newspaper. But I thought this chapter did a nice job of making it sound interesting and important to new reporters like myself. I mean, it is kind of cool if you think about it -- like some old time black and white movie where the reporter is sleeping on a police station bench waiting for some huge story to break...sorry I get off on these tangents!
Oh I have to say this, in the preparation section of the chapter they always mention going to the morgue first. And I have to admit to my diztyness here, I always think, "that is so gross and morbid." But then I remember that is what they call the database newspapers use to catalogue all old news stories and photographs...geez....
I also thought the example of what a crime report looks like to be very helpful. I myself -- luckily -- have never seen one of those before. I wouldn't have been able to even take a guess at what one would look like. Also the list of the three main sources every reporter should get when on the scene of a crime: police officers and their reports, victims and witnesses. It sounds silly but every reporter needs a little reminder of what is important every once in awhile. I wish thought the chapter had disscussed more of how to deal with a victim of a crime or housefire. It's one thing to just say go ask them questions, but its another to stay within your own personal ethical boundries while doing your job as a reporter. Perhaps there is no easy way around it and the only thing one can do is learn as you go.
I also felt the court section was very important. A lot of students don't realize how complex the court system can be when covering it. This past summer in Washington DC I wrote a story about the reporters who cover the Supreme Court as their beat. Now what most people might not know is that Supreme Court Justices will NOT talk to the public, even the communciations office in the building is kept under a tight no-talk-policy. I couldn't even get a janitor to talk to me! But eventually I was able to get a hold of the Washington Post's beat reporter for the Supreme Court along with the Boston Globe's. Both cool guys and nice enough to let me interview them. But basically they practically had law degrees to be able to take these 100 pages of a decision and break it down into something the average reader might understand. A very difficult process that made me rethink law school.
All of the libel laws that were discussed in the chapter are also very tricky things. And I also didn't completely understand the idea behind why a reporter would use Megan's Law when looking for adresses of defendants? The book was not completely clear on that.
www.supremecourtus.gov/
www.smokeybear.com
Oh I have to say this, in the preparation section of the chapter they always mention going to the morgue first. And I have to admit to my diztyness here, I always think, "that is so gross and morbid." But then I remember that is what they call the database newspapers use to catalogue all old news stories and photographs...geez....
I also thought the example of what a crime report looks like to be very helpful. I myself -- luckily -- have never seen one of those before. I wouldn't have been able to even take a guess at what one would look like. Also the list of the three main sources every reporter should get when on the scene of a crime: police officers and their reports, victims and witnesses. It sounds silly but every reporter needs a little reminder of what is important every once in awhile. I wish thought the chapter had disscussed more of how to deal with a victim of a crime or housefire. It's one thing to just say go ask them questions, but its another to stay within your own personal ethical boundries while doing your job as a reporter. Perhaps there is no easy way around it and the only thing one can do is learn as you go.
I also felt the court section was very important. A lot of students don't realize how complex the court system can be when covering it. This past summer in Washington DC I wrote a story about the reporters who cover the Supreme Court as their beat. Now what most people might not know is that Supreme Court Justices will NOT talk to the public, even the communciations office in the building is kept under a tight no-talk-policy. I couldn't even get a janitor to talk to me! But eventually I was able to get a hold of the Washington Post's beat reporter for the Supreme Court along with the Boston Globe's. Both cool guys and nice enough to let me interview them. But basically they practically had law degrees to be able to take these 100 pages of a decision and break it down into something the average reader might understand. A very difficult process that made me rethink law school.
All of the libel laws that were discussed in the chapter are also very tricky things. And I also didn't completely understand the idea behind why a reporter would use Megan's Law when looking for adresses of defendants? The book was not completely clear on that.
www.supremecourtus.gov/
www.smokeybear.com
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Primary time...
It's difficult to understand all the hoopola around primary dates in Presidential campaigns. There's complex rules and traditions upheld that many average voters don't even bother to comprehend.
I remember when I went to a New Hampshire Democrat fundraiser where Hillary Clinton spoke last spring. I remember thinking, "Nashua, New Hampshire. What the hell is in Nashua, New Hampshire?" Well, the first northeast primary in the country and the first win to mark on the score cards...and that's pretty much it...oh and I think they had an Applebee's.
So why all the current talk of shifting dates in the primaries? Well, this is a big election and states like Florida no longer want to be left out of the star powered action. They want Hillary and Rudy to run over and try their local ice cream at the state fair just like the New Hampshire or Iowa folks get.
According to the Washington Post, with New Hampshire moving up their date to January 8, this might potentially push Iowa -- known normally as the first primary in the states -- to possibly schedule a call to arms in 2007. So what?
Well the big so what is that this could potentially hur the underdogs like John Edwards from ever having a chance. The faster the primaries line up on the calander, the easier it is for the more popular and more financially endowed candidates to step forward as the inevitable winners in such a short period of time.
Right now the news is focusing on Iowa primarily. MSNBC is practically camped out there watching for any sign of action in the normally quiet state. By normally being the first primary it is the best indication of who is going to win.
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2007/10/05/post_121.html
I remember when I went to a New Hampshire Democrat fundraiser where Hillary Clinton spoke last spring. I remember thinking, "Nashua, New Hampshire. What the hell is in Nashua, New Hampshire?" Well, the first northeast primary in the country and the first win to mark on the score cards...and that's pretty much it...oh and I think they had an Applebee's.
So why all the current talk of shifting dates in the primaries? Well, this is a big election and states like Florida no longer want to be left out of the star powered action. They want Hillary and Rudy to run over and try their local ice cream at the state fair just like the New Hampshire or Iowa folks get.
According to the Washington Post, with New Hampshire moving up their date to January 8, this might potentially push Iowa -- known normally as the first primary in the states -- to possibly schedule a call to arms in 2007. So what?
Well the big so what is that this could potentially hur the underdogs like John Edwards from ever having a chance. The faster the primaries line up on the calander, the easier it is for the more popular and more financially endowed candidates to step forward as the inevitable winners in such a short period of time.
Right now the news is focusing on Iowa primarily. MSNBC is practically camped out there watching for any sign of action in the normally quiet state. By normally being the first primary it is the best indication of who is going to win.
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2007/10/05/post_121.html
Summing it all up
To begin: I have to say that I wasn't crazy about The Politics of the English Language. Personally I've never been a fan of George Orwell's writing. I find it to be like running through mud on a hot sticky day...I hope that isn't a "dead metaphor" I just used...
Of course I see the merit in reading the passage, I understand there are links to what he is saying and what we have been discussing in class. But snore. Yuck. Blah.
I have to apologize, this blog is coming at the end of a very long and horrible weekend of flying arrangements that left me stranded for countless hours in the Binghamton Airport that slightly resembles the set of "Wings". You get the picture.
I also found the assumption he was making regarding economic and politcal speeches being the cause of a dying language confusing. Yes, reading scientific mumbojumbo is also like running through mud, but do that many people read it and use it so that it is effecting societal tendencies...? And I loved the over pretentious line about a writers lack of precision, "a mixture of vagueness and sheer incompetence." That's uplifting and makes me want to write more.
The only rule I really liked and wrote down to further inspire myself throughout this trying semester was "if it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out." I thought that was useful and pertained to something I could constuctively use.
In the Five Characteristics of Academic or Scholarly Prose I liked the brief way of explaining the complexities of science rhetoric without wallowing in the complexities. I thought the idea of remembering that scientific prose emphasizes the noun rather than the verb was helpful in remembering how to avoid such writing.
I also thought the examples adequately showed how to put the advice into practice. My favorite was this one: a direct lean usage -- rat, the academic usuage -- small founal species. Nice.
Moving along... the Assessment of Media Performance and Three Mile Island was a surprisingly interesting read. And in reading it I began to sympathize with the reporters who had no idea what they were writing about. Like Ben Livingood from the Allentown Call, I too wouldn't be able to tell you what a nuclear meltdown really meant. I guess that's why I found the original assignment of writing the story and bit crazy to be honest, and then to be graded on accuracy on that type of story was just a calcuated blow to me journalistically. I understand the point being made. But myself, like the other reporters who actually covered the event, would have like a accurate technical brief. We're sophomores and humans...not nuclear scientists.
Anyways I'm getting off track. I also appreciated the disscussion on sensationalism during the coverage. Right now in my ethics class we are focusing on how to avoid sensationalizing the story. I thought the point that was made about not asking the "what if" questions a helpful hint in staying away from tabloid material. Something I will bring up in my next class.
And finally, I liked the quote from the Philadelphia Inquirer about multiple sources. "There is a better chance of getting the truth from many tongues."
www.binghamtonairport.com
http://www.m-w.com/dictionary/rat
Of course I see the merit in reading the passage, I understand there are links to what he is saying and what we have been discussing in class. But snore. Yuck. Blah.
I have to apologize, this blog is coming at the end of a very long and horrible weekend of flying arrangements that left me stranded for countless hours in the Binghamton Airport that slightly resembles the set of "Wings". You get the picture.
I also found the assumption he was making regarding economic and politcal speeches being the cause of a dying language confusing. Yes, reading scientific mumbojumbo is also like running through mud, but do that many people read it and use it so that it is effecting societal tendencies...? And I loved the over pretentious line about a writers lack of precision, "a mixture of vagueness and sheer incompetence." That's uplifting and makes me want to write more.
The only rule I really liked and wrote down to further inspire myself throughout this trying semester was "if it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out." I thought that was useful and pertained to something I could constuctively use.
In the Five Characteristics of Academic or Scholarly Prose I liked the brief way of explaining the complexities of science rhetoric without wallowing in the complexities. I thought the idea of remembering that scientific prose emphasizes the noun rather than the verb was helpful in remembering how to avoid such writing.
I also thought the examples adequately showed how to put the advice into practice. My favorite was this one: a direct lean usage -- rat, the academic usuage -- small founal species. Nice.
Moving along... the Assessment of Media Performance and Three Mile Island was a surprisingly interesting read. And in reading it I began to sympathize with the reporters who had no idea what they were writing about. Like Ben Livingood from the Allentown Call, I too wouldn't be able to tell you what a nuclear meltdown really meant. I guess that's why I found the original assignment of writing the story and bit crazy to be honest, and then to be graded on accuracy on that type of story was just a calcuated blow to me journalistically. I understand the point being made. But myself, like the other reporters who actually covered the event, would have like a accurate technical brief. We're sophomores and humans...not nuclear scientists.
Anyways I'm getting off track. I also appreciated the disscussion on sensationalism during the coverage. Right now in my ethics class we are focusing on how to avoid sensationalizing the story. I thought the point that was made about not asking the "what if" questions a helpful hint in staying away from tabloid material. Something I will bring up in my next class.
And finally, I liked the quote from the Philadelphia Inquirer about multiple sources. "There is a better chance of getting the truth from many tongues."
www.binghamtonairport.com
http://www.m-w.com/dictionary/rat
Friday, September 28, 2007
Chapters 8 and 22
Refreshing my memory in the land of Chapter eight led to pretty much the same findings I found the first time around...but a few new things jumped out at me also.
I am still confused as to how one finds clarity and creativity in writing straight news ledes. But after my last story in class about the town meeting Lisa explained to me how you didn't want to start a story. My story's lede had all the right information but was sooo borning even in that first sentence. I had bogged down the reader with too many big boring words right off the bat. After a little editing I found that words like "emergency funds" was much more exciting than the name of some drawn out committee. So I didn't make the same mistake the next committee story I wrote...maybe I learned something...hmmm.
Chapter eight also talks about the importance of details in a story which I completely agree with. If a reporter can put the reader in an accurate setting while reading something of significant importance, I say job well done. I didn't understand that this was a possibility in writing until I read a book by Joan Didion, very cool stuff. If you're a jounalist frustrated with finding creativity in writing like me -- read some of her work and thank me later.
OH I know what was new that I wanted to mention. Using concrete examples. I read a few passages they had as examples of this and I have to say that some of these "concrete examples" were straingly reminiscent of cough...cliches....cough. Interesting...even after we just had that talk in class. This is a big topic for me because yes kids...I once was a cliche addict...I know don't judge me. But they just flowed like smooth BS for me if ya know what I mean. But I'm happy to say that I'm overcoming my addicition with the help of support groups like News I.
Ok -- onto the Media Law chapter. What a dozy, and to think -- I was almost a lawyer...yikes!
I have to say that having studied some of these cases in past legal studies classes I kind of scratched my head at some of the examples given in the book as cases to know. Most of which were so unimportant that I can't remember their names right now -- plus the fact that a vast majority of them settled out of court without really leaving a mark.
But I do smile when I read the popular, "no other business enjoys specific constitutional protection yada yada..."
One thing that I didn't really know alot about before reading this chapter was the idea of privelege. That we as reporters are safe if we are covering any of the three branches of government and quoting what is said from them. If I understand this correctly governmental officials actually have the "privelege" title and we as reporters get to print that even if what they are saying is false information. I thought that was kind of cool and complicated, perhaps we could discuss further in class?
Ah -- and then the actual malice test from good ole' New York Times v. Sullivan (1964) LOVE IT! I had to do a big project on this case and just loved all the details and loops that came out of this decision. I felt the chapter didn't focus enough on the idea of covering a public figure as opposed to a private individual. It's a big line to cross and if one is not familar with that case it could be really confusing.
And finally the whole expectation of privacy. It seems like it would be crystal clear but -- don't go into people's bedrooms -- but actually some of the examples had really random outcomes from the rulings. Sense when does one not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in a doctor's office? Maybe I'm just weird but I do! All things we should discuss in class.
http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/historics/USSC_CR_0376_0254_ZS.html
I am still confused as to how one finds clarity and creativity in writing straight news ledes. But after my last story in class about the town meeting Lisa explained to me how you didn't want to start a story. My story's lede had all the right information but was sooo borning even in that first sentence. I had bogged down the reader with too many big boring words right off the bat. After a little editing I found that words like "emergency funds" was much more exciting than the name of some drawn out committee. So I didn't make the same mistake the next committee story I wrote...maybe I learned something...hmmm.
Chapter eight also talks about the importance of details in a story which I completely agree with. If a reporter can put the reader in an accurate setting while reading something of significant importance, I say job well done. I didn't understand that this was a possibility in writing until I read a book by Joan Didion, very cool stuff. If you're a jounalist frustrated with finding creativity in writing like me -- read some of her work and thank me later.
OH I know what was new that I wanted to mention. Using concrete examples. I read a few passages they had as examples of this and I have to say that some of these "concrete examples" were straingly reminiscent of cough...cliches....cough. Interesting...even after we just had that talk in class. This is a big topic for me because yes kids...I once was a cliche addict...I know don't judge me. But they just flowed like smooth BS for me if ya know what I mean. But I'm happy to say that I'm overcoming my addicition with the help of support groups like News I.
Ok -- onto the Media Law chapter. What a dozy, and to think -- I was almost a lawyer...yikes!
I have to say that having studied some of these cases in past legal studies classes I kind of scratched my head at some of the examples given in the book as cases to know. Most of which were so unimportant that I can't remember their names right now -- plus the fact that a vast majority of them settled out of court without really leaving a mark.
But I do smile when I read the popular, "no other business enjoys specific constitutional protection yada yada..."
One thing that I didn't really know alot about before reading this chapter was the idea of privelege. That we as reporters are safe if we are covering any of the three branches of government and quoting what is said from them. If I understand this correctly governmental officials actually have the "privelege" title and we as reporters get to print that even if what they are saying is false information. I thought that was kind of cool and complicated, perhaps we could discuss further in class?
Ah -- and then the actual malice test from good ole' New York Times v. Sullivan (1964) LOVE IT! I had to do a big project on this case and just loved all the details and loops that came out of this decision. I felt the chapter didn't focus enough on the idea of covering a public figure as opposed to a private individual. It's a big line to cross and if one is not familar with that case it could be really confusing.
And finally the whole expectation of privacy. It seems like it would be crystal clear but -- don't go into people's bedrooms -- but actually some of the examples had really random outcomes from the rulings. Sense when does one not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in a doctor's office? Maybe I'm just weird but I do! All things we should discuss in class.
http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/historics/USSC_CR_0376_0254_ZS.html
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Debating Over Nothing
Wednesday evening the Democratic Presidential hopefuls took to the brightly lit stage again to debate over really nothing. Held at Dartmouth College in Hanover N.H., little attacking was done except for the occasional proding of host Tim Russert. Which most of the serious questions seemed to be specific and directed primarily at the woman of the hour herself -- Hillary Rodham Clinton.
I know....I know....you're thinking "oh here we go again, more Clinton crap."
But let's be honest folks I watched MSNBC's day-long coverage leading up to the event on Wednesday in between classes and after two straight hours of the channel's "why Hillary" focus I threw my remote across the room after putting on an old rerun of "Golden Girls." At least these old ladies know feminism if it bit them in the a....sorry.
Anyways, today coverage of the event has been bleak. I had to skillfully comb the New York Times for an article about the debate. Of course, news of Burma is more important -- I'm not disaggreeing with that. But perhaps they could have done without Sean Penn on the front for some movie he's producing? Finally I found ONE article which referred to the candidates having to answer which bible verse was their favorite....what?!!? Ah...creepy. I wish I could have seen Russert throw that one on em'. If you ask me -- those answers are probably the key to world peace...right.
Of course Dan Balz didn't let me down by both writing an excellent article pointing out Hillary's weaknesses during the evening but also how she seemed to be the center of attention as far as criticism. He also appeared on the pregame show. To me, the man's a rock star. I had the privlege of sitting next to him once when I was lucky enough to get a press pass to an event that Hilary was speaking at. Very cool.
The moral of the story is that this country has seen too many debates with too many candidates only getting mere seconds to answer questions crucial to the country's future. I say thank God the primaries are quickly approaching. Let's get this over with so Democrats can stop playing nicey nice and get down to business.
www.msnbc.com
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/26/AR2007092601339.html?hpid=topnews
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/09/27/the-democrats-quote-scripture/
I know....I know....you're thinking "oh here we go again, more Clinton crap."
But let's be honest folks I watched MSNBC's day-long coverage leading up to the event on Wednesday in between classes and after two straight hours of the channel's "why Hillary" focus I threw my remote across the room after putting on an old rerun of "Golden Girls." At least these old ladies know feminism if it bit them in the a....sorry.
Anyways, today coverage of the event has been bleak. I had to skillfully comb the New York Times for an article about the debate. Of course, news of Burma is more important -- I'm not disaggreeing with that. But perhaps they could have done without Sean Penn on the front for some movie he's producing? Finally I found ONE article which referred to the candidates having to answer which bible verse was their favorite....what?!!? Ah...creepy. I wish I could have seen Russert throw that one on em'. If you ask me -- those answers are probably the key to world peace...right.
Of course Dan Balz didn't let me down by both writing an excellent article pointing out Hillary's weaknesses during the evening but also how she seemed to be the center of attention as far as criticism. He also appeared on the pregame show. To me, the man's a rock star. I had the privlege of sitting next to him once when I was lucky enough to get a press pass to an event that Hilary was speaking at. Very cool.
The moral of the story is that this country has seen too many debates with too many candidates only getting mere seconds to answer questions crucial to the country's future. I say thank God the primaries are quickly approaching. Let's get this over with so Democrats can stop playing nicey nice and get down to business.
www.msnbc.com
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/26/AR2007092601339.html?hpid=topnews
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/09/27/the-democrats-quote-scripture/
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
The Exciting World of Press Releases and News Conferences
This week Chapter 11 focuses primarily on the use of press releases in newsrooms. Personally I understand their importance, how they help newsrooms stay on top of what is going on in the community. But the idea of some lazy journalists just reprinting the pieces of propoganda is gross to me.
This past summer I worked for a major union in New York State. I was an intern in their communications department which meant that mostly I put stickers on ancient folders and found numerous new applications to add to my facebook page. I also was given the chance to write three different articles for their monthly magazine, which was cool to get published. My boss told me that this practice of writing for the Union's publication was similar to how press releases are written...yuck.
When writing my articles I was told by many of my bosses to just "make up" quotes from the Union's president. Feeling very uncomfortable with that the President's secretary then made up a paragraph in front of my eyes and told me to write that he said it. In the chapter it discusses the importance of double checking facts. After my experience last summer I can't stress that enough to my fellow peers.
I thought chapter 12 was much more relevant to what we are currently doing in the classroom. After having covered two different town council meetings in the past month I appreciated the advice given. For instance, the importance of preparation for this events is so crucial to writing a good story. In the last meeting I attended I didn't have time to fully research before going and spent most of my time trying to figure out what a moratorium is and how to spell it. I missed a few quotes because I was too busy scratching me head.
After two stories I feel like I'm beginning to develop a style for covering these events. What also helps me is watching the beat reporter for the Ithaca Journal at these events. It's clear that she covers these quite a bit and when I read her articles she does a decent job summing up the most newsworthy topics out of a meeting that seemed overall dull to someone like me. But she manages to weed through all the technicalities and come up with a comprehensive overview of what is most important to her readers. I've gotta give her credit...going to all those meetings and never falling asleep.
I also agreed with the chapter's point on also covering not only what is being said but the reactions of the auidence members. I suppose of journalism students we should consider ourselves very lucky to be studying in a city like Ithaca. It's citizens a full of life and love of democracy. At the meetings I attended there was numerous citizens who came to speak that I found quite colorful and interesting. Some of them actually knew what they were talking about...go figure! I've let a few quotes from these people slip into my stories just to add some life.
The other point that was made that I pondered over was when at a news conference how important it is to listen to other reporters' questions. I was born with my right ear almost being deaf. I live without a hearing aide and have contemplated getting one but my doctors seem to think the cost would be to great. The problem is that I'm on the verge of having good hearing but sometimes not hearing anything. In class when we have mock press conferences I find is difficult to hear what my fellow peers are asking and therefore have to constantly ask them to repeat themselves. I sit in the back of the room because I can the teacher better without sound reverbing behind me. So I worry that press conferences will be difficult for me, unless perhaps my fellow reporters will be louder than my classmates -- which I hope!
www.theithacajournal.com
This past summer I worked for a major union in New York State. I was an intern in their communications department which meant that mostly I put stickers on ancient folders and found numerous new applications to add to my facebook page. I also was given the chance to write three different articles for their monthly magazine, which was cool to get published. My boss told me that this practice of writing for the Union's publication was similar to how press releases are written...yuck.
When writing my articles I was told by many of my bosses to just "make up" quotes from the Union's president. Feeling very uncomfortable with that the President's secretary then made up a paragraph in front of my eyes and told me to write that he said it. In the chapter it discusses the importance of double checking facts. After my experience last summer I can't stress that enough to my fellow peers.
I thought chapter 12 was much more relevant to what we are currently doing in the classroom. After having covered two different town council meetings in the past month I appreciated the advice given. For instance, the importance of preparation for this events is so crucial to writing a good story. In the last meeting I attended I didn't have time to fully research before going and spent most of my time trying to figure out what a moratorium is and how to spell it. I missed a few quotes because I was too busy scratching me head.
After two stories I feel like I'm beginning to develop a style for covering these events. What also helps me is watching the beat reporter for the Ithaca Journal at these events. It's clear that she covers these quite a bit and when I read her articles she does a decent job summing up the most newsworthy topics out of a meeting that seemed overall dull to someone like me. But she manages to weed through all the technicalities and come up with a comprehensive overview of what is most important to her readers. I've gotta give her credit...going to all those meetings and never falling asleep.
I also agreed with the chapter's point on also covering not only what is being said but the reactions of the auidence members. I suppose of journalism students we should consider ourselves very lucky to be studying in a city like Ithaca. It's citizens a full of life and love of democracy. At the meetings I attended there was numerous citizens who came to speak that I found quite colorful and interesting. Some of them actually knew what they were talking about...go figure! I've let a few quotes from these people slip into my stories just to add some life.
The other point that was made that I pondered over was when at a news conference how important it is to listen to other reporters' questions. I was born with my right ear almost being deaf. I live without a hearing aide and have contemplated getting one but my doctors seem to think the cost would be to great. The problem is that I'm on the verge of having good hearing but sometimes not hearing anything. In class when we have mock press conferences I find is difficult to hear what my fellow peers are asking and therefore have to constantly ask them to repeat themselves. I sit in the back of the room because I can the teacher better without sound reverbing behind me. So I worry that press conferences will be difficult for me, unless perhaps my fellow reporters will be louder than my classmates -- which I hope!
www.theithacajournal.com
Thursday, September 20, 2007
"HillaryCare"
Ok...so it probably comes as no surprise to those of you who read this (thanks mom!) that I'm a Hillary fan. Call me a hopeful socialist commi who is suddenly leaning center for votes, but there's just something about that previous head-banded woman turned presidential hopeful that I just can't get enough of.
It's finally happened -- the apoloclipse is here -- Hillary Clinton has unvieled her new health care plan. And already Republicans, and Democrats alike, are jumping to the be first to remind middle class Americans about her previous "commi" years as First Lady.
It makes me angry. I'll admit, yes she did crash and burn at her first attempt -- but who the hell wouldn't with a Republican Congress and Newt Gingrich at the helm of it all! And the ad campaign created by the health insurance industry and republican leaders lampooned the poor pink suited First Lady before she ever stepped onto the floor of Congress to propose such forward thinking as...gasp...universal health care.
Clearly I've read a thing or two about Ms. Clinton's days battling for healthcare and I think there is so much that voters don't understand. Yes, the plan was way too lofty. But average voters were scared to death of this thing because Newt told them to be. Mom and Pop watching Matlock at home were bombarded with ads telling them the evils of Hillary Clinton. And the problem is that we've all been fed it, digested it and it is now part of our internal makeup as Americans.
I'm getting off track here -- sorry I just get so steamed up! Anyways I appreciated the article by the New York Times on the subject. They of course pointed out Clinton's past fallures in the healthcare ring, but also compared the two plans and noted how different the new one is. Clinton figured it out -- she took her punches and got back into the ring with a new a better idea that will be more digestable to Americans who already like their healthcare coverage but will help those without.
The Washington Post also discussed her new fleet of ads that have been hitting the airwaves recently, also a smart change from the past. Clinton has learned her lesson and is fighting fire with fire. She's educating voters the same way Republicans turned them against her in the 90s.
She also reached out by appearing on the Today Show the morning after her announcement. I thought she did well and handled some tough questions like a pro. She even once laughed at Matt Lauer, it seemed she was saying in her head, "please, don't toy with me... I'm Hillay F-ing Clinton," or ya know...something like that.
The moral of the story is I love her...and there's nothing you Obama people can do about it.
It's finally happened -- the apoloclipse is here -- Hillary Clinton has unvieled her new health care plan. And already Republicans, and Democrats alike, are jumping to the be first to remind middle class Americans about her previous "commi" years as First Lady.
It makes me angry. I'll admit, yes she did crash and burn at her first attempt -- but who the hell wouldn't with a Republican Congress and Newt Gingrich at the helm of it all! And the ad campaign created by the health insurance industry and republican leaders lampooned the poor pink suited First Lady before she ever stepped onto the floor of Congress to propose such forward thinking as...gasp...universal health care.
Clearly I've read a thing or two about Ms. Clinton's days battling for healthcare and I think there is so much that voters don't understand. Yes, the plan was way too lofty. But average voters were scared to death of this thing because Newt told them to be. Mom and Pop watching Matlock at home were bombarded with ads telling them the evils of Hillary Clinton. And the problem is that we've all been fed it, digested it and it is now part of our internal makeup as Americans.
I'm getting off track here -- sorry I just get so steamed up! Anyways I appreciated the article by the New York Times on the subject. They of course pointed out Clinton's past fallures in the healthcare ring, but also compared the two plans and noted how different the new one is. Clinton figured it out -- she took her punches and got back into the ring with a new a better idea that will be more digestable to Americans who already like their healthcare coverage but will help those without.
The Washington Post also discussed her new fleet of ads that have been hitting the airwaves recently, also a smart change from the past. Clinton has learned her lesson and is fighting fire with fire. She's educating voters the same way Republicans turned them against her in the 90s.
She also reached out by appearing on the Today Show the morning after her announcement. I thought she did well and handled some tough questions like a pro. She even once laughed at Matt Lauer, it seemed she was saying in her head, "please, don't toy with me... I'm Hillay F-ing Clinton," or ya know...something like that.
The moral of the story is I love her...and there's nothing you Obama people can do about it.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Last Words
Whenever I tell people I am a journalism student someone always brings up the fact that I'll be writing obituaries someday as a young reporter...it's a reality that I have come to accept lately in the competitive world of print.
But I never imagined the first obituary I would write would be my beloved Grandfather's a little over a year ago. My obituary days began before I even started my first year in school. And I wish now that I could go back and help rewrite it with some of the tips from Chapter 10.
It was a stressful time, my Grandfather had been in the hospital for weeks -- we all knew it was coming and yet I took it so hard when it finally happened. I still remember my two Aunts sitting at the kitchen table -- my Grandfather's favorite place in the house -- trying to fit this highly spirited human being's life in to less than 150 words. Impossible.
We got all the basic information in there and tried to make sure the important family members were mentioned, but where was the fact that my Grandfather loved coffee, would only drink that during the day. Or how much he loved his grandchildren, both human and animal. How his favorite TV show was Everybody Loves Raymond and he loved chicken parm or meatloaf at a dinner. And why didn't it say that the first time he saw me in a play, only a year before he passed, he cried in front of a crowded room of people because he was so proud of me.
I greatly appreciated the author trying to help your journalists understand the importance of good reporting on obituaries. But the sad fact is that most people -- everyday people -- are only afforded the sparce 150 words their families can afford. But I guess that's not the lesson I'm suppose to learn from this. It's good that they gave us a basic idea of what information is absolutely needed. Now I can reference that when the time comes -- as it inevitably will.
I also found it interesting when the chapter discussed the question, "how does that make you feel?" THANK YOU! Finally someone states in writing how stupid that question is. I understand the motive behind asking such a question but really-how DO you think I feel? Espically after something horrific has happened. I mean really -- grow some brains. But sometimes this insensitivity doesn't appear abnormal to some journalists going after sensationalism. I agree with the editors statement, "Newspapers aren't in the business of measuring grief."
Finally I found the policies most newspapers have regarding obituaries kind of odd but useful. For instance-not writing "in lieu of flowers please make donations..." All because of lobbying by flourists...really? What are we in politics? If that is correct information and what the family wants then why shouldn't it be printed? And secondly the absolute need for cause of death. Another ethical situation I may bring up in my next ethics question. I understand the idea of a public person being the deceased but a private individual -- why do you still need to air information that family members sometimes don't want public.
Maybe I need to toughen up a little before I approach the world of writing for the dead...
But I never imagined the first obituary I would write would be my beloved Grandfather's a little over a year ago. My obituary days began before I even started my first year in school. And I wish now that I could go back and help rewrite it with some of the tips from Chapter 10.
It was a stressful time, my Grandfather had been in the hospital for weeks -- we all knew it was coming and yet I took it so hard when it finally happened. I still remember my two Aunts sitting at the kitchen table -- my Grandfather's favorite place in the house -- trying to fit this highly spirited human being's life in to less than 150 words. Impossible.
We got all the basic information in there and tried to make sure the important family members were mentioned, but where was the fact that my Grandfather loved coffee, would only drink that during the day. Or how much he loved his grandchildren, both human and animal. How his favorite TV show was Everybody Loves Raymond and he loved chicken parm or meatloaf at a dinner. And why didn't it say that the first time he saw me in a play, only a year before he passed, he cried in front of a crowded room of people because he was so proud of me.
I greatly appreciated the author trying to help your journalists understand the importance of good reporting on obituaries. But the sad fact is that most people -- everyday people -- are only afforded the sparce 150 words their families can afford. But I guess that's not the lesson I'm suppose to learn from this. It's good that they gave us a basic idea of what information is absolutely needed. Now I can reference that when the time comes -- as it inevitably will.
I also found it interesting when the chapter discussed the question, "how does that make you feel?" THANK YOU! Finally someone states in writing how stupid that question is. I understand the motive behind asking such a question but really-how DO you think I feel? Espically after something horrific has happened. I mean really -- grow some brains. But sometimes this insensitivity doesn't appear abnormal to some journalists going after sensationalism. I agree with the editors statement, "Newspapers aren't in the business of measuring grief."
Finally I found the policies most newspapers have regarding obituaries kind of odd but useful. For instance-not writing "in lieu of flowers please make donations..." All because of lobbying by flourists...really? What are we in politics? If that is correct information and what the family wants then why shouldn't it be printed? And secondly the absolute need for cause of death. Another ethical situation I may bring up in my next ethics question. I understand the idea of a public person being the deceased but a private individual -- why do you still need to air information that family members sometimes don't want public.
Maybe I need to toughen up a little before I approach the world of writing for the dead...
Friday, September 14, 2007
Race to Disagree
Thursday evening was an important evening for any Presidential candidate, whether Republican or Democrat. President Bush laid out his benchmark plans for the Iraqi people and its government for all the nation to watch.
And the race began...
Which Democratic Presidential hopeful would be the first to be on the air, making sure that America understood how much they disagreeed?
Well -- I'm sure it comes as no surprise that toprunner Hillary Clinton was the first to make an appearance, only moments after the President's address.
But the big pull of the night came from the lagging candidate John Edwards who bravely -- and not cheaply I might add -- followed 30 minutes after the speech with his own 2 minute commercial.
"Our troops are stuck between a president without a plan to succeed and a Congress without the courage to bring them home," Edwards said according to the New York Times. With only 339 words total, Edwards did his best to sum up his campaign's stance on the war in Iraq.
But will it prove to be a profitable gamble...only time and votes will tell...
And the race began...
Which Democratic Presidential hopeful would be the first to be on the air, making sure that America understood how much they disagreeed?
Well -- I'm sure it comes as no surprise that toprunner Hillary Clinton was the first to make an appearance, only moments after the President's address.
But the big pull of the night came from the lagging candidate John Edwards who bravely -- and not cheaply I might add -- followed 30 minutes after the speech with his own 2 minute commercial.
"Our troops are stuck between a president without a plan to succeed and a Congress without the courage to bring them home," Edwards said according to the New York Times. With only 339 words total, Edwards did his best to sum up his campaign's stance on the war in Iraq.
But will it prove to be a profitable gamble...only time and votes will tell...
Quotes are Candy
Journalism for me is all about the quotes...
I don't know if it comes from my love of words and dialogue after studying acting for so long or if its just my Grandfather's ear for conversation instilled in me. I love quotes! And I'm not affraid to use them -- which may or may not prove to be a problem for me.
So Chapter Four was a nice little refresher on my favorite journalistic topic. According to the textbook, quotes add color and credibility to a story. I couldn't agree more. When I attend an event or an interview it's like I have this little tuner in my ear that beeps when I hear a good quote. I think me head even jerks a little now that I think about it.
One thing I thought was interesting was the section on not only using direct quotes but possibly setting up the actual diaglogue for more impact. I myself did that for the first time in an abbreviated way when writing the in-class assignment on David Letterman's show after 9/11. It proved to be a great way to end the story with impact and spice. Which we all know I love...
Also for me it was imporant to be reminded that sometimes using too many useless quotes can take away from the nuggets of gold that are also in the story. I have a tendancy to go overboard.
And the big homerun for me in this chapter was about correcting gramatical mistakes in quotes. I was in this play two years ago in Albany. It was kind of a big deal, a Tennesse William's play "Suddenly Last Summer" and I was the lead. I got a phone call from the big time local paper, the Albany Times Union, they wanted to interview me. Of course -- being the spotlight whore that I am -- I was exstatic and agreed immediately. When the article eventually came out I was quoted as saying "um" every other sentence. This is what people do -- we say um...BUT it does not look flattering on paper. So I always go the extra mile after that experience in making sure I portray my interviewees in the most accurate and fair light as possible. Which means occasionally deleting an um here or there.
In Using a timeline to tell a story I found it interesting that the use of graphs and tables are now becoming a large part of online journalism. It makes sense if you think about it. Newspapers also use graphs sometimes, but not to the extent of online. The capablilities of that kind of tool would be nothing but beneficial to the reader to understand intense data such as the example of the attacks of terrorism and when they occured.
In David Poulson's Media Tid-bits, he pointed out the ability journalists have to combine different people in different regions and come up with a common community. This is important in the world of "answering journalists" where blogs and commentaries are becoming more popular than hard news. Having the ability to reach a larger audience who has the choice to read your information conexts all graphics of readers. This also puts the gatekeeping role into the hands to readers who will have the ability to choose their own news. I think it's going to prove to be very beneficial to those of us leaving college and looking for jobs -- but only if we know how to capilalize on it.
I don't know if it comes from my love of words and dialogue after studying acting for so long or if its just my Grandfather's ear for conversation instilled in me. I love quotes! And I'm not affraid to use them -- which may or may not prove to be a problem for me.
So Chapter Four was a nice little refresher on my favorite journalistic topic. According to the textbook, quotes add color and credibility to a story. I couldn't agree more. When I attend an event or an interview it's like I have this little tuner in my ear that beeps when I hear a good quote. I think me head even jerks a little now that I think about it.
One thing I thought was interesting was the section on not only using direct quotes but possibly setting up the actual diaglogue for more impact. I myself did that for the first time in an abbreviated way when writing the in-class assignment on David Letterman's show after 9/11. It proved to be a great way to end the story with impact and spice. Which we all know I love...
Also for me it was imporant to be reminded that sometimes using too many useless quotes can take away from the nuggets of gold that are also in the story. I have a tendancy to go overboard.
And the big homerun for me in this chapter was about correcting gramatical mistakes in quotes. I was in this play two years ago in Albany. It was kind of a big deal, a Tennesse William's play "Suddenly Last Summer" and I was the lead. I got a phone call from the big time local paper, the Albany Times Union, they wanted to interview me. Of course -- being the spotlight whore that I am -- I was exstatic and agreed immediately. When the article eventually came out I was quoted as saying "um" every other sentence. This is what people do -- we say um...BUT it does not look flattering on paper. So I always go the extra mile after that experience in making sure I portray my interviewees in the most accurate and fair light as possible. Which means occasionally deleting an um here or there.
In Using a timeline to tell a story I found it interesting that the use of graphs and tables are now becoming a large part of online journalism. It makes sense if you think about it. Newspapers also use graphs sometimes, but not to the extent of online. The capablilities of that kind of tool would be nothing but beneficial to the reader to understand intense data such as the example of the attacks of terrorism and when they occured.
In David Poulson's Media Tid-bits, he pointed out the ability journalists have to combine different people in different regions and come up with a common community. This is important in the world of "answering journalists" where blogs and commentaries are becoming more popular than hard news. Having the ability to reach a larger audience who has the choice to read your information conexts all graphics of readers. This also puts the gatekeeping role into the hands to readers who will have the ability to choose their own news. I think it's going to prove to be very beneficial to those of us leaving college and looking for jobs -- but only if we know how to capilalize on it.
Monday, September 10, 2007
The Next Reagan?
After much hype and tension in the Republican Party over whether or not the former Senator of Tennessee Fred D. Thompson was going to run for his parties presidential nomination -- the rumors became true. On the NBC's "Tonight Show with Jay Leno."
In the words of MSNBC's Chris Matthews, "we waited for this?"
Color me underwhelmed...and a democrat...but I find this late runner another washy Republican that will just mix up an already divided party. Well I say, the more the merrier!
To make the September 5 evening announcment even more unimpressive, Thompson did it while eight of his rivals were actually participating in a much heated debate. Even some of the Republican frontrunners took time out of their busy campaign schedules to take a shot at the newcomer on the block.
"I think Fred is a really, really good man. I think he's done a pretty good job of playing my part on 'Law & Order.'" said former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of Thompson according to the Washington Post.
But sadly, some voters are acting excited about this 65-year-old once T.V. star. Some are even murmoring the word "Reagan" along with his name. Now those of us who understand the God-like personification of former President Ronald Reagan that is held and formed by many Republican voters, also understand the possible danger Thompson could pose in the short months to come. His dangerous mixture of ultra conservatisim, southern roots and that crazy star appeal are frighteningly close to the movie star President.
In the past week, Thompson has been making up for lost time by busing his way accross Iowa and some of New Hampshire. But most reporters are noting the ever constant stump speech of the former Senator that seems to convey any actual stance. According to Susan Saulny of the New York Times, Thompson could not be pinned down by voters questions regarding important matters such as healthcare and education. And when answering questions regarding the hot topic of homosexuality he danced around the issue like a skilled performer.
"I think that we should not have discrimination, but that we should not set aside categories to give special set-aside treatments for, and treatments to," said Thompson according to the New York TImes article. WHAT? I mean really, who understood that answer? And how do you answer a question about homosexuality without using the actual word -- homosexuality?
I spoke to my Grandmother about this new runner -- she's my moral guidance on pretty much everything. And as someone who not only lived through "Reaganomics" but somehow survived raising four children on a low-middle class income during the Presidency -- all she could do was shake her head disapprovingly. I think that says it all.
www.fred08.com
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/05/AR2007090502602_pf.html
In the words of MSNBC's Chris Matthews, "we waited for this?"
Color me underwhelmed...and a democrat...but I find this late runner another washy Republican that will just mix up an already divided party. Well I say, the more the merrier!
To make the September 5 evening announcment even more unimpressive, Thompson did it while eight of his rivals were actually participating in a much heated debate. Even some of the Republican frontrunners took time out of their busy campaign schedules to take a shot at the newcomer on the block.
"I think Fred is a really, really good man. I think he's done a pretty good job of playing my part on 'Law & Order.'" said former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of Thompson according to the Washington Post.
But sadly, some voters are acting excited about this 65-year-old once T.V. star. Some are even murmoring the word "Reagan" along with his name. Now those of us who understand the God-like personification of former President Ronald Reagan that is held and formed by many Republican voters, also understand the possible danger Thompson could pose in the short months to come. His dangerous mixture of ultra conservatisim, southern roots and that crazy star appeal are frighteningly close to the movie star President.
In the past week, Thompson has been making up for lost time by busing his way accross Iowa and some of New Hampshire. But most reporters are noting the ever constant stump speech of the former Senator that seems to convey any actual stance. According to Susan Saulny of the New York Times, Thompson could not be pinned down by voters questions regarding important matters such as healthcare and education. And when answering questions regarding the hot topic of homosexuality he danced around the issue like a skilled performer.
"I think that we should not have discrimination, but that we should not set aside categories to give special set-aside treatments for, and treatments to," said Thompson according to the New York TImes article. WHAT? I mean really, who understood that answer? And how do you answer a question about homosexuality without using the actual word -- homosexuality?
I spoke to my Grandmother about this new runner -- she's my moral guidance on pretty much everything. And as someone who not only lived through "Reaganomics" but somehow survived raising four children on a low-middle class income during the Presidency -- all she could do was shake her head disapprovingly. I think that says it all.
www.fred08.com
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/05/AR2007090502602_pf.html
Friday, September 7, 2007
The Nature of News and Where to Place the Question Mark...
One of my professors recently asked my class, "What is news?"
Silence...cricket....cricket...
It's funny right? A class of 25 or more bright young minds can't even answer a basic question about the core of their chosen profession. And yet sadly, I was in the same boat as the rest of them.
Chapter one of the textbook does the best it can to explain what is news, and what makes good news for that matter.
The basic criteria makes sense: relevance, usefulness and interest. But it's the judging the of the community you write for that's the tricky part I believe. My steadfast rule when thinking in the mindset of writing for a small town newspaper is, "would my Grandmother want to read this."
My Grandmother for as long as I can remember reads her local paper everyday and even goes as far as to cut out articles that she feels pertains to her grand children's lives. It's really funny actually, how she gave my 13-year-old self an article she found on how to treat acne or most recently one about what makes a good journalist. And yes, I have rolled my eyes and smiled politely but when you think about it -- she is the reader we are all writing for.
My Grandmother understands what events in her community have impact and relevance to her life. She also enjoys the occasional novelty story that makes her chuckle. And above all else -- the proximity of any event is what catches her eye first. So I try to remember all of these things when writing a story-especially the lead. What is going to catch my Grandmother's eye first?
In chapter two the idea of being a multimedia journalist is pounded into us. And rightly so. Yesterday a Professor told me never to say what kind of writer/journalist I am. Instead of being a print journalist or a script writer, just be a journalist or a writer. Never limit yourself he told me. And in a world where journalists are required to know three different types of media he was so right. Another interesting point made in chapter two was the advice about working in a basic newsroom. It reminded me that it is okay to ask to be shown around -- knowing more than just your section of the newspaper is important.
In chapter three the very important skills of interviewing were reviewed. It's always good to refresh my memory with interviewing tips. It seems that I have a past of slipping away from the basics. For me, preparation is key to a good interview. If I have the tools I feel confident and in control of the interview. If I don't, I flounder around for information and almost come off as embarrassed, which is not a good thing at all. Another thing I learned from the chapter was not to ask leading questions. After looking at some of the examples I went back and looked at some of my notes from recent interviews, I was using leading questions without even realizing it! I'm now going to have to pay attention to that when preparing.
Finally, I read the punctuation section of our AP Stylebook. I have to say, every time I go back to the Stylebook I am reminded how much it makes me feel warm and fuzzy -- like a security blanket for journalists.
After our papers were handed back last week I noticed that I had made a few punctuation errors that I didn't understand. For instance, I wrote "sibling's births" and didn't know why the apostrophe had to go after the s. But under the ever helpful apostrophe section it was noted that was the case when plural nouns ended in s. For example: churches' needs, the girls' toys and states' rights. Now I know! Also, I found out that when writing about someones political affiliation you don't set it off with parenthesis, but with comas. Always a good type in the midst of an election season.
Overall it was good to take a look at the chapter and remind myself it is there. Now I know what is covered in the back, so if I have a question regarding something I'm writing I can look back to it and check.
Silence...cricket....cricket...
It's funny right? A class of 25 or more bright young minds can't even answer a basic question about the core of their chosen profession. And yet sadly, I was in the same boat as the rest of them.
Chapter one of the textbook does the best it can to explain what is news, and what makes good news for that matter.
The basic criteria makes sense: relevance, usefulness and interest. But it's the judging the of the community you write for that's the tricky part I believe. My steadfast rule when thinking in the mindset of writing for a small town newspaper is, "would my Grandmother want to read this."
My Grandmother for as long as I can remember reads her local paper everyday and even goes as far as to cut out articles that she feels pertains to her grand children's lives. It's really funny actually, how she gave my 13-year-old self an article she found on how to treat acne or most recently one about what makes a good journalist. And yes, I have rolled my eyes and smiled politely but when you think about it -- she is the reader we are all writing for.
My Grandmother understands what events in her community have impact and relevance to her life. She also enjoys the occasional novelty story that makes her chuckle. And above all else -- the proximity of any event is what catches her eye first. So I try to remember all of these things when writing a story-especially the lead. What is going to catch my Grandmother's eye first?
In chapter two the idea of being a multimedia journalist is pounded into us. And rightly so. Yesterday a Professor told me never to say what kind of writer/journalist I am. Instead of being a print journalist or a script writer, just be a journalist or a writer. Never limit yourself he told me. And in a world where journalists are required to know three different types of media he was so right. Another interesting point made in chapter two was the advice about working in a basic newsroom. It reminded me that it is okay to ask to be shown around -- knowing more than just your section of the newspaper is important.
In chapter three the very important skills of interviewing were reviewed. It's always good to refresh my memory with interviewing tips. It seems that I have a past of slipping away from the basics. For me, preparation is key to a good interview. If I have the tools I feel confident and in control of the interview. If I don't, I flounder around for information and almost come off as embarrassed, which is not a good thing at all. Another thing I learned from the chapter was not to ask leading questions. After looking at some of the examples I went back and looked at some of my notes from recent interviews, I was using leading questions without even realizing it! I'm now going to have to pay attention to that when preparing.
Finally, I read the punctuation section of our AP Stylebook. I have to say, every time I go back to the Stylebook I am reminded how much it makes me feel warm and fuzzy -- like a security blanket for journalists.
After our papers were handed back last week I noticed that I had made a few punctuation errors that I didn't understand. For instance, I wrote "sibling's births" and didn't know why the apostrophe had to go after the s. But under the ever helpful apostrophe section it was noted that was the case when plural nouns ended in s. For example: churches' needs, the girls' toys and states' rights. Now I know! Also, I found out that when writing about someones political affiliation you don't set it off with parenthesis, but with comas. Always a good type in the midst of an election season.
Overall it was good to take a look at the chapter and remind myself it is there. Now I know what is covered in the back, so if I have a question regarding something I'm writing I can look back to it and check.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
The Future of News
Its alarming to be studying a profession that seems to be fading away. Even with the onslaught on online journalism, things are looking bleak for those of us studying the craft. These are worries we all should have and voice, because we are the only ones who can someday bring journalism back to where it once was.
The 2007 State of the News Media report was a major wake-up call to this 23-year-old sophmore at the start of her new career. I was always led to believe that online news would save us all -- be the next big job market for those of us looking for stability. But according to this report the online news world has hit a steady hault at 92 million viewers.
What is needed is a new business model. How do small local newspapers compete with the cheap advertising of the internet. Even larger institutions such as the New York Times are starting to see the error of their ways. Afraid of losing money, they like so many other newspapers, tried charging a subscription fee to internet users who were already paying hefty prices for access to the web. I myself turned away from such a method and would go to the cheaper version of aol news, sad as that may seem.
The report also brings up the heart of the issue of advertising by pointing out the need for a new model of measuring media audiences. Without knowing how many really read their newspaper or watch the evening news, how can media outlets convince advertisers their's is the best place to buy add space? Even circulation isn't cutting it anymore for newspapers -- how many people read a paper that someone else left behind after their coffee?
Its only now that journalists are starting to see this trend that has been growing for years. Will it be too late to do something about it?
The 2007 State of the News Media report was a major wake-up call to this 23-year-old sophmore at the start of her new career. I was always led to believe that online news would save us all -- be the next big job market for those of us looking for stability. But according to this report the online news world has hit a steady hault at 92 million viewers.
What is needed is a new business model. How do small local newspapers compete with the cheap advertising of the internet. Even larger institutions such as the New York Times are starting to see the error of their ways. Afraid of losing money, they like so many other newspapers, tried charging a subscription fee to internet users who were already paying hefty prices for access to the web. I myself turned away from such a method and would go to the cheaper version of aol news, sad as that may seem.
The report also brings up the heart of the issue of advertising by pointing out the need for a new model of measuring media audiences. Without knowing how many really read their newspaper or watch the evening news, how can media outlets convince advertisers their's is the best place to buy add space? Even circulation isn't cutting it anymore for newspapers -- how many people read a paper that someone else left behind after their coffee?
Its only now that journalists are starting to see this trend that has been growing for years. Will it be too late to do something about it?
The Giant Pumpkin in the room
In the next four months of furious campaigning for the Democratic Primaries one word is going to be key -- experience.
Over Labor Day weekend a major shift took place in the stead fast machine known as Hillary Clinton's campagin for President. A shift that will press the point of her experience in Washington over her opponents -- most notibly Presidential hopefuls Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.) and former senator John Edwards (D-N.C.).
"I know some people think you have to choose between change and experience," Clinton said on Sunday at a rally in New Hampshire according to the Washington Post. "Well, with me, you don't have to choose. I have spent my whole life fighting for change." Without directly naming her Democratic opponents, Clinton took the first steps towards a more aggressive stance on her past experiences as First Lady and Senator of New York.
I've always found this arguement interesting, the idea of who has the most "experience." If voters really look at the top three candidates, none boast a strong past in Washington Politics. At best they all hold Senate experience and are heavy on domestic issues. But in a time of war and conflict internationally, who is best to take over?
I once had a great Poltics professor here at Ithaca say to me during a discussion of Clinton's experience compared to the other candidates, "She's not the goddess of experience ya' know." And I can't help but think of that when reading the coverage of her weekend in New Hampshire. The New York Times also pointed out Clinton's references to "working the system." This I have to agree is something she does know more about than some of the others in the ring. As First Lady she tried to stage a major overhaul of our nation's healthcare and bombed miserably. Now most who don't understand the circumstances blame her and her "socialist" ways for that. But sadly, Clinton had to learn the hard way how to play with the big dogs on Capitol Hill.
In the end I think the holiday weekend was a successful next step in her campaign. Along with meeting various voters she and her husband also had time to stop and peruse the local state fair. Washington Post reporter Dan Balz had an interesting take on the power couple's outing that I think everyone should read for a good laugh.
Over Labor Day weekend a major shift took place in the stead fast machine known as Hillary Clinton's campagin for President. A shift that will press the point of her experience in Washington over her opponents -- most notibly Presidential hopefuls Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.) and former senator John Edwards (D-N.C.).
"I know some people think you have to choose between change and experience," Clinton said on Sunday at a rally in New Hampshire according to the Washington Post. "Well, with me, you don't have to choose. I have spent my whole life fighting for change." Without directly naming her Democratic opponents, Clinton took the first steps towards a more aggressive stance on her past experiences as First Lady and Senator of New York.
I've always found this arguement interesting, the idea of who has the most "experience." If voters really look at the top three candidates, none boast a strong past in Washington Politics. At best they all hold Senate experience and are heavy on domestic issues. But in a time of war and conflict internationally, who is best to take over?
I once had a great Poltics professor here at Ithaca say to me during a discussion of Clinton's experience compared to the other candidates, "She's not the goddess of experience ya' know." And I can't help but think of that when reading the coverage of her weekend in New Hampshire. The New York Times also pointed out Clinton's references to "working the system." This I have to agree is something she does know more about than some of the others in the ring. As First Lady she tried to stage a major overhaul of our nation's healthcare and bombed miserably. Now most who don't understand the circumstances blame her and her "socialist" ways for that. But sadly, Clinton had to learn the hard way how to play with the big dogs on Capitol Hill.
In the end I think the holiday weekend was a successful next step in her campaign. Along with meeting various voters she and her husband also had time to stop and peruse the local state fair. Washington Post reporter Dan Balz had an interesting take on the power couple's outing that I think everyone should read for a good laugh.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Making the Inverted Pyramid readable...
Out of all the challenges I've faced as a journalism student, the inverted pyramid formula seems to be the most troublesome for me. It appears easy enough, arrange your facts from most important to least. This I get.I even enjoyed the idea of beginning the story with its end as explained in chapter seven. But how do you incorporate the themes from both chapter seven and eight? How do you make an inverted pyramid interesting and fresh for the readers.
It's true, most readers spend 15-25 minutes a day with their daily newspapers. They need to get the most important information first, so they can move on to the next headline. But why can't there be more to it? In chapter eight the books discusses the important aspects of a well written story. I fully agree with these points, and have experienced them myself. Personal observation is the number one thing that makes a news story jump from the page. This past summer I spent a month in Washington DC where I studied political journalism. One story that I wrote was about the Folger Shakespeare Libraryhttp://www.folger.edu and the restoration lab located on the third floor of the building. This had the potential to be a snore of a read. Instead of just reasearching and speaking with the head of the lab on the phone, I made the effort to go down to the lab and actually see the process of restoring these books from the 1400s. In the end this extra time spent with the subject really paid off in my story.
Inverted pyramid is not a strength of mine. I'd much rather spend time with people are write feature stories with color. But by reading both chapters I'm slowly beginning to see that one can have both flavors. Keeping the writing clean and simple seems to be a running theme through both areas of writing. One that I need to work on at length.
Until Next Time,
I'm Lindsey H
It's true, most readers spend 15-25 minutes a day with their daily newspapers. They need to get the most important information first, so they can move on to the next headline. But why can't there be more to it? In chapter eight the books discusses the important aspects of a well written story. I fully agree with these points, and have experienced them myself. Personal observation is the number one thing that makes a news story jump from the page. This past summer I spent a month in Washington DC where I studied political journalism. One story that I wrote was about the Folger Shakespeare Libraryhttp://www.folger.edu and the restoration lab located on the third floor of the building. This had the potential to be a snore of a read. Instead of just reasearching and speaking with the head of the lab on the phone, I made the effort to go down to the lab and actually see the process of restoring these books from the 1400s. In the end this extra time spent with the subject really paid off in my story.
Inverted pyramid is not a strength of mine. I'd much rather spend time with people are write feature stories with color. But by reading both chapters I'm slowly beginning to see that one can have both flavors. Keeping the writing clean and simple seems to be a running theme through both areas of writing. One that I need to work on at length.
Until Next Time,
I'm Lindsey H
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