This week's activities in journalism:
Having been cleared almost two weeks ago, I gave myself a much deserved break. I had some other tests and assignments I had been neglecting due to my journalistic responsibilities, and had to catch up.
Tomorrow I have an edit test out at KOMU and clearing that will be the last stop before I start doing some reporting shifts out at the station. I plan on starting my reporting after Spring Break, and having four weeks to do five shifts should not be too much of a problem.
I had to register for Broadcast 3 in the fall of next year, and I requested to either cover Wednesday's nightside or Monday's nightside for my reporting shift each week. Those shifts work with my class schedule for the fall semester, and hopefully news on those days will be plentiful.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
60 Minutes: N.Y.'s Archbishop Timothy Dolan
Courtesy of: Archdiocese of New York
In the past decade, the Catholic Church in America has encountered its fair share of problems; with same-sex marriage rising, falling numbers in those entering the priesthood, and sexual abuse scandals, many in the church are losing faith.
Insert New York's Archbishop Timothy Dolan. The charismatic, overweight, staunch conservative is the leader of the biggest Catholic market in the U.S., New York. He resides over 2.2 million Catholics and is trying to change things for the church.
While the story is a good one, religion isn't something I'm particularly fond of talking about. It's a subject that pins people against each other, building barriers and creating tension. But, this story is just another fine example of feature journalism by 60 Minutes.
This story does a couple of great things that have become characteristics of great reporting by CBS' best news show: First, great natural sounds. To prove that someone is charismatic, don't you have to hear that they are just that? Seeing interaction between Dolan and his followers is exactly what you need to prove the true personality behind this mind. To see the relationships he has built with politicians, churchgoers, celebrities, and other high-ranking officials in the church is exactly what the story needed to prove his charm. Next, the overhead shots, as well as the low angled shots provide quality b-roll that helps show the devout nature with which he preaches. Finally, I think that Morley Safer asked some tough questions, and Dolan didn't shy away from them. A lot of people in Dolan's position may beat around the bush when it comes to questions about sex scandals in the church, but by Safer asking them in insightful and respectful ways, the viewers get to hear what Dolan has to say about a very serious issue.
I did have one problem with the story, and this may just be personal preference, but I had a problem listening to Morley Safer throughout the entire piece. His voice at an older age can be tough to listen to in some spots and became, at times, distracting to me. He is obviously a great journalist; no one is debating that. I just thought his voicing could have been better used to keep the focus on the story and not on himself. Maybe by adding more soundbites or staying away from similar sounds back-to-back, Safer could have had a better effect with his voice.
To see this story, check out: 60 Minutes Online
Loyalty in College Sports
Oh Mike, say it ain't so.
Mike Anderson has officially left the University of Missouri's basketball program to become the head coach at the University of Arkansas. Less than a week ago Anderson was quoted as saying, "I've always stated I'm a Missouri Tiger. I'm excited about what is taking place here." Sounds like Mike wasn't going anywhere, anytime soon.
But here we sit, less than a week after his team was eliminated from the NCAA basketball tournament, and Mike is headed to the place where his coaching career began. The University of Missouri's Board of Curators had approved a bump in salary that would have made Anderson a $2 million per year head coach over the next seven years; apparently Arkansas upped that offer to $2.2.
I understand, at least a little anyway, why Mike wanted to head back to Fayetteville; he spent 17 seasons under coach Nolan Richardson as an assistant, and even two games as a head coach when Richardson was fired before Anderson's last season there.
But for the most part, I flat out don't get it. He had recruits in place; the team was in the Top 25 for all but two weeks this season. Why the big rush, Mike? I forgot that Arkansas was a hot bed for basketball... Oh wait, it's not. The SEC is the ultimate football conference; think getting people to watch Big 12 basketball was tough? Try it in the SEC, Mike.
This is where I question the loyalty of Mike Anderson. He recruited his "best friend" Paul Pressey's two sons to come and play for him at Mizzou, and then leaves them out to dry? Now, there is a chance that Phil and Matt could transfer, but why make them sit out a year for your selfish intentions? Reports have stated that guys left Mizzou Arena in tears tonight... Was it worth the extra $200,000, Mike?
This is the ultimately sickening thing about college sports; everyone wants to be the top dog. Coaches recruit kids to come to school, stay four years, get an education, and win basketball games. Who knows if their coach is even going to be there for all four? These kids make decisions that are going to affect the rest of their lives when they sign a National Letter of Intent to play at a university, why doesn't the coach have to do the same?
I hope Anderson has to forfeit some of his new contract to pay for the breach of contract ($1.4 million) the University of Missouri will receive from the University of Arkansas.
"40 Minutes in Hell" may be over at the University of Missouri, but good times are ahead for Mizzou's program, with or without CMA.
Mike Anderson has officially left the University of Missouri's basketball program to become the head coach at the University of Arkansas. Less than a week ago Anderson was quoted as saying, "I've always stated I'm a Missouri Tiger. I'm excited about what is taking place here." Sounds like Mike wasn't going anywhere, anytime soon.
Courtesy of: NewsOne
I understand, at least a little anyway, why Mike wanted to head back to Fayetteville; he spent 17 seasons under coach Nolan Richardson as an assistant, and even two games as a head coach when Richardson was fired before Anderson's last season there.
Mike Anderson and Nolan Richardson
Courtesy of: SW Times
But for the most part, I flat out don't get it. He had recruits in place; the team was in the Top 25 for all but two weeks this season. Why the big rush, Mike? I forgot that Arkansas was a hot bed for basketball... Oh wait, it's not. The SEC is the ultimate football conference; think getting people to watch Big 12 basketball was tough? Try it in the SEC, Mike.
This is where I question the loyalty of Mike Anderson. He recruited his "best friend" Paul Pressey's two sons to come and play for him at Mizzou, and then leaves them out to dry? Now, there is a chance that Phil and Matt could transfer, but why make them sit out a year for your selfish intentions? Reports have stated that guys left Mizzou Arena in tears tonight... Was it worth the extra $200,000, Mike?
This is the ultimately sickening thing about college sports; everyone wants to be the top dog. Coaches recruit kids to come to school, stay four years, get an education, and win basketball games. Who knows if their coach is even going to be there for all four? These kids make decisions that are going to affect the rest of their lives when they sign a National Letter of Intent to play at a university, why doesn't the coach have to do the same?
I hope Anderson has to forfeit some of his new contract to pay for the breach of contract ($1.4 million) the University of Missouri will receive from the University of Arkansas.
"40 Minutes in Hell" may be over at the University of Missouri, but good times are ahead for Mizzou's program, with or without CMA.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Story of the Week
The story of Wes Leonard is one that has been well traveled in the past few weeks. The best player for Fenville High School is Minnesota hit a game winning shot to cap an undefeated regular season for his team, and then tragically passed away on the court from cardiac arrest. Not only has this story brought true emotion to millions, but it has also raised awareness for testing of enlarged hearts.
From a journalistic standpoint, the story of Wes Leonard has hit every major news outlet. It has nothing to do with sports; it is a tragedy that transcends all areas of life. Every major news outlet has picked up the story, but I think ESPN has done the best job.
Bob Holtzman is a terrific live journalist, taking live shots from NFL training camps to federal court cases. In this case, he has been on location in Fenville since Leonard tragically passed. His demeanor is confident; he does a great job conveying information on even the most brutal of information in such a calm manner. He stands tall, is not distracting with his attire, and reports without a script for a minute or longer in most cases. He handles questions from anchors on live TV, which points to his great handle over scripts and scripting.
Also, sending cameras to a little known high school in Minnesota is not what ESPN does; they are a national leader. However, by them covering the games each day, they have added emotion to this story that is unprecedented. The shot of a teammate crying on the bench during a game is one that is so powerful it is hard to imagine. They provide powerful imagery without having to talk over the true point of the story; this was a kid who gave his heart to a community, and his death will leave a last impact.
From a journalistic standpoint, the story of Wes Leonard has hit every major news outlet. It has nothing to do with sports; it is a tragedy that transcends all areas of life. Every major news outlet has picked up the story, but I think ESPN has done the best job.
Bob Holtzman is a terrific live journalist, taking live shots from NFL training camps to federal court cases. In this case, he has been on location in Fenville since Leonard tragically passed. His demeanor is confident; he does a great job conveying information on even the most brutal of information in such a calm manner. He stands tall, is not distracting with his attire, and reports without a script for a minute or longer in most cases. He handles questions from anchors on live TV, which points to his great handle over scripts and scripting.
Also, sending cameras to a little known high school in Minnesota is not what ESPN does; they are a national leader. However, by them covering the games each day, they have added emotion to this story that is unprecedented. The shot of a teammate crying on the bench during a game is one that is so powerful it is hard to imagine. They provide powerful imagery without having to talk over the true point of the story; this was a kid who gave his heart to a community, and his death will leave a last impact.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
What I'm Watching
A new segment to the blog, here is what I'm watching on TV; I try to watch as much TV as possible when I have downtime, so here are my suggestions:
-ESPN 30 for 30: Fab Five
This new documentary in the series profiles the Fab Five of Michigan University in the early 90's. The team made a championship run in the NCAA Basketball tournament, in a time when freshman didn't get heavy minutes. The most well known members are Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, and Chris Weber, who all had very successful NBA careers (Howard is still a member of the Heat). More importantly than their success was the changes they made to the game. The first guys in college to wear black socks with black shoes, the first to really start "posterizing" other players as is popular now, and they set the table for freshman to get heavier minutes for years to come. "30 for 30"is a great series and I haven't watched one I haven't liked yet. It premiers Sunday night on ESPN.
-Bracketology
It's that time of year again, and the brackets are ready to be unveiled. With Championship Week taking place now, every avid basketball fan will be glued to CBS on Sunday to watch the matchups get uncovered. Great analysis from CBS as well as ESPN, can't wait.
-Guilty pleasures:
If you like food at all, a couple of great shows are going on over at the food network. "Chopped" is holding an all-star tournament for charity, with hosts and contestants of the Food Network shows participating. It is on Sundays at 9 PM. Always a big fan of Modern Family (can't get enough of Phil Dunphy) and Criminal Minds is having a great season, with a big episode headed for next Wednesday.
-ESPN 30 for 30: Fab Five
This new documentary in the series profiles the Fab Five of Michigan University in the early 90's. The team made a championship run in the NCAA Basketball tournament, in a time when freshman didn't get heavy minutes. The most well known members are Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, and Chris Weber, who all had very successful NBA careers (Howard is still a member of the Heat). More importantly than their success was the changes they made to the game. The first guys in college to wear black socks with black shoes, the first to really start "posterizing" other players as is popular now, and they set the table for freshman to get heavier minutes for years to come. "30 for 30"is a great series and I haven't watched one I haven't liked yet. It premiers Sunday night on ESPN.
-Bracketology
It's that time of year again, and the brackets are ready to be unveiled. With Championship Week taking place now, every avid basketball fan will be glued to CBS on Sunday to watch the matchups get uncovered. Great analysis from CBS as well as ESPN, can't wait.
-Guilty pleasures:
If you like food at all, a couple of great shows are going on over at the food network. "Chopped" is holding an all-star tournament for charity, with hosts and contestants of the Food Network shows participating. It is on Sundays at 9 PM. Always a big fan of Modern Family (can't get enough of Phil Dunphy) and Criminal Minds is having a great season, with a big episode headed for next Wednesday.
Weekly Warrior
Another week, another struggle, here's what I was working on:
I'm still plugging along the long journey that is Broadcast 2. I knew the last piece of work I turned in was awful; just one of those that you turn in, shake your head, and try to wipe your hands clean. The story was unclear and the video was rushed. I was out of town for the weekend and came back, facing a 1 PM deadline on Monday, and did not finish filming until 10 AM that day. I got it done, but I was disappointed in my work. I try to strive for excellence, but that was definitely subpar. My interviews weren't bad and I just decent bites, I just didn't do enough research to support my script fully and with the recent technology struggles we have had in the broadcast lab, I totally forgot to put runtimes for supers in my script. My score reflected the work I did, but I move on.
The package I just turned was much more reflective of the work I am capable of. Of course there were still problems, but I'm still learning. My audio seemed to be a little hot when I watched it today and I thought I had corrected that problem earlier in the week, but for some reason it still seems hot. When I annunciated on p's and c's you could really hear the rebound in the mic. My interviews weren't framed as well as I would have liked, but I seem to be having that problem every time. I try to make a conscious effort to get the interviews in a nice frame, but with the cameras we have I just can't figure it out; it's frustrating. Besides that, I like my standup and the bites I had, and I thought the overall script was good. It could have been worded a little better into my bites, but overall I was happy with the information I was able to get across in a runtime of 1:17.
In other classes, tests are starting to pop back up and studying will be to the max. Add that with hoping to get cleared for broadcast, finishing shadow shifts, and taking the iNews and Avid tests and the next few weeks heading into Spring Break should be a blast.
I'm still plugging along the long journey that is Broadcast 2. I knew the last piece of work I turned in was awful; just one of those that you turn in, shake your head, and try to wipe your hands clean. The story was unclear and the video was rushed. I was out of town for the weekend and came back, facing a 1 PM deadline on Monday, and did not finish filming until 10 AM that day. I got it done, but I was disappointed in my work. I try to strive for excellence, but that was definitely subpar. My interviews weren't bad and I just decent bites, I just didn't do enough research to support my script fully and with the recent technology struggles we have had in the broadcast lab, I totally forgot to put runtimes for supers in my script. My score reflected the work I did, but I move on.
The package I just turned was much more reflective of the work I am capable of. Of course there were still problems, but I'm still learning. My audio seemed to be a little hot when I watched it today and I thought I had corrected that problem earlier in the week, but for some reason it still seems hot. When I annunciated on p's and c's you could really hear the rebound in the mic. My interviews weren't framed as well as I would have liked, but I seem to be having that problem every time. I try to make a conscious effort to get the interviews in a nice frame, but with the cameras we have I just can't figure it out; it's frustrating. Besides that, I like my standup and the bites I had, and I thought the overall script was good. It could have been worded a little better into my bites, but overall I was happy with the information I was able to get across in a runtime of 1:17.
In other classes, tests are starting to pop back up and studying will be to the max. Add that with hoping to get cleared for broadcast, finishing shadow shifts, and taking the iNews and Avid tests and the next few weeks heading into Spring Break should be a blast.
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