Well, this week's reading has officially scared me. The story of John Merrill’s plagiarism accusations are quite unsettling. I hate to think that the one mistake, one oversight can tarnish a journalist's career. As a journalist, even the most minute oversight could come back to haunt me time and time again.
Merrill's opinion piece was interesting to read as well. I feel kind of bad for the guy considering that a lifetime of creating and critiquing journalism is now tarnished with the plagiarism accusation.
I thought that the two articles did a good job of presenting me with both sides of the argument.
I think that article hit home with me because of my experience getting stories off the AP wire. Newswires are growing in importance all the time. While they save journalists time -- and probably more noteworthy, companies money -- I think that it also leads to laziness in reporting. It's easy for someone sitting in a newsroom just to make a few clicks and receive a story...what's more difficult is for that person to take the initiative and make sure that the story is the best possible portrayal of the news.
I think the lines are blurry when it comes to cited and uncited sources. I feel that in this case Merrill was a fault but what about when a quote comes from the AP wire or another publication that may have widely known information, what's the proper citation? I remember the first article I'd ever had published was for my high school newspaper when I was a sophomore. I emailed the article -- which was about changes in funding from the Minnesota State Department of Education -- to my editor and at the bottom wrote something to the extent of, "I cited information from the Pioneer Press, do I need to cite that?" The answer was, of course, yes.
Sometimes the obvious is less apparent than it should be. Sometimes writers are uninformed, misinformed or just flaky. It's a scary thought, but I'll inevitably make mistakes in my career, I just hope that I don't ever have to deal with the backlash that Merrill did. Yikes.
At least this week's reading ended with a laundry list of sources for political information. How exciting? Well, maybe for some but for me it was an information overload. I'm sure "Places Journalists Should Go for Politics" is good heading, but honestly, I would need to alter the title to say: Places Journalist Should WANT to Go for Politics. Sorry. As much as I try, I just can't get excited with the thought of digging out the skeletons from a politician's closet for a living.
The cites and sources here are quite helpful I'm sure. I say more power to journalists who want to scour the web looking for a politicians criminal record or how they voted on an issue decades ago.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Political Coverage in the 2000s.
When I think of political coverage, a little part of me winces. One, I’m not a politics buff. While I understand the importance of government in my life and vote whenever I can, I’m not likely to pay attention to politics in the media. I don’t read that section of the paper or give the TV my full attention when a story comes on about so-and-so’s scandal.
Two, I hate the way that media coverage polarizes people. I understand that we live in a diverse country that fosters different points of view. However, I feel that the media searches out tiffs between politicians to make news. The media certainly tread a fine line in deciding what’s newsworthy and politics is one area that they can take an angle a day and still call it quits. Fox News currently features the section online about whether religious values matter to voters when it comes to 2008 Presidential Candidate Nominees. While I can understand that this may be an issue in the campaign, I don't like the way that it was covered. Somehow I don't see how a topic like this is a good choice for a video package. Not only is the topic kind of fluffy, any type of visual portrayal would render itself stereotypical or overly dramatic.
One element about present coverage I do like is the ability to present each politician’s platform simultaneously using the internet. Just today, The Washington Post featured a “Choose your Candidate” feature on the first page of the politics section. This platform comparison tool could be very helpful for voters. When information is presented in a logical way voters can make a more informed decision.
Finally, I can't help but note the role of celebrity and infotainment that is seeping into political coverage. Politicians are public figures, of course. They are not, however, supposed to be glorified and media-made superstars. (They may try, however to use the media to their benefit...nothing like free advertising, right?)
Consider CNN's coverage of Oprah and Obama's campaign tour from this week. The writing practically deems to the pair to be political soul mates and presents Winfrey's admiration for the politician without the slightest reality check. She may love Obama, and to be perfectly honest he's starting to win me over, but I don't want the NEWS section of the paper or of a news broadcast to read like an advertisement. There's already enough of that to annoy me.
Two, I hate the way that media coverage polarizes people. I understand that we live in a diverse country that fosters different points of view. However, I feel that the media searches out tiffs between politicians to make news. The media certainly tread a fine line in deciding what’s newsworthy and politics is one area that they can take an angle a day and still call it quits. Fox News currently features the section online about whether religious values matter to voters when it comes to 2008 Presidential Candidate Nominees. While I can understand that this may be an issue in the campaign, I don't like the way that it was covered. Somehow I don't see how a topic like this is a good choice for a video package. Not only is the topic kind of fluffy, any type of visual portrayal would render itself stereotypical or overly dramatic.
One element about present coverage I do like is the ability to present each politician’s platform simultaneously using the internet. Just today, The Washington Post featured a “Choose your Candidate” feature on the first page of the politics section. This platform comparison tool could be very helpful for voters. When information is presented in a logical way voters can make a more informed decision.
Finally, I can't help but note the role of celebrity and infotainment that is seeping into political coverage. Politicians are public figures, of course. They are not, however, supposed to be glorified and media-made superstars. (They may try, however to use the media to their benefit...nothing like free advertising, right?)
Consider CNN's coverage of Oprah and Obama's campaign tour from this week. The writing practically deems to the pair to be political soul mates and presents Winfrey's admiration for the politician without the slightest reality check. She may love Obama, and to be perfectly honest he's starting to win me over, but I don't want the NEWS section of the paper or of a news broadcast to read like an advertisement. There's already enough of that to annoy me.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Standoff Ends
The hostage situation at Hillary Rodham Clinton's campaign office ended peacefully yesterday. The Washington Post's Standoff Coverage included an article and Clinton's reaction video. Clinton spoke before the press once all of the hostages were released and the suspect was in custody.
Yesterday afternoon's events occurred when a man who claimed to have a bomb strapped to his chest seized four workers in Clinton's campaign office in Rochester, N.H. Officials say that the suspect demanded to speak with Clinton but eventually surrendered to police and released the hostages after five hours of retention.
The suspect, Leeland Eisenber, was know to local law enforcement for erratic behavior. The entire situation was really strange and unsettling.
I think that covering this event would have been difficult considering the unknowns. Trying to make sense of information that was given would have been tricky to say the least. I also think that in hostage situations the media can negatively impact police action. If the suspect enjoys getting media coverage he or she may be less cooperative with officials. Journalists and the media tread a fine line in situations like the these while trying to inform the public while not jeopardizing the safety of others.
Yesterday afternoon's events occurred when a man who claimed to have a bomb strapped to his chest seized four workers in Clinton's campaign office in Rochester, N.H. Officials say that the suspect demanded to speak with Clinton but eventually surrendered to police and released the hostages after five hours of retention.
The suspect, Leeland Eisenber, was know to local law enforcement for erratic behavior. The entire situation was really strange and unsettling.
I think that covering this event would have been difficult considering the unknowns. Trying to make sense of information that was given would have been tricky to say the least. I also think that in hostage situations the media can negatively impact police action. If the suspect enjoys getting media coverage he or she may be less cooperative with officials. Journalists and the media tread a fine line in situations like the these while trying to inform the public while not jeopardizing the safety of others.
Online Journalism
The article from Poynter Online was interesting to read. The creator of Sound Slides is a talented journalist and software inventor. Frankly, I was really surprised that the creator of Sound Slides was a journalist. I've never realized that the program was created by and for journalists. Its history emphasizes that online reporting really is driving a need for innovative new methods of storytelling.
I also liked reading about the difference between video and still photography. I've always been partial to still photography, but by working on Newswatch I've become accustomed to video. Ultimately, however, the power of the story really comes down to the writing and the journalist's talent.
I also liked reading about the difference between video and still photography. I've always been partial to still photography, but by working on Newswatch I've become accustomed to video. Ultimately, however, the power of the story really comes down to the writing and the journalist's talent.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Ethics and Online Schtuff
This week's reading began with the sidebar about the ethical issues journalists deal with on a daily basis. These include: responsibility, freedom of the press, independence, sincerity accuracy and truthfulness, impartiality, fair play and decency. It's hard to pin-point which of these should be considered the most important because they all whole weight in ethical decision-making. I do feel, however, that sincerity, accuracy and truthfulness should probably take precedent. "Good faith with the reader is the foundation of all journalism worthy of the name," according to the textbook and it seems that without these principles the entire essences of journalism is lost.
The text book defines principled reasoning as the paramount element in journalism ethics. I can't agree more. I've been told that I have a "good head on my shoulders." Whatever weight that holds I pride myself on being someone who others come to for advice. Only through sound decision making is it possible to decide on the moral way to act. However, some decisions are difficult to make no matter how grounded a person is in ethical theories and principles.
Ultimately, journalists should be concerned with protecting the First Amendment. The Bill of Rights sets our nation apart from most other countries in the world. I feel that the First Amendment protects journalists but they also hold significant responsibility to the citizens and the government. Deceit, conflicts of interest, invasion of privacy and withholding information are all issues that journalist struggle with.
It's easy to say that journalism is completely free from outside influence, however it's completely untrue. Maybe in the utopia of journalism outside influences are avoided but in today's profit-driven media it's impossible. I'm not saying that advertising should be removed from journalism. Nope, I'm quite certain that I'd like the be paid someday, but when ads start interfering with content there is a problem.
I guess I didn't realize that freebies and checkbook journalism were as present as they are before this reading. Obviously freebies interfere with the principle of objectivity and checkbook journalism should be avoided whenever possible. I can't say, however, that I'm willing to give up my LIFE for my job. I don't plan to become an avid crusader or politician after becoming a journalist. I DO plan to continue speaking to my friends, family and going to church after graduation. I understand that journalism doesn't really end when you clock out for the day and likewise, my life cannot be put on hold for my career. Each should balance and add to the other.
As for the internet readings, I kind of enjoyed them. Everyone keeps saying that convergence is paramount in journalism. I like the idea of being able to put together an on-line slide show or make packages that are longer than one minute. It's exciting, especially since I was always more drawn to the visual side of story-telling than the writing aspect.
Hopefully, I will be able to continue learning about online journalism. The readings really made the point that EVERYONE is still learning about online journalism, and I think that's part of the fun.
The text book defines principled reasoning as the paramount element in journalism ethics. I can't agree more. I've been told that I have a "good head on my shoulders." Whatever weight that holds I pride myself on being someone who others come to for advice. Only through sound decision making is it possible to decide on the moral way to act. However, some decisions are difficult to make no matter how grounded a person is in ethical theories and principles.
Ultimately, journalists should be concerned with protecting the First Amendment. The Bill of Rights sets our nation apart from most other countries in the world. I feel that the First Amendment protects journalists but they also hold significant responsibility to the citizens and the government. Deceit, conflicts of interest, invasion of privacy and withholding information are all issues that journalist struggle with.
It's easy to say that journalism is completely free from outside influence, however it's completely untrue. Maybe in the utopia of journalism outside influences are avoided but in today's profit-driven media it's impossible. I'm not saying that advertising should be removed from journalism. Nope, I'm quite certain that I'd like the be paid someday, but when ads start interfering with content there is a problem.
I guess I didn't realize that freebies and checkbook journalism were as present as they are before this reading. Obviously freebies interfere with the principle of objectivity and checkbook journalism should be avoided whenever possible. I can't say, however, that I'm willing to give up my LIFE for my job. I don't plan to become an avid crusader or politician after becoming a journalist. I DO plan to continue speaking to my friends, family and going to church after graduation. I understand that journalism doesn't really end when you clock out for the day and likewise, my life cannot be put on hold for my career. Each should balance and add to the other.
As for the internet readings, I kind of enjoyed them. Everyone keeps saying that convergence is paramount in journalism. I like the idea of being able to put together an on-line slide show or make packages that are longer than one minute. It's exciting, especially since I was always more drawn to the visual side of story-telling than the writing aspect.
Hopefully, I will be able to continue learning about online journalism. The readings really made the point that EVERYONE is still learning about online journalism, and I think that's part of the fun.
Tastes of the Campaign
My election update fits surprisingly well with this week's reading. I was browsing The New York Times' website for a topic and came across an interesting angle. Jodi Kantor put together an video that is in companion to an article she wrote. Both deal with the way politicians eat on the campaign.
I thought this was an interesting feature approach to the campaign. The video, titled "Food on the Campaign Trail" obviously used some of Kantor's writing but was voiced by Ben Werschkel. Its 3:09 minute length was surprising. Obviously longer than the typical TV package, the piece proves that the internet can escape some of the time-crunch pressures that TV experiences.
After watching the video and reading the companion article, I can definitely say that the video is more interesting for the viewer. I think that this is such a visual story that a standard article cannot do it justice.
Both the video and the article serve two primary purposes. One, they explain the role of food on the campaign trail because it attracts people and two, they make the the politicians seem, quite frankly, human.
While I could probably have gone through life without knowing Obama's workout and diet routine or Clinton's prayers for weight loss, it's nice to know that they deal with the same issues as everyday citizens.
Likewise, I couldn't help but notice that the camera work wasn't all that fancy and the writing wasn't over the top. I think the pieces were put together in a way that makes the viewer really feel like they got --pardon my pun-- a taste of what life on the campaign trail is like around meal time.
I thought this was an interesting feature approach to the campaign. The video, titled "Food on the Campaign Trail" obviously used some of Kantor's writing but was voiced by Ben Werschkel. Its 3:09 minute length was surprising. Obviously longer than the typical TV package, the piece proves that the internet can escape some of the time-crunch pressures that TV experiences.
After watching the video and reading the companion article, I can definitely say that the video is more interesting for the viewer. I think that this is such a visual story that a standard article cannot do it justice.
Both the video and the article serve two primary purposes. One, they explain the role of food on the campaign trail because it attracts people and two, they make the the politicians seem, quite frankly, human.
While I could probably have gone through life without knowing Obama's workout and diet routine or Clinton's prayers for weight loss, it's nice to know that they deal with the same issues as everyday citizens.
Likewise, I couldn't help but notice that the camera work wasn't all that fancy and the writing wasn't over the top. I think the pieces were put together in a way that makes the viewer really feel like they got --pardon my pun-- a taste of what life on the campaign trail is like around meal time.
Monday, November 12, 2007
The Best (And Worst) of Broadcast
Chapter 19 is a nice review of the basics for writing broadcast copy.
Writing for TV and radio presents new and different challenges compared to writing for a print publication. The concept of news changes for this media to emphasize timeliness above all else. Likewise, key audio or visual impact and is key to telling a good story.
Sometimes some of the limitations of broadcast really annoy me. For instance, I hate that readers need to be limited to 30 seconds. I feel that a lot of the story is cut out and you don't do the story justice. I also get annoyed that things are deemed important simply because they have a visual. Though, this is also true in newspapers where audiences are drawn to photographs rather than text.
Writing for broadcast also takes a lot of creativity. The writer must use syntax that is simplistic and straightforward while not being overly simplistic or demeaning. It's also difficult to vary syntax because the story needs to be easily understood on the first read through--there's no chance to go back and clarify.
I thought the section on formatting copy for broadcast was kind of elementary. I've used ENPS for Newswatch and all of the elements of the broadcast can be incorporated and printed off easily. I guess we're lucky to have the technology we do because I can't imagine trying to put on a newscast with only typewriters. As it is for Newswatch, we print 4 copies of a 60+ page script for each broadcast.
Writing for TV and radio presents new and different challenges compared to writing for a print publication. The concept of news changes for this media to emphasize timeliness above all else. Likewise, key audio or visual impact and is key to telling a good story.
Sometimes some of the limitations of broadcast really annoy me. For instance, I hate that readers need to be limited to 30 seconds. I feel that a lot of the story is cut out and you don't do the story justice. I also get annoyed that things are deemed important simply because they have a visual. Though, this is also true in newspapers where audiences are drawn to photographs rather than text.
Writing for broadcast also takes a lot of creativity. The writer must use syntax that is simplistic and straightforward while not being overly simplistic or demeaning. It's also difficult to vary syntax because the story needs to be easily understood on the first read through--there's no chance to go back and clarify.
I thought the section on formatting copy for broadcast was kind of elementary. I've used ENPS for Newswatch and all of the elements of the broadcast can be incorporated and printed off easily. I guess we're lucky to have the technology we do because I can't imagine trying to put on a newscast with only typewriters. As it is for Newswatch, we print 4 copies of a 60+ page script for each broadcast.
Capturing the heart of the Heartland
Well, Barack and Hillary on battling it out in Iowa again. The
Washington Post reports that both used strong rhetorical arguments in hopes of getting the Democrat's presidential nomination.
On Saturday Obama delivered what some call his best speech of the campaign trail at an annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner.
Yay. A president who can speak. I was told in high school that I should be a speech writer...of course my newspaper advisor's sister was a Chicago Sun Times Reporter turned speech writer for the Governor of Illinois.
It's a tempting thought, but I still believe that politicians should be able to write their own speeches (with a little tweaking from a professional). After all, they are supposed to present themselves as intelligent and poised professionals to world leaders. I'd like to think that the president of the what we like to call the ruling country in the world should be able to speak fluently with or without a teleprompter.
On a side note,
I think it's interesting that media personalities routinely ask Obama if he'd be willing to run as Clinton's vice president. On Meet the Press, I didn't notice a similar question but that seems to be a rarity lately. And what's Obama's response? Sorry but no.
Of course he's not going to jeopardize his chance at the oval office, but isn't that a thought: Setting two historical precedents in one election.
One can dream...
Washington Post reports that both used strong rhetorical arguments in hopes of getting the Democrat's presidential nomination.
On Saturday Obama delivered what some call his best speech of the campaign trail at an annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner.
Yay. A president who can speak. I was told in high school that I should be a speech writer...of course my newspaper advisor's sister was a Chicago Sun Times Reporter turned speech writer for the Governor of Illinois.
It's a tempting thought, but I still believe that politicians should be able to write their own speeches (with a little tweaking from a professional). After all, they are supposed to present themselves as intelligent and poised professionals to world leaders. I'd like to think that the president of the what we like to call the ruling country in the world should be able to speak fluently with or without a teleprompter.
On a side note,
I think it's interesting that media personalities routinely ask Obama if he'd be willing to run as Clinton's vice president. On Meet the Press, I didn't notice a similar question but that seems to be a rarity lately. And what's Obama's response? Sorry but no.
Of course he's not going to jeopardize his chance at the oval office, but isn't that a thought: Setting two historical precedents in one election.
One can dream...
Sunday, November 4, 2007
It's All the Same
Today I decided to break from my usual trend of searching the Washington Post or New York Times for election stories. Instead, I looked at the Minneapolis Star Tribune because I used to read their Sunday paper when I was in high school.
And what did I find?
The exact same story as story I would have read on nytimes.com, except written by an Associated Press writer. Humph. Media convergence, how I hate thee. But anyway, I suppose Fred Thompson's woes are the same no matter who's writing about them.
The Republican Presidential nominee want to be, has some excuses up his sleeve regarding the criminal past of one of his advisers, though he refused to "throw [his] friend under the bus" for a poor choice made decades ago.
The Washington Post -- yes, the newspaper I refused my diligence to this afternoon -- broke the story today that a co-chairman of Thompson's campaign, has a criminal record for drug dealing. Philip Martin, plead guilty to the sale of 11 pounds of marijuana in 1979 and then was charged for violating probation in 1983 with multiple counts of bookmaking, cocaine trafficking and conspiracy.
Thompson maintains that Martin is a good friend and has paid his debt to society. He underscores that none of the illegal actions have been tied to the campaign and are in no way going to impact his campaign's future or the future of his friendship with Martin.
I'm not exactly sure what I think about this issue. While I certainly don't think I want my "future president" to rub elbows with drug lords, I also understand that no one is perfect. Everyone may have a blemish or two on their resumé but I'm not one to take federal offenses lightly.
And what did I find?
The exact same story as story I would have read on nytimes.com, except written by an Associated Press writer. Humph. Media convergence, how I hate thee. But anyway, I suppose Fred Thompson's woes are the same no matter who's writing about them.
The Republican Presidential nominee want to be, has some excuses up his sleeve regarding the criminal past of one of his advisers, though he refused to "throw [his] friend under the bus" for a poor choice made decades ago.
The Washington Post -- yes, the newspaper I refused my diligence to this afternoon -- broke the story today that a co-chairman of Thompson's campaign, has a criminal record for drug dealing. Philip Martin, plead guilty to the sale of 11 pounds of marijuana in 1979 and then was charged for violating probation in 1983 with multiple counts of bookmaking, cocaine trafficking and conspiracy.
Thompson maintains that Martin is a good friend and has paid his debt to society. He underscores that none of the illegal actions have been tied to the campaign and are in no way going to impact his campaign's future or the future of his friendship with Martin.
I'm not exactly sure what I think about this issue. While I certainly don't think I want my "future president" to rub elbows with drug lords, I also understand that no one is perfect. Everyone may have a blemish or two on their resumé but I'm not one to take federal offenses lightly.
Investigative Reporting
Chapter 8 in "News Reporting and Writing" is kind of a how-to guide to investigative reporting. The chapter takes readers through the investigative process and explains some the problems that arise during most investigations.
Conducting an investigation is one of the most challenging aspects of journalism. Yet, in my opinion, it is one of the types that reaps the most reward. The chapter gave a brief history of muckraking in the U.S. press. Forerunners like Tarbell, Sinclair, and Dreiser set a precedent for the investigative reporting that was to follow.
I think the key subject that the reading addressed is that no good reporter decides to pursue an investigation unless there is a basis to their suspicion. I know that as a writer I get excited about the idea of proving my thesis. I need to, however, also be able to recognize when evidence disproves the theory. Only through investigation and a strong sense of determination will an investigation be fruitful.
The chapter highlights the importance of organization during an investigation. I don't expect this to be a problem for me considering that I'm a compulsive planner. I do, however, have a problem with being confrontational. I can't imagine going after a tough source and really having to be aggressive to get the information I need. But I suppose some of that gumption is built up gradually.
As far as the actual writing is concerned, I think the hard news lede doesn't do the writing justice. I really like the example for the Peace Corps story where the article started out with a human touch and then moved into a the news.
The IRE reading for today gave some examples of recent investigative reports and the ramifications of the stories. I noticed two of the example were from Minnesota and it was nice to read about the work of journalists I recognized.
The one thing that the investigations had in common was that they took one element that would be important to an audience and went with it. For instance, many dealt with taxes or government action. Some were specifically human interest but they were all broad enough to interest a number of people. Because investigative pieces take so much money and time, it is important the you go after a story that will interest your audience. An off-the-wall story may have promise but it must also hold up to the news worthiness judgments so that the audience wants to care about the injustice that's exposed.
Conducting an investigation is one of the most challenging aspects of journalism. Yet, in my opinion, it is one of the types that reaps the most reward. The chapter gave a brief history of muckraking in the U.S. press. Forerunners like Tarbell, Sinclair, and Dreiser set a precedent for the investigative reporting that was to follow.
I think the key subject that the reading addressed is that no good reporter decides to pursue an investigation unless there is a basis to their suspicion. I know that as a writer I get excited about the idea of proving my thesis. I need to, however, also be able to recognize when evidence disproves the theory. Only through investigation and a strong sense of determination will an investigation be fruitful.
The chapter highlights the importance of organization during an investigation. I don't expect this to be a problem for me considering that I'm a compulsive planner. I do, however, have a problem with being confrontational. I can't imagine going after a tough source and really having to be aggressive to get the information I need. But I suppose some of that gumption is built up gradually.
As far as the actual writing is concerned, I think the hard news lede doesn't do the writing justice. I really like the example for the Peace Corps story where the article started out with a human touch and then moved into a the news.
The IRE reading for today gave some examples of recent investigative reports and the ramifications of the stories. I noticed two of the example were from Minnesota and it was nice to read about the work of journalists I recognized.
The one thing that the investigations had in common was that they took one element that would be important to an audience and went with it. For instance, many dealt with taxes or government action. Some were specifically human interest but they were all broad enough to interest a number of people. Because investigative pieces take so much money and time, it is important the you go after a story that will interest your audience. An off-the-wall story may have promise but it must also hold up to the news worthiness judgments so that the audience wants to care about the injustice that's exposed.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
More beats than a boombox
Well, the saga of the beat coverage continues. The reading started out as an all-encompassing tutorial of the different beat areas and ended up as Courts-R-Us with the Justice Journalism Reading. Yes, I found certain elements to be informative and quite important in the grand scheme of need-to-know journalism knowledge, but sorry, this pretty much reaffirmed the fact that I have no interest in being a beat reporter. EVER.
News Reporting and Writings' chapter 14, "Covering a Beat," started out an a high note, mentioning the importance of convergence in today's media. Yes, I realize that as a reporter I need to be able to write copy, take photos and video, write captions, and make slide-shows. I am completely fine with that. Is there actually any option that I could just do those things and forget about schmoozing with politicians. That'd be great, thanks.
Anyway, as the reading went on, it explained the importance of writing news that relevant and useful to the publication's readers. You think? I always thought that we were supposed to find the most unrelated gobblygook and then fill section A with it. Humph. Maybe I'm just in a bad mood because the that thought of covering budgets, what's his face's divorce, and political bullshit makes my stomach turn.
Okay, okay, on the upside the piece did speak to the difficulty of creating a trusting relationship with sources while remaining objective. Of course this is something that every journalist struggles with. We have to try to get all of the information, which usually has to come from a person but retain enough independence that we remain unbiased: not exactly an easy task.
As for the Justice Journalism reading, a few key points stuck out at me. One, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony. Two, the different burdens of proof for civil and criminal cases and three, what a motion actually is and the types possible. The types of motions actually run like a laundry list including change of venue, gag orders, postponements, depositions, bond dismissal, subpoenas, severance, forensics, production of evidence, mental competency, legal representation and financing. Good god.
There are so many court cases every day that page upon page of newspapers could be filled with only court reporting and the police reporting that overlaps with it. Chapter nine said that the two aspects of news found in court reporting come primarily from:
1. When parties are known to the public and
2. When factual and legal issues are of public interest.
Above all, the chapters echoed that fact that as a journalist I need to keep in mind that the defendant is innocent until proven guilty and even a slight mis-use of a court term could completely libel a person. Court is scary for me and I'm not even on the stand.
News Reporting and Writings' chapter 14, "Covering a Beat," started out an a high note, mentioning the importance of convergence in today's media. Yes, I realize that as a reporter I need to be able to write copy, take photos and video, write captions, and make slide-shows. I am completely fine with that. Is there actually any option that I could just do those things and forget about schmoozing with politicians. That'd be great, thanks.
Anyway, as the reading went on, it explained the importance of writing news that relevant and useful to the publication's readers. You think? I always thought that we were supposed to find the most unrelated gobblygook and then fill section A with it. Humph. Maybe I'm just in a bad mood because the that thought of covering budgets, what's his face's divorce, and political bullshit makes my stomach turn.
Okay, okay, on the upside the piece did speak to the difficulty of creating a trusting relationship with sources while remaining objective. Of course this is something that every journalist struggles with. We have to try to get all of the information, which usually has to come from a person but retain enough independence that we remain unbiased: not exactly an easy task.
As for the Justice Journalism reading, a few key points stuck out at me. One, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony. Two, the different burdens of proof for civil and criminal cases and three, what a motion actually is and the types possible. The types of motions actually run like a laundry list including change of venue, gag orders, postponements, depositions, bond dismissal, subpoenas, severance, forensics, production of evidence, mental competency, legal representation and financing. Good god.
There are so many court cases every day that page upon page of newspapers could be filled with only court reporting and the police reporting that overlaps with it. Chapter nine said that the two aspects of news found in court reporting come primarily from:
1. When parties are known to the public and
2. When factual and legal issues are of public interest.
Above all, the chapters echoed that fact that as a journalist I need to keep in mind that the defendant is innocent until proven guilty and even a slight mis-use of a court term could completely libel a person. Court is scary for me and I'm not even on the stand.
College Journalism and the Campaign Trail
Journalists from the Chapel Hill school of journalism have touched a nerve among members of the John Edwards campaign this week. According to an entry on the Washington Post's campaign blog entitled John Edwards and Journalism 101, the Edwards' campaign attempted to silence a student's video that raised a question about the Edwards campaign center in North Carolina.
A broadcast news piece aired on a student television channel and also posted on YouTube suggests that the Southern Village area where his campaign center is located isn't an area for Edwards' targeted "average person" voter but rather an affluent area.
After watching the piece, I found that the reporter did a good job of getting both sides of the story. It looked very much like the pieces I've seen come out of Park's Newswatch16 and I personally feel that student journalism can often times cut through the crap and bureaucracy that "real" publications get stuck in.
Come on people! I really don't think now is the time to get on the wrong side of the media...this type of criticism is nothing compared to the full-out viciousness that the press dishes out to the President on a daily basis.
A broadcast news piece aired on a student television channel and also posted on YouTube suggests that the Southern Village area where his campaign center is located isn't an area for Edwards' targeted "average person" voter but rather an affluent area.
After watching the piece, I found that the reporter did a good job of getting both sides of the story. It looked very much like the pieces I've seen come out of Park's Newswatch16 and I personally feel that student journalism can often times cut through the crap and bureaucracy that "real" publications get stuck in.
Come on people! I really don't think now is the time to get on the wrong side of the media...this type of criticism is nothing compared to the full-out viciousness that the press dishes out to the President on a daily basis.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
The Never-Ending Reading
In Covering Crime and Justice some of the key elements that every journalist may deal with are ironed out. The reading gives a brief summary of the ins and outs of journalism and how it can take on many different forms and present many different challenges depending on the area a journalist is covering.
Chapter 1: The Crime Beat
I feel that as a journalist I wouldn't be terribly good at the crime beat. I tend to have a hesitancy about going after the tough story or the "in-your-face" topics. I did enjoy the reading, though, because it provided a good background of how crime is defined and how arrests and other aspects of civil and criminal cases play out.
I'd never really know the difference between various types of crimes and how each term has a different meaning. Here are some examples from the reading:
* Larceny encompasses any wrongful taking of property.
* Theft is larceny without a threat or violence, such as a picked pocket. Many forms of white-collar financial crimes are variations of theft.
* Fraud is a form of theft, sometimes defined as theft by deception.
* Tax evasion is another form of theft.
* Auto theft is self-explanatory.
* Robbery is a larceny accompanied by violence or threats, including a finger under the jacket to indicate a gun.
* Burglary is the unlawful entering of a premises with the intent to commit a crime. A burglary does not involve violence. But if a homeowner discovers the burglar and violence ensues, the burglary becomes a robbery.
Distinctions like these are crucial to accuracy in reporting and misusing a term could be the difference between truth and libel. Other aspects of the reading that were helpful included suggestions for getting in contact with police and maintaining a good relationship. I've worked for Newswatch16 as an assignment editor and let me tell you, sometimes it is VERY difficult to get in contact with police or even just get facts confirmed. I reading gave me a few suggestions of how to maintain a good relationship with the people that I'd work with continuously if I were assigned the crime beat.
Chapter 5: Covering Crime and its Victims
The beginning of this chapter made the important point that reporting on crime keeps society in check. Obviously, crime reporting is intended to let the public know whether or not laws are being withheld and when people are subjected to injustices against them. Because of these functions, the media play an important role in public safety.
One of the key points outlined in chapter five is that a journalist cannot depend on the police version to be "the official version" of a story. Instead, journalist should strive to get the victims point of view as well because they are a key to the integrity of the story. Although it is key to speak with the victim -- if they are capable of speaking, that is -- it probably one of the most challenging times in a reporter's day. He or she must identify themselves as a reporter and then try to speak with the victim of the family. While a reporter needs this angle they should not become part of what Hackney calls "wolfpack journalism." Instead, she argues that the best interviews with victims often occur after the incident when the victim has the opportunity to feel more at ease during the interview.
Like every good journalism guide, this section also spoke to how journalist should conduct an interview. Although it read like a cd on repeat from other pieces I'd read, its always a good reminder to get the basic info early in the interview such as names, spellings and key facts. This is especially true considering that in some case the article may be the last thing written about a person.
In reference to graphic images or scenes, the chapter provided some basic guidelines for graphic images or descriptions:
1. Is it necessary to tell the story?
2. Does it help the community at large?
3. Will it offend the reader/viewer?
4. Will victims suffer more because of details?
5. Will the details help police solve the crime?
Above all, this section made the point that it is not the journalist job to judge, they should only tell the truth through reporting and writing. Every choice the writer makes while covering crime should be based on the best possible way of telling the story, not his or her personal feelings.
Chapter 7: Covering the Courts
The court beat has been increasing in importance since the O.J. Simpson case. Today publications and all types of media are expected to keep track of high profile cases and ones that will matter to its audience, after all, "law shapes and holds society together."
I feel that for a journalist to be good at covering the crime beat they need to have a lot of base knowledge of the court system. It's definitely a complicated system that could take a journalist years to understand. There is the difference between state and federal courts and between civil and criminal court.
Not only will journalist have trouble understanding the process, it is a beat where getting in touch with sources is nearly impossible. Judges, attorneys, plaintiffs and defendants are understandably busy during a case. Because of the difficulty speaking with these key figures the reporter is often times left with only their notebook and a stuffy seat in the back of the court room.
Journalists also tread a fine line in their coverage. The reporting should not portray the wrong opinion to the audience. A lot of time a person's guilt of innocence in the minds of the public is shaped more by media coverage than by any other source. Part of this is probably because the media does its best to translate legalese into plain English. (A task that isn't exactly easy!)
It's hard for me to decide whether or not journalists should take a really active role in following a court case. On one side, the public has a right to know what's going on and the media serve as a watch dog but on the other hand coverage often shapes public opinion.
Journalists tread the line between the first amendment of freedom of speech and the sixth amendment that guarantees the defendant a fair trial.
Chapter 1: The Crime Beat
I feel that as a journalist I wouldn't be terribly good at the crime beat. I tend to have a hesitancy about going after the tough story or the "in-your-face" topics. I did enjoy the reading, though, because it provided a good background of how crime is defined and how arrests and other aspects of civil and criminal cases play out.
I'd never really know the difference between various types of crimes and how each term has a different meaning. Here are some examples from the reading:
* Larceny encompasses any wrongful taking of property.
* Theft is larceny without a threat or violence, such as a picked pocket. Many forms of white-collar financial crimes are variations of theft.
* Fraud is a form of theft, sometimes defined as theft by deception.
* Tax evasion is another form of theft.
* Auto theft is self-explanatory.
* Robbery is a larceny accompanied by violence or threats, including a finger under the jacket to indicate a gun.
* Burglary is the unlawful entering of a premises with the intent to commit a crime. A burglary does not involve violence. But if a homeowner discovers the burglar and violence ensues, the burglary becomes a robbery.
Distinctions like these are crucial to accuracy in reporting and misusing a term could be the difference between truth and libel. Other aspects of the reading that were helpful included suggestions for getting in contact with police and maintaining a good relationship. I've worked for Newswatch16 as an assignment editor and let me tell you, sometimes it is VERY difficult to get in contact with police or even just get facts confirmed. I reading gave me a few suggestions of how to maintain a good relationship with the people that I'd work with continuously if I were assigned the crime beat.
Chapter 5: Covering Crime and its Victims
The beginning of this chapter made the important point that reporting on crime keeps society in check. Obviously, crime reporting is intended to let the public know whether or not laws are being withheld and when people are subjected to injustices against them. Because of these functions, the media play an important role in public safety.
One of the key points outlined in chapter five is that a journalist cannot depend on the police version to be "the official version" of a story. Instead, journalist should strive to get the victims point of view as well because they are a key to the integrity of the story. Although it is key to speak with the victim -- if they are capable of speaking, that is -- it probably one of the most challenging times in a reporter's day. He or she must identify themselves as a reporter and then try to speak with the victim of the family. While a reporter needs this angle they should not become part of what Hackney calls "wolfpack journalism." Instead, she argues that the best interviews with victims often occur after the incident when the victim has the opportunity to feel more at ease during the interview.
Like every good journalism guide, this section also spoke to how journalist should conduct an interview. Although it read like a cd on repeat from other pieces I'd read, its always a good reminder to get the basic info early in the interview such as names, spellings and key facts. This is especially true considering that in some case the article may be the last thing written about a person.
In reference to graphic images or scenes, the chapter provided some basic guidelines for graphic images or descriptions:
1. Is it necessary to tell the story?
2. Does it help the community at large?
3. Will it offend the reader/viewer?
4. Will victims suffer more because of details?
5. Will the details help police solve the crime?
Above all, this section made the point that it is not the journalist job to judge, they should only tell the truth through reporting and writing. Every choice the writer makes while covering crime should be based on the best possible way of telling the story, not his or her personal feelings.
Chapter 7: Covering the Courts
The court beat has been increasing in importance since the O.J. Simpson case. Today publications and all types of media are expected to keep track of high profile cases and ones that will matter to its audience, after all, "law shapes and holds society together."
I feel that for a journalist to be good at covering the crime beat they need to have a lot of base knowledge of the court system. It's definitely a complicated system that could take a journalist years to understand. There is the difference between state and federal courts and between civil and criminal court.
Not only will journalist have trouble understanding the process, it is a beat where getting in touch with sources is nearly impossible. Judges, attorneys, plaintiffs and defendants are understandably busy during a case. Because of the difficulty speaking with these key figures the reporter is often times left with only their notebook and a stuffy seat in the back of the court room.
Journalists also tread a fine line in their coverage. The reporting should not portray the wrong opinion to the audience. A lot of time a person's guilt of innocence in the minds of the public is shaped more by media coverage than by any other source. Part of this is probably because the media does its best to translate legalese into plain English. (A task that isn't exactly easy!)
It's hard for me to decide whether or not journalists should take a really active role in following a court case. On one side, the public has a right to know what's going on and the media serve as a watch dog but on the other hand coverage often shapes public opinion.
Journalists tread the line between the first amendment of freedom of speech and the sixth amendment that guarantees the defendant a fair trial.
Blog Comments
1. Marcus: http://pierulesyou.blogspot.com/ "Odd"
2. Bryan: http://bryannews1.blogspot.com/ "Hillary vs. Everyone"
3. Antonina http://ladyantoninakrystyna.blogspot.com/ "Illigal immigration and border control"
4. Kayla: http://kaylasnewsblog.blogspot.com/ "They sure don't make first ladies like they used to!"
5. Briana: http://brianaword.blogspot.com/ "Chapters 11 and 12"
6. Laura: http://newsreportingandwriting.blogspot.com "How do you like it, how do you like it, M(g)ore M(g)ore M(g)ore"
7. LuAnn: http://flongit.blogspot.com/ "More than words"
8. Ryan: http://6078287.blogspot.com/ "Truthiness in '08"
2. Bryan: http://bryannews1.blogspot.com/ "Hillary vs. Everyone"
3. Antonina http://ladyantoninakrystyna.blogspot.com/ "Illigal immigration and border control"
4. Kayla: http://kaylasnewsblog.blogspot.com/ "They sure don't make first ladies like they used to!"
5. Briana: http://brianaword.blogspot.com/ "Chapters 11 and 12"
6. Laura: http://newsreportingandwriting.blogspot.com "How do you like it, how do you like it, M(g)ore M(g)ore M(g)ore"
7. LuAnn: http://flongit.blogspot.com/ "More than words"
8. Ryan: http://6078287.blogspot.com/ "Truthiness in '08"
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Beauty Parlor Politics
I was surprised to come across an article on the front page of the New York Times describing the quandary for black women trying to choose between supporting Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama. The article, which takes on an interesting angle of going to South Carolina and speaking to voters in what the article calls "hubs for black women in the Carolinas" or beauty salons.
Apparently, Obama has a special canvasing team dedicated to making appearances in these rural beauty parlors to spread word about his platform and connect with voters. It kind of sounds like an old-time approach to politics which will probably serve him well. After all, not everyone can be persuaded by a YouTube video or livechat with a candidate.
The article points out some of the key concerns for black women when choosing either candidate. Apparently, women are concerned about Obama's safety. One interviewee said, “I fear that they just would kill him, that he wouldn’t even have a chance.”
I guess I've never considered that one candidate would be in more danger as president than another. It's interesting that this issue would actually impact voters.
Another issue that black women are taking into consideration when determining a presidential candidate is loyalty to race or gender. The article explains that while voters should vote based on the political platforms, a lot of the time the decisions are based on "face value."
The article also draws connections between the South's love of Bill Clinton and how he could help Hillary's run. Some voters see Hillary's election as a way to bring back Bill into politics. Obama, on the other hand, is utilizing outside endorsements from folks like Oprah Winfrey and John Lewis to rally support.
I'd like to think that the Democratic nominee will be chosen because of his or her qualifications and not race or gender. However, this probably isn't the reality. Our society may be ready to embrace a women or black man as president, but it's not in the position to say that these aren't issues. When we can disregard gender or race or even sexuality from politics, we've really achieved something.
Apparently, Obama has a special canvasing team dedicated to making appearances in these rural beauty parlors to spread word about his platform and connect with voters. It kind of sounds like an old-time approach to politics which will probably serve him well. After all, not everyone can be persuaded by a YouTube video or livechat with a candidate.
The article points out some of the key concerns for black women when choosing either candidate. Apparently, women are concerned about Obama's safety. One interviewee said, “I fear that they just would kill him, that he wouldn’t even have a chance.”
I guess I've never considered that one candidate would be in more danger as president than another. It's interesting that this issue would actually impact voters.
Another issue that black women are taking into consideration when determining a presidential candidate is loyalty to race or gender. The article explains that while voters should vote based on the political platforms, a lot of the time the decisions are based on "face value."
The article also draws connections between the South's love of Bill Clinton and how he could help Hillary's run. Some voters see Hillary's election as a way to bring back Bill into politics. Obama, on the other hand, is utilizing outside endorsements from folks like Oprah Winfrey and John Lewis to rally support.
I'd like to think that the Democratic nominee will be chosen because of his or her qualifications and not race or gender. However, this probably isn't the reality. Our society may be ready to embrace a women or black man as president, but it's not in the position to say that these aren't issues. When we can disregard gender or race or even sexuality from politics, we've really achieved something.
Basic Stories...yeah right.
As I was reading along in chapter 13, I realized that the stories News Reporting and Writing calls “basic” I have a completely different definition for. Excuse me, but how am I supposed to find that writing a story about someone’s life or death is basic. I think it’s actually quite intimidating, actually.
The crime story is probably the most straightforward of all of the categories described. Yes, I think I can keep the who and what and when straight, but what about the unknowns? I think it’s funny that the book tells its readers that they may have to be obnoxious to gather needed information. I can certainly understand this…but I’m not intrusive or obnoxious by nature. I have no desire to dodge police tape, bombard investigators who are just trying to do their job or speak with shaken up witnesses. No thank you.
Humph. Reason number 576 why I have no desire to be a hard-news reporter.
Another example of the madness of reporting on deadline is accident and fire stories. I can relate to the chaos of a fire because a few years ago we had a fire on my farm. My dad’s machine shop started on fire and it was absolutely terrifying. My parents felt so helpless as homeowners. I can’t even imagine the grief my family would have gone through if it was our actual house or has spread to other areas of our farm.
The most frustrating thing about the whole experience was that there were so many unknowns. What started the fire? How much damage was caused and what did we lose? How do we go on from here and pick up the pieces?
These questions ran through my mind about my own property and a reporter has to answer these and many more that rise in the minds of readers. I’m sure it’s really difficult to think of all the questions you need answered as a reporter and then answering them is another challenge.
Court cases pose another challenge for reporters. I can’t imagine trying to keep all of the facts straight for a lengthy high-profile trial that takes place over months or years at a time. The legal mumbo-jumbo alone is enough to make my head spin.
I think it was really good that the reading brought up the point that even changing one word when reporting about crime or arrests can lead to libel. Substituting arrested “for” instead of arrested “on a charge of” could be the difference between libel and the reporter’s own trip to court.
The crime story is probably the most straightforward of all of the categories described. Yes, I think I can keep the who and what and when straight, but what about the unknowns? I think it’s funny that the book tells its readers that they may have to be obnoxious to gather needed information. I can certainly understand this…but I’m not intrusive or obnoxious by nature. I have no desire to dodge police tape, bombard investigators who are just trying to do their job or speak with shaken up witnesses. No thank you.
Humph. Reason number 576 why I have no desire to be a hard-news reporter.
Another example of the madness of reporting on deadline is accident and fire stories. I can relate to the chaos of a fire because a few years ago we had a fire on my farm. My dad’s machine shop started on fire and it was absolutely terrifying. My parents felt so helpless as homeowners. I can’t even imagine the grief my family would have gone through if it was our actual house or has spread to other areas of our farm.
The most frustrating thing about the whole experience was that there were so many unknowns. What started the fire? How much damage was caused and what did we lose? How do we go on from here and pick up the pieces?
These questions ran through my mind about my own property and a reporter has to answer these and many more that rise in the minds of readers. I’m sure it’s really difficult to think of all the questions you need answered as a reporter and then answering them is another challenge.
Court cases pose another challenge for reporters. I can’t imagine trying to keep all of the facts straight for a lengthy high-profile trial that takes place over months or years at a time. The legal mumbo-jumbo alone is enough to make my head spin.
I think it was really good that the reading brought up the point that even changing one word when reporting about crime or arrests can lead to libel. Substituting arrested “for” instead of arrested “on a charge of” could be the difference between libel and the reporter’s own trip to court.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Iowa's the hotspot--IOWA, really?
First of all, I need to point out that I have a kind of bias against Iowa. As a Minnesota native I've grown up with Iowa as the brunt of many jokes. The state is considered by many of my fellow Minnesotans as the lame-o corn-infested land of blah-ness in the Midwest. Maybe it's because of these preconceived notions that I was so surprised that it's a virtual hot-spot for presidential candidate visits. Just check out this
NYT Map of Candidate Stops.
However odd it may seem to me, Iowa holds significant importance in the 2008 election. The New York Times reports that the voters in the state hold the fate of potential Democratic nominees Barack Obama and Hilary Rodham Clinton in their hands.
The Iowa caucuses will open in three months and presidential visits are definitely going to continue. There is a sense of urgency for both Clinton, Obama and John Edwards who has contributed to the fight for popularity. Whoever loses Iowa will face an uphill battle in the race from that point forward, according to Edwards.
In a way I'm jealous of the attention Iowa is receiving. Minnesota has only been visited by candidates twice so far and both times the visit occurred in the metro area. In Iowa, however, the candidates are really getting out in the country to meet all types of voters. I live in a rural--quite possibly neglected--community in Minnesota so the chance that we'd ever receive this kind of attention is inconceivable.
Now don't tell anyone that I'm jealous of Iowa---I might be stoned.
NYT "Iowans Take Their Time in Open Race"
NYT Map of Candidate Stops.
However odd it may seem to me, Iowa holds significant importance in the 2008 election. The New York Times reports that the voters in the state hold the fate of potential Democratic nominees Barack Obama and Hilary Rodham Clinton in their hands.
The Iowa caucuses will open in three months and presidential visits are definitely going to continue. There is a sense of urgency for both Clinton, Obama and John Edwards who has contributed to the fight for popularity. Whoever loses Iowa will face an uphill battle in the race from that point forward, according to Edwards.
In a way I'm jealous of the attention Iowa is receiving. Minnesota has only been visited by candidates twice so far and both times the visit occurred in the metro area. In Iowa, however, the candidates are really getting out in the country to meet all types of voters. I live in a rural--quite possibly neglected--community in Minnesota so the chance that we'd ever receive this kind of attention is inconceivable.
Now don't tell anyone that I'm jealous of Iowa---I might be stoned.
NYT "Iowans Take Their Time in Open Race"
Reading Overload
The chapters from News Reporting and Writing this week were quite different but I suppose they fit together. I started off with the Media Law chapter – probably not the best decision considering I still had about 50 pages to stay awake for – but I got through it none-the-less. The chapter was a re-read from Intro. to Journalism. We also covered media law in my mass media class so I had a pretty good handle on truth, privilege, and fair comment and criticism before reading.
I feel kind of bad because media law just doesn’t intrigue me in the slightest bit. I understand how important the rights and protections of journalist are but reading about the same cases over and over again without a real-life scenario is really dull. It also seems to me that the differences between each case of libel suit are very minute. There is so much gray area when deciding the differences in private citizen and public figure, actual malice and poor choices, negligence and misinformation. It kind of makes my head spin.
I thought the online readings were pretty interesting, especially George Orwell’s bit about scholarly writing. He was able to illustrate how meaning is lost when writers use larger words, old metaphors and unnecessary jargon. One of the elements his article specifically addresses is the use of passive voice instead of active voice. This is one on my writing’s flaws. I tend to use passive voice unknowingly which, as my academic writing professor said, weakens my usually powerful writing.
I also liked Orwell’s “elementary rules” because they seemed like good standards to live by. I’ll list the rules here so maybe each time I make a blog entry I’ll have to glance over them again.
1. Never use a metaphor, simile or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.
2. Never use a long word where a short one will do.
3. If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
4. Never use the passive where you can use the active.
5. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
6. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.
The Scholarly Prose article was also about the difference in quality straight-forward writing and overly-complicated academic prose. I can definitely understand the importance of straightforward prose because I’ve read too many long-winded and overzealous pieces for various classes. Obviously, as a journalist I want my writing to be easy to understand. I need to write in the straight-forward manner that the piece recommends and cut out my static verbs, complex embellishments, and long-winded sentences.
The report from Three Mile Island seemed like in interesting collection of facts about the coverage of the nuclear accident. It actually put me at ease to read that not all of the reporters had extensive knowledge about nuclear power before covering the story. For some reason I always have this guilty feeling when I’m assigned a story that I really know nothing about. At least the professionals were able to research and report at the same time to cover the disaster.
I also had no idea how many news agencies decided to cover the story. Obviously the list of reasons for coverage the report outlined was reason enough to merit the inquiry, but that’s a ton of publicity for any event!
The last bit of reading for today was the re-fresher on chapter eight in News Reporting and Writing. The chapter outlines how to write to be read. This kind of encompassed all of the reading selections from today because above all, journalists have to write in a manner that their readers can understand. The point of journalism is, after all, to share information. If the readers get lost or confused while reading, the entire point of the journalist’s work is lost.
I feel kind of bad because media law just doesn’t intrigue me in the slightest bit. I understand how important the rights and protections of journalist are but reading about the same cases over and over again without a real-life scenario is really dull. It also seems to me that the differences between each case of libel suit are very minute. There is so much gray area when deciding the differences in private citizen and public figure, actual malice and poor choices, negligence and misinformation. It kind of makes my head spin.
I thought the online readings were pretty interesting, especially George Orwell’s bit about scholarly writing. He was able to illustrate how meaning is lost when writers use larger words, old metaphors and unnecessary jargon. One of the elements his article specifically addresses is the use of passive voice instead of active voice. This is one on my writing’s flaws. I tend to use passive voice unknowingly which, as my academic writing professor said, weakens my usually powerful writing.
I also liked Orwell’s “elementary rules” because they seemed like good standards to live by. I’ll list the rules here so maybe each time I make a blog entry I’ll have to glance over them again.
1. Never use a metaphor, simile or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.
2. Never use a long word where a short one will do.
3. If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
4. Never use the passive where you can use the active.
5. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
6. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.
The Scholarly Prose article was also about the difference in quality straight-forward writing and overly-complicated academic prose. I can definitely understand the importance of straightforward prose because I’ve read too many long-winded and overzealous pieces for various classes. Obviously, as a journalist I want my writing to be easy to understand. I need to write in the straight-forward manner that the piece recommends and cut out my static verbs, complex embellishments, and long-winded sentences.
The report from Three Mile Island seemed like in interesting collection of facts about the coverage of the nuclear accident. It actually put me at ease to read that not all of the reporters had extensive knowledge about nuclear power before covering the story. For some reason I always have this guilty feeling when I’m assigned a story that I really know nothing about. At least the professionals were able to research and report at the same time to cover the disaster.
I also had no idea how many news agencies decided to cover the story. Obviously the list of reasons for coverage the report outlined was reason enough to merit the inquiry, but that’s a ton of publicity for any event!
The last bit of reading for today was the re-fresher on chapter eight in News Reporting and Writing. The chapter outlines how to write to be read. This kind of encompassed all of the reading selections from today because above all, journalists have to write in a manner that their readers can understand. The point of journalism is, after all, to share information. If the readers get lost or confused while reading, the entire point of the journalist’s work is lost.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Obamania
Barack Obama’s rally in Washington Square Park Thursday attracted thousands of supporters. Hilary Rodham Clinton may represent the citizens of New York right now but many citizens are certainly interested in hearing what Obama has to say. Obama’s primary message was he would bring change to Washington if he were elected…yeah right.
Although his plans for Washington are excellent in theory, putting them into practice might take more effort than getting into the White House. Obama speech in NYC said that to cause actual, constructive change in Washington partisan politics need to stop and citizen’s voices need to be restored in the federal government.
I think it’s interesting that newspapers report on candidates’ wardrobe. In NYC, Obama chose to wear “dark blue slacks and a light-blue dress shirt with his trademark open collar and rolled-up sleeves,” according to Newsday. I understand that in days gone by readers would need to know what politicians were wearing by reading about it, but today it seems silly to write down a candidate’s outfit an inch away from a huge color photo or a video clip.
One detail I did appreciate, however, was that he walked in to Kanye West’s song “Touch the Sky.” Trying to appeal to the New York University students in the crowd, Barack? I think yes.
Obama’s speech focused on similar themes to other appearances he’s done around the country. 1. He tries to assure the audience that lack of “Washington experience” doesn’t mean that he’s unfit to serve as president. 2. That our nation needs to unite between different races, backgrounds and ideals. And 3. we need a new plan to deal with Iraq and other domestic issues like social security and health care reform.
I guess the part of this speech that particularly interested me was when he promised to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa, the conflict in Darfur, and prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. These issues really mean something to me. Hmm, funny that he would bring them up at a rally where there were primarily college students in the audience.
Okay, one last tidbit: by watching the video of his speech I’ve decided that he seems less stiff than Hilary. Sorry but it’s true. Hilary may need her hard-as-nails attitude to deal with the bigwigs in Washington but she doesn’t seem all that human to me. She’s kind of cold actually. (Though I could just be a sucker for Obama’s little girls who are a flash-back to a certain Kennedy clan from a few years ago.)
New York Times Video
New York Times Blog
Newsday
Although his plans for Washington are excellent in theory, putting them into practice might take more effort than getting into the White House. Obama speech in NYC said that to cause actual, constructive change in Washington partisan politics need to stop and citizen’s voices need to be restored in the federal government.
I think it’s interesting that newspapers report on candidates’ wardrobe. In NYC, Obama chose to wear “dark blue slacks and a light-blue dress shirt with his trademark open collar and rolled-up sleeves,” according to Newsday. I understand that in days gone by readers would need to know what politicians were wearing by reading about it, but today it seems silly to write down a candidate’s outfit an inch away from a huge color photo or a video clip.
One detail I did appreciate, however, was that he walked in to Kanye West’s song “Touch the Sky.” Trying to appeal to the New York University students in the crowd, Barack? I think yes.
Obama’s speech focused on similar themes to other appearances he’s done around the country. 1. He tries to assure the audience that lack of “Washington experience” doesn’t mean that he’s unfit to serve as president. 2. That our nation needs to unite between different races, backgrounds and ideals. And 3. we need a new plan to deal with Iraq and other domestic issues like social security and health care reform.
I guess the part of this speech that particularly interested me was when he promised to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa, the conflict in Darfur, and prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. These issues really mean something to me. Hmm, funny that he would bring them up at a rally where there were primarily college students in the audience.
Okay, one last tidbit: by watching the video of his speech I’ve decided that he seems less stiff than Hilary. Sorry but it’s true. Hilary may need her hard-as-nails attitude to deal with the bigwigs in Washington but she doesn’t seem all that human to me. She’s kind of cold actually. (Though I could just be a sucker for Obama’s little girls who are a flash-back to a certain Kennedy clan from a few years ago.)
New York Times Video
New York Times Blog
Newsday
Speeches and Meetings and Releases...Oh my!
My hometown paper always does a ton of announcements for upcoming events in my community. You’ll find news about everything from church barbecues to the firemen’s dance within its 20 pages. I think this is the way that the newspaper is able to stay in business actually—or fills its columns at least.
“The Beacon” is really in charge of informing people about what’s going on in the community. Even as a kid I understood that if I wanted to find out who was the “Reader of the Month” at the library all I had to do was read. I’m not sure whether or not the news releases are re-written by the newspaper’s staff. I know that once my mom sent in an article for publication about an event she was organizing and it was published word for word.
I definitely understand the importance news releases can hold for the community but they also seem like a slippery slope to me. It’s probably more difficult for news to make it into a broadcast show because time allotments are so small but newspapers use the little blurbs about community events to their advantage. Some of those two-inch releases are just what the newspaper may need to fill a column. One problem with news releases is that if organizations keep getting publicity from a free article they may not look into advertising. Another problem is that the coverage of one event may lead an organization to think that they will receive the same coverage in the future.
I guess I feel that announcements are the best type of news release while information about a cause or information to build an image should be closely edited. The time and place of a meeting isn’t biased but praising someone or a specific organization might cause some problems.
Well, we’ve already gotten a taste of covering a meeting. Of course general-assignment writing requires that journalists be able to write a detailed account of a meeting or speech or meeting…but it’s definitely not fun. Note to self: Don’t become a general-assignment writer.
It’s interesting that whenever I tell someone that I’m a journalism major I usually get the “ah…writing” solemn nod. I appreciate the reporters who diligently go to all of the town board and city council meetings in the world but for me it’s just not going to work.
Even though I don’t PLAN to be a general-assignment reporter, here are the bones of the trade. Research first. Listen intently. Take detailed notes. Get peoples’ names right.
When it comes to writing the piece I always get stuck in the habit of relaying the event in chronological order. I know that the inverted pyramid would have me put the most newsworthy elements at the top of the piece but I feel like the facts get too jumbled when the reader doesn’t know what happened sequentially.
I also need to work on covering the people and scene instead of just the agenda. News conferences are a whole other problem. I can’t stand pushiness or impatience, which translates to a disdain for press conferences.
“The Beacon” is really in charge of informing people about what’s going on in the community. Even as a kid I understood that if I wanted to find out who was the “Reader of the Month” at the library all I had to do was read. I’m not sure whether or not the news releases are re-written by the newspaper’s staff. I know that once my mom sent in an article for publication about an event she was organizing and it was published word for word.
I definitely understand the importance news releases can hold for the community but they also seem like a slippery slope to me. It’s probably more difficult for news to make it into a broadcast show because time allotments are so small but newspapers use the little blurbs about community events to their advantage. Some of those two-inch releases are just what the newspaper may need to fill a column. One problem with news releases is that if organizations keep getting publicity from a free article they may not look into advertising. Another problem is that the coverage of one event may lead an organization to think that they will receive the same coverage in the future.
I guess I feel that announcements are the best type of news release while information about a cause or information to build an image should be closely edited. The time and place of a meeting isn’t biased but praising someone or a specific organization might cause some problems.
Well, we’ve already gotten a taste of covering a meeting. Of course general-assignment writing requires that journalists be able to write a detailed account of a meeting or speech or meeting…but it’s definitely not fun. Note to self: Don’t become a general-assignment writer.
It’s interesting that whenever I tell someone that I’m a journalism major I usually get the “ah…writing” solemn nod. I appreciate the reporters who diligently go to all of the town board and city council meetings in the world but for me it’s just not going to work.
Even though I don’t PLAN to be a general-assignment reporter, here are the bones of the trade. Research first. Listen intently. Take detailed notes. Get peoples’ names right.
When it comes to writing the piece I always get stuck in the habit of relaying the event in chronological order. I know that the inverted pyramid would have me put the most newsworthy elements at the top of the piece but I feel like the facts get too jumbled when the reader doesn’t know what happened sequentially.
I also need to work on covering the people and scene instead of just the agenda. News conferences are a whole other problem. I can’t stand pushiness or impatience, which translates to a disdain for press conferences.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Broadcast Blitz
Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton went on an all-out TV show appearance frenzy this weekend. Today she appeared on five major programs to speak about her new health care plan and to do some damage control in lieu of her exposed fugitive fund-raiser. Clinton was a guest on the fifth installment of Meet the Press' "Meet the Candidate" series.
Clinton did all of her appearances from a remote location opposed to pre-taping the segments. These appearances are her first since announcing her candidacy for president in January.
She really did make the rounds, hitting Meet the Press, Face the Nation, This Week with George Stephanopoulos, Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer, and Fox News Sunday. On Late Edition, Secretary of Health and Human Services Mike Leavitt responded to Clinton's proposal for universal health care. Following nearly every one of her appearances, one of Clinton's opponents voiced opinions about her policy. Obviously the networks were doing a good job of being balanced, however I'm not sure fairness was their only objective.
Some of the programs are notorious for ruffling feathers for the sake of ratings.
It is a little odd that Clinton did so many "appearances" in one day. I've seen the line-up of camera shots from each of the programs and the New York Times website, and its a little awkward.
Enough is enough. You'd think that publicity should be an ongoing process of developing chemistry with voters. It's not about a blitz in the publics' eye.
New York Times
Politico
Meet The Press
Clinton did all of her appearances from a remote location opposed to pre-taping the segments. These appearances are her first since announcing her candidacy for president in January.
She really did make the rounds, hitting Meet the Press, Face the Nation, This Week with George Stephanopoulos, Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer, and Fox News Sunday. On Late Edition, Secretary of Health and Human Services Mike Leavitt responded to Clinton's proposal for universal health care. Following nearly every one of her appearances, one of Clinton's opponents voiced opinions about her policy. Obviously the networks were doing a good job of being balanced, however I'm not sure fairness was their only objective.
Some of the programs are notorious for ruffling feathers for the sake of ratings.
It is a little odd that Clinton did so many "appearances" in one day. I've seen the line-up of camera shots from each of the programs and the New York Times website, and its a little awkward.
Enough is enough. You'd think that publicity should be an ongoing process of developing chemistry with voters. It's not about a blitz in the publics' eye.
New York Times
Politico
Meet The Press
Obit Writing
One section of my hometown newspaper that I never fail to read is the obituaries. I don’t have some weird fascination with death and dying or anything, but I always read the obits to see if I recognize any of the names or faces. Sadly, I usually do.
I’ve worked at my small town’s pharmacy for four years. Because I’ve worked with my town’s senior citizens I usually recognize the faces of people who’ve died. Sometimes I’m not surprised because I know an individual had been battling cancer or some other terminal illness. Some times I know the people well but in most circumstances I learn a lot about a person’s life from reading their obit.
Another reason why I read the obituaries is because I do live in a SMALL town. Everyone seemingly knows everyone else. By knowing who’s passed away it helps me to serve my customers better. Sometimes I know relatives of the person who passed away and when they come in to by a sympathy card I can give them my condolences.
The sections of the reading that really stuck out to me were about bringing obituaries to life and crafting the lead. These stuck out to me because I know first hand how important it is to writing an interesting and poignant recount of someone’s life.
When a close friend of mine was killed in a car accident junior year it affected my whole community. As the editor of my high school newspaper, it was my responsibility to write an article about her life and – the most difficult part—her death.
That article was probably the most difficult one I’ve ever written. I felt like every word that I put down on the paper didn’t do justice to the amazing person she was. But, I knew that something had to be written, something that could lie to rest the rumors surrounding her death and provide solace to our grieving community.
I think the article that went to print was kind of a hybrid-obit. It didn’t just state the facts in about Hannah’s death, her memorial service, and her family. Instead, I was able to craft a piece that spoke to who Hannah was, how she impacted our school’s community, and how she was missed.
I think that’s the goal for all journalists: to write in a way that makes the reader feel like you really knew the person, even if you’ve never met.
I’ve worked at my small town’s pharmacy for four years. Because I’ve worked with my town’s senior citizens I usually recognize the faces of people who’ve died. Sometimes I’m not surprised because I know an individual had been battling cancer or some other terminal illness. Some times I know the people well but in most circumstances I learn a lot about a person’s life from reading their obit.
Another reason why I read the obituaries is because I do live in a SMALL town. Everyone seemingly knows everyone else. By knowing who’s passed away it helps me to serve my customers better. Sometimes I know relatives of the person who passed away and when they come in to by a sympathy card I can give them my condolences.
The sections of the reading that really stuck out to me were about bringing obituaries to life and crafting the lead. These stuck out to me because I know first hand how important it is to writing an interesting and poignant recount of someone’s life.
When a close friend of mine was killed in a car accident junior year it affected my whole community. As the editor of my high school newspaper, it was my responsibility to write an article about her life and – the most difficult part—her death.
That article was probably the most difficult one I’ve ever written. I felt like every word that I put down on the paper didn’t do justice to the amazing person she was. But, I knew that something had to be written, something that could lie to rest the rumors surrounding her death and provide solace to our grieving community.
I think the article that went to print was kind of a hybrid-obit. It didn’t just state the facts in about Hannah’s death, her memorial service, and her family. Instead, I was able to craft a piece that spoke to who Hannah was, how she impacted our school’s community, and how she was missed.
I think that’s the goal for all journalists: to write in a way that makes the reader feel like you really knew the person, even if you’ve never met.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
MoveOn Come On!
“General Petraeus or General Betray Us?”
This power-packed statement, used in a MoveOn.org advertisement in the New York Times, triggered more than just shock value. Presidential candidates were forced to take a stance on the article and one even answered the question.
The ad ran in the A section of the New York Times and immediately triggered political discussion. According to a Boston Globe article, presidential candidate hopeful Rudolph Giuliani chastised the New York Times for giving MoveOn.org special advertising rates in the newspaper.
As a republican presidential candidate, Giuliani chose to show his backing of Petraeus by purchasing his own ad spot. In the ad, Giuliani apparently praised Petraeus. While the Times denies the claim that they gave MoveOn.org special advertising rate—or would give any organization special rates based on politics—they would not release the sum paid for the ad.
It’s interesting the Giuliani didn’t use the ad solely in response to MoveOn.org but also to bash Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. The glorifies Giuliani and Petraeus while portraying Clinton as an anti-patriot.
Other presidential candidates are also affected by the MoveOn ad. Some Republicans have demanded that all nominees condemn the ad, which has yet to be done. Other reaction included a call to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to denounce the ad and informal discussion amongst key lawmakers.
Who knew one ad could cause so much trouble?
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2007/09/14/giuliani_slams_times_over_anti_petraeus_ad/
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/09/10/petraeus.moveon/index.html
This power-packed statement, used in a MoveOn.org advertisement in the New York Times, triggered more than just shock value. Presidential candidates were forced to take a stance on the article and one even answered the question.
The ad ran in the A section of the New York Times and immediately triggered political discussion. According to a Boston Globe article, presidential candidate hopeful Rudolph Giuliani chastised the New York Times for giving MoveOn.org special advertising rates in the newspaper.
As a republican presidential candidate, Giuliani chose to show his backing of Petraeus by purchasing his own ad spot. In the ad, Giuliani apparently praised Petraeus. While the Times denies the claim that they gave MoveOn.org special advertising rate—or would give any organization special rates based on politics—they would not release the sum paid for the ad.
It’s interesting the Giuliani didn’t use the ad solely in response to MoveOn.org but also to bash Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. The glorifies Giuliani and Petraeus while portraying Clinton as an anti-patriot.
Other presidential candidates are also affected by the MoveOn ad. Some Republicans have demanded that all nominees condemn the ad, which has yet to be done. Other reaction included a call to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to denounce the ad and informal discussion amongst key lawmakers.
Who knew one ad could cause so much trouble?
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2007/09/14/giuliani_slams_times_over_anti_petraeus_ad/
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/09/10/petraeus.moveon/index.html
Quotes: Friend and Foe
Quotes are one of the key components that set journalism aside from other types of writing. When a reporter actually goes out and interviews to get great quotes he or she is really setting the article apart from other types of writing. However, getting ‘good’ quotes and then choosing which ones to use adds another level of difficulty to journalistic writing…and that’s not even mentioning proper attribution.
I’m probably the chronic “over-quoter.” I usually throw too many quotes in a story just because I have them. It’s really hard for me to paraphrase because I’m afraid of spinning the quote or altering its intended meaning. I also like the security of just writing what the interviewee said word for word because then I have my tape-recorder on my side if anyone ever questions the validity of the quote. Yet, keeping up with only a pen and paper is really trick and-- in that case—I usually come away with a lot more background info in the form of short hand than complete-sentence quotes.
I think that correcting quotes is really tricky. For instance, grammatical inaccuracies may add flavor to a story, but someone may also find them insulting. It’s also hard to determine when you should alter one quote and not alter another because of someone’s professional standards or expected speaking style. Altering quotes for any reason seems foreign to me. Removing obscenities and vulgarities makes the text look skeletal so I’d rather just let the quotes stand.
I found that the article about the importance of blogs was pretty interesting. It kind of stressed the importance of writing on the web and how even just a blog can influence the people who read it in profound ways. It’s kind of weird to think that people can write whatever they want on their blog with no ramifications if they write things that are untrue.
Also, the timeline article was kind of interesting because it spoke to how the internet can assist journalists in opening up new interactive opportunities. The web—with its unlimited space—can really engage the reader with new pictures and interactive opportunities. The only problem is the journalist would have to work closely with interactive designers or graphic artists unless he or she is trained in computer technologies.
The hard thing for me would be relying on the work of someone else to make my story into a package. I've always been the type to have a concrete idea in my head and then make it happen so having to work with another person would be a challenge.
I’m probably the chronic “over-quoter.” I usually throw too many quotes in a story just because I have them. It’s really hard for me to paraphrase because I’m afraid of spinning the quote or altering its intended meaning. I also like the security of just writing what the interviewee said word for word because then I have my tape-recorder on my side if anyone ever questions the validity of the quote. Yet, keeping up with only a pen and paper is really trick and-- in that case—I usually come away with a lot more background info in the form of short hand than complete-sentence quotes.
I think that correcting quotes is really tricky. For instance, grammatical inaccuracies may add flavor to a story, but someone may also find them insulting. It’s also hard to determine when you should alter one quote and not alter another because of someone’s professional standards or expected speaking style. Altering quotes for any reason seems foreign to me. Removing obscenities and vulgarities makes the text look skeletal so I’d rather just let the quotes stand.
I found that the article about the importance of blogs was pretty interesting. It kind of stressed the importance of writing on the web and how even just a blog can influence the people who read it in profound ways. It’s kind of weird to think that people can write whatever they want on their blog with no ramifications if they write things that are untrue.
Also, the timeline article was kind of interesting because it spoke to how the internet can assist journalists in opening up new interactive opportunities. The web—with its unlimited space—can really engage the reader with new pictures and interactive opportunities. The only problem is the journalist would have to work closely with interactive designers or graphic artists unless he or she is trained in computer technologies.
The hard thing for me would be relying on the work of someone else to make my story into a package. I've always been the type to have a concrete idea in my head and then make it happen so having to work with another person would be a challenge.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Elección
The Democratic presidential hopefuls joined in the first-ever debate broadcast in Spanish on Sunday. The leading candidates, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama accompanied former Senator John Edwards during the discussion and critique of the current administration’s immigration policy. The debate was broadcast on a Spanish language channel and each candidate was expected to speak in English even though two of the participants, Bill Richardson and Chris Dodd speak Spanish fluently.
The debate relied on a series of translations. Questions were asked in Spanish and then translated into English for the candidates to respond and then converted back into Spanish for the audience. Although it may have been difficult for the true persona of the candidates to be shown in this call-and-response pattern, it was an excellent gesture for them to engage with the Hispanic community in the best way they could.
I think this debate reflects a change in US society. It’s nice to see candidates trying to inform and acknowledge a segment of the population that is usually ignored. Some English-only activists oppose the debate but I feel it is absolutely ridiculous that the United States’ largest ethnic or race minority would be ignored during the presidential race. This debate may also usher in some of the change needed for stability and reduced conflict on the immigration debate.
I find it very interesting that Obama discussed the letter Martin Luther King Jr. sent to César Chávez stating that said, “Our separate struggles are one.” Either Obama had a very poignant recollection of history or a really good person in PR. This statement was able to connect the audience Obama was speaking to at the time with another key demographic he hopes to reach during his run.
All in all, I think the debate is a clever way to start out the Democrats to start out the run for the White House. If immigration is a main platform issue then why not address those affected most by the outcomes of future decisions? But of course there's plenty of time for bureaucracy to get in the way of that.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5gwLF-CrjIgLcd9iy0ezpo6FPlUwQ
http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/09/10/america/dems.php
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/09/AR2007090902033.html?sub=new
The debate relied on a series of translations. Questions were asked in Spanish and then translated into English for the candidates to respond and then converted back into Spanish for the audience. Although it may have been difficult for the true persona of the candidates to be shown in this call-and-response pattern, it was an excellent gesture for them to engage with the Hispanic community in the best way they could.
I think this debate reflects a change in US society. It’s nice to see candidates trying to inform and acknowledge a segment of the population that is usually ignored. Some English-only activists oppose the debate but I feel it is absolutely ridiculous that the United States’ largest ethnic or race minority would be ignored during the presidential race. This debate may also usher in some of the change needed for stability and reduced conflict on the immigration debate.
I find it very interesting that Obama discussed the letter Martin Luther King Jr. sent to César Chávez stating that said, “Our separate struggles are one.” Either Obama had a very poignant recollection of history or a really good person in PR. This statement was able to connect the audience Obama was speaking to at the time with another key demographic he hopes to reach during his run.
All in all, I think the debate is a clever way to start out the Democrats to start out the run for the White House. If immigration is a main platform issue then why not address those affected most by the outcomes of future decisions? But of course there's plenty of time for bureaucracy to get in the way of that.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5gwLF-CrjIgLcd9iy0ezpo6FPlUwQ
http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/09/10/america/dems.php
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/09/AR2007090902033.html?sub=new
The beginning: what a very nice place to start
As I read through chapters one, two, and three in News Reporting and Writing I had this strange feeling of déjà vu. As I turned each page the information seemed like something that I’d read through before. It dawned on me: I read this almost a year ago at the beginning of Intro. to Journalism. Yes, I had read this before, but for some reason it seemed kind of liberating to have the straight facts of journalism handed to me. And what could be more journalistic than delivering the un-altered facts to a half-attentive audience?
Anyway, as I was reading along I came across the criteria for news: relevance, usefulness, and interest. These three terms would seem self-explanatory but I think they almost make the selection of news more difficult. At least it seems to me that news is something you just feel. It’s in your gut that you’ve been let in on a morsel of information that should be shared. And well, most people aren’t about to go around peddling some half-baked cookies or moldy bread. As a journalist I take pride in knowing that I’ve gotten the whole story in a timely manner and it’s been fully developed and is going to sustain the audience’s need for the nourishment of information.
Okay, analogies aside, another thing that stuck out to me was the book’s description of accuracy and fairness. I really liked Bob Woodward’s definition of truth. “The best obtainable version of the truth” seems like a poignant way to address daily trials that journalist face while attempting to ‘get the whole story.’ I think truth is a goal that journalist work towards but perfection isn’t always achievable.
Chapter two seemed like “everything you can do in journalism- 101”. The writers’ efforts—though commendable—did little to put my career stability fears at rest. Maybe this anxiety stems from my internal struggle with what type of journalism I want to go into after school. I couldn’t help but wonder as I was reading along how in the world my four years of training here at Ithaca College can possibly prepare me for the ever-changing, ever-conglomerating media 10 years from now. Maybe I’ll just choose a media based on my affection for procrastination and go into the magazine business though daily newspapers or broadcast news would certainly put a halt to my destructive behavior.
Online news scares me. It’s one thing to know that thousands of people will be reading your words or seeing your video but millions…even billions? That’s just crazy. It’s also quite amazing and honoring. Few other professions can say that they reach millions on a daily basis. Whoa.
A smidge about interviewing: Be a nice, be poised, be confident, and be attentive. I’ve never really had a problem interviewing strangers because I’ve always been able to connect with those I’ve needed to interview. Also, I tend to be an inquisitive person so questions tend to pop into my head because the interview triggers other issues I’d like addressed.
Finally, the punctuation guide was a nice refresher course on some of the particulars of grammar and sentence formatting. I love punctuation. Basically I’m drawn to it because it’s one of the only ways to add the depth of voice to writing. My main dilemma is keeping “hyphen” and “dash” straight but it’ll come with practice I’m sure.
Anyway, as I was reading along I came across the criteria for news: relevance, usefulness, and interest. These three terms would seem self-explanatory but I think they almost make the selection of news more difficult. At least it seems to me that news is something you just feel. It’s in your gut that you’ve been let in on a morsel of information that should be shared. And well, most people aren’t about to go around peddling some half-baked cookies or moldy bread. As a journalist I take pride in knowing that I’ve gotten the whole story in a timely manner and it’s been fully developed and is going to sustain the audience’s need for the nourishment of information.
Okay, analogies aside, another thing that stuck out to me was the book’s description of accuracy and fairness. I really liked Bob Woodward’s definition of truth. “The best obtainable version of the truth” seems like a poignant way to address daily trials that journalist face while attempting to ‘get the whole story.’ I think truth is a goal that journalist work towards but perfection isn’t always achievable.
Chapter two seemed like “everything you can do in journalism- 101”. The writers’ efforts—though commendable—did little to put my career stability fears at rest. Maybe this anxiety stems from my internal struggle with what type of journalism I want to go into after school. I couldn’t help but wonder as I was reading along how in the world my four years of training here at Ithaca College can possibly prepare me for the ever-changing, ever-conglomerating media 10 years from now. Maybe I’ll just choose a media based on my affection for procrastination and go into the magazine business though daily newspapers or broadcast news would certainly put a halt to my destructive behavior.
Online news scares me. It’s one thing to know that thousands of people will be reading your words or seeing your video but millions…even billions? That’s just crazy. It’s also quite amazing and honoring. Few other professions can say that they reach millions on a daily basis. Whoa.
A smidge about interviewing: Be a nice, be poised, be confident, and be attentive. I’ve never really had a problem interviewing strangers because I’ve always been able to connect with those I’ve needed to interview. Also, I tend to be an inquisitive person so questions tend to pop into my head because the interview triggers other issues I’d like addressed.
Finally, the punctuation guide was a nice refresher course on some of the particulars of grammar and sentence formatting. I love punctuation. Basically I’m drawn to it because it’s one of the only ways to add the depth of voice to writing. My main dilemma is keeping “hyphen” and “dash” straight but it’ll come with practice I’m sure.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
The Inverted Pyramic and Writing to Be Read
Journalists today face the constant challenge of grabbing and holding the reader's interest. The speed of technology -- and the invention of new technologies altogether -- is shaping the way journalists are expected to report. The inverted pyramid isn't about to change because it already delivers the most important information to the readers right away. Yet, as "The State of the News Media 2007" explains, where the article is placed, what photos, links, multi-media presentations and other ways to grab the reader accompany the article are always adapting.
The inverted pyramid is basically the template that most journalists use to structure their news stories. I understand its merit considering that the style offers readers the most important information in the shortest amount of time, however it seems that more literary pieces sometimes engage the reader more. Chapter eight outlined some of the key ways to make writing for the audience more interesting including concrete examples, literary techniques, and sensory appeal. While these techniques may spice up the average inverted pyramid story I still maintain that the inverted pyramid takes a lot of effort to really turn a dry-summary into an engaging work of writing.
http://www.stateofthemedia.org/2007/narrative_digital_intro.asp?cat=1&media=2
The inverted pyramid is basically the template that most journalists use to structure their news stories. I understand its merit considering that the style offers readers the most important information in the shortest amount of time, however it seems that more literary pieces sometimes engage the reader more. Chapter eight outlined some of the key ways to make writing for the audience more interesting including concrete examples, literary techniques, and sensory appeal. While these techniques may spice up the average inverted pyramid story I still maintain that the inverted pyramid takes a lot of effort to really turn a dry-summary into an engaging work of writing.
http://www.stateofthemedia.org/2007/narrative_digital_intro.asp?cat=1&media=2
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Oprah and Obama
Fellow Chicagonas, Oprah Winfrey and Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), are getting ready to throw one hell of a fundraiser. The media-mogul is lending a helping hand to her choice for the democratic nomonee by throwing a fundraiser at her Montecito, Calif. estate Saturday. While this is Winfrey's first political endorsement, the publicity generated from the event and potential appearances on her show is sure to help Obama's presidential run.
Winfrey maintains that she usually tries to stay out of the political relm but is lending a hand to Obama and will deny other canidates air time on her show but Obama's opponent Hillary Clinton is already scheduled to make an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres show. It seems national television air time is a part of the 2008 campaign trail.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20546344/site/newsweek/
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2007/09/05/post_59.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/04/AR2007090402188.html?hpid=topnews
Winfrey maintains that she usually tries to stay out of the political relm but is lending a hand to Obama and will deny other canidates air time on her show but Obama's opponent Hillary Clinton is already scheduled to make an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres show. It seems national television air time is a part of the 2008 campaign trail.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20546344/site/newsweek/
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2007/09/05/post_59.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/04/AR2007090402188.html?hpid=topnews
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