All it took was a quick internet search to find some appalling, unbelievable and hilarious mistakes printed in newspapers, magazines and websites this past year. Here are some of my favorites.
Poynter listed some of the worst errors of 2012
-Vogue Magazine apologized for calling Deputy Asst. Secretary of State Dan Baer an interior designer.
- The Wall Street Journal needed to correct a quote from Michael Cerveris about his performance in the musical “The Who’s Tommy.” Cerveris said, “I couldn’t sing it all when I got the
job.” The article
incorrectly quoted him as saying, “I couldn’t sing at all when I got the
job.”
-The Daily Beast accidentally spoke of famed Washington Post editor "Bill Bradlee's" new book. (Ben Bradlee, perhaps?)
And some more listed by The Atlantic Wire
-A Romney campaign ad misspells America as "Amercia"
-An AP article, speaking of the scandal regarding General Petraeus, spoke of "Florida socialist Jill Kelley"
- The Los Angeles Times adds an extra 't' to create this winner of a sentence: "Butt cracks eventually appeared in Lamb's persona."
While these incorrect facts and typos make us laugh, as a journalist this is fairly demoralizing. All it takes is one error and your reputation is shot for good. I didn't notice many trends in errors overall, but saw a few themes within specific organizations. For example, corrections for the New York Times were usually very detailed and specific deviations, as opposed to typos. The smaller print news papers had more grammatical errors, such as "corrections" being spelled wrong above the corrections column. This exercise reiterated for me the fact that very small mistakes make huge issues, many of which could have been avoided with a good copy edit. In all instances, the news organization did come forward and take responsibility of the errors. Some tweeted new links and some reprinted in following editions, but they all came forward.
Friday, April 26, 2013
An exercise in corrections
1. In the Boston Globe, all corrections appear on page A2 in "For the record." Corrections can be emailed or called in where they will then be reviewed. The Globe services FAQ section states that they will print corrections of wrong information, clarifications that give more/clearer information, omissions that were not included in the original article, amplifications of pertinent information accidentally not included, and editor's notes that include explanations.
2. Seacoast Media Group (SMG) which includes the Portsmouth Herald, York Weekly and Hampton Union, did not have a formal policy for corrections listed. On the SMG services website, there is a page where readers can submit correction information which SMG will then "confirm and post it immediately."
3. The Concord Monitor was perhaps the hardest to track down of the three organizations I looked at. I couldn't find a policy, guidelines or FAQ page anywhere on their site. There is no listing for what corrections are accepted and how they are reviewed, just a page to submit.
One thing I found very interesting while trying to find correction policies for news organizations is that very few have a formal policy for readers to look at. While the Boston Globe did have a thorough and formal policy, it wasn't easy to locate. Many organizations just had a submission page or email address of the person to contact with no explanation and no guidance. I have a major problem with this. First of all, if one person or even a small team of people are reading and approving corrections, they should have a written set of guidelines to follow so that the column in which corrections appear remains consistent. Also, if a policy is not available, readers have no basis on which to trust that an organization will follow through in investigating corrections and publishing them. The lack of transparency could come back to bit them. I think it is very important to have a formalized corrections policy readily available to readers. I also think it's wise to make it easy to find via the publication's website.
My correction policy stresses the importance of accuracy and guides the reader through each step of the corrections process so that there is no confusion. I also point out the differences regarding print and online, which is important to tell readers because the two function in very different ways. The correction policy for my news organization is as follows:
At the Ginwala News Corporation, we value the accuracy of our reporting and overall information and are committed to correcting errors in a timely manner. We request that you inform us of any errors by sending an email to corrections@ginwalacorp.com or by calling 603-867-5309. We will then verify and publish the correction. All corrections, clarifications and editor's notes will be printed in the Corrections Column on page 4. Online corrections will be added within the original article. A note informing the public of the correction will appear at the end of the article.
2. Seacoast Media Group (SMG) which includes the Portsmouth Herald, York Weekly and Hampton Union, did not have a formal policy for corrections listed. On the SMG services website, there is a page where readers can submit correction information which SMG will then "confirm and post it immediately."
3. The Concord Monitor was perhaps the hardest to track down of the three organizations I looked at. I couldn't find a policy, guidelines or FAQ page anywhere on their site. There is no listing for what corrections are accepted and how they are reviewed, just a page to submit.
One thing I found very interesting while trying to find correction policies for news organizations is that very few have a formal policy for readers to look at. While the Boston Globe did have a thorough and formal policy, it wasn't easy to locate. Many organizations just had a submission page or email address of the person to contact with no explanation and no guidance. I have a major problem with this. First of all, if one person or even a small team of people are reading and approving corrections, they should have a written set of guidelines to follow so that the column in which corrections appear remains consistent. Also, if a policy is not available, readers have no basis on which to trust that an organization will follow through in investigating corrections and publishing them. The lack of transparency could come back to bit them. I think it is very important to have a formalized corrections policy readily available to readers. I also think it's wise to make it easy to find via the publication's website.
My correction policy stresses the importance of accuracy and guides the reader through each step of the corrections process so that there is no confusion. I also point out the differences regarding print and online, which is important to tell readers because the two function in very different ways. The correction policy for my news organization is as follows:
At the Ginwala News Corporation, we value the accuracy of our reporting and overall information and are committed to correcting errors in a timely manner. We request that you inform us of any errors by sending an email to corrections@ginwalacorp.com or by calling 603-867-5309. We will then verify and publish the correction. All corrections, clarifications and editor's notes will be printed in the Corrections Column on page 4. Online corrections will be added within the original article. A note informing the public of the correction will appear at the end of the article.
Editor's Credo (Resprise)
At the beginning of the semester, I analyzed myself as an editor, a journalist and an individual in order to write my personal credo. This is what I wrote:
"I will...
Be confident in my abilities. Approach every task with humility. Be compassionate and patient toward those around me; earn their trust. Take responsibility for my actions and give myself credit where credit is due. Always remain strong in my ethical, moral, personal and professional standards no matter the circumstance."
After reflecting on my semester of learning the ins and outs of being an editor, I've decided that my credo has remained the same. When I wrote it initially, I tried to combine weaknesses and strengths I see in myself and apply them to being an editor. While I've learned a lot about the techniques and concept and functions of editing, I've remained the same person, which is why my original credo still applies. I'll break it down a bit more.
"Be confident in my abilities. Approach every task with humility." I think this applies to any individual in a professional setting. Sometimes I worry about my ability and knowledge to get things done, which is why I started my credo with confidence. I'll never get anywhere if I don't believe in myself. On the flip side, being an editor puts in in a position of power so humility when dealing with my work and the work of others is crucial.
"Be compassionate and patient toward those around me; earn their trust." Here is a fundamental aspect to being an editor. If I ever expect to be competent and do my job well, I have to support and be supported by my coworkers. Patience is a quality that I have always struggled with and therefore is essential for me to hone if I ever expect to coexist with reporters, especially as an editor.
"Take responsibility for my actions and give myself credit where credit is due." This applies a lot to our recent class discussion about errors. To err is human, even though it is expected of journalists to supersede this general truth. To be a good editor I'll have to take chances and make decision. Some of those with be an astounding success and others epic failures. Whichever way it ends up, I must take responsibility.
"Always remain strong in my ethical, moral, personal and professional standards no matter the circumstance." Finally, I must not waiver. In order to gain respect or credibility I have to stick to what I say and believe. That means that sometimes people may disagree with my standpoint. Oh well. Perhaps they can respect me for standing strong in the standards I have set for myself.
Overall, this has been an enlightening semester of editing that I have thoroughly enjoyed.
"I will...
Be confident in my abilities. Approach every task with humility. Be compassionate and patient toward those around me; earn their trust. Take responsibility for my actions and give myself credit where credit is due. Always remain strong in my ethical, moral, personal and professional standards no matter the circumstance."
After reflecting on my semester of learning the ins and outs of being an editor, I've decided that my credo has remained the same. When I wrote it initially, I tried to combine weaknesses and strengths I see in myself and apply them to being an editor. While I've learned a lot about the techniques and concept and functions of editing, I've remained the same person, which is why my original credo still applies. I'll break it down a bit more.
"Be confident in my abilities. Approach every task with humility." I think this applies to any individual in a professional setting. Sometimes I worry about my ability and knowledge to get things done, which is why I started my credo with confidence. I'll never get anywhere if I don't believe in myself. On the flip side, being an editor puts in in a position of power so humility when dealing with my work and the work of others is crucial.
"Be compassionate and patient toward those around me; earn their trust." Here is a fundamental aspect to being an editor. If I ever expect to be competent and do my job well, I have to support and be supported by my coworkers. Patience is a quality that I have always struggled with and therefore is essential for me to hone if I ever expect to coexist with reporters, especially as an editor.
"Take responsibility for my actions and give myself credit where credit is due." This applies a lot to our recent class discussion about errors. To err is human, even though it is expected of journalists to supersede this general truth. To be a good editor I'll have to take chances and make decision. Some of those with be an astounding success and others epic failures. Whichever way it ends up, I must take responsibility.
"Always remain strong in my ethical, moral, personal and professional standards no matter the circumstance." Finally, I must not waiver. In order to gain respect or credibility I have to stick to what I say and believe. That means that sometimes people may disagree with my standpoint. Oh well. Perhaps they can respect me for standing strong in the standards I have set for myself.
Overall, this has been an enlightening semester of editing that I have thoroughly enjoyed.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Newsroom Address- Boston Marathon Coverage
Yesterday afternoon just before 3pm, two explosives were detonated at the
finish line of the Boston Marathon. Immediately, news organizations rushed to
the scene in order to report to the public what happened. The Boston Globe
consistently posted new information as they received it and WCVB had a live
stream going on their website in addition to their TV channel for the remainder
of the day. The information of the first couple of hours came fast. The number
of fatalities and injuries were constantly updated, photos and video were sent
in from professionals and amateurs and witnesses and experts were interviewed.
Unfortunately, the face-paced nature of the rush of information led to mistakes. For example, the New York Post reported that twelve people were dead when there were in fact only two reported at the time. They also said that a Saudi Arabian man was IDed as a suspect when the Boston police said that they are following leads and investigating, but no one is yet a suspect. These examples show that while it is good to get information out as fast as you can, it can't be done at the expense of accuracy.
With this type of event, initial information is often released immediately, then halted and no more is given for a length of time. Once the government officials were on scene, it became tough to glean any new information. In order to stay on top of the story once information becomes sparse, reporters and photographers should be at every meeting and address (given by the mayor, governor, FBI agent etc.) that takes place to make sure information is kept fresh. This is also obviously a format that allows for questions. Instead of speculating and reporting what may be happening or what certain actions may entail, it would be best to look for outside stories to use until more information about specifics (number of bombs, victims, suspects) about the explosion are released.
One example would be to find any connections to our area and community. Family members or friends who ran or were at the marathon, those who witnessed the explosion on-scene etc. Also, talk to those who ran to give blood right after the explosion, residents who took in runners, ceremonies and vigils being held for the victims and maybe even personnel from the hospitals to hear (as much as they can release) about the nature of the injuries and what it's like to work in a circumstance such as this. This can help balance the harshness of the tragic event and be done while waiting for detail updates. I think it would also be interesting to speak to the race winners, Rita Jeptoo and Lelisa Desisa, and give them a chance to speak about their experience. Despite the awfulness, they both accomplished a great feat.
Unfortunately, the face-paced nature of the rush of information led to mistakes. For example, the New York Post reported that twelve people were dead when there were in fact only two reported at the time. They also said that a Saudi Arabian man was IDed as a suspect when the Boston police said that they are following leads and investigating, but no one is yet a suspect. These examples show that while it is good to get information out as fast as you can, it can't be done at the expense of accuracy.
With this type of event, initial information is often released immediately, then halted and no more is given for a length of time. Once the government officials were on scene, it became tough to glean any new information. In order to stay on top of the story once information becomes sparse, reporters and photographers should be at every meeting and address (given by the mayor, governor, FBI agent etc.) that takes place to make sure information is kept fresh. This is also obviously a format that allows for questions. Instead of speculating and reporting what may be happening or what certain actions may entail, it would be best to look for outside stories to use until more information about specifics (number of bombs, victims, suspects) about the explosion are released.
One example would be to find any connections to our area and community. Family members or friends who ran or were at the marathon, those who witnessed the explosion on-scene etc. Also, talk to those who ran to give blood right after the explosion, residents who took in runners, ceremonies and vigils being held for the victims and maybe even personnel from the hospitals to hear (as much as they can release) about the nature of the injuries and what it's like to work in a circumstance such as this. This can help balance the harshness of the tragic event and be done while waiting for detail updates. I think it would also be interesting to speak to the race winners, Rita Jeptoo and Lelisa Desisa, and give them a chance to speak about their experience. Despite the awfulness, they both accomplished a great feat.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
"Six Questions Behind the Question"
1. Is this a visual story?
I think this story definitely has the potential to be a visual story. Photos I would like to see accompany it are ones of people giving blood, the set up of the room (since the reporter describes it in the story), perhaps a sign/poster/flyer with "Red Cross" (since they are the ones doing the blood drive) and even a detail shot of a vile(s) of blood. Since this event spans over a week, I think another useful web graphic would be a small map showing the room where the event is happening. This would be useful for non-students/Durham residents/others who want to give blood to find their way around a building that often confuses people.
2. Is this a complex story?
I don't think this is a complex story. It's mostly informative, telling the basics about the blood drive while also letting readers know the event is still happening. The only thing in this story that would make sense to hyperlink would be to the Red Cross main website.
3. Is this a time-sensitive, developing, or deadline story?
This story is a simple deadline story. The event is taking place over a week so having a story early on to let people know what/when/where is happening is a good idea. I think an interesting way to involve readers would be to allow them to post blood-giving tips in a forum. Many who have never given blood are nervous their first time, so hearing from those who have successfully done it in the past would be encouraging and neat to read. Some examples that might pop up are what foods to eat before, ways to calm yourself if afraid of needles and how long you should take it easy after you give blood.
4. Could the reader have a role in this story?
Click me.
5. Is this story fun, or serious?
Since it's an informational story, I'd label it serious not fun. Other than reader tip and a map, I don't think other interactive tools would pair well with the story.
6. Does location matter?
Location does have a part in this story. The map I spoke of above could be useful for this story as well as having readers "check in" via Foursquare or Facebook. This let's people share about what they're doing and get the word out.
I think this story definitely has the potential to be a visual story. Photos I would like to see accompany it are ones of people giving blood, the set up of the room (since the reporter describes it in the story), perhaps a sign/poster/flyer with "Red Cross" (since they are the ones doing the blood drive) and even a detail shot of a vile(s) of blood. Since this event spans over a week, I think another useful web graphic would be a small map showing the room where the event is happening. This would be useful for non-students/Durham residents/others who want to give blood to find their way around a building that often confuses people.
2. Is this a complex story?
I don't think this is a complex story. It's mostly informative, telling the basics about the blood drive while also letting readers know the event is still happening. The only thing in this story that would make sense to hyperlink would be to the Red Cross main website.
3. Is this a time-sensitive, developing, or deadline story?
This story is a simple deadline story. The event is taking place over a week so having a story early on to let people know what/when/where is happening is a good idea. I think an interesting way to involve readers would be to allow them to post blood-giving tips in a forum. Many who have never given blood are nervous their first time, so hearing from those who have successfully done it in the past would be encouraging and neat to read. Some examples that might pop up are what foods to eat before, ways to calm yourself if afraid of needles and how long you should take it easy after you give blood.
4. Could the reader have a role in this story?
Click me.
5. Is this story fun, or serious?
Since it's an informational story, I'd label it serious not fun. Other than reader tip and a map, I don't think other interactive tools would pair well with the story.
6. Does location matter?
Location does have a part in this story. The map I spoke of above could be useful for this story as well as having readers "check in" via Foursquare or Facebook. This let's people share about what they're doing and get the word out.
A call for reader involvement
Are you a seasoned blood donor? If so, please share your wisdom and experiences! What's your routine before you give blood? How do you pass the time during the needle portion of the process? Anything funny happen to you while giving blood? We'd love to hear your stories.
Write-your-own-headlines exercise
For this exercise, I used my writing partner's latest 621 story. The story is about the Red Cross blood drive that happened on campus this past week. The first headline is for print (41 count) and the second for online (21.5 count, two decks).
Red Cross bi-annual blood drive at UNH
Blood drive
comes to UNH
Boston Globe Headline Comparison
April 7, 2013
"A quiet deal done in the Hub's last frontier"
"A quiet deal done on a prime Boston waterfront sight"
The difference in the print and online headline for today's top story is minimal. The print edition uses more specific language (Hub) while the online is more descriptive (prime Boston waterfront). I think this was done because those reading the print edition are most likely very away of what is happening on the waterfront, while online readers may not know specific place names. This allows the online version to become clear to more readers.
"OUI arrests now rare in Boston"
" Drunken-driving arrests becoming rare in Boston"
In this case, I like the online edition headline better. It's clear and simple and as a reader skimming the front page, I would quickly know what the article is about which would incline me to read it. Perhaps the difference of the print edition was done for the safe of space.
"One thing money can't buy: a break from nature's fury"
"What money can't buy: a break from nature's fury"
Here the print and online headlines are very similar. Since they're different only in the first few words, I imagine the change stems from spacial limits on the front page print edition. I like the use of the colon. Both work well for me.
"Walczak jumps into race for mayor"
"Bill Walczak jumps into race for Boston mayor"
Again, the print and online headlines are quite similar. Here is an instance similar to the first story where more specific language is used for the online edition that has a readership that extends outside of Boston.
"Now screening: professor vs. filmmaker"
"BU caught in middle as filmmaker, professor feud
This headline has the biggest difference in print vs. online. The print edition uses more creative language, a playing with words that tie in with the story. From the headline of the print edition, I've really no idea what the story is about. The online edition is more descriptive. Personally, I don't like either headline, but for the purpose of the story, I think the print edition that incorporates a bit of wordplay is better.
"A quiet deal done in the Hub's last frontier"
"A quiet deal done on a prime Boston waterfront sight"
The difference in the print and online headline for today's top story is minimal. The print edition uses more specific language (Hub) while the online is more descriptive (prime Boston waterfront). I think this was done because those reading the print edition are most likely very away of what is happening on the waterfront, while online readers may not know specific place names. This allows the online version to become clear to more readers.
"OUI arrests now rare in Boston"
" Drunken-driving arrests becoming rare in Boston"
In this case, I like the online edition headline better. It's clear and simple and as a reader skimming the front page, I would quickly know what the article is about which would incline me to read it. Perhaps the difference of the print edition was done for the safe of space.
"One thing money can't buy: a break from nature's fury"
"What money can't buy: a break from nature's fury"
Here the print and online headlines are very similar. Since they're different only in the first few words, I imagine the change stems from spacial limits on the front page print edition. I like the use of the colon. Both work well for me.
"Walczak jumps into race for mayor"
"Bill Walczak jumps into race for Boston mayor"
Again, the print and online headlines are quite similar. Here is an instance similar to the first story where more specific language is used for the online edition that has a readership that extends outside of Boston.
"Now screening: professor vs. filmmaker"
"BU caught in middle as filmmaker, professor feud
This headline has the biggest difference in print vs. online. The print edition uses more creative language, a playing with words that tie in with the story. From the headline of the print edition, I've really no idea what the story is about. The online edition is more descriptive. Personally, I don't like either headline, but for the purpose of the story, I think the print edition that incorporates a bit of wordplay is better.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
State of the News Media 2013
According to the Pew Research Center's State of the News Media 2013, "nearly one-third of respondents (31%) have deserted a news outlet
because it no longer provides the news and information they had grown
accustomed to." This may be a combination of newsroom cuts and the rise in technology used in journalism. An issue brought about by the Pew Research Center's study is are social media and technology the death of traditional news? While many news organization have embraced and utilized technology, where should the line be drawn? Are journalists simply becoming the mouth pieces of political figures and technology with no human research of their own? As much as we'd like to think that journalism is stepping into the digital world, moving forward and evolving, there are some considerations that must be made before technology is wholly relied upon.
Reading this reports as an editor, a couple of key things stuck out to me. The first is the information about the demographics most likely to leave a long trusted new organization. Of those leaving news outlets because of discontent more men than women, older readers than younger readers, and Republicans than Democrats are likely to be in that group. This catches my attention and as an editor because given these statistics, I'd look into who reads my publication most and try and see the holes in reporting that may be driving others away. This exercise wouldn't be to cater to a certain demographic in order to bring them back, but to analyze and see if something is being overlooked in coverage. A general finding in the report is that people seem to leave because of quality, not just quantity, of stories covered. Does this have a tie in to technology trumping humans in reporting, investigating and gathering facts? We shouldn't rely on technology to make and find our stories, but use it to disperse and inform.
The second key item that stuck out to me is advertising. Advertising in print is a completely different animal than online or on a mobile device. With online news gathering becoming increasingly popular, I do think editors should evaluate and incorporate web-based coverage in as many ways as they can. Paying for online subscriptions is a good start, but organizations need to try new techniques for advertising online and on mobile devices that is efficient for both businesses and the readers.
Though much of this report displayed a dismal outlook for newspapers and news as a whole, there is hope. Audiences are still turning to newspapers and TV programs the know and trust and continue to tell the news. According to the Pew Research Center's report, "strong brands with solid reputations still matter " so as long as news organization strive to protect that, there is still a bright future for journalism.
Friday, March 29, 2013
621 Second Meeting
Wednesday afternoon I met with my 621 reporter, Nick, for the second time. We talked for 30 minutes about journalism electives and major courses, 621 requirements and internship opportunities. Nick's most recent story came from a SAFC meeting that he covered for class. We talked a bit about the difficulties covering a meeting and how you need to write about an aspect of the meeting, not that the meeting happened.
Nick came with a few questions about the speech story, his last required story. I told him my experience covering President Huddleston's state of the university address the year before last and how a speech story can be treated similarly to meeting story. Both of them have broad information and must be narrowed to a specific focus.
Before our next meeting, Nick will send me his latest story so I can edit for grammar and content before we meet.
Nick came with a few questions about the speech story, his last required story. I told him my experience covering President Huddleston's state of the university address the year before last and how a speech story can be treated similarly to meeting story. Both of them have broad information and must be narrowed to a specific focus.
Before our next meeting, Nick will send me his latest story so I can edit for grammar and content before we meet.
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Photojournalism Exercise
In 2011, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. for a week with fellow aspiring journalists from around the country. Throughout the week we visited many museums and exhibits and heard lectures from professionals within our chosen field of journalism. One of my favorite trips was to the Newseum, a museum dedicated entirely to journalism and news. I saw a piece of the Berlin Wall and the front pages of newspapers from around the world. One exhibit that was particularly moving for me was the gallery of Pulitzer Prize winning photos.
I saw many great things in the Pulitzer Photo Gallery, but one photo has stuck strongly in my mind since the moment I first saw it. Stephanie Welsh's 1996 photo about female circumcision in Kenya is a brutally powerful photo. While the photo itself is neither graphic nor violent, it tells a story of trauma that to this day makes me uncomfortable when I look at it. The image is simply a Kenyan woman's hand holding a small razor immediately after the act of circumcision was performed. I think this photo is so intense because of its basic imagery. As a viewer, I don't need to see the full action to understand what just took place moments before this photo was taken. That immediacy paired with the image of the woman's clear, focused hand in front of a blurred background gives it power. I think I have such a strong reaction to this photo because as a woman, I can sympathize both emotionally and intimately with what it embodies. While the practice of female circumcision is foreign to me and my culture, I'm able to comprehend what these young women endure.
The combination of emotion and extreme intimacy in this photo make is such a strong image.
Another photo that caught my interest is Edward Adam's 1969 Saigon Execution Pulitzer Prize winner. This photo was taken when Adams, for the Associated Press, and an NBC News crew came upon a couple of South Vietnamese soldiers and their prisoner. Unlike Welsh's photo, Adam's leaves nothing to the imagination, capturing the death of a man the moment it happens. This image is harsh. In the moment of death, you see the expression of a man as a bullet is about to enter his head. Across from him is a South Vietnamese soldier whose expression shows a feeling of justice being acted out. Perhaps the most jarring aspect is the expression of the the man holding the pistol. His facial expression appears at ease and un-phased about the act he is just about to perform. Even though many people would be drawn first to the man about to die, I can't take my eyes off of the face of the shooter. Here we see a graphic appeal, emotional and intimate photo category representation. Various elements work together.
John Paul Filo's 1971 Pulitzer Prize winning photo of the Kent State Massacre is one that lives in American infamy. The raw emotion is what really draws me in. Obviously my eye first goes to the woman kneeling over her deceased friend laying in the street. Her face is so vivid, so full of hurt that it's hard to take my eyes off of her. Inspecting the photo a bit more closely, the passers-by strike me as very odd, but in a way that adds to the young woman's pain. A student has just died in the middle of a crowded street, yet people are not surrounding the victim or comforting the woman. Instead they are still milling about, glancing over as they continue on their way. Even the man whose arm is being grasped by the wailing woman seems aloof. The question this photo brings to mind is why aren't more people in distress? If I was in a populated area where people were just killed, I'd expect mayhem. The lack of commotion says a lot for the historical significance of the events. Elbert's categories of emotion and graphical appeal are at work here.
Overall, I find that many of the photos that impact me the strongest are black and white. I feel that emotion is better represented in black and white because the lack of color allows me to focus more intently without that added distraction. Greg Marinovich's 1991 Pulitzer Prize winning photo from South Africa however, is my exception. The photo is of two man from warring parties, the African National Congress and the Inkatha Freedom Party. One of the most graphic images I've seen, it shows the end of a brutal assault where one South African man burns another South African man of a different party. The photo subjects have plain surroundings, just rocks and dirt and tall grass. The man with the torch isn't wearing a shirt or shoes, just a pair of blue jeans. The man being burned wears a long sleeve shirt and khakis. Their clothing relays that these are not high government officials or political leaders, just men with strong opinions. Off to the bottom right of the image is a young boy, fleeing the violence. This is the type of photo that even if the man holding the torch and the young boy fleeing were cropped out, it would still hit the viewer hard. The bright color of the flames on the beaten man, squatting and helpless, drive the photo. This is an example of Elbert's category of graphical appeal.
To be perfectly honest, one of the main reasons this photo stuck out to me was because it's one of the first I've viewed that isn't of extreme suffering or tragedy. Nathaniel Fein's 1949 Pulitzer Prize winning photo of Babe Ruth at Yankee Stadium to retire his No. 3 jersey is somber and elegant. The image of Babe Ruth, old and ailing, standing before his adoring fans brings a feeling of sadness that comes at the end of something great. Babe is slightly hunched and perhaps using the baseball bat for support, but still manages to stand with pride. Fein's angle at which he took the photo is very effective. At a lower level than Babe, the photo captures a solitary and group moment all at once. On one hand, the crowd of Yankee Stadium is honoring Babe for his accomplishments and on the other, Babe is returning to a place that meant so much to him and helped make his career. It's the subtleties that make this photo stand out. I'd say Elbert's categories of information and emotion are seen here.
I saw many great things in the Pulitzer Photo Gallery, but one photo has stuck strongly in my mind since the moment I first saw it. Stephanie Welsh's 1996 photo about female circumcision in Kenya is a brutally powerful photo. While the photo itself is neither graphic nor violent, it tells a story of trauma that to this day makes me uncomfortable when I look at it. The image is simply a Kenyan woman's hand holding a small razor immediately after the act of circumcision was performed. I think this photo is so intense because of its basic imagery. As a viewer, I don't need to see the full action to understand what just took place moments before this photo was taken. That immediacy paired with the image of the woman's clear, focused hand in front of a blurred background gives it power. I think I have such a strong reaction to this photo because as a woman, I can sympathize both emotionally and intimately with what it embodies. While the practice of female circumcision is foreign to me and my culture, I'm able to comprehend what these young women endure.The combination of emotion and extreme intimacy in this photo make is such a strong image.
Another photo that caught my interest is Edward Adam's 1969 Saigon Execution Pulitzer Prize winner. This photo was taken when Adams, for the Associated Press, and an NBC News crew came upon a couple of South Vietnamese soldiers and their prisoner. Unlike Welsh's photo, Adam's leaves nothing to the imagination, capturing the death of a man the moment it happens. This image is harsh. In the moment of death, you see the expression of a man as a bullet is about to enter his head. Across from him is a South Vietnamese soldier whose expression shows a feeling of justice being acted out. Perhaps the most jarring aspect is the expression of the the man holding the pistol. His facial expression appears at ease and un-phased about the act he is just about to perform. Even though many people would be drawn first to the man about to die, I can't take my eyes off of the face of the shooter. Here we see a graphic appeal, emotional and intimate photo category representation. Various elements work together.
Overall, I find that many of the photos that impact me the strongest are black and white. I feel that emotion is better represented in black and white because the lack of color allows me to focus more intently without that added distraction. Greg Marinovich's 1991 Pulitzer Prize winning photo from South Africa however, is my exception. The photo is of two man from warring parties, the African National Congress and the Inkatha Freedom Party. One of the most graphic images I've seen, it shows the end of a brutal assault where one South African man burns another South African man of a different party. The photo subjects have plain surroundings, just rocks and dirt and tall grass. The man with the torch isn't wearing a shirt or shoes, just a pair of blue jeans. The man being burned wears a long sleeve shirt and khakis. Their clothing relays that these are not high government officials or political leaders, just men with strong opinions. Off to the bottom right of the image is a young boy, fleeing the violence. This is the type of photo that even if the man holding the torch and the young boy fleeing were cropped out, it would still hit the viewer hard. The bright color of the flames on the beaten man, squatting and helpless, drive the photo. This is an example of Elbert's category of graphical appeal.
To be perfectly honest, one of the main reasons this photo stuck out to me was because it's one of the first I've viewed that isn't of extreme suffering or tragedy. Nathaniel Fein's 1949 Pulitzer Prize winning photo of Babe Ruth at Yankee Stadium to retire his No. 3 jersey is somber and elegant. The image of Babe Ruth, old and ailing, standing before his adoring fans brings a feeling of sadness that comes at the end of something great. Babe is slightly hunched and perhaps using the baseball bat for support, but still manages to stand with pride. Fein's angle at which he took the photo is very effective. At a lower level than Babe, the photo captures a solitary and group moment all at once. On one hand, the crowd of Yankee Stadium is honoring Babe for his accomplishments and on the other, Babe is returning to a place that meant so much to him and helped make his career. It's the subtleties that make this photo stand out. I'd say Elbert's categories of information and emotion are seen here.Thursday, March 14, 2013
Sunday, March 3, 2013
621 Meet and Greet
A few days ago I met with my newswriting partner, Nick, for the first time. We met in the MUB for about 20 minutes getting to know each other by chatting about our interests, goals and previous journalistic endeavors. I could tell immediately that he was a dedicated student journalist and would be great to work with. Nick told me how he switched his major to journalism sophomore year and truly hit the ground running, getting a position as an editor for TNH. His area of interest is sports journalism and he's covered stories about many different UNH teams already. Unfortunately, his main interest is in baseball and he has little chance to pursue that while covering UNH sports. After reading his most recent story, I could tell that Nick already had a good handle on writing news stories. He told me he was the type of personal who seeks out more experience and more critique which is why he jumped at the chance to work with an editor.
Monday, February 25, 2013
Lead Writing Workshop 2/25/13
Lead with more oomph:
Despite the fact that freshman Isabelle Molle considers herself a klutz, swing dance welcomes her with open arms. Graduate student Ian Marshall doesn't have to have to have a perfect sense of rhythm to learn how to Lindy Hop.
"Any dance is a lot of fun, but with swing you don't have to pay attention to form or match the count. it's a loose dance that makes me more creative," said Ian Marshall.
UNH Hep Cats swing dancing club invites men and women of all skill levels to step outside of their comfort zone, let loose, and dance their way back to the 1920s.
"It's a challenge that forces you out of your comfort zone, but also it's fun to be in a new environment," said Hep Cats President Kaitlyn LaCourse.
The Hep Cats increase appreciation for the past by uses dance styles popular during the "swing era" from the 1920s to 1950s. The best known swing dance is the Lindy Hop, a popular partner dance.
"Basically picture the prom scene from the movie Grease," LaCourse said.
Summary lead:
The Hep Cats, the University of New Hampshire's swing dancing club, invites students to step outside of their comfort zone and time travel back to the 1920s for a night of Lindy Hop.
The club challenges students to get out of the comfort zone, to learn about cultures past and meet new people on the dance floor, according to Hep Cats President Kaitlyn LaCourse.
"This evening is going to be something for everyone to try, you can come in a couples..."
The Swing Your Sweetheart dance, the first of two Hep Cats dances this semester, will be on Friday, February 15 from 7-11p.m. in the red-and-white clad Strafford room.
Despite the fact that freshman Isabelle Molle considers herself a klutz, swing dance welcomes her with open arms. Graduate student Ian Marshall doesn't have to have to have a perfect sense of rhythm to learn how to Lindy Hop.
"Any dance is a lot of fun, but with swing you don't have to pay attention to form or match the count. it's a loose dance that makes me more creative," said Ian Marshall.
UNH Hep Cats swing dancing club invites men and women of all skill levels to step outside of their comfort zone, let loose, and dance their way back to the 1920s.
"It's a challenge that forces you out of your comfort zone, but also it's fun to be in a new environment," said Hep Cats President Kaitlyn LaCourse.
The Hep Cats increase appreciation for the past by uses dance styles popular during the "swing era" from the 1920s to 1950s. The best known swing dance is the Lindy Hop, a popular partner dance.
"Basically picture the prom scene from the movie Grease," LaCourse said.
Summary lead:
The Hep Cats, the University of New Hampshire's swing dancing club, invites students to step outside of their comfort zone and time travel back to the 1920s for a night of Lindy Hop.
The club challenges students to get out of the comfort zone, to learn about cultures past and meet new people on the dance floor, according to Hep Cats President Kaitlyn LaCourse.
"This evening is going to be something for everyone to try, you can come in a couples..."
The Swing Your Sweetheart dance, the first of two Hep Cats dances this semester, will be on Friday, February 15 from 7-11p.m. in the red-and-white clad Strafford room.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Parsing Leads
I chose to look at three articles from Boston-area news organizations about former Chelsea Housing Authority chief Michael McLaughlin. The articles cover McLaughlin's court case as he is expected to plead guilty to the falsification of documents
that hid his inflated salary from officials from 2008 to 2001. The three articles I looked at are from the Boston Herald, the Boston Globe's Boston.com and the Lowell Sun.
Since this is a hard news story, each article had a summary news lead. I think this was the best and most effective option because it introduces the reader right away to the gravity of the story and also makes it easier to understand the legal component. While each organization used the same lead style, there are variations that separate them.
Sarah Favot from the Lowell Sun said,
"Former Chelsea Housing Authority executive director and Dracut resident Michael McLaughlin has agreed to plead guilty to federal charges of falsifying documents hiding his inflated salary from state and federal officials, according to an agreement filed in federal court Friday."
Favot does a good job highlighted the main point of the story and emphasizing the local impact (the Lowell Sun covers Dracut), but this lead is a bit wordy. It it a long sentence packed with details that makes me feel that if I were reading it out loud, I'd want to do it on one fluid motion, but would run out of breath before I got to the end.
The Globe staff report from Andrea Estes, Sean Murphy and Martin Finucane said,
"Former Chelsea Housing Authority chief Michael E. McLaughlin has agreed to plead guilty to four federal charges of deliberately concealing his huge salary from state and federal regulators from 2008 until he resigned in 2011, according to an agreement filed in federal court today."
I like this lead because it puts the issue into simple and concise terminology, making it very easy to quickly understand what the article is about. The tone is more conversational than Favot's and also uses stronger wording such as "deliberately concealing" and "huge salary." This lead makes me feel like the reporter(s) are talking to me, not at me.
Finally, Chris Cassidy from the Boston Herald said,
"Disgraced former Chelsea Housing Authority director Michael McLaughlin pleaded guilty today to charges he hid his inflated salary from 2008 to 2011 in a plea deal with federal prosecutors."
This lead it a bit different since the report came after the decision was made, but still shows the same lead style. I really like the simplicity of this lead, basically keeping it to the bare bones of the issue. Colorful language is used immediately with the word "disgraced" and continues in a short sentence effectively summing up the issue. One issue I have is the wording "...pleaded guilty to charges he hid..." This sounds awkward. I would change it to "...pleaded guilty today to charges that he hid..."
It was interesting to put these three leads next to each other and see what works and what doesn't and also what styles and techniques I prefer. After looking at them, I think simplicity in the lead is most important for a story of this nature. The story is about a public official that did something wrong, so naturally the headline alone is going to spark interest from readers. Because of this, laying out the gist of the story right away, then delving deeper into the details, seems most effective to me.
Since this is a hard news story, each article had a summary news lead. I think this was the best and most effective option because it introduces the reader right away to the gravity of the story and also makes it easier to understand the legal component. While each organization used the same lead style, there are variations that separate them.
Sarah Favot from the Lowell Sun said,
"Former Chelsea Housing Authority executive director and Dracut resident Michael McLaughlin has agreed to plead guilty to federal charges of falsifying documents hiding his inflated salary from state and federal officials, according to an agreement filed in federal court Friday."
Favot does a good job highlighted the main point of the story and emphasizing the local impact (the Lowell Sun covers Dracut), but this lead is a bit wordy. It it a long sentence packed with details that makes me feel that if I were reading it out loud, I'd want to do it on one fluid motion, but would run out of breath before I got to the end.
The Globe staff report from Andrea Estes, Sean Murphy and Martin Finucane said,
"Former Chelsea Housing Authority chief Michael E. McLaughlin has agreed to plead guilty to four federal charges of deliberately concealing his huge salary from state and federal regulators from 2008 until he resigned in 2011, according to an agreement filed in federal court today."
I like this lead because it puts the issue into simple and concise terminology, making it very easy to quickly understand what the article is about. The tone is more conversational than Favot's and also uses stronger wording such as "deliberately concealing" and "huge salary." This lead makes me feel like the reporter(s) are talking to me, not at me.
Finally, Chris Cassidy from the Boston Herald said,
"Disgraced former Chelsea Housing Authority director Michael McLaughlin pleaded guilty today to charges he hid his inflated salary from 2008 to 2011 in a plea deal with federal prosecutors."
This lead it a bit different since the report came after the decision was made, but still shows the same lead style. I really like the simplicity of this lead, basically keeping it to the bare bones of the issue. Colorful language is used immediately with the word "disgraced" and continues in a short sentence effectively summing up the issue. One issue I have is the wording "...pleaded guilty to charges he hid..." This sounds awkward. I would change it to "...pleaded guilty today to charges that he hid..."
It was interesting to put these three leads next to each other and see what works and what doesn't and also what styles and techniques I prefer. After looking at them, I think simplicity in the lead is most important for a story of this nature. The story is about a public official that did something wrong, so naturally the headline alone is going to spark interest from readers. Because of this, laying out the gist of the story right away, then delving deeper into the details, seems most effective to me.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Thoughts on the Text
This week's reading focused heavily on clear and concise writing. As an editor, it is my job to make sure the integrity of the story remains intact while also keeping the writing tight.
I've always been that kid in the class who loves grammar, which naturally gave me an interest in copy editing. Years of editing research papers and creative writing pieces for friends gave me a hint as to what was to come in Editing 711. Despite my love of grammar minutia, I was really excited to dive into content editing. Taking a grammatically correct sentence and trying to make it even better is something that I haven't had much practice with.
One section of the text that stuck out to me was the importance of keeping the writer's voice present throughout the editing process. As an editor, I'll have to make judgement calls all of the time about what details are important and how to say the same thing in ten words instead of twenty-five.
My initial thought about content editing was to do what needed to be done. If the sentence doesn't make sense, rewrite it. Too many cliches? Delete them. Paragraph too long? Rearrange and chop it. I've never really stopped to think about the necessity of making sure the piece is still written by the reporter, not me the editor.
The example in the book about the reporter to editor ratio in a newsroom helped me understand even better. There are many more reporters than editors and if each editor rewrites according to his or her style, not the reporter's style, the publication will lack in variety and ultimately interest. It will be a challenge for me to edit with another style in mind, but I'm anxious to learn how I strike the proper balance.
I've always been that kid in the class who loves grammar, which naturally gave me an interest in copy editing. Years of editing research papers and creative writing pieces for friends gave me a hint as to what was to come in Editing 711. Despite my love of grammar minutia, I was really excited to dive into content editing. Taking a grammatically correct sentence and trying to make it even better is something that I haven't had much practice with.
One section of the text that stuck out to me was the importance of keeping the writer's voice present throughout the editing process. As an editor, I'll have to make judgement calls all of the time about what details are important and how to say the same thing in ten words instead of twenty-five.
My initial thought about content editing was to do what needed to be done. If the sentence doesn't make sense, rewrite it. Too many cliches? Delete them. Paragraph too long? Rearrange and chop it. I've never really stopped to think about the necessity of making sure the piece is still written by the reporter, not me the editor.
The example in the book about the reporter to editor ratio in a newsroom helped me understand even better. There are many more reporters than editors and if each editor rewrites according to his or her style, not the reporter's style, the publication will lack in variety and ultimately interest. It will be a challenge for me to edit with another style in mind, but I'm anxious to learn how I strike the proper balance.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
"Google Boss Schmidt labels China an 'IT menace'"
In a recent BBC article, Google Chairman Eric Schmidt speaks about his new book, The New Digital Age, in which he calls China "the world's most active and enthusiastic filterer of information." This section in the book continues that, "the Chinese government manipulates the internet for political and economic gain."
After spending four months in China, articles relating to the Chinese government and the internet jump out at me. In the past month, Chinese citizens have been protesting in Beijing, demanding more internet freedom. Being a one-party system, the Chinese government has the ability to quell the protests quickly and block citizens in other provinces from ever knowing what happened. It does not, however, have the power to keep the rest of the world from finding out.
The BBC article continues by referencing the recent hacking attacks of China coverage against both the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. China's foreign ministry denies the accusations completely, but this does little to dissuade many from linking China to the hacking attacks.
For a government that tries so hard to to keep a consistent and controlled outward image, it's not hard to imagine that the Chinese government would attempt to alter the way which the world perceives it. One question that this article brings to my mind is how far the Chinese government is willing to go to keep up desired appearances? Perhaps it stems from centuries of seclusion or just national pride, but China's need to display ideal life is strong and growing.
BBC article
Sunday, February 3, 2013
A Rant On Poor Grammar
I'm the kind of person who corrects others' grammar in casual conversation. For example, if my friend Sara said, "There's so many people in Hoco right now!" I couldn't help but respond, "There ARE so many people in Hoco right now." Even if I'm walking behind someone who says "No mom, don't worry, all of my classes are going really good so far," I can't help but mutter to myself, "Yes mom, my classes are also going really well."
Society as a whole has slipped into the habit of using poor grammar. Driving down any street in America, one is assaulted by punctuation and spelling errors.
"Were now open late!"
"NEW bluebrry muffins, your going to love it!"
The purpose of these signs is to advertise to the public what is being offered, but the message becomes completely lost because of the blazing error.
I understand that the employees of Dunkin Donuts and Burger King have more pressing matters to deal with than editing the sandwich board, but would it be too difficult to check an apostrophe or ask a coworker about proper spelling?
I suspect that lack of interest in grammar has a lot to do with the fast-paced mindset of our generation, brought about via TV, internet and mobile devices. Not many people take the time to write out the word "to" anymore, let alone use a comma and period in the correct place. Everything is focused on taking the next step, moving faster and never looking back.
I understand that I am in the minority, being a person who enjoys editing and studying grammar, but I wish that an emphasis could again be placed on taking a moment to double check before rushing on to the next item at hand.
I've tried to take a stand in my own life and write texts and emails in the same manner I would a paper for class. Casual speech can still be grammatically correct. Besides, it really doesn't take that much extra time to capitalize "I" or spell out the word "probably."
Society as a whole has slipped into the habit of using poor grammar. Driving down any street in America, one is assaulted by punctuation and spelling errors.
"Were now open late!"
"NEW bluebrry muffins, your going to love it!"
The purpose of these signs is to advertise to the public what is being offered, but the message becomes completely lost because of the blazing error.
I understand that the employees of Dunkin Donuts and Burger King have more pressing matters to deal with than editing the sandwich board, but would it be too difficult to check an apostrophe or ask a coworker about proper spelling?
I suspect that lack of interest in grammar has a lot to do with the fast-paced mindset of our generation, brought about via TV, internet and mobile devices. Not many people take the time to write out the word "to" anymore, let alone use a comma and period in the correct place. Everything is focused on taking the next step, moving faster and never looking back.
I understand that I am in the minority, being a person who enjoys editing and studying grammar, but I wish that an emphasis could again be placed on taking a moment to double check before rushing on to the next item at hand.
I've tried to take a stand in my own life and write texts and emails in the same manner I would a paper for class. Casual speech can still be grammatically correct. Besides, it really doesn't take that much extra time to capitalize "I" or spell out the word "probably."
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Editor's Credo
I will...
Be confident in my abilities. Approach every task with humility. Be compassionate and patient toward those around me; earn their trust. Take responsibility for my actions and give myself credit where credit is due. Always remain strong in my ethical, moral, personal and professional standards no matter the circumstance.
Be confident in my abilities. Approach every task with humility. Be compassionate and patient toward those around me; earn their trust. Take responsibility for my actions and give myself credit where credit is due. Always remain strong in my ethical, moral, personal and professional standards no matter the circumstance.
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