Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Second Jaws Tweet
A very real shark attack of James Park in his rowboat @ Amity pond sets in a violent realization for the community: is no place safe?
Jaws Tweet
Locals & tourists swim madly in a frenzy of shock at a hoaxed shark sighting #kidsdothedarndestthings
Jaws attack piece
Fishermen gathered this afternoon with fish scraps and dynamite to hunt down a monstrous killer. In lieu of the deaths of two locals, many set sail to find the fish threatening Amity beaches.
The hunt was inspired by a reward of $3,000 for the shark that took is assumed to have taken the life of Alex Kitner, 10, and Chrissie Watson, 17. The reward was declared at the Amity town meeting that took place yesterday afternoon.
Along with local business owners and residents, Chief of Police, Martin S. Brody and Mayor Larry Vaughn were present at the meeting. The discussion commenced with Brody's plans to provide extra police watch on the beaches, but the concerns of the tourist town were summed up in a single question: will the beaches close?
Brody's announced that the beaches would be closing as roars of disapproval arose from the locals. Mayor Vaughn stepped in to reassure that the closing will only last for 24 hours.
"The beaches closing for 24 hours is like being closed for 3 weeks," said a local woman present.
The meeting closed with a local fisherman, Ben Quint, announcing his pursue for the shark.
"I'll catch this bird," said Quint. "But it aint gonna be easy."
Many fishermen stepped up this afternoon with similar aspirations to catch the shark that has been tormenting the town of Amity. The hunt resulted in the successful capture of a massive fish, identified by marine biologist, Matt Hooper.
The evidence is still under investigation as Hooper and Brody will further examine the shark for conclusive proof that this animal is responsible for the recent deaths.
The capture and kill of this shark will reopen local beaches for the busy Fourth of July weekend. Shark spotters from the Coast Guard, Marine Patrol, Massachusetts State Police, and others will be present to ensure the safety of all swimming.
Further shark sightings can and should be reported to authorities at 1-800-sharksee
The hunt was inspired by a reward of $3,000 for the shark that took is assumed to have taken the life of Alex Kitner, 10, and Chrissie Watson, 17. The reward was declared at the Amity town meeting that took place yesterday afternoon.
Along with local business owners and residents, Chief of Police, Martin S. Brody and Mayor Larry Vaughn were present at the meeting. The discussion commenced with Brody's plans to provide extra police watch on the beaches, but the concerns of the tourist town were summed up in a single question: will the beaches close?
Brody's announced that the beaches would be closing as roars of disapproval arose from the locals. Mayor Vaughn stepped in to reassure that the closing will only last for 24 hours.
"The beaches closing for 24 hours is like being closed for 3 weeks," said a local woman present.
The meeting closed with a local fisherman, Ben Quint, announcing his pursue for the shark.
"I'll catch this bird," said Quint. "But it aint gonna be easy."
Many fishermen stepped up this afternoon with similar aspirations to catch the shark that has been tormenting the town of Amity. The hunt resulted in the successful capture of a massive fish, identified by marine biologist, Matt Hooper.
The evidence is still under investigation as Hooper and Brody will further examine the shark for conclusive proof that this animal is responsible for the recent deaths.
The capture and kill of this shark will reopen local beaches for the busy Fourth of July weekend. Shark spotters from the Coast Guard, Marine Patrol, Massachusetts State Police, and others will be present to ensure the safety of all swimming.
Further shark sightings can and should be reported to authorities at 1-800-sharksee
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
A Picture Worth A Life
Scrolling through political and financial articles on the New York Times top news page, one headline sparked my immediate attention and interest: "After Fatal Subway Shove, Asking: Were There No Heroes?"
This generated a sense of morbid curiosity as I became absorbed in every word covering the tragic death of a man pushed onto the subway tracks in NYC. Full of vague expressions of defense, bystanders of the event justified their inability to assist the man facing an oncoming train. The results of these allegations came down to the fact that no one believed they COULD help.
The most interesting element was the wide-spread attack on an amateur student photographer who had captured the last moments of the man's life in a series of over 40 photos. These pictures made their way to publication for the public and resulted in a back lash of "instead of taking pictures, why weren't you trying to help him out?" This student faced the majority of the anger and disappointment of all who witnessed the event that day.
The student claimed the flashes of his camera were to warn the train conductor, that this was the action he was capable of during this tragic circumstance. But at the same time, this sparked a concern that I also feel while watching those commercials of starving third world children or reporters in the midst of any tragic event. There is a line of involvement when it comes to reporting. It's almost as if that line becomes invisible, that a reporter's job is to remain unbiased of a subject, removing themselves from the picture as merely the medium between information and the public. But at what point can we step beyond that boundary? It seems circumstances of life and death to be an obvious scenario to sacrifice any story. But at the same time we must take into consideration the realities of our abilities while also understanding our responsibility to report the real, even extremely tragic, events as they unfold before us.
Reference: "After Fatal Subway Shove, Asking: Were There No Heroes?"
This generated a sense of morbid curiosity as I became absorbed in every word covering the tragic death of a man pushed onto the subway tracks in NYC. Full of vague expressions of defense, bystanders of the event justified their inability to assist the man facing an oncoming train. The results of these allegations came down to the fact that no one believed they COULD help.
The most interesting element was the wide-spread attack on an amateur student photographer who had captured the last moments of the man's life in a series of over 40 photos. These pictures made their way to publication for the public and resulted in a back lash of "instead of taking pictures, why weren't you trying to help him out?" This student faced the majority of the anger and disappointment of all who witnessed the event that day.
The student claimed the flashes of his camera were to warn the train conductor, that this was the action he was capable of during this tragic circumstance. But at the same time, this sparked a concern that I also feel while watching those commercials of starving third world children or reporters in the midst of any tragic event. There is a line of involvement when it comes to reporting. It's almost as if that line becomes invisible, that a reporter's job is to remain unbiased of a subject, removing themselves from the picture as merely the medium between information and the public. But at what point can we step beyond that boundary? It seems circumstances of life and death to be an obvious scenario to sacrifice any story. But at the same time we must take into consideration the realities of our abilities while also understanding our responsibility to report the real, even extremely tragic, events as they unfold before us.
Reference: "After Fatal Subway Shove, Asking: Were There No Heroes?"
55°F...Who's Concerned?
Around 11:00 p.m., I encountered a unique phenomena that we all should reflect upon. This December evening, I found myself leaving the warmth of a friend's home, bracing myself for the winter chill to break crisply against my heat-blushed face. However, my preparations were joyously interrupted by a surprising blanket of cool air, reflective of the mid-season nights along the coasts of Georgia I've visited in the past. In absolute bliss, I hopped in my car, put my arm out the window, and felt the warm "winter" breeze pushing the hair off my face. But in this feeling of astonishment and glee, there was another thought which tugged from the pit of my stomach at the edges of my breezy smile. In all my experiences living as a New Englander, I've never witnessed a temperature like this so late/early in the fall/winter seasons.This realization flooded all the comfort of the cool air with feelings of worry. The concerns of global change that had been pressed upon my naivety in school performed a heart jumping dance with the combating joys I felt in that moment of 55° weather. This was the absolute definition of a bitter-sweet moment. I realize this experience isn't related to journalism in itself, but I think this dynamic is relevant to most of our generation as we come to terms with changes that continue to creep into our awareness. Although it may seem like a blessing, sparing us from the torments of shoveling mounds of snow from our driveways, I think this event should spark an understanding that something is changing... for better or for worse.
 |
| Time to start building these! |
Banning Gay Conversion: Banning Speech
In this entry, I feel it necessary to start with the article introduction that immediately sparked intrigue and confusion on the separation of our nation... "A federal judge cleared the way on Tuesday for California’s new law banning gay 'conversion therapies' for minors, one day after another federal judge, in a separate decision, called the ban an unconstitutional infringement on speech."
This issue is obviously LOADED with controversial topics. It not only deals with gay rights for minors but also freedom of speech...
“There’s a good deal of uncertainty about how to apply the First Amendment to professional speech to clients and even more uncertainty in the case of minors,” said Eugene Volokh, a professor and constitutional expert at the U.C.L.A. law school. “It’s not clear how this is ultimately going to play out.”
So, how does the banning of conversion therapy constitute as a form of speech? I suppose we can look at it as the group's freedom to verbally change a sexual preference. If that definition doesn't quite do it for you, that's probably because I don't fully believe it myself. But, I do understand there is a sense of freedom being taken away by this ban, however immoral the conversions may appear. I suppose the issue reminds me a bit of a program I watched recently, looking into the lives of those living in a religious compound. The culture was bizarre and controversial, leading to the arrest of the leader, Warren Jeffs. The relation I see is the inability to close the compound entirely despite the acts of Jeffs. But I digress...
What's interesting about this issue is the division of support. While one supports the ban of the therapy, another calls for the banning of the ban. This particular issue leaves us with a conflict of bans on bans...on bans. It's headache-inducing. But, if you decide to plant your feet in this matter which has judges divided, where would you stand in this morally grey area?
Reference: "Clashing Rulings Complicate Path of Gay ‘Conversion Therapy’ Law"
This issue is obviously LOADED with controversial topics. It not only deals with gay rights for minors but also freedom of speech...
“There’s a good deal of uncertainty about how to apply the First Amendment to professional speech to clients and even more uncertainty in the case of minors,” said Eugene Volokh, a professor and constitutional expert at the U.C.L.A. law school. “It’s not clear how this is ultimately going to play out.”
So, how does the banning of conversion therapy constitute as a form of speech? I suppose we can look at it as the group's freedom to verbally change a sexual preference. If that definition doesn't quite do it for you, that's probably because I don't fully believe it myself. But, I do understand there is a sense of freedom being taken away by this ban, however immoral the conversions may appear. I suppose the issue reminds me a bit of a program I watched recently, looking into the lives of those living in a religious compound. The culture was bizarre and controversial, leading to the arrest of the leader, Warren Jeffs. The relation I see is the inability to close the compound entirely despite the acts of Jeffs. But I digress...
What's interesting about this issue is the division of support. While one supports the ban of the therapy, another calls for the banning of the ban. This particular issue leaves us with a conflict of bans on bans...on bans. It's headache-inducing. But, if you decide to plant your feet in this matter which has judges divided, where would you stand in this morally grey area?
Reference: "Clashing Rulings Complicate Path of Gay ‘Conversion Therapy’ Law"
Egyptian Media: Reflection On Our Rights
As the media in Egypt takes charge on the limiting constraints provided by their government, it is incredibly important in this moment to reflect upon the glory of our own rights as journalists.
The issue sprung from Egypt's draft constitution that is putting limits on freedom of expression. In lieu of this restriction, it's critical to think on the importance journalists and other media have on the well-fare of a populace. Referring to a previous blog, the Leveson report, stemming from the importance of the royal pregnancy, resulted in many key elements that the media should reflect upon.
According to Lord Justice Leveson, media should act "as guardian of the interests of the public, as a critical witness to events, as the standard barer for those who have no one else to speak up for them."
In our country, being able to realize these important rights, we are at an absolute advantage. As mediators between the government and the public, the huge responsibility of sharing information, as well as the unity of the country, the Egyptian media is a point where all these elements are at a major threat.
Read further information about the issue leading to the division of the country: Thousands of Egyptians Protest Plan for Charter
The issue sprung from Egypt's draft constitution that is putting limits on freedom of expression. In lieu of this restriction, it's critical to think on the importance journalists and other media have on the well-fare of a populace. Referring to a previous blog, the Leveson report, stemming from the importance of the royal pregnancy, resulted in many key elements that the media should reflect upon.
According to Lord Justice Leveson, media should act "as guardian of the interests of the public, as a critical witness to events, as the standard barer for those who have no one else to speak up for them."
In our country, being able to realize these important rights, we are at an absolute advantage. As mediators between the government and the public, the huge responsibility of sharing information, as well as the unity of the country, the Egyptian media is a point where all these elements are at a major threat.
Read further information about the issue leading to the division of the country: Thousands of Egyptians Protest Plan for Charter
Monday, December 3, 2012
New Hampshire Sharks: Something to Worry About?
Succeeding the tragic events on Amity Island, locals of New Hampshire have become concerned with the safety of their coastlines. With recent shark sightings this past summer, Dianna Schulte, co-founder of the Blue Ocean Society, stated that little worry is necessary.
"People are not normally on the menu of sharks," said Schulte. "More people are likely to be killed in an accident involving a moose or deer."
Schulte said blue sharks are the most common large shark found off the New England coast. The Blue sharks are “exclusively fish feeders” and as of now, there has never been a single shark attack documented off the New Hampshire coast.
Still, she warned that people should take precautions if they see any shark in the water. A shark is a wild animal that should only act if threatened or provoked. Schulte also argued that a shark is more likely to mistake a person for something else due to poor visibility at dawn or dusk.
"Swimmers should take note of any seals in the area which could attract sharks," said Schulte. "If a seal is spotted nearby, a person should get out of the water."
Schulte also offered the last attack resulting in death from a shark bite occurred in 1936 in Massachusetts’ Buzzards Bay. A sighting of a white shark along the New Hampshire coast would be a “very rare and exceptional event.” She claimed that white sharks are more common off Cape Cod where they mostly feed on grey seals.
"If a white shark were seen off New Hampshire’s coast," said Schulte, "it would most likely be in transit and not hanging around."
"People are not normally on the menu of sharks," said Schulte. "More people are likely to be killed in an accident involving a moose or deer."
Schulte said blue sharks are the most common large shark found off the New England coast. The Blue sharks are “exclusively fish feeders” and as of now, there has never been a single shark attack documented off the New Hampshire coast.
Still, she warned that people should take precautions if they see any shark in the water. A shark is a wild animal that should only act if threatened or provoked. Schulte also argued that a shark is more likely to mistake a person for something else due to poor visibility at dawn or dusk.
"Swimmers should take note of any seals in the area which could attract sharks," said Schulte. "If a seal is spotted nearby, a person should get out of the water."
Schulte also offered the last attack resulting in death from a shark bite occurred in 1936 in Massachusetts’ Buzzards Bay. A sighting of a white shark along the New Hampshire coast would be a “very rare and exceptional event.” She claimed that white sharks are more common off Cape Cod where they mostly feed on grey seals.
"If a white shark were seen off New Hampshire’s coast," said Schulte, "it would most likely be in transit and not hanging around."
Royalty: Does it really affect US?
Oh, royalty. The thought alone brings a sense of glory to the currently drab office room I reside in. The dream-like reality show following the lives of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, starting with the royal wedding, has brought a glittering fairy tale to most middle-aged women in the U.S. Lucky for them, the couple has announced they are currently expecting a royal crying and pooping machine in the form of a baby! Not that this has much relevance for me...or for the rest of the country. But one of the more interesting elements is the impact on succession. The old laws state that if there is a male born, that male will knock any female out of the line for succession. But with laws currently being deliberated the male's first, whether boy or girl, will become monarch.
"The last time we had three people in line of succession was 120 years ago with Queen Victoria."
Currently, there is the Queen, Charles prince of whales, William Duke of Cambridge, and the upcoming infant. But another issue which plays into our class a bit, is the element of media involvement.
"Every minute of this pregnancy will be front page of the news."
On CNN, the concern lies with the media's inability to hesitate or hold back on any sort of information regarding the pregnancy, as even citizens of our country are showing excitement.
"The British media itself will be playing by the rules... what they will be watching closely is how everyone else reacts: the common wealth countries."
In accordance to the Leveson report, Lord Justice Leveson reflects on the importance of the press.
"For over 40 years as a judge, I have watched the press in action day after day in the courts in which I have practiced. I know how vital the press is, all of it, as guardian of the interests of the public, as a critical witness to events, as the standard barer for those who have no one else to speak up for them."
So, I guess we'll have to wait and see for the impact this child will have. But as my fellow executives battle over their interests on the event, there is no doubt the media coverage of this pregnancy will be flooding all news sites. So prepare yourselves, citizens, whether it is relevant to you or not.
CNN News:
"With royal baby, three wait for throne"
Leveson Report:
Leveson Report
"The last time we had three people in line of succession was 120 years ago with Queen Victoria."
Currently, there is the Queen, Charles prince of whales, William Duke of Cambridge, and the upcoming infant. But another issue which plays into our class a bit, is the element of media involvement.
"Every minute of this pregnancy will be front page of the news."
On CNN, the concern lies with the media's inability to hesitate or hold back on any sort of information regarding the pregnancy, as even citizens of our country are showing excitement.
"The British media itself will be playing by the rules... what they will be watching closely is how everyone else reacts: the common wealth countries."
In accordance to the Leveson report, Lord Justice Leveson reflects on the importance of the press.
"For over 40 years as a judge, I have watched the press in action day after day in the courts in which I have practiced. I know how vital the press is, all of it, as guardian of the interests of the public, as a critical witness to events, as the standard barer for those who have no one else to speak up for them."
So, I guess we'll have to wait and see for the impact this child will have. But as my fellow executives battle over their interests on the event, there is no doubt the media coverage of this pregnancy will be flooding all news sites. So prepare yourselves, citizens, whether it is relevant to you or not.
CNN News:
"With royal baby, three wait for throne"
Leveson Report:
Leveson Report
"More Babies, Please"
In a required lecture class I took last semester (a form of environmental conservation), one of the issues we covered was the idea of over-population. This seems like an obvious issue as our global population continues to increase. This article argues that the population of U.S. is one of its most important element of growth and defense (more babies = more workers). But although the U.S. has had a fertile history, birth rates are at an extreme low. Speaking to some of my female friends (20-22), none show much of any interest to have kids anytime soon, and neither do I. But that makes sense, we're still young, have plans and goals... but most importantly, too poor. This article argues that issue, that the lack of birth rates is possibly most effected by economic issues. So what can we do to change it? The article offers some pretty "perfect" ideas:
"Whether this means a more family-friendly tax code, a push for more flexible work hours, or an effort to reduce the cost of college, there’s clearly room for creative policy to make some difference."
Of course, the article touches on aspects of morals, family views, male/female differences, but I think it all goes back to the top of the article with a quote that may answer that issue in itself...
"It’s a near-universal law that modernity reduces fertility."
"More Babies, Please"
"Whether this means a more family-friendly tax code, a push for more flexible work hours, or an effort to reduce the cost of college, there’s clearly room for creative policy to make some difference."
Of course, the article touches on aspects of morals, family views, male/female differences, but I think it all goes back to the top of the article with a quote that may answer that issue in itself...
"It’s a near-universal law that modernity reduces fertility."
"More Babies, Please"
Sunday, December 2, 2012
On Finding Gravity
Recently, I rediscovered an old acquaintance's success on the web. As a past family friend, Carley has traveled from New Hampshire to Australia to New York city in her success as a writer and blogger. Her site, findingravity.com, has made its way to the team of VaynerMedia stationed in NYC. It's easy to take inspiration from her writing. Looking at her blog, she doesn't write about intensive global issues or political crises, but rather pulls from her own experiences to create a cyber location for others to learn and grow. I think one of the most impressive things about her work is her self confidence as a writer, to share both personal strengths and weakness while relating it to others. Another skill to take some inspiration from is the ability to convey her thoughts on multiple platforms (such as photography). She's actually gained recognition from celebrities as well....if John Mayer following her on Twitter counts, which I think it does. It's strange to think that the girl who came over our house nearly everyday in high school has grown so far from the small towns of Rye and Portsmouth. After losing touch, it's strange to see our interests and goals following a somewhat similar path. I guess what I'm trying to say is that her confidence and success brings some hope that there are real-world opportunities outside of UNH for aspiring writers such as our selves.
"I enjoy utilizing my artistic abilities where I can. I cherish simplicity. I write mostly about amusing self-deprecation, embarrassing stories, and moments of mid-twenties triumph. I graduated college with a degree in English, a 5-12 teaching certification, and a minor in sarcastic humor." -Findingravity
findingravity
"I enjoy utilizing my artistic abilities where I can. I cherish simplicity. I write mostly about amusing self-deprecation, embarrassing stories, and moments of mid-twenties triumph. I graduated college with a degree in English, a 5-12 teaching certification, and a minor in sarcastic humor." -Findingravity
findingravity
"Saying No to College"
Although not entirely a news article, a piece from the New York Times portrays a very relevant issue for many currently in the educational system. On the matter of finances, education, and experience, the question is posed: To stay in college or not to stay in college? That is the question... Coming from a family raised by a drop-out dad, I've long held the ideal that school isn't everything if you love what you do. With only one semester left to graduate as an engineer, my father dropped out of UConn to pursue his already happening business of being a Disc Jockey in his early 20s. It's with his communication and handyman skills that he's built himself up as a respected business man in the seacoast area. In this article, computer programmer Benjamin Goering posed the idea that dropping out of college was one of the most responsible things he's done. Along with successes like Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs, the idea of dropping out of college was one of the best decisions they ever made. It's role models like these that may set the tone for other students to contemplate the benefits of paying thousands to stay in school with the doubt of success hanging over their heads.
"Nowadays, popular culture is portraying dropouts as self-made zillionaires whose decision to spurn the “safe” route (academic conformity) is akin to lighting out for the territories to strike gold."
"Saying No to College"
"Nowadays, popular culture is portraying dropouts as self-made zillionaires whose decision to spurn the “safe” route (academic conformity) is akin to lighting out for the territories to strike gold."
"Saying No to College"
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Alex
The warm summer spirit of Village Beach was trampled by panicking
beach goers this afternoon. Adults rushed into the blooded water to pull out
their children after a possible shark attack which took the life of Alex
Kintner.
The death of young Kintner echoed the beach death of Senior
at Amity High School, Chrissie Watson, 17, who was found washed onto the beach just
this morning.
Watson was last seen with former islander Christopher Hoggenbottam
III, heading towards the secluded area of South Beach Shoal.
Hoggenbottam reported her disappearance this morning after Watson
swam into the ocean late last night. In an investigation led by Amity Police Chief,
Martin Brody, the body of Watson was found washed onto the beach by Police Deputy,
Jay Hendricks, without valid conclusions to the manner of death.
Alex Kintner, 10, had gone to Village Beach this afternoon with
his mother, Marion Kintner, and was last seen in the water around 2 p.m.
The playful splashes of other local children were violently interrupted
by an unidentified thrashing in the water. At the sign of blood and at the
command of Chief Brody, beachgoers rushed to get their children out of the water.
After Kintner’s mother searched the shore for her son, Alex
Kintner’s body was not recovered. The only major clue to the event remains
Kintner’s yellow raft that washed ashore, containing a large bite in the side.
Chief Brody and Amity Mayor, Larry Vaughn, send their
sincerest condolences to the Kintner family. An investigation of this death continues
along with the death of Chrissie Watson.
“We now believe that it may be possible that the Watson
death could also maybe have possibly been linked to possible shark activities
in the vicinity of Amity,” said Brody. “That investigation is still ongoing.”
Mayor Vaughn will be holding a meeting tonight at Town Hall
to address the possible closings of beaches on July 4, as well as the Kintner
family reward of $3,000 for the capture of the perpetrators.
Chrissie
Amity Death Taints
Summer Spirit
The start of the summer season was violently disturbed this
morning by the death of a local teenage girl. Found dead on the South Beach
sands, the body of Chrissie Watson is currently under investigation.
Senior at Amity High School, Chrissie Watson, 17, was
reported missing this morning at 6 a.m. by former islander Christopher Hoggenbottam
III, sophomore at Trinity College.
The two were last seen drinking with a collective group of young
adults and heading towards the secluded area of South Beach Shoal.
“I saw her at the party just sitting there talking to
[Hoggenbottam],” said Erika Dupervil. “He had a few beers but he didn’t seem
heavily intoxicated.”
Hoggenbottam reported running after Watson along the beach, scattering
clothes onto the sand. As a member of the varsity swim team at Amity High
School and a lifeguard at the Amity Island YMCA pool, Watson swam into the
ocean. The calm waters led no suspect to any violent disturbance.
After drinking on the beach, Hoggenbottam fell asleep to the
sounds of the South Beach Shoal bell buoy and woke up to realize Watson had not
returned from the water.
In an investigation led by Amity Police Chief, Martin Brody,
the body of Watson was found washed onto the beach by Police Deputy, Jay
Hendricks.
There is currently no evidence for suspects in the death of
Watson and no charges will be filed. Although not completely ruled out, there
is no specific proof of a shark attack.
In a press conference with Brody, not many details were
concluded from Watson’s death. The body is currently at the coroner’s office
for autopsy.
Since there have been no past reports of shark attacks, the
Amity beaches will remain open for the summer season until further conclusions
of the investigation.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Black Friday: Origin and Meaning
Holy cow. After a long day of family, games, turkey, and stuffing faces, thanks were given all around. But when family members dispersed and the leftovers wrapped, I worriedly said goodbye to my mother as she ventured off into the dark night...
Following the Thanksgiving holiday, grateful spirits remain only as a faint ring... an echoed tinge of complacency that is viciously trampled by thousands of eager buyers. All sleeplessly shoving their way through shop doors at the scent of savings, I found myself baffled in the midst. But words barely grasp the amount of adrenaline and exhaustion felt during the overwhelming conditions of Black Friday.
While watching TV with my grandmother only a few days before, a commercial trivia question popped up in between our regularly scheduled programming: "In what city did the term 'Black Friday' originate?" ....A. Boston, B. New York, or C. Philadelphia? The answer is C. The term was coined by the heavy amount of pedestrians and traffic in the streets as citizens stormed the stores for sales.
What's most interesting about this event is the hypocrisy that blankets the thankful holiday spirit. I think a viral image on Facebook actually explains these sentiments rather well... "Black Friday: Because only in America, people trample others for sales exactly one day after being thankful for what they already have." Now, I didn't feel I could fully agree with this until I experienced the event myself.
At midnight, my boyfriend and I, both avid anti-shoppers, found ourselves in the crowded cacophony of the Fox Run mall. In curiousity we travelled from one end to the other, but the most surprising aspect wasn't the amount of people but the types. Instead of middle-aged mothers gathering for cheap toys, the mall was clustered with teenage boys and girls looking for deals on Hollister clothing and video games. I think this is one of the more worrying aspects. Instead of passing down traditions of thanksgiving... are our youth ideals being replaced with consumerist cravings? Maybe that's too bold.... but I think the hypocrisy deserves a glance.
Following the Thanksgiving holiday, grateful spirits remain only as a faint ring... an echoed tinge of complacency that is viciously trampled by thousands of eager buyers. All sleeplessly shoving their way through shop doors at the scent of savings, I found myself baffled in the midst. But words barely grasp the amount of adrenaline and exhaustion felt during the overwhelming conditions of Black Friday.
While watching TV with my grandmother only a few days before, a commercial trivia question popped up in between our regularly scheduled programming: "In what city did the term 'Black Friday' originate?" ....A. Boston, B. New York, or C. Philadelphia? The answer is C. The term was coined by the heavy amount of pedestrians and traffic in the streets as citizens stormed the stores for sales.
What's most interesting about this event is the hypocrisy that blankets the thankful holiday spirit. I think a viral image on Facebook actually explains these sentiments rather well... "Black Friday: Because only in America, people trample others for sales exactly one day after being thankful for what they already have." Now, I didn't feel I could fully agree with this until I experienced the event myself.
At midnight, my boyfriend and I, both avid anti-shoppers, found ourselves in the crowded cacophony of the Fox Run mall. In curiousity we travelled from one end to the other, but the most surprising aspect wasn't the amount of people but the types. Instead of middle-aged mothers gathering for cheap toys, the mall was clustered with teenage boys and girls looking for deals on Hollister clothing and video games. I think this is one of the more worrying aspects. Instead of passing down traditions of thanksgiving... are our youth ideals being replaced with consumerist cravings? Maybe that's too bold.... but I think the hypocrisy deserves a glance.
EHS Senior, Victoria Arlen, honored for strength and success
in Paralympic events. After many trials of personal and competitive obstacles,
this young girl takes home gold medal and receives great recognition at Exeter
High School.
New Hampshire’s own Victoria Arlen takes home gold from the
London Paralympic Swimmers event. Overcoming drastic physical obstacles, this
incredible teen makes an inspirational story out of her life-threatening
circumstance.
Town and father express immense pride for their EHS Senior,
Victoria Arlen, as she takes home gold for the London Paralympic Swimmers
event. Overcoming immense struggles, this teen proves that perseverance and determination
can surpass her physical disabilities.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
The French Connection
The midday hum of New York City was violently interrupted by assassin gunshots aimed at Detective Doyle. The sniper scene ended tragically with the deaths of 4 civilians and gunman Pierre Jeantot.
Due to an ongoing smuggling investigation, Pierre Jeantot, 38, of Nice, France, was allegedly associated with a major French drug kingpin to transport heroin from France to New York. In this incident, it is suspected that Jeantot acted as a hired assassin to exterminate Detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle who was working on the case.
The events began during Doyle's walk down 57th avenue. According to Erin Kellenbeck, 20, as she was walking by the apartment building at 1767 W. 57th Ave., she witnessed the gunshot that took the life of Betty B. Badluck.
"Everything happened suddenly," said Kellenbeck. "I barely noticed Doyle until I heard a gunshot and saw [Badluck] fall to the ground while he quickly ran to a nearby tree for coverage."
The failed assassination led to a dangerous chase as Jeantot led Doyle to the 35th St. Station. Mason Pedelose, 20, found himself a key component in the chase as Doyle commandeered his vehicle in order to follow the elevated train.
"He ran right in front of my car and ordered me to get out," said Pedelose. "I was mostly concerned about when I would get my car back but before I knew it, [Doyle] went speeding off with my beautiful red baby and rammed into the left side of a white car that pulled into the road out of nowhere."
Meanwhile on the elevated train, Jeantot's attempt to outrun Detective Doyle resulted in the deaths of two conductors and one police patrolman. Eye witness Adam Konopka, 19, was sitting in the first train car when Jeantot came running from the back doors and up to the conductor's house.
"No one really payed much attention until we missed our designated stop," said Konopka. "At that point everyone stood in confusion as a police man started to beat on the conductor's door."
Jeantot reappeared from the conductor's house when confronted by 15-year New York City Police Department Veteran, Roland Evans of Brooklyn.
"[Brooklyn] kept questioning Jeantot," said Konopka. "He kept telling the patrol man not to step any closer, but Brooklyn proceeded. That's when Jeantot fired a shot into Brooklyn's side."
Conductor, Peter Howe, 27, of Queens, died of a heart attack at the controls as a result of the hijacking. Jeantot then fired at and killed conductor Horatio C. Hornblower, 30, of White Plains.
In a grueling chase from 35th St. Station to 15th St. Station, the assault on Detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle ended with a final shot. According to civilian eye witness, Nathan McNeal, 20, Doyle took the life of Jeantot at the 15th St. Station elevated railway station.
"I was under the railway when I saw a man emerge from the train," said McNeal. "He ran right along the tracks and off onto the platform.
According to McNeal, Doyle could be seen running from the red vehicle towards the bottom of the staircase of the platform to cut off Jeantot's further escape.
"Doyle seemed exhausted," said McNeal. "As Jeantot saw him below he turned to run off and that's when Doyle fired a single shot into his back."
McNeal recounted Jeantot's last moves as he fell down the stairs to a slouching Doyle, dead.
"It is always unfortunate when these incidents end in a loss of life," reported the police. "We would have preferred to see Jeantot prosecuted in the courts, and we believe Doyle was close to a breakthrough on the case."
Although many innocent lives were lost, the NYPD commends Doyle for his persistence, quick thinking, and bravery during this incident. Police are continuing a vigorous investigation on the major drug smuggling operation as well as Jeantot's involvement. The innocent losses of this attack work to strengthen their continuing search.
"We will not sit still while drug dealers walk our streets."
Due to an ongoing smuggling investigation, Pierre Jeantot, 38, of Nice, France, was allegedly associated with a major French drug kingpin to transport heroin from France to New York. In this incident, it is suspected that Jeantot acted as a hired assassin to exterminate Detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle who was working on the case.
The events began during Doyle's walk down 57th avenue. According to Erin Kellenbeck, 20, as she was walking by the apartment building at 1767 W. 57th Ave., she witnessed the gunshot that took the life of Betty B. Badluck.
"Everything happened suddenly," said Kellenbeck. "I barely noticed Doyle until I heard a gunshot and saw [Badluck] fall to the ground while he quickly ran to a nearby tree for coverage."
Badluck was walking with her granddaughter near Doyle's apartment building when the shots were fired.
"It was unfortunate," said Kellenbeck. "If Doyle didn't happen to walk behind her, she wouldn't have been in the line of fire. She just seemed to be in the wrong place at the wrong time."
At this point, Kellenbeck heard three more gun shots fired at Doyle that missed as he ran towards the concealment of the nearby apartment complex.
"I remember seeing Doyle walk past several apartment windows," said Kellenbeck. "One had 2 young boys who Doyle conversed with in Spanish."
Kellenbeck recounted Doyle disappearing from her sight as he continued into the building.
The failed assassination led to a dangerous chase as Jeantot led Doyle to the 35th St. Station. Mason Pedelose, 20, found himself a key component in the chase as Doyle commandeered his vehicle in order to follow the elevated train.
"He ran right in front of my car and ordered me to get out," said Pedelose. "I was mostly concerned about when I would get my car back but before I knew it, [Doyle] went speeding off with my beautiful red baby and rammed into the left side of a white car that pulled into the road out of nowhere."
Meanwhile on the elevated train, Jeantot's attempt to outrun Detective Doyle resulted in the deaths of two conductors and one police patrolman. Eye witness Adam Konopka, 19, was sitting in the first train car when Jeantot came running from the back doors and up to the conductor's house.
"No one really payed much attention until we missed our designated stop," said Konopka. "At that point everyone stood in confusion as a police man started to beat on the conductor's door."
Jeantot reappeared from the conductor's house when confronted by 15-year New York City Police Department Veteran, Roland Evans of Brooklyn.
"[Brooklyn] kept questioning Jeantot," said Konopka. "He kept telling the patrol man not to step any closer, but Brooklyn proceeded. That's when Jeantot fired a shot into Brooklyn's side."
Conductor, Peter Howe, 27, of Queens, died of a heart attack at the controls as a result of the hijacking. Jeantot then fired at and killed conductor Horatio C. Hornblower, 30, of White Plains.
In a grueling chase from 35th St. Station to 15th St. Station, the assault on Detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle ended with a final shot. According to civilian eye witness, Nathan McNeal, 20, Doyle took the life of Jeantot at the 15th St. Station elevated railway station.
"I was under the railway when I saw a man emerge from the train," said McNeal. "He ran right along the tracks and off onto the platform.
According to McNeal, Doyle could be seen running from the red vehicle towards the bottom of the staircase of the platform to cut off Jeantot's further escape.
"Doyle seemed exhausted," said McNeal. "As Jeantot saw him below he turned to run off and that's when Doyle fired a single shot into his back."
McNeal recounted Jeantot's last moves as he fell down the stairs to a slouching Doyle, dead.
"It is always unfortunate when these incidents end in a loss of life," reported the police. "We would have preferred to see Jeantot prosecuted in the courts, and we believe Doyle was close to a breakthrough on the case."
Although many innocent lives were lost, the NYPD commends Doyle for his persistence, quick thinking, and bravery during this incident. Police are continuing a vigorous investigation on the major drug smuggling operation as well as Jeantot's involvement. The innocent losses of this attack work to strengthen their continuing search.
"We will not sit still while drug dealers walk our streets."
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Searching for Lizzi
The days of Elizabeth “Lizzi” Marriott’s disappearance were compiled of devastation. For Nate McNeal, the unexpected visit of Greenland police at his doorstep initiated not only dumbfound loss but burning dedication in his excruciating search for a missing friend.
In the slow pace of the work day at Target, McNeal, 20, could be found in time-wasting antics by the fitting rooms. A coworker in her matching red shirt and khaki pants wandered over, approaching with a genuine smile as McNeal recalls showing no hesitance in inviting Lizzi to join him.
During their work just four months ago, the two kindled a friendship which sparked and flourished from conversation. Lizzi’s best quality described by McNeal was her sincere and genuine interest in others. The ability to open up to Marriott seemed natural for McNeal. In his wit and humor, the two related in kindness and laughter.
“She would ask you about your day and remember tiny details you told her about some ranting, and sit there intently listening to your stories,” said McNeal.
After four months of constant texting, October 8 was the last day McNeal saw his friend in person. This day, Marriott had been on a field trip to Odiorne Point exploring the tide pools of the East-Atlantic coast.Texting Marriott, McNeal recalls his friend’s kindness as she told him of her incident which resulted in soaking shoes, going into the water to help pull up her fallen lab partner.
In her soaked shoes, dripping with bravery and fortitude, Lizzi found herself at McNeal’s doorstep in his offering of a dry pair. In the comfort of his home, the two planned to get lunch for the upcoming Wednesday, incidentally just the day after her disappearance.
In continuance of their conversational routine, the two expressed nothing out of the ordinary as they texted that night and all Tuesday morning with prospects of seeing each other Wednesday.
That Tuesday evening, Lizzi was on her way off the UNH campus as a student commuter. It was that night when the messages to McNeal stopped. Looking at his phone, the last message received from Lizzi to McNeal was in lieu of his new haircut, replying in laughter and complement.
Wandering through the day, the silence from Lizzi left McNeal uneasy about their failure to see each other in the plans they had previously made.
After reports from Target of Lizzi’s disappearance from work, McNeal recalls being disturbed from his sleep by a knock at the door. Rolling out of bed, McNeal approached the door where Greenland officers stood with grim news. Reporting the news and asking of any noticeable changes in behavior, McNeal responded to the police in dumbfound honesty.
“She definitely wasn't the type to run away, especially because she had made plans with me [yesterday]
and with her girlfriend later in the week,” said McNeal.
The devastation of her disappearance left McNeal in a surreal state, as though living out the plot of a budding mystery show of dramatic horror.
“Her silence suddenly made sense to me and I couldn't help but think the worst, that I was the person in the beginning of those shows, that this interview was the start of her final story.”
In the pains of hopelessness but reflection of Lizzi’s immense good nature, McNeal mustered a burning dedication to his friend in the start of a lengthy search. Hearing of her final text in Dover, NH, McNeal describes having an extra set of eyes out looking for Lizzi couldn’t hurt.
Driving through the back roads of Dover Point, the afternoon sun glaring behind, McNeal hunted for her car in the bustling town.
“It was driving me crazy as I was passing all these side roads, thinking that she could be down any one of them but if I looked through all of them I wouldn't make much progress further; but if I missed one of them and she had been there, I would never forgive myself.”
Wrestling with these thoughts, McNeal pushed his search to downtown Dover. Passing in and out of roads, he found himself in the eerie Mills and abandoned lots. The overwhelming weight of Lizzi’s possible suffering in these areas pushed his search further.
McNeal’s driving barely ceased as ideas sparked in his head of where to find her abandoned vehicle. Coming to the Greyhound station, the sea of cars provided both a sense of optimism and persistence in McNeal as he check every car in the overcrowded lot.
“I decided to check the greyhound station because that's a place to hide a car in plain sight with everyone leaving their cars over for weeks at a time. I was strangely optimistic at the start of the search
simply because of the sheer amount of cars there, but as I got through aisle after aisle of cars my optimism dwindled. When the final aisle proved fruitless I was so frustrated.”
In the slow pace of the work day at Target, McNeal, 20, could be found in time-wasting antics by the fitting rooms. A coworker in her matching red shirt and khaki pants wandered over, approaching with a genuine smile as McNeal recalls showing no hesitance in inviting Lizzi to join him.
During their work just four months ago, the two kindled a friendship which sparked and flourished from conversation. Lizzi’s best quality described by McNeal was her sincere and genuine interest in others. The ability to open up to Marriott seemed natural for McNeal. In his wit and humor, the two related in kindness and laughter.
“She would ask you about your day and remember tiny details you told her about some ranting, and sit there intently listening to your stories,” said McNeal.
After four months of constant texting, October 8 was the last day McNeal saw his friend in person. This day, Marriott had been on a field trip to Odiorne Point exploring the tide pools of the East-Atlantic coast.Texting Marriott, McNeal recalls his friend’s kindness as she told him of her incident which resulted in soaking shoes, going into the water to help pull up her fallen lab partner.
In her soaked shoes, dripping with bravery and fortitude, Lizzi found herself at McNeal’s doorstep in his offering of a dry pair. In the comfort of his home, the two planned to get lunch for the upcoming Wednesday, incidentally just the day after her disappearance.
In continuance of their conversational routine, the two expressed nothing out of the ordinary as they texted that night and all Tuesday morning with prospects of seeing each other Wednesday.
That Tuesday evening, Lizzi was on her way off the UNH campus as a student commuter. It was that night when the messages to McNeal stopped. Looking at his phone, the last message received from Lizzi to McNeal was in lieu of his new haircut, replying in laughter and complement.
Wandering through the day, the silence from Lizzi left McNeal uneasy about their failure to see each other in the plans they had previously made.
After reports from Target of Lizzi’s disappearance from work, McNeal recalls being disturbed from his sleep by a knock at the door. Rolling out of bed, McNeal approached the door where Greenland officers stood with grim news. Reporting the news and asking of any noticeable changes in behavior, McNeal responded to the police in dumbfound honesty.
“She definitely wasn't the type to run away, especially because she had made plans with me [yesterday]
and with her girlfriend later in the week,” said McNeal.
The devastation of her disappearance left McNeal in a surreal state, as though living out the plot of a budding mystery show of dramatic horror.
“Her silence suddenly made sense to me and I couldn't help but think the worst, that I was the person in the beginning of those shows, that this interview was the start of her final story.”
In the pains of hopelessness but reflection of Lizzi’s immense good nature, McNeal mustered a burning dedication to his friend in the start of a lengthy search. Hearing of her final text in Dover, NH, McNeal describes having an extra set of eyes out looking for Lizzi couldn’t hurt.
Driving through the back roads of Dover Point, the afternoon sun glaring behind, McNeal hunted for her car in the bustling town.
“It was driving me crazy as I was passing all these side roads, thinking that she could be down any one of them but if I looked through all of them I wouldn't make much progress further; but if I missed one of them and she had been there, I would never forgive myself.”
Wrestling with these thoughts, McNeal pushed his search to downtown Dover. Passing in and out of roads, he found himself in the eerie Mills and abandoned lots. The overwhelming weight of Lizzi’s possible suffering in these areas pushed his search further.
McNeal’s driving barely ceased as ideas sparked in his head of where to find her abandoned vehicle. Coming to the Greyhound station, the sea of cars provided both a sense of optimism and persistence in McNeal as he check every car in the overcrowded lot.
“I decided to check the greyhound station because that's a place to hide a car in plain sight with everyone leaving their cars over for weeks at a time. I was strangely optimistic at the start of the search
simply because of the sheer amount of cars there, but as I got through aisle after aisle of cars my optimism dwindled. When the final aisle proved fruitless I was so frustrated.”
Continuing on, McNeal found himself in the Portsmouth parking garage, running up every level, examining every car in determination. Reaching the very top, the sun had set and the darkness of the night left a sense of defeat which rested heavily on his shoulders as the search in his return home.
At the news of her murder, McNeal showed little surprise but heavy grief as his new-found friend was so quickly taken away. Recalling his search nearly a month after her disappearance, Mcneal left a message to Lizzi, as well as her community, as he reflects on the fragility of life and the darkness of the world which resonates without her.
“Elizabeth Marriott, a few days ago while I was driving around frantically trying to find you, I saw one of the most beautiful sunsets I had ever seen, and it was very calming and strangely relieving. Now knowing what I know, I find this to be a wonderful coincidence; a resplendent collage of colors and light saying goodbye to me. Rest in peace friend, I'm sure I'll see you again.”
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Sensitivity in the Newsroom: A Drawn-out Explanation
This past weekend I had planned to write a news story on certain events of Elizabeth Marriott's death. This wasn't something that was set in mind as soon as I had heard the reports she was missing. The plan to write this story happened by chance... as most of my news stories seem to come together. When first hearing about Lizzie, it seemed like another tragedy story that would come and pass with the mountain of tragedies that occur everyday, but of course this one was closer to home (being a UNH student as well as a female commuter).
Needless to say the reports of her disappearance put my parents on high alert in fear of a rampant commuter snatcher that would be lurking in the dark shadows of A lot as I ventured unattended to my car at 8 p.m. But this didn't seemed like an event I even considered writing about. Tragedy stories like these require a lot of sensitivity in the case of interviewing, an amount of sensitivity I did not think I could handle at my current stage as an aspiring yet naive journalist. The thought of speaking with her parents, especially after the notification of her death, seemed incredibly intimidating. I couldn't imagine confronting the mourning couple about their recent loss, let alone ask them detailed questions about their emotions and sorrow.
It wasn't that I lacked the curiosity, I think humans have this natural pessimistic desire to understand other people's sorrows, some morbid curiosity... or at least I do. But there was definitely a sense of crossing a very personal barrier, a sense of entering the privacy of one's thoughts and inquiring details about their tears. I think the idea of interviewing about the loss of a loved one is a path you have to tread softy, because initially you are inquiring about the reasoning behind their tears. Simply put: "why are you crying?" I don't want this to seem like I am question their reasoning for grieving in a sense that they shouldn't be. Of course they should be. But to ask that question, it helps others to gain a sense of who Lizzie was and, most importantly, what she meant to others.
Now, this is one of the main tasks that journalists should always keep in mind and master. The relationship between a journalist and their story should be very personal, interviewer and interviewee and relating that relationship to the rest of the world. But that's what we have to do: relate the important details of events to the public in order to gain an understanding of the emotions of everyday life.
As Joe Battenfeld shared with us in class this past Wednesday, with the tragic experience of accidentally informing a family of their son's death (highlighting just how fast news travels these days), dealing with stories of tragedy, the severe topic of life and death, can be exhausting. But when I encountered a very old friend of mine, one that I have missed dearly and had not had an actual conversation with for over three years, all by random happenstance it was a shock to learn that he was a close friend with Elizabeth "Lizzie" Marriott. Now any journalist would see this as a perfect opportunity to get into the head of someone who shared a closeness with Lizzie, greater than an interview with someone off the street who had heard about the story through a friend or Facebook status. And I had planned to nab that opportunity as it was something of incredible chance. But this is where the struggle arose of crossing that personal barrier. It was a moment where, as a journalist, I had to balance my desire for a story with the sensitivity of having our first conversation since losing contact somewhere along the lines of: "how was your grieving process?" Of course I would have hopefully worded that a bit better in the interview.
So, after class on Wednesday, as the other students plopped their news stories in the pile of weekly submissions, I found myself with an orange slip in hand, my name and date written on the back, setting that free pass on the stack of 8x12 papers in place of the story I couldn't muster the courage to write. Now, I don't want to end this blog entry sounding completely defeated. Journalism can be tough, especially in the aspects of tragedy, but emotions are a part of everyday life and do require a sense of extreme dedication and understanding. Although I was not able to confront this story under certain circumstances, that does not mean I will overlook this experience. Because I do plan on writing that story, whether it is graded or not. Writing about and more importantly reporting about emotions is a very personal and unique experience and in relation to my friend, his perspective has a lot to offer in the frame of Lizzie's death and I think it's writing about these perspectives that make stories like Lizzie's important and impacting.
On a final note, which may not be totally relevant to the final point I'm trying to make, I just wanted to leave a quote from that friend that was posted as a Facebook status, one that leaves me inspired to continue growing as a sensitive journalist while covering tragic events... "Elizabeth Marriott, a few days ago while I was driving around frantically trying to find you, I saw one of the most beautiful sunsets I had ever seen, and it was very calming and strangely relieving. Now knowing what I know, I find this to be a wonderful coincidence; a resplendent collage of colors and light saying goodbye to me. Rest in peace friend, I'm sure I'll see you again."
Needless to say the reports of her disappearance put my parents on high alert in fear of a rampant commuter snatcher that would be lurking in the dark shadows of A lot as I ventured unattended to my car at 8 p.m. But this didn't seemed like an event I even considered writing about. Tragedy stories like these require a lot of sensitivity in the case of interviewing, an amount of sensitivity I did not think I could handle at my current stage as an aspiring yet naive journalist. The thought of speaking with her parents, especially after the notification of her death, seemed incredibly intimidating. I couldn't imagine confronting the mourning couple about their recent loss, let alone ask them detailed questions about their emotions and sorrow.
It wasn't that I lacked the curiosity, I think humans have this natural pessimistic desire to understand other people's sorrows, some morbid curiosity... or at least I do. But there was definitely a sense of crossing a very personal barrier, a sense of entering the privacy of one's thoughts and inquiring details about their tears. I think the idea of interviewing about the loss of a loved one is a path you have to tread softy, because initially you are inquiring about the reasoning behind their tears. Simply put: "why are you crying?" I don't want this to seem like I am question their reasoning for grieving in a sense that they shouldn't be. Of course they should be. But to ask that question, it helps others to gain a sense of who Lizzie was and, most importantly, what she meant to others.
Now, this is one of the main tasks that journalists should always keep in mind and master. The relationship between a journalist and their story should be very personal, interviewer and interviewee and relating that relationship to the rest of the world. But that's what we have to do: relate the important details of events to the public in order to gain an understanding of the emotions of everyday life.
As Joe Battenfeld shared with us in class this past Wednesday, with the tragic experience of accidentally informing a family of their son's death (highlighting just how fast news travels these days), dealing with stories of tragedy, the severe topic of life and death, can be exhausting. But when I encountered a very old friend of mine, one that I have missed dearly and had not had an actual conversation with for over three years, all by random happenstance it was a shock to learn that he was a close friend with Elizabeth "Lizzie" Marriott. Now any journalist would see this as a perfect opportunity to get into the head of someone who shared a closeness with Lizzie, greater than an interview with someone off the street who had heard about the story through a friend or Facebook status. And I had planned to nab that opportunity as it was something of incredible chance. But this is where the struggle arose of crossing that personal barrier. It was a moment where, as a journalist, I had to balance my desire for a story with the sensitivity of having our first conversation since losing contact somewhere along the lines of: "how was your grieving process?" Of course I would have hopefully worded that a bit better in the interview.
So, after class on Wednesday, as the other students plopped their news stories in the pile of weekly submissions, I found myself with an orange slip in hand, my name and date written on the back, setting that free pass on the stack of 8x12 papers in place of the story I couldn't muster the courage to write. Now, I don't want to end this blog entry sounding completely defeated. Journalism can be tough, especially in the aspects of tragedy, but emotions are a part of everyday life and do require a sense of extreme dedication and understanding. Although I was not able to confront this story under certain circumstances, that does not mean I will overlook this experience. Because I do plan on writing that story, whether it is graded or not. Writing about and more importantly reporting about emotions is a very personal and unique experience and in relation to my friend, his perspective has a lot to offer in the frame of Lizzie's death and I think it's writing about these perspectives that make stories like Lizzie's important and impacting.
On a final note, which may not be totally relevant to the final point I'm trying to make, I just wanted to leave a quote from that friend that was posted as a Facebook status, one that leaves me inspired to continue growing as a sensitive journalist while covering tragic events... "Elizabeth Marriott, a few days ago while I was driving around frantically trying to find you, I saw one of the most beautiful sunsets I had ever seen, and it was very calming and strangely relieving. Now knowing what I know, I find this to be a wonderful coincidence; a resplendent collage of colors and light saying goodbye to me. Rest in peace friend, I'm sure I'll see you again."
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Proposed School Board policy threatens to
drag misbehaving students away from weekend cartoons, parents out of bed, and
tax increases in response to possible required Saturday school.
School Board member Tim Steele highlighted
the importance of disciplining students during the School Board meeting this
past Monday evening. In the form of a Saturday morning session policy, the new
disciplinary measure would require students to attend from 8 a.m. until noon for
several weekends during the year.
Local parent, Peggy Bacon, expressed concerns
for this proposal as it would inconvenient her own work schedule.
“I work six days a week – including Saturday
morning – and it’s bad enough to get my son off to school Monday through
Friday. Why should I have to worry about Saturdays as well?” said Bacon.
Contrary to Bacon, resident Bob Farley
expressed his approval of the new rules.
“Parents can whine all they want about this,
but maybe it’s time parents in America were made to take a little responsibility
for their kids,” said Farley. “Parents aren’t teaching their kids any
discipline, so the kids have no respect for rules. Maybe if they have to miss a
few Saturday morning cartoons they’ll start wising up.”
Steele expressed hope that the new policy would
reduce in-house suspensions, particularly to those found smoking on campus. “The
new program,” said Steele, “would mean that the student would miss no class
time.”
In response to this proposal, student and
senior at PHS Lisa Gallagher shard her opinion on where the benefits and
disadvantages would lie.
“In 12 years of school I’ve never served a
detention, and I don’t intend to. I think [this idea] is just being done to
make life easier for the faculty, so they don’t have to deal with detentions
during the week,” said Gallagher. “Anyway, what if someone skips the session?
What are [teachers] going to do, make them stay all weekend?”
According to Steele, students who skipped the
Saturday School session would not be allowed to return to school until the
detention has been served.
The thirty-minute discussion ended with a
board vote of 5-3 to table the issue. The meeting will continue on March 7 with
Steele providing figures on in-school detentions for the current year.
“I know this isn’t good news for parents,”
said Steele, “but I hope the threat of Saturday classes will make the students
think twice before breaking the school rules.”
Monday, October 8, 2012
Rant of the Politically Uninterested...
In lieu of catching up on the presidential debate this past weekend, I must say that my overall disinterest in politics has gorged itself, full to bursting of complete annoyance with each of these candidates. To be quite honest, I'm going to say something that will probably enrage the few who may take some time to look at this blog, but even though this is considered one of the most heated elections: I have not kept myself very much informed.
What I mean to say is that I do not go out of my way or even take time in my leisure to look up much development in the presidential election. Tis blasphemy, I know! But in all honesty I've never been interested in politics. I'm not entirely sure why... it could possibly be the fact that I do not enjoy watching two people emphasizing grandiose hopes with vague blue prints while highlighting the faults of their opponents. But as I said I do not keep up with the politics of today so all of these opinions could be considered invalid or ill-supported... and I can accept that.
But in retrospect of what many might think across the board, I could easily say that political candidates should depend not on their ability to highlight the negatives in each other but rather have the focus on the actuality of hard, solid plans, to remain above all of that petty nonsense that should be reduced to kids in grade school fighting over who has the best set of crayons which are both manufactured from Crayola.... (that analogy may be a bit of a stretch). But even beauty pageants seem to have more decency!
I've become exhausted by this epitome of division in man. Even watching the debate on Youtube there laid an ad stamped in the corner: "Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan want to take away a woman's right to choose... paid for by Obama Victory Fund 2012"... UGH. Ad after ad and the imperial ton of "I approve this message..." it's become so mundane that I've just grown to put it all on the back-burner of my mind, if not tune it out completely.
I know most of my generation does not feel the same way as I, counting on how the majority, if not only, political information I get would be from the rantings of my friends and co-workers. But while watching the debate, it seemed as though the candidates continuously went back and forth on the same issues, vagueness as their weapons in battle, and whoever could shout the loudest or interrupt Jimmy most often (Romney >.>), would win the political prize...
But like I said, I do not keep myself much informed on this subject so I condone the possibility of completely disregarding my outside or maybe even "overly-neutral" opinion on the matter. But that's what this is: the sole opinion from the "politically ignorant". All I know is that debate was head-ache inducing and I lack the utter patience to indulge in it.
Food for thought...and laughs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPgfzknYd20
What I mean to say is that I do not go out of my way or even take time in my leisure to look up much development in the presidential election. Tis blasphemy, I know! But in all honesty I've never been interested in politics. I'm not entirely sure why... it could possibly be the fact that I do not enjoy watching two people emphasizing grandiose hopes with vague blue prints while highlighting the faults of their opponents. But as I said I do not keep up with the politics of today so all of these opinions could be considered invalid or ill-supported... and I can accept that.
But in retrospect of what many might think across the board, I could easily say that political candidates should depend not on their ability to highlight the negatives in each other but rather have the focus on the actuality of hard, solid plans, to remain above all of that petty nonsense that should be reduced to kids in grade school fighting over who has the best set of crayons which are both manufactured from Crayola.... (that analogy may be a bit of a stretch). But even beauty pageants seem to have more decency!
I've become exhausted by this epitome of division in man. Even watching the debate on Youtube there laid an ad stamped in the corner: "Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan want to take away a woman's right to choose... paid for by Obama Victory Fund 2012"... UGH. Ad after ad and the imperial ton of "I approve this message..." it's become so mundane that I've just grown to put it all on the back-burner of my mind, if not tune it out completely.
I know most of my generation does not feel the same way as I, counting on how the majority, if not only, political information I get would be from the rantings of my friends and co-workers. But while watching the debate, it seemed as though the candidates continuously went back and forth on the same issues, vagueness as their weapons in battle, and whoever could shout the loudest or interrupt Jimmy most often (Romney >.>), would win the political prize...
But like I said, I do not keep myself much informed on this subject so I condone the possibility of completely disregarding my outside or maybe even "overly-neutral" opinion on the matter. But that's what this is: the sole opinion from the "politically ignorant". All I know is that debate was head-ache inducing and I lack the utter patience to indulge in it.
Food for thought...and laughs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPgfzknYd20
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Girls in the Game Room...
Well-secluded on the first floor of the Memorial Union Building, the Games Room upholds its standing as a meeting ground for a diverse community of students. From its Xbox consoles to Playstation's, Wii and Kinect, this room attracts both regulars and newbies to its gaming universe. But what kind of universe is it?
Charles Arena, 5th year senior at UNH, has been a dedicated contributor to the Games Room since his sophomore year at the university. Looking for work, his passion for gaming led him to the first floor of the MUB where he has currently been working as a Games Room attendent for nearly four years.
When asked of the certain students that travel in and out throughout the day, Arena seemed to notice mostly male regulars who have dedicated their leisure time to plopping down in front of a screen and working on their saved games.
Stephen Cote, Junior at UNH and regular to the Games Room, can be found shooting targets in Call of Duty.
"It acts as a way for me to relieve stress. Although it may not be the most productive use of my leisure time, I love to come here and lett off some steam," said Cote.
Surveying the Games Room on a typical Monday afternoon, there are male gamers scattered around an Xbox or Playstation. But where do the girls fit in?
"I see two kinds of girls in here playing games: a lot of girls getting dragged in here by guys who really don't want to do it... or girls who are really into it," said Arena as he discusses the types of females that he sees throughout his work shift.
When asked if he ever had girl gamers contributing to his online gameplay, Cote spent a few minutes pondering.
"To be honest I don't think I've ever played with a girl online. I rarely see girls in [the Games Room] and if they are they're probably playing Mario Kart or Rock Band, or that stuff," said Cote pointing to the 2 girls indulging in the interactive and not-so competitive Dance Central for the Xbox Kinect.
Josh Blake, part-time student at UNH, recounts his sisters as huge contributors to the gaming world.
"My sisters love gaming and they're totally open about it. They're extremely competitive when it comes to video games and sometimes it's a little intimidating, but I think it's awesome that we can connect on that level."
Morgan McCormick is a long-time female gamer and speaker at a harassment panel at PAX East, a gaming convention that took place this spring in Boston. She discussed the types of stereotypes and negativity she has experienced in the gaming world as a female player.
"I've always loved video games since I was a kid. This panel was a major opportunity for me to express my sentiments and experiences as a female gamer in a world dominated by men. It's sad that harassment exists for females in this area. Gamers can be a terribly kind and understanding group but they can be upsettingly the opposite as well."
When thinking about certain stereotypes of females in the gaming world, Adam Konopka, Sophomore and computer science major listed certain stereotypes of female gamers that he's heard based on their role in the gaming universe.
"Stereotypes I'd say is they are bad skill wise (I wouldn't say that's true). It's said they don't play games with a lot of violence, such as Halo or Gears of War, that they're not as aggressive, but I disagree. Tons of female gamers are on [Call of Duty] and such."
Konopka is currently working on creating his own online video game that he hopes will reach gamers on all levels.
"The community needs female gamers and they have a lot to offer to the gaming world. Males should do our part by not treating female gamers differently, and females should do theirs by not wanting to be treated differently (for better or worse). If we all just look at the game for the competitive aspect, while still remembering that it's a game, we can all have fun."
The MUB Games Room advertises itself having something for everybody, and better yet it's all free for students.
Charles Arena, 5th year senior at UNH, has been a dedicated contributor to the Games Room since his sophomore year at the university. Looking for work, his passion for gaming led him to the first floor of the MUB where he has currently been working as a Games Room attendent for nearly four years.
When asked of the certain students that travel in and out throughout the day, Arena seemed to notice mostly male regulars who have dedicated their leisure time to plopping down in front of a screen and working on their saved games.
Stephen Cote, Junior at UNH and regular to the Games Room, can be found shooting targets in Call of Duty.
"It acts as a way for me to relieve stress. Although it may not be the most productive use of my leisure time, I love to come here and lett off some steam," said Cote.
Surveying the Games Room on a typical Monday afternoon, there are male gamers scattered around an Xbox or Playstation. But where do the girls fit in?
"I see two kinds of girls in here playing games: a lot of girls getting dragged in here by guys who really don't want to do it... or girls who are really into it," said Arena as he discusses the types of females that he sees throughout his work shift.
When asked if he ever had girl gamers contributing to his online gameplay, Cote spent a few minutes pondering.
"To be honest I don't think I've ever played with a girl online. I rarely see girls in [the Games Room] and if they are they're probably playing Mario Kart or Rock Band, or that stuff," said Cote pointing to the 2 girls indulging in the interactive and not-so competitive Dance Central for the Xbox Kinect.
Josh Blake, part-time student at UNH, recounts his sisters as huge contributors to the gaming world.
"My sisters love gaming and they're totally open about it. They're extremely competitive when it comes to video games and sometimes it's a little intimidating, but I think it's awesome that we can connect on that level."
Morgan McCormick is a long-time female gamer and speaker at a harassment panel at PAX East, a gaming convention that took place this spring in Boston. She discussed the types of stereotypes and negativity she has experienced in the gaming world as a female player.
"I've always loved video games since I was a kid. This panel was a major opportunity for me to express my sentiments and experiences as a female gamer in a world dominated by men. It's sad that harassment exists for females in this area. Gamers can be a terribly kind and understanding group but they can be upsettingly the opposite as well."
When thinking about certain stereotypes of females in the gaming world, Adam Konopka, Sophomore and computer science major listed certain stereotypes of female gamers that he's heard based on their role in the gaming universe.
"Stereotypes I'd say is they are bad skill wise (I wouldn't say that's true). It's said they don't play games with a lot of violence, such as Halo or Gears of War, that they're not as aggressive, but I disagree. Tons of female gamers are on [Call of Duty] and such."
Konopka is currently working on creating his own online video game that he hopes will reach gamers on all levels.
"The community needs female gamers and they have a lot to offer to the gaming world. Males should do our part by not treating female gamers differently, and females should do theirs by not wanting to be treated differently (for better or worse). If we all just look at the game for the competitive aspect, while still remembering that it's a game, we can all have fun."
The MUB Games Room advertises itself having something for everybody, and better yet it's all free for students.
Info. Overload
I think the news has always been one of the greatest aspects of society, one that could be considered in constant demand. As a kid the news seemed like something distant, irrelevant, out of my interest, or just plain scary... but the list could go on. I guess you could say as kid I would get my news from “annoying” blurbs of information that interrupted mine and my mother’s bonding time over alternative hits on the radio.
But as I got older I found more and more interest in the news, specifically local news. I guess the attraction was not only hearing real life stories with possibly exaggerated drama, but I also had a subtle desire to see someone from town I knew winning an award or getting arrested for drug use...whichever seemed more likely. What interested me in the news the most was the reality of it, real life people, real life emotions, real life events. But I think nowadays, news is in such a constant demand that it has become almost too casual for my generation and I think content and accessibility are huge factors in that.
With the explosion of wireless interfaces, smart phones, unlimited blogging, facebook, twitter, wikipedia... news has gone over a major transitioning based on the basic forms of media. It’s become a bit overwhelming for our generation I think, so much information spewing in and out constantly, not just from the television or the newspaper which require a sort of dedicated time, but news that follows us around in our pockets. It’s easy to take that for granted. I think back before this explosion, the news acted as a sort of break from the mundane routines of life, to come home and sit down with family or relaxing alone, the news was a way to reconnect with the world after a long day at work.
Now I feel that getting information has grown a part of our mundane routine, constantly at our access. It’s as if we’re at a point where instead of setting that time away with the newspaper or the 9 o’clock news on tv, I think around that time my generation is already exhausted from the amount of less newsworthy content we’ve absorbed throughout the day. It’s not that major news events are less intense or meaningful, it’s just that the news viewers themselves have become so disinterested by the idea of setting away time for something of which could easily be accessed later whenever we choose.
It’s like when I have an alternate reading assignment for class. It’s not graded and I know I already and will always have the book on my shelf, I find myself saying I could read it whenever I wanted really... but when I have the time. And it gets put off for something more personally concerning or relevant... or in this case graded (keeping up with that horrible analogy). I think my overall point is with the immense amount of news and information that seems to merely come and go, it’s our responsibility, not only as perspective journalists but as general members of society, to go looking for that important news... past all the crap on our social “news” feeds of kids complaining about parents and politicians.
But as I got older I found more and more interest in the news, specifically local news. I guess the attraction was not only hearing real life stories with possibly exaggerated drama, but I also had a subtle desire to see someone from town I knew winning an award or getting arrested for drug use...whichever seemed more likely. What interested me in the news the most was the reality of it, real life people, real life emotions, real life events. But I think nowadays, news is in such a constant demand that it has become almost too casual for my generation and I think content and accessibility are huge factors in that.
With the explosion of wireless interfaces, smart phones, unlimited blogging, facebook, twitter, wikipedia... news has gone over a major transitioning based on the basic forms of media. It’s become a bit overwhelming for our generation I think, so much information spewing in and out constantly, not just from the television or the newspaper which require a sort of dedicated time, but news that follows us around in our pockets. It’s easy to take that for granted. I think back before this explosion, the news acted as a sort of break from the mundane routines of life, to come home and sit down with family or relaxing alone, the news was a way to reconnect with the world after a long day at work.
Now I feel that getting information has grown a part of our mundane routine, constantly at our access. It’s as if we’re at a point where instead of setting that time away with the newspaper or the 9 o’clock news on tv, I think around that time my generation is already exhausted from the amount of less newsworthy content we’ve absorbed throughout the day. It’s not that major news events are less intense or meaningful, it’s just that the news viewers themselves have become so disinterested by the idea of setting away time for something of which could easily be accessed later whenever we choose.
It’s like when I have an alternate reading assignment for class. It’s not graded and I know I already and will always have the book on my shelf, I find myself saying I could read it whenever I wanted really... but when I have the time. And it gets put off for something more personally concerning or relevant... or in this case graded (keeping up with that horrible analogy). I think my overall point is with the immense amount of news and information that seems to merely come and go, it’s our responsibility, not only as perspective journalists but as general members of society, to go looking for that important news... past all the crap on our social “news” feeds of kids complaining about parents and politicians.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Near-death on Amtrak
Frequent Old
Orchard Beach tourist suffered near-death from stalled vehicle on Amtrak this
morning as local teen and police captain worked against the clock to save the
unconscious life.
The 80-year-old Quebec
City resident, Francois Truffaut, was found by local teen, James Laboke, locked
and unconscious in his vehicle. On his four mile walk to work, Laboke witnessed
Truffaut’s 1987, pink Cadillac Seville stalled at the railroad crossing.
After pounding on window
of the running vehicle, there was no sign of response from Truffaunt. 17-year-old
Laboke, without cell phone, then ran 100 yards and arrived at 6 a.m. to town
police force on Pier Street to alert officials of the emergency.
“I never thought about
it. I just knew I couldn’t let that man get crushed by that train,” said Laboke
after the incident.
Hearing the report over
the radio, captain of police force, Janet Paradiso, was able to arrive at the
tracks in her cruiser at 6:05 a.m. The whistle of the Amtrak, due to arrive at
the crossing at 6:10 a.m., could be heard echoing merely minutes away from the
scene.
“I knew there was no
time. I had to do something,” said Paradiso, sharing the same sense of urgency
as Laboke.
Truffaut remained
unresponsive in his Cadillac Seville, as Paradiso used her vehicle to push the
car off the tracks with just thirty seconds to spare until the arrival of the
train.
“It was that close,”
says Brian Paul, chief of police in Old Orchard Beach.
After initially trying
to rescue the man himself, Laboke’s determination and bravery turns the local
resident into local hero. Arriving on time that morning to his work at the Eezy
Breezy Resaurant on East Grand Street, owner Charles Champaign comments on the
bravery of his employee.
“It doesn’t surprise me
at all. That young man is one of my most responsible employees. He’s just a
great kid.
Truffaut is now recovery
from possible insulin shock at Southern Maine Medical Center.
“I don’t remember a
thing,” responded Truffaut from his hospital bed.
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