Hiroshima Assignment:
What works in this book?
I really enjoyed the wide range of characters in the book. The six people that John Hersey the author chose to focus on were very different and at different stages in their lives. In my opinion, this made the story more impactful. Each character went through their own experiences, reactions and perspectives including their invididual outcomes from experiencing the atomic bomb. All of the details used to describe these experiences were very clear and brought the characters to life.
Using the exact time to describe what each character was doing precisely when the bomb struck was a very impactful way to tie the story together and keep it consistent. This technique really made me feel like I was there with the characters every step of the way and made me invision how vulnerable Hiroshima was.
The intense descriptions of the injuries that the Hiroshema victims endured really impacted me. My first time reading it was hard as it was unimaginable that people could have even survived such a blast in the first place. The human triumph that Hersey wrote about that came from such horrifc circumstances was overwhelming as well as inspiring. The heroism Mr. Tanimoto displayed was unbelievable. How he was able to be so determined to help as many of his fellow men as he did under such stressful and unknown circumstances was incredible.
What didn’t work for me?
What didn't work for me in this book was the flip flopping back and forth of all the different characters because I found it very confusing. I had to read the names back a few times before I was able to follow the characters properly.
The pronunciations of their names also made me stumble before I became comfortable with them. I would have liked guidance on how to pronounce the names beside them the first time I read them.
The raw truth of it all I found difficult to absorb. On one hand, it made the story more real however, I found it very hard to read and digest at times because of how raw and gory the imagery was. It just disturbed me greatly to read that human beings could have done this to each other.
What can journalists learn from this book?
Journalists can learn about history from this book. They can use it as a reference guide for dates, as well as different organizational bodies that resulted from the tragedy.
From reading Hiroshima, journalists can learn how to write a human tragedy story without putting their own feelings or biases in it. I also think Hiroshima is an excellent resource for a journalist to refer to if he or she needs to learn how to organize factual information on a a large scale. Hiroshima is very thoughtful as far as how it is laid out and organized. Hersey is also very effective in his writing techniques to describe passages of time that move the story along.
How does it compare to another non-fiction work of your choice in any medium?
I can see similarities between John Hersey’s writing style and Mike McIntyre’s writing style especially in McIntyre’s book To The Grave that was the inside look of a spectacular RCMP sting operation. At first, I was not sure how to answer this question but when I started to give it some thought I remembered McIntyre’s writing style is similar to Hersey’s.
In both situations, both authors had enormous amounts of information to organize. They both used the same technique in so far as using specifics such as pertinent times of day or dates to not only create passages of time but to actually organize events and information.
I also found in both pieces of work, the authors kept their own biases out of their writing and kept to the facts and details of the story they were telling. This allowed the reader freedom to come to conclusions and theories about what was actually happening or going to happen in their own.
How was this Hiroshima received when it was published in the New Yorker in 1946?
From researching this question online, I came across an essay written by Steve Rothman back in 1997 when he was a student studying at Harvard University. In his essay, Rothman said that Hiroshima first started out as an article that ended up being 31,000 words in length and it took over the entire magazine.
The story was to be published in August 1946, on the one-year anniversary of the dropping of the bomb. Rothman said the New Yorker published the article in its August 31,1946 issue. The book Hiroshima was published the same year the article came out, 1946.
It was updated in 1985 to tell the stories of the six main characters 40-years later. Rothman said the article created a blast in the publishing world. Rothman also said that The New Yorker sold out immediately, and requests for reprints poured in from all over the world. Following publication, "Hiroshima" was read on the radio in the United States and abroad.
What effect did reading Hiroshima have on you?
It was hard reading Hiroshima to think such devastation would have been acceptable in our world. It really brought home how vulnerable we are to each other’s actions. It also reminded me that we are all human no matter what colour or race or language we speak. The terror of that day, the unknown and the baffling fear of what happened to those poor people is saddening and sobering and thank goodness Hiroshima is there to remind us all of the horror of nuclear weapons and war.
It makes me appreciate peace and my own safety as I wake up every day and fall asleep each night under a warm blanket in a safe place. It also made me proud to be a Canadian.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Monday, November 21, 2011
Community Journalism Assignment Reflections
What I have learned from working at the Headliner:
Over this semester, all journalism majors had to write five stories for the Canstar Newspaper. Currently, I am on my fifth story. I wanted to take this time to reflect what I have learned about this experience. Before this class exercise, I had always wanted to work as a freelance writer for a newspaper and never really had the guts to actually follow through with it. This assignment forced me to have to follow through with it and I am very happy that I did. I really enjoy this type of work. What I really enjoy is thinking of new story angles. I never knew how much I would enjoy this. What I like most about this is the fact that the idea comes from my own head and then it is turned into a tangible piece of news. I just absolutely love this feeling.
From working in public relations and raising awareness for whatever organization I was working for, I had to attract the attention of journalists to entice them to cover my story. Now, on the other side of the fence, I am the journalist pitching the news angles. It is really interesting to have had both experiences to see what each entails. I think I like both but when the idea is born in my head and accepted by my editor and eventually published, the sense of ownership and accomplishment is really rewarding to me.
My last article that I submitted was about a congregate meal program that the RM of Macdonald is trying to get off the ground. I found this story because I was thinking that with the transition of winter, seniors in rural areas must be facing different challenges than urban seniors. My research produced information about a contact in the RM of Macdonald who is the Seniors Coordinator. I cold called her and we talked about seniors issues that she was contending with and the congregate meal program angle surfaced and I knew this would be a story. A congregate meal program is providing a public venue where seniors can purchase a balanced meal at low cost for either their lunch or dinner.
I submitted this completed story last week Thursday. I ended up driving out to Starbuck Manitoba. Luckily, the roads were still dry at this point. Starbuck is a real little town. I was able to meet with a group of seniors and the Seniors Coordinator at the same time as they were attending a lunch and learn about living with Alzheimer’s. The seniors were a tough crowd and I was only able to take photos of two of them but I at least got the visuals I needed. When I submitted this story, I felt very accomplished because it was my idea from beginning to end and I was very proud of what I had uncovered and developed.
Another thing that I learned that I love doing is meeting all the new people from having to interview them. The relationships that you make from this experience are people I would never have before met. I am really happy I also chose the rural newspaper instead of my original choice of the paper for the River Height area. Writing for the Headliner has given me the opportunity to get out and explore rural Manitoba which is something I would have never done before. Some of the little communities are so quaint and pretty. The people are also very real and down to earth.
I have also learned a lot about writing for newspaper. I realized that I had a tendency to editorialize too much and learned to paraphrase quotes better.
Plus, I now pay close attention of the order of my paragraphs putting the most relevant information first and making sure my story angles are timely. The feedback from my editor was really helpful. Each time he supplied me with constructive criticism, I tried to incorporate this into my article. He was very understanding and patient and understood that these things take time to learn. This assignment as a whole didn’t feel like work to me. I really enjoyed the process and the journey.
This experience made me became more familiar with how to learn how to take photos as I had never used a professional camera before. So, even that was a bit daunting at the beginning. I learned the power of auto focus!
I would like to continue working as a freelance writer. I think I am now curious to find out what it is like to be a freelance writer for a magazine. That will be my next step.
I would love to hear about your experiences throughout this semester doing the community news assignment.
Over this semester, all journalism majors had to write five stories for the Canstar Newspaper. Currently, I am on my fifth story. I wanted to take this time to reflect what I have learned about this experience. Before this class exercise, I had always wanted to work as a freelance writer for a newspaper and never really had the guts to actually follow through with it. This assignment forced me to have to follow through with it and I am very happy that I did. I really enjoy this type of work. What I really enjoy is thinking of new story angles. I never knew how much I would enjoy this. What I like most about this is the fact that the idea comes from my own head and then it is turned into a tangible piece of news. I just absolutely love this feeling.
From working in public relations and raising awareness for whatever organization I was working for, I had to attract the attention of journalists to entice them to cover my story. Now, on the other side of the fence, I am the journalist pitching the news angles. It is really interesting to have had both experiences to see what each entails. I think I like both but when the idea is born in my head and accepted by my editor and eventually published, the sense of ownership and accomplishment is really rewarding to me.
My last article that I submitted was about a congregate meal program that the RM of Macdonald is trying to get off the ground. I found this story because I was thinking that with the transition of winter, seniors in rural areas must be facing different challenges than urban seniors. My research produced information about a contact in the RM of Macdonald who is the Seniors Coordinator. I cold called her and we talked about seniors issues that she was contending with and the congregate meal program angle surfaced and I knew this would be a story. A congregate meal program is providing a public venue where seniors can purchase a balanced meal at low cost for either their lunch or dinner.
I submitted this completed story last week Thursday. I ended up driving out to Starbuck Manitoba. Luckily, the roads were still dry at this point. Starbuck is a real little town. I was able to meet with a group of seniors and the Seniors Coordinator at the same time as they were attending a lunch and learn about living with Alzheimer’s. The seniors were a tough crowd and I was only able to take photos of two of them but I at least got the visuals I needed. When I submitted this story, I felt very accomplished because it was my idea from beginning to end and I was very proud of what I had uncovered and developed.
Another thing that I learned that I love doing is meeting all the new people from having to interview them. The relationships that you make from this experience are people I would never have before met. I am really happy I also chose the rural newspaper instead of my original choice of the paper for the River Height area. Writing for the Headliner has given me the opportunity to get out and explore rural Manitoba which is something I would have never done before. Some of the little communities are so quaint and pretty. The people are also very real and down to earth.
I have also learned a lot about writing for newspaper. I realized that I had a tendency to editorialize too much and learned to paraphrase quotes better.
Plus, I now pay close attention of the order of my paragraphs putting the most relevant information first and making sure my story angles are timely. The feedback from my editor was really helpful. Each time he supplied me with constructive criticism, I tried to incorporate this into my article. He was very understanding and patient and understood that these things take time to learn. This assignment as a whole didn’t feel like work to me. I really enjoyed the process and the journey.
This experience made me became more familiar with how to learn how to take photos as I had never used a professional camera before. So, even that was a bit daunting at the beginning. I learned the power of auto focus!
I would like to continue working as a freelance writer. I think I am now curious to find out what it is like to be a freelance writer for a magazine. That will be my next step.
I would love to hear about your experiences throughout this semester doing the community news assignment.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Phone Interview Jitters
For my latest Canstar article, I had to interview a big wig from RHA. My interview was to discuss congregate meal programs in rural areas of Manitoba. I had this interviewed scheduled for about a week. When the day finally came, I wrote down my questions, how I got my contacts information and made sure I had the five w’s in question format in front of me.
I also wanted to make sure I had a quiet location where I could interview my subject. I went to school a bit early to make sure I could find the appropriate space. I wasn’t able to find a single breakout room available on any floor. I did manage to find the boardroom on the 4th floor, before I used it, I phoned the number on the door to make sure I could use the space.
The person who answered thanked me for calling before I used it and also informed me of the student boardroom that is available to students on the second floor. I was told that you have to book this space from Klara but students are free to use it plus, I believe it is a private room. The boardroom I used on the fourth floor had walls that did not touch the ceiling so it wasn’t a sound proof area. I never knew about the student board room so I just wanted to share that with you.
I had the phone number of my contact written out in front of me along with my questions and I was ready to go. I had to call my source at 1:00pm so I was counting the minutes down on my phone and reviewing my questions. The time finally came when I was supposed to call and I picked up the phone and dialed. I felt a bit nervous at this point but I was able to go through with the call.
My source picked up the phone right away. She needed clarification about why I was calling her and the publication I was writing for so I told her that information and I was able to proceed with the questioning. What I didn’t like was how nervous I soon became. My voice even sounded different to me when I was speaking and that threw me right off.
I also find it very frustrating because I don’t know short hand and I find it hard to keep up with my source while I am writing information down. I always let them know ahead of time that I might have to ask them to repeat themselves upfront to make sure I capture what they are saying accurately. I just really get frustrated with myself having to do this.
I really wish I learned short hand because I am really feeling that would be an invaluable skill. I really do not like doing phone interviews for this reason but I know I have to get used to doing them and find a way that works for me.
I heard a funny saying today called Run on Ralphs and I really have to say, those are the worst. Especially for someone like me with the frustration expressed above. I have done sales in the past and have been trained to focus the conversation and not be afraid to ask for the sale so I am thinking that perhaps I have to use some of those same techniques for my phone interviews. I think I might always feel a bit nervous about phone interviews. When you are not nervous, doesn’t that mean you are too complaisant? Isn’t being a bit nervous an indicator that you care about if you do a good interview?
I am not sure as I am a student learning and this process is a journey. While I was interviewing my source, I did ask her if it would be alright with her to exchange emails should I have any questions while I am writing the article about her piece. She did agree. I asked her if I would be able to email her what I had written about her part to ensure accuracy and she said that would be fine.
I ended up writing out the quotes I was going to use and then sent them off to her for her review and she emailed me back the same afternoon with just a few minor changes in the quotes. So now, I feel confident in the quotes I captured and will submit. I realize that this won’t be possible every time but it worked out well for me this time around.
If any of you have telephone interview jitters, please leave a comment or share with me your tactics to combat your fears. I would love to hear them.
I also wanted to make sure I had a quiet location where I could interview my subject. I went to school a bit early to make sure I could find the appropriate space. I wasn’t able to find a single breakout room available on any floor. I did manage to find the boardroom on the 4th floor, before I used it, I phoned the number on the door to make sure I could use the space.
The person who answered thanked me for calling before I used it and also informed me of the student boardroom that is available to students on the second floor. I was told that you have to book this space from Klara but students are free to use it plus, I believe it is a private room. The boardroom I used on the fourth floor had walls that did not touch the ceiling so it wasn’t a sound proof area. I never knew about the student board room so I just wanted to share that with you.
I had the phone number of my contact written out in front of me along with my questions and I was ready to go. I had to call my source at 1:00pm so I was counting the minutes down on my phone and reviewing my questions. The time finally came when I was supposed to call and I picked up the phone and dialed. I felt a bit nervous at this point but I was able to go through with the call.
My source picked up the phone right away. She needed clarification about why I was calling her and the publication I was writing for so I told her that information and I was able to proceed with the questioning. What I didn’t like was how nervous I soon became. My voice even sounded different to me when I was speaking and that threw me right off.
I also find it very frustrating because I don’t know short hand and I find it hard to keep up with my source while I am writing information down. I always let them know ahead of time that I might have to ask them to repeat themselves upfront to make sure I capture what they are saying accurately. I just really get frustrated with myself having to do this.
I really wish I learned short hand because I am really feeling that would be an invaluable skill. I really do not like doing phone interviews for this reason but I know I have to get used to doing them and find a way that works for me.
I heard a funny saying today called Run on Ralphs and I really have to say, those are the worst. Especially for someone like me with the frustration expressed above. I have done sales in the past and have been trained to focus the conversation and not be afraid to ask for the sale so I am thinking that perhaps I have to use some of those same techniques for my phone interviews. I think I might always feel a bit nervous about phone interviews. When you are not nervous, doesn’t that mean you are too complaisant? Isn’t being a bit nervous an indicator that you care about if you do a good interview?
I am not sure as I am a student learning and this process is a journey. While I was interviewing my source, I did ask her if it would be alright with her to exchange emails should I have any questions while I am writing the article about her piece. She did agree. I asked her if I would be able to email her what I had written about her part to ensure accuracy and she said that would be fine.
I ended up writing out the quotes I was going to use and then sent them off to her for her review and she emailed me back the same afternoon with just a few minor changes in the quotes. So now, I feel confident in the quotes I captured and will submit. I realize that this won’t be possible every time but it worked out well for me this time around.
If any of you have telephone interview jitters, please leave a comment or share with me your tactics to combat your fears. I would love to hear them.
Monday, November 7, 2011
My Favourite Remembrance Day Memories
My favourite Remembrance Day memories go back to 2007-2008. I had a great experience working at the Manitoba Military Aviation Museum as their Manager of Volunteers and Community Relations. The museum is located on Canadian Forces Base 17 Wing Winnipeg which is North of Ness Avenue between Sharp Blvd and Whytewold Road. The museum is on the second floor for building 66. You can contact the museum by calling 833-2500 ext 4739 or visit themonline at http://www.manitobamilitaryaviationmuseum.com.
My job required that I recruit and train volunteers and managethe image of the museum to military and civilian communities. At first, it wasreally overwhelming because working in the military is like learning a new language. I didn’t have any military experience behind me what so ever so I was startingfrom scratch. I soon realized how far a smile and calling someone sir actuallywent.
The mission of the museum was to acquireand display artifacts which bring to life the contributions of Manitobans inmilitary aviation at home and abroad with an emphasis on showcasing thepersonal stories of Manitoba Military Airmen.
During the time I was there, the museum hosted a reference library of over 6,000 titles and was comprised ofprint and video resources. There was a resident Military Aviation Historianthat I worked with called Norman Malayney. His mission was to organize these 6,000 books and interview and video tape veterans so their stories wouldn’t beforgotten. Norman is a maven in aviation history. If you ever need informationin this area, he would be the person to talk to.
One of my goals I made for myselfwas to get John Sauder to come out onsite and broadcast the news from themuseum on Remembrance Day. I thought this would be a very effective way toraise the awareness of our museum in the community and at the same time, notbreak our bank account as we operated as a non-profit organization. I rememberI must have left at least 50 messages for Mr. Sauder over a four month period. I just wouldn’t give up.
I remember when he finally agreed to come out, it was amazing. He actually told me that my persistence was one of the main reasonsthat made this happen and he also believed in the cause. I remember that afterthe broadcast aired, we tracked museum visits and they increased by 50%. Needless to say my boss and volunteers were thrilled with the free publicity.
My job required that I recruit and train volunteers and managethe image of the museum to military and civilian communities. At first, it wasreally overwhelming because working in the military is like learning a new language. I didn’t have any military experience behind me what so ever so I was startingfrom scratch. I soon realized how far a smile and calling someone sir actuallywent.
The mission of the museum was to acquireand display artifacts which bring to life the contributions of Manitobans inmilitary aviation at home and abroad with an emphasis on showcasing thepersonal stories of Manitoba Military Airmen.
During the time I was there, the museum hosted a reference library of over 6,000 titles and was comprised ofprint and video resources. There was a resident Military Aviation Historianthat I worked with called Norman Malayney. His mission was to organize these 6,000 books and interview and video tape veterans so their stories wouldn’t beforgotten. Norman is a maven in aviation history. If you ever need informationin this area, he would be the person to talk to.
One of my goals I made for myselfwas to get John Sauder to come out onsite and broadcast the news from themuseum on Remembrance Day. I thought this would be a very effective way toraise the awareness of our museum in the community and at the same time, notbreak our bank account as we operated as a non-profit organization. I rememberI must have left at least 50 messages for Mr. Sauder over a four month period. I just wouldn’t give up.
I remember when he finally agreed to come out, it was amazing. He actually told me that my persistence was one of the main reasonsthat made this happen and he also believed in the cause. I remember that afterthe broadcast aired, we tracked museum visits and they increased by 50%. Needless to say my boss and volunteers were thrilled with the free publicity.
Monday, October 31, 2011
My Second Law Court Assignment
On October 31, 2011, I had to go to the Law Courts again to find a story and write it. This time, I had to do it on my own. I have a contact who I volunteer on the University of Winnipeg Alumni Council with. His name is Mike Cook and he is a defence lawyer. I emailed him last week to see if he was going to be at the Law Courts today and as luck had it, he was. He invited me to come and see him in action. I met up with Mike in the hallway in front of room 403. From working at Osborne House, I remembered that the councilors would meet their clients at court to provide assistance and I thought to myself, this is probably where they came to. So, it was nice to be able to see this.
Mike was very gracious and helpful. He is such a humble man with almost a boyish charm to him. He has brown hair and was wearing a charcoal greyish suit with a blue shirt. He looked very proper and professional. He guided me over to the couches to sit down before the preliminary inquiry started. Mike explained to me that in this particular case, his client was a woman and normally he represents men so this was a bit out of the ordinary for him.
After the inquiry was over, I asked Mike if he ever found it difficult to be a defence lawyer.
He said not at all. He said he liked his job. He did also say that 98% of his clients are guilty but he usually is able to give them second chances by creating some sort of reasonable doubt.
Mike told me about a story when he first started practicing law. He phoned his mom to tell her about his day and what the end result was of a court case he was in. He was representing someone who had a sexual assault charge. His mom yelled at him and said “Michael, don’t be representing garbage like that. I didn’t bring you up that way.” He had a cute smile on his face sharing this story with me. He said that he never forgets his mom saying this to him. He also believes however that people deserve second chances and everyone is innocent until proven guilty.
Mike was very gracious and helpful. He is such a humble man with almost a boyish charm to him. He has brown hair and was wearing a charcoal greyish suit with a blue shirt. He looked very proper and professional. He guided me over to the couches to sit down before the preliminary inquiry started. Mike explained to me that in this particular case, his client was a woman and normally he represents men so this was a bit out of the ordinary for him.
After the inquiry was over, I asked Mike if he ever found it difficult to be a defence lawyer.
He said not at all. He said he liked his job. He did also say that 98% of his clients are guilty but he usually is able to give them second chances by creating some sort of reasonable doubt.
Mike told me about a story when he first started practicing law. He phoned his mom to tell her about his day and what the end result was of a court case he was in. He was representing someone who had a sexual assault charge. His mom yelled at him and said “Michael, don’t be representing garbage like that. I didn’t bring you up that way.” He had a cute smile on his face sharing this story with me. He said that he never forgets his mom saying this to him. He also believes however that people deserve second chances and everyone is innocent until proven guilty.
Monday, October 24, 2011
My Cathartic Law Courts Experience
Today, I had to visit the Law Courts for a journalism assignment. Our goal was to find a story and have it handed in on our teacher's desk by 6:00pm. I have been to the Law Courts twice before in my life. Once was to watch a friend of mine go through a sentencing because he was charged with drug trafficking and the other time was when I eloped and married my husband. My husband and I have been married for almost 12 years now so that is a pleasant memory! I have heard of the Law Courts most of my life because my father practiced law for a living. He was a corporate lawyer and used to call the Law Courts his old stomping ground and visited it frequently.
I decided to settle in to the court room 210 where there was a drug trafficking case being heard. Govinda Toorie pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges. I sat in the court room and listened to the court proceedings. It was difficult at first to capture all the factual information as the lawyers were speaking very quickly and there was a bit of an echo in the room. I was able to capture most of the information required for the assignment though. The Crown Attorney asked that Toorie receive 3.5 years and Toorie’s defence lawyer requested that Toorie receive two years less a day and hoped for house arrest as he did not have a prior record. Both parties agreed to a pre-sentencing report that will examine Toorie’s background and help the court make a proper sentencing decision.
I noticed that Toorie was soft spoken and kept his head down most of the time. His parents were there as well to support him. I can appreciate that this would be a stressful time for Toorie and his family. It was nice to see his parents there during this difficult time.
That leads me to discuss what happened after the court proceedings were done. I went to talk to the defence lawyer, J. Prober to inquire more about the case and to clarify some factual information. During our conversation, I asked him if he knew my father. Winnipeg is a small city so I thought what the heck, you never know. Well, it turns out Prober did know my father. We chatted for a little while. He said he knew my father well and that he was over at our house a few times for social gatherings. He said he remembered my father being a vibrant man. He said he also remembered my mother because my mother used to work for the Variety Club of Manitoba and organized their telethons and she got him to answer phones on television.
The emotional part of this for me was my father’s health is failing him now. He has diabetes and is in a nursing home at 75 years of age. My father is not a vibrant man anymore. His mind is there but his body isn’t what it used to be. Remembering my dad how Prober knew him brought back several emotions for me. I ended up becoming very emotional with Prober about my father unexpectedly. I began to cry to be honest. I was so embarrassed I felt terrible. I had no idea that being at the Law Courts today would be such an emotional experience for me. What was nice though is that Prober was very kind and compassionate and took the time to comfort me about my father.
The next thing that happened was even lovelier. The court recorder that took the notes at the hearing asked if I wanted some Kleenex. She and I were now in the court room alone together. She told me her sister had passed away recently and she began to cry as well. She asked me if I would like to have the court room door closed for a bit and said if I needed a moment it was alright. So, the two of us shared our stories about our loved ones. We cried together and comforted each other. I know that must sound crazy to do this with someone that you have only met. However it was so simple and natural with her. It was wonderfully therapeutic. We ended up helping each other at the end of our meeting she actually said to me that she was glad she met me. I said that I was very grateful to her as well for being there for me when she certainly didn't have to be. There are some amazing people that work at the Law Courts.
What I learned from this experience is that if you are on a reporting assignment, you may never know when your emotions may be impacted by the story you are covering. I certainly did not have the intention today of becoming emotional at the Law Courts. However, I did. It wasn’t looked down upon by the professionals around me. My emotions were actually accepted and respected immediately by complete strangers. It was really amazing. It reminded me that I am human. Journalists are human too with their own feelings, and challenges.
I guess I just had an eye opener in the fact that you are not immune to your emotions and your surroundings no matter how hard you try to be. Perhaps that can even make a story more authentic. It also allows you to develop real relationships with people along the way and to know that you are not alone even though you might feel that way sometimes.
I decided to settle in to the court room 210 where there was a drug trafficking case being heard. Govinda Toorie pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges. I sat in the court room and listened to the court proceedings. It was difficult at first to capture all the factual information as the lawyers were speaking very quickly and there was a bit of an echo in the room. I was able to capture most of the information required for the assignment though. The Crown Attorney asked that Toorie receive 3.5 years and Toorie’s defence lawyer requested that Toorie receive two years less a day and hoped for house arrest as he did not have a prior record. Both parties agreed to a pre-sentencing report that will examine Toorie’s background and help the court make a proper sentencing decision.
I noticed that Toorie was soft spoken and kept his head down most of the time. His parents were there as well to support him. I can appreciate that this would be a stressful time for Toorie and his family. It was nice to see his parents there during this difficult time.
That leads me to discuss what happened after the court proceedings were done. I went to talk to the defence lawyer, J. Prober to inquire more about the case and to clarify some factual information. During our conversation, I asked him if he knew my father. Winnipeg is a small city so I thought what the heck, you never know. Well, it turns out Prober did know my father. We chatted for a little while. He said he knew my father well and that he was over at our house a few times for social gatherings. He said he remembered my father being a vibrant man. He said he also remembered my mother because my mother used to work for the Variety Club of Manitoba and organized their telethons and she got him to answer phones on television.
The emotional part of this for me was my father’s health is failing him now. He has diabetes and is in a nursing home at 75 years of age. My father is not a vibrant man anymore. His mind is there but his body isn’t what it used to be. Remembering my dad how Prober knew him brought back several emotions for me. I ended up becoming very emotional with Prober about my father unexpectedly. I began to cry to be honest. I was so embarrassed I felt terrible. I had no idea that being at the Law Courts today would be such an emotional experience for me. What was nice though is that Prober was very kind and compassionate and took the time to comfort me about my father.
The next thing that happened was even lovelier. The court recorder that took the notes at the hearing asked if I wanted some Kleenex. She and I were now in the court room alone together. She told me her sister had passed away recently and she began to cry as well. She asked me if I would like to have the court room door closed for a bit and said if I needed a moment it was alright. So, the two of us shared our stories about our loved ones. We cried together and comforted each other. I know that must sound crazy to do this with someone that you have only met. However it was so simple and natural with her. It was wonderfully therapeutic. We ended up helping each other at the end of our meeting she actually said to me that she was glad she met me. I said that I was very grateful to her as well for being there for me when she certainly didn't have to be. There are some amazing people that work at the Law Courts.
What I learned from this experience is that if you are on a reporting assignment, you may never know when your emotions may be impacted by the story you are covering. I certainly did not have the intention today of becoming emotional at the Law Courts. However, I did. It wasn’t looked down upon by the professionals around me. My emotions were actually accepted and respected immediately by complete strangers. It was really amazing. It reminded me that I am human. Journalists are human too with their own feelings, and challenges.
I guess I just had an eye opener in the fact that you are not immune to your emotions and your surroundings no matter how hard you try to be. Perhaps that can even make a story more authentic. It also allows you to develop real relationships with people along the way and to know that you are not alone even though you might feel that way sometimes.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Learning Experiences
Writing for the Headliner has been an interesting experience for me over the past several weeks. My first article was about an author who lives in Oak Bluff Manitoba. Her name is Shawnda Muir and the book she published is called Cancer Scores-a Hat Trick. Muir’s story is inspiring because her family had three cancer scares in six months. She and her husband were both diagnosed as well as her father all in six months. Her father unfortunately didn’t survive.
Muir has written a really inspirational book detailing how she stayed positive through her cancer journey. I was able to go to Muir’s book launch and take photos of her and it was super great to interview such a positive person. This was my first article I wrote for the Headliner. It was also great learning how to use the fabulous cameras at the library and actually take great photos as well as get them on my computer and send them out with cut lines. That was a learning experience in itself for me!
My second article was about a lady that lives in Headingly Manitoba who is a water conservation activist. She works for Waterlution that is a national nonprofit organization that promotes water awareness and conservation issues. Her name is Renne Bennett. Bennett tried the Water Conservation Challenge that required her to live on 30 liters of water a day for one month.
Bennett did this challenge in March 2011 to coincide with Water Awareness Month. It was really awesome listening to her stories about her experiences. Bennett lives in an apartment and didn’t have much control over what type of toilet she used. She found out that her toilet used 13 liters of water each time she flushed it. This really limited her water usage for other things! She was able to convince her landlord to put in a more water friendly toilet and now her toilet uses 6 liters of water each flush rather than 13 liters which she is very happy about. The water challenge also made her think about how long it took for her tap water to turn from cold water to hot water. She just boiled water for things after that. Plus, I was able to meet Kevin Freedman who was running in the election for Fort Gary/Riverview. He is the creator of the Water Challenge and he was super inspiring as he really cares about water conservation issues.
My third article that I am presently working on is about domestic violence. I pitched the idea of a domestic violence story to Prescott and he thought it was a great idea but had no idea how to find someone to interview. Prescott told me that the only way I could write about this topic would be if I could find someone from the RM’s that the Headliner went to that would be willing to open up and share his or her story. He basically said to me, happy hunting at the end of the email. So, I was determined and began my hunting process. I used to work at Osborne House before Crecomm so I knew there were ways in which I could connect with domestic violence survivors. The only thing is, I haven’t spoken to anyone there in a long time and my ex boss doesn’t work there anymore so I wasn’t sure if I should call again or not. So, I called anyway but I didn’t hear back for a little while and I had to keep on digging. I called everywhere from Klinic to the women shelters in Portage La Prairie and Selkirk. It was tricky because I wasn’t completely familiar with all the RM’s that the Headliner covered and all the shelters I was calling were out of those RM’s.
So, I came to a few dead ends but finally, I was able to connect with someone I used to work with at Osborne House that remembered me. She works with the clients after they leave Osborne House. She said that she had the perfect person in mind from an RM that the Headliner covered. I was so excited about this breakthrough. I really wanted to write the domestic violence article because I think the challenges to leave are different for rural rather than city women. I wanted to investigate this further. The individual I was able to interview said that rural women do have different challenges than city women. She said feelings of isolation and not being able to talk to anyone about your problems are more prevalent in smaller towns.
My contact told me she didn’t have a driver’s license either or any money so she was completely dependent on her husband for everything. She had to ask someone for a ride into the city when she was going to Osborne House and said that this was one of the hardest moments for her cause she had to tell someone for the first time.
I also was able to receive quotes from the Rural Farm Stress Line that really made my article show what rural women go through when they experience domestic violence. What I didn’t expect from writing this article would be managing the relationship of my source regarding her safety and the safety of her children with the needs of the news paper.
I was told that my article had legs and that they were thinking of placing the article on the front page of the newspaper. Here I am super excited that one of my articles may be on the front page but realizing, it might not make my subject feel safe. I thought I should ask her how she would feel about this as she just left her husband seven months ago. I am relieved I did because she wasn’t comfortable with the article being on the first page. I had to email my editor and let him know that she wasn’t comfortable about it. I was also worried because I didn’t want to upset my editor in doing this either. I had to respect my source and put myself in her shoes. She was willing to go out on a limb to tell her story and open up when she still had some reservations. I didn’t want her to feel concerned or regretful about doing this in anyway. It was such a learning experience for me to be in that position. I wanted to please the paper and my source all at the same time. I realized through this process that telling people's stories makes you more than a writer, it makes you a relationship manager too!
Muir has written a really inspirational book detailing how she stayed positive through her cancer journey. I was able to go to Muir’s book launch and take photos of her and it was super great to interview such a positive person. This was my first article I wrote for the Headliner. It was also great learning how to use the fabulous cameras at the library and actually take great photos as well as get them on my computer and send them out with cut lines. That was a learning experience in itself for me!
My second article was about a lady that lives in Headingly Manitoba who is a water conservation activist. She works for Waterlution that is a national nonprofit organization that promotes water awareness and conservation issues. Her name is Renne Bennett. Bennett tried the Water Conservation Challenge that required her to live on 30 liters of water a day for one month.
Bennett did this challenge in March 2011 to coincide with Water Awareness Month. It was really awesome listening to her stories about her experiences. Bennett lives in an apartment and didn’t have much control over what type of toilet she used. She found out that her toilet used 13 liters of water each time she flushed it. This really limited her water usage for other things! She was able to convince her landlord to put in a more water friendly toilet and now her toilet uses 6 liters of water each flush rather than 13 liters which she is very happy about. The water challenge also made her think about how long it took for her tap water to turn from cold water to hot water. She just boiled water for things after that. Plus, I was able to meet Kevin Freedman who was running in the election for Fort Gary/Riverview. He is the creator of the Water Challenge and he was super inspiring as he really cares about water conservation issues.
My third article that I am presently working on is about domestic violence. I pitched the idea of a domestic violence story to Prescott and he thought it was a great idea but had no idea how to find someone to interview. Prescott told me that the only way I could write about this topic would be if I could find someone from the RM’s that the Headliner went to that would be willing to open up and share his or her story. He basically said to me, happy hunting at the end of the email. So, I was determined and began my hunting process. I used to work at Osborne House before Crecomm so I knew there were ways in which I could connect with domestic violence survivors. The only thing is, I haven’t spoken to anyone there in a long time and my ex boss doesn’t work there anymore so I wasn’t sure if I should call again or not. So, I called anyway but I didn’t hear back for a little while and I had to keep on digging. I called everywhere from Klinic to the women shelters in Portage La Prairie and Selkirk. It was tricky because I wasn’t completely familiar with all the RM’s that the Headliner covered and all the shelters I was calling were out of those RM’s.
So, I came to a few dead ends but finally, I was able to connect with someone I used to work with at Osborne House that remembered me. She works with the clients after they leave Osborne House. She said that she had the perfect person in mind from an RM that the Headliner covered. I was so excited about this breakthrough. I really wanted to write the domestic violence article because I think the challenges to leave are different for rural rather than city women. I wanted to investigate this further. The individual I was able to interview said that rural women do have different challenges than city women. She said feelings of isolation and not being able to talk to anyone about your problems are more prevalent in smaller towns.
My contact told me she didn’t have a driver’s license either or any money so she was completely dependent on her husband for everything. She had to ask someone for a ride into the city when she was going to Osborne House and said that this was one of the hardest moments for her cause she had to tell someone for the first time.
I also was able to receive quotes from the Rural Farm Stress Line that really made my article show what rural women go through when they experience domestic violence. What I didn’t expect from writing this article would be managing the relationship of my source regarding her safety and the safety of her children with the needs of the news paper.
I was told that my article had legs and that they were thinking of placing the article on the front page of the newspaper. Here I am super excited that one of my articles may be on the front page but realizing, it might not make my subject feel safe. I thought I should ask her how she would feel about this as she just left her husband seven months ago. I am relieved I did because she wasn’t comfortable with the article being on the first page. I had to email my editor and let him know that she wasn’t comfortable about it. I was also worried because I didn’t want to upset my editor in doing this either. I had to respect my source and put myself in her shoes. She was willing to go out on a limb to tell her story and open up when she still had some reservations. I didn’t want her to feel concerned or regretful about doing this in anyway. It was such a learning experience for me to be in that position. I wanted to please the paper and my source all at the same time. I realized through this process that telling people's stories makes you more than a writer, it makes you a relationship manager too!
Monday, October 10, 2011
My Fabulous Election Night Assignment
On election night October 4th, 2011, I went to The Winnipeg Sun. I was told to arrive at The Winnipeg Sun for 5:00pm. I arrived a bit early because I wasn’t too sure how to get there. When I arrived in the parking lot I got a bit confused about where to park but I finally figured it out.
I entered the doors and had to sign in. I was greeted by the receptionist who was very nice and taken up a large staircase. I had never been inside the Winnipeg Sun building before so this was quite exciting for me.
I was then led to a room where other students were waiting patiently. We all had to sign in and were given two sheets that had the stories that were being assigned that night. Originally, I had hoped to go to the Liberal Party headquarters and speak to Kevin Freedman and Jon Gerrard.
However, we were not given the option to pitch any ideas. We were assigned where we had to go. I was a bit nervous at this point because I just wasn’t sure what the evening would hold.
I ended up getting the story of Susan Auch and Jim Rondeau running for the Assiniboia seat. Auch was running for the PC’s and Rondeau, for the NDP’s. I was also assigned a reporter and her name was Jillian Austin.
While I was at The Winnipeg Sun office, I was told to keep my story focused on Susan Auch. Austin and I went over to see her co-worker who she called “Mr. Opinion” and we had a brief little chat about who he thought was going to win. If I am not mistaken he did think that Auch would win because of her Olympic background and name recognition. He felt that Rondeau was a bit boring to compete with that. So after we discussed this, I was told to get as close to Susan Auch as I could even if she won or lost. They both agreed there was more of a story with Auch even though Rondeau won this seat three times previously.
After this, I had to get on the internet and telephone to find out where candidates were going to be that night. The computer I had was so slow. It took me forever to find this information. This was really frustrating. I wasn’t expecting this from The Winnipeg Sun. At first, I thought it was something I was doing wrong with the computer but when I asked my contact, she said that she often heard the person sitting at that computer complaining about how slow the computer is.
When I was on the phone to the campaign headquarters, it felt so strange to say I was calling from the Winnipeg Sun. That was so neat to experience. At first, it felt like I was a fraud you know? Like I wasn’t actually working for the Sun. I had to say to myself, it is ok, and you can say this for one night anyway so enjoy it! So I did!
I made sure to introduce myself to all of the Campaign Managers and took down their phone numbers. I am not very familiar with the Assiniboia area and I knew that by the time I would head out there, it would be dark outside. I certainly didn’t want to get lost tonight. I found people much more receptive when I would say I am calling from The Winnipeg Sun rather than I am a student from Red River College…
Well, I am a nervous driver too so driving from all over the city wasn’t something I was going to take lithely. I made sure to fill up on gas before I left thankfully. It was my last little bit of money until payday but I spent it wisely. I had to go from one end of the city to another. So, off in my Malibu I went.
I was trucking along when I arrived to the area of town I was supposed to get to, it was dark outside. I could barely find the addresses. Luckily, I found Susan Auch’s headquarters. I was the first one there besides the Manitoba Pork lady who was grilling up the pork patties for the evening. I was able to confirm with her that I was at the right location and could breathe a sigh of relief.
Since I was the first one there I was able to chat with a few people including Auch’s Office Manager. What I found so inspiring about Auch’s team was how dedicated they were to her. They really believed in her and would stand behind her without question. I remember one of them saying:
“You don’t become and Olympic athlete without working hard.”
I just thought that was so cool and so true. The more I talked to people, the more I realized how much they supported Susan and the PC party as a whole. It was amazing to me to see people so passionate about politics and so involved in the political process. It was contagious. It made me feel excited to be there and to be part of something greater than ourselves. When Susan Auch finally arrived, she came to tell her supporters bad news. The room was quiet except for Auch’s deep breath and her volunteers that were crying in the background. Here is what Susan Auch said:
“I am pissed!”
That was her first reaction to her loss. I couldn’t believe it. It was so heartfelt but not very articulate.
I started frantically writing this down on my pad. “We tried, she said. “ The last six months, we did everything we could. Thank you to all volunteers, Thank you to everyone.”
Auch went on to comment on the NDP’s strong foot-hold. “They ran super- hard and not entirely sportsman-like either,” she said. Auch said she “is here to stay” and is committed to Manitoba.
“We need change in the province badly. We need to be vocal continually. We can do it,” she said.
The deadline to get my quotes in to my reporter was by 10:00pm. I was worried that I was too late in calling my quotes in because I didn’t get on the phone until about 9:55pm. My reporter was really nice when I called it in and she said that I did a great job at getting some good quotes.
When I checked the paper on page six the next day, there were my quotes and my name in bold saying with files from Anrea Zaslov. I just thought this was so much fun and an awesome experience. I told the Sun that I would be happy to volunteer for them in the future. It was a great experience and a super assignment. I had a blast.
I entered the doors and had to sign in. I was greeted by the receptionist who was very nice and taken up a large staircase. I had never been inside the Winnipeg Sun building before so this was quite exciting for me.
I was then led to a room where other students were waiting patiently. We all had to sign in and were given two sheets that had the stories that were being assigned that night. Originally, I had hoped to go to the Liberal Party headquarters and speak to Kevin Freedman and Jon Gerrard.
However, we were not given the option to pitch any ideas. We were assigned where we had to go. I was a bit nervous at this point because I just wasn’t sure what the evening would hold.
I ended up getting the story of Susan Auch and Jim Rondeau running for the Assiniboia seat. Auch was running for the PC’s and Rondeau, for the NDP’s. I was also assigned a reporter and her name was Jillian Austin.
While I was at The Winnipeg Sun office, I was told to keep my story focused on Susan Auch. Austin and I went over to see her co-worker who she called “Mr. Opinion” and we had a brief little chat about who he thought was going to win. If I am not mistaken he did think that Auch would win because of her Olympic background and name recognition. He felt that Rondeau was a bit boring to compete with that. So after we discussed this, I was told to get as close to Susan Auch as I could even if she won or lost. They both agreed there was more of a story with Auch even though Rondeau won this seat three times previously.
After this, I had to get on the internet and telephone to find out where candidates were going to be that night. The computer I had was so slow. It took me forever to find this information. This was really frustrating. I wasn’t expecting this from The Winnipeg Sun. At first, I thought it was something I was doing wrong with the computer but when I asked my contact, she said that she often heard the person sitting at that computer complaining about how slow the computer is.
When I was on the phone to the campaign headquarters, it felt so strange to say I was calling from the Winnipeg Sun. That was so neat to experience. At first, it felt like I was a fraud you know? Like I wasn’t actually working for the Sun. I had to say to myself, it is ok, and you can say this for one night anyway so enjoy it! So I did!
I made sure to introduce myself to all of the Campaign Managers and took down their phone numbers. I am not very familiar with the Assiniboia area and I knew that by the time I would head out there, it would be dark outside. I certainly didn’t want to get lost tonight. I found people much more receptive when I would say I am calling from The Winnipeg Sun rather than I am a student from Red River College…
Well, I am a nervous driver too so driving from all over the city wasn’t something I was going to take lithely. I made sure to fill up on gas before I left thankfully. It was my last little bit of money until payday but I spent it wisely. I had to go from one end of the city to another. So, off in my Malibu I went.
I was trucking along when I arrived to the area of town I was supposed to get to, it was dark outside. I could barely find the addresses. Luckily, I found Susan Auch’s headquarters. I was the first one there besides the Manitoba Pork lady who was grilling up the pork patties for the evening. I was able to confirm with her that I was at the right location and could breathe a sigh of relief.
Since I was the first one there I was able to chat with a few people including Auch’s Office Manager. What I found so inspiring about Auch’s team was how dedicated they were to her. They really believed in her and would stand behind her without question. I remember one of them saying:
“You don’t become and Olympic athlete without working hard.”
I just thought that was so cool and so true. The more I talked to people, the more I realized how much they supported Susan and the PC party as a whole. It was amazing to me to see people so passionate about politics and so involved in the political process. It was contagious. It made me feel excited to be there and to be part of something greater than ourselves. When Susan Auch finally arrived, she came to tell her supporters bad news. The room was quiet except for Auch’s deep breath and her volunteers that were crying in the background. Here is what Susan Auch said:
“I am pissed!”
That was her first reaction to her loss. I couldn’t believe it. It was so heartfelt but not very articulate.
I started frantically writing this down on my pad. “We tried, she said. “ The last six months, we did everything we could. Thank you to all volunteers, Thank you to everyone.”
Auch went on to comment on the NDP’s strong foot-hold. “They ran super- hard and not entirely sportsman-like either,” she said. Auch said she “is here to stay” and is committed to Manitoba.
“We need change in the province badly. We need to be vocal continually. We can do it,” she said.
The deadline to get my quotes in to my reporter was by 10:00pm. I was worried that I was too late in calling my quotes in because I didn’t get on the phone until about 9:55pm. My reporter was really nice when I called it in and she said that I did a great job at getting some good quotes.
When I checked the paper on page six the next day, there were my quotes and my name in bold saying with files from Anrea Zaslov. I just thought this was so much fun and an awesome experience. I told the Sun that I would be happy to volunteer for them in the future. It was a great experience and a super assignment. I had a blast.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Advanced Voting: Do People Care?
Each week I must blog about something related to journalism. This week I chose the topic advanced voting. Before this election, I never really gave this topic much thought. If I did think about it, I thought it was a good thing because it provided convenience to voters, it promoted democracy etc.
For a journalism assignment, I had to write a 400 word article about advanced voting. I went to a couple of the advanced voting stations in the city and started talking to people about it. I also called Elections Manitoba and spoke with the Communications Officer there who was also able to provide a bit of insight on the issue.
I started thinking about advanced voting more and since I had to find something newsy to write about it,I started thinking, who pays for advanced voting. Then I started asking myself if it is the taxpayer, would they know they are paying for these costs? If they knew they were paying for these costs, would they be more inclined not to like these extra costs that advanced voting adds to the cost of running an election at the end of the day? These were the type of questions I asked people and It seems that most of the people are in favour of advanced voting but a few people were certainly not. Most of them did not know that the polls were open an extra day this year and some knew the tax payer covered the costs and some didn't. To investigate this further I thought of contacting Elections Manitoba. They were very friendly and helpful.
I spoke to Alison Mitchell, Manager of Communications and Public Information for Elections Manitoba. She was able to provide me with clarification about the changes to advance voting polls this election.
“Advance polls start from September 24 to Saturday October 1 and are open one extra day this election with 100 poll stations across the province,” she said.
When I asked people if they knew about the extra day of advanced voting this year, many said they were not aware of this. Abby Nicholls for example is 45 and self employed, she had no idea.
“I thought the advanced voting polls were good until I heard that I might have to pay for it. I don’t want to have to pay for other people’s convenience. That is just ridiculous. Plus, I wasn’t even made aware of the extra day this year and if I am covering the costs of that, I want to know about it,” she said.
When I continued to ask Mitchell about who pays for the election costs, she was able to explain it to me like this:
“The administration of the election is paid for through public funds. So, yes, taxpayers pay for advance voting, as well as election day voting and all associated costs. The way it was tracked in 2007, the costs of advance voting were not separated from election day voting, so we don’t have a number to provide for advance voting costs but the total cost of the election in 2007 was $7.54 million,” Mitchell said.
I also asked if she had any information about any statistics for advanced voting. This is what she was able to provide me.
“We have found through our post-election survey in 2007 that only half of the respondents who voted in advance said they would have been very likely to vote in the election if they could not vote in advance. Further, over 1 in 3 said that they would have been very unlikely to vote if they could not vote in advance. We are close to 44,000 voters voting in advanced polls this election and that surpasses the total number of advanced voters from 2007,” she said.
So, from these stats, I do feel that advanced voting is a good thing. However, I can see how people would get upset by it as Nicholls expressed above.
I spoke to some other people that day including Gale Fisher who is 70 years old and a retired secretary. Fisher advanced voted at Grant Park Shopping Centre while she was on her way to see a movie. She really likes the convenience of advanced voting but was not aware of the polls being open an extra day this year. She also wasn't aware that tax payers paid for this.
“I like the convenience of advanced voting. I can go anytime during the week. This location is great. I didn’t know about the advanced polls being open an extra day during this election,” Fisher said.
Guy Coughlin is another individual I spoke to and he is a retired insurance salesman who is 80 years old. He thought advanced voting is great.
“All I needed was my driver’s license. I like that if I was in Brandon I could have voted there too. I did not know it was for one extra day this year,” he said.
For a journalism assignment, I had to write a 400 word article about advanced voting. I went to a couple of the advanced voting stations in the city and started talking to people about it. I also called Elections Manitoba and spoke with the Communications Officer there who was also able to provide a bit of insight on the issue.
I started thinking about advanced voting more and since I had to find something newsy to write about it,I started thinking, who pays for advanced voting. Then I started asking myself if it is the taxpayer, would they know they are paying for these costs? If they knew they were paying for these costs, would they be more inclined not to like these extra costs that advanced voting adds to the cost of running an election at the end of the day? These were the type of questions I asked people and It seems that most of the people are in favour of advanced voting but a few people were certainly not. Most of them did not know that the polls were open an extra day this year and some knew the tax payer covered the costs and some didn't. To investigate this further I thought of contacting Elections Manitoba. They were very friendly and helpful.
I spoke to Alison Mitchell, Manager of Communications and Public Information for Elections Manitoba. She was able to provide me with clarification about the changes to advance voting polls this election.
“Advance polls start from September 24 to Saturday October 1 and are open one extra day this election with 100 poll stations across the province,” she said.
When I asked people if they knew about the extra day of advanced voting this year, many said they were not aware of this. Abby Nicholls for example is 45 and self employed, she had no idea.
“I thought the advanced voting polls were good until I heard that I might have to pay for it. I don’t want to have to pay for other people’s convenience. That is just ridiculous. Plus, I wasn’t even made aware of the extra day this year and if I am covering the costs of that, I want to know about it,” she said.
When I continued to ask Mitchell about who pays for the election costs, she was able to explain it to me like this:
“The administration of the election is paid for through public funds. So, yes, taxpayers pay for advance voting, as well as election day voting and all associated costs. The way it was tracked in 2007, the costs of advance voting were not separated from election day voting, so we don’t have a number to provide for advance voting costs but the total cost of the election in 2007 was $7.54 million,” Mitchell said.
I also asked if she had any information about any statistics for advanced voting. This is what she was able to provide me.
“We have found through our post-election survey in 2007 that only half of the respondents who voted in advance said they would have been very likely to vote in the election if they could not vote in advance. Further, over 1 in 3 said that they would have been very unlikely to vote if they could not vote in advance. We are close to 44,000 voters voting in advanced polls this election and that surpasses the total number of advanced voters from 2007,” she said.
So, from these stats, I do feel that advanced voting is a good thing. However, I can see how people would get upset by it as Nicholls expressed above.
I spoke to some other people that day including Gale Fisher who is 70 years old and a retired secretary. Fisher advanced voted at Grant Park Shopping Centre while she was on her way to see a movie. She really likes the convenience of advanced voting but was not aware of the polls being open an extra day this year. She also wasn't aware that tax payers paid for this.
“I like the convenience of advanced voting. I can go anytime during the week. This location is great. I didn’t know about the advanced polls being open an extra day during this election,” Fisher said.
Guy Coughlin is another individual I spoke to and he is a retired insurance salesman who is 80 years old. He thought advanced voting is great.
“All I needed was my driver’s license. I like that if I was in Brandon I could have voted there too. I did not know it was for one extra day this year,” he said.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Page One
Helo my fantastic followers. I hope you are well. For my journalism class I had to see the movie Page One this weekend and blog about it. So, here it goes.
I went to the 7:00 PM show at Cinematheque on Saturday, September 24. I went with a girlfriend of mine who I haven't seen in a long time. Page One is about the life cycle of the newspaper The New York Times. I didn't really know what to expect going into the movie. I did find it a bit long but it was very interesting not just because I am a journalism major either. The friend who I was with also found the topic interesting and she is a realtor.
The interesting thing is during the day on Saturday, I received a phone call from a telephone solicitor from the Globe and Mail. The telemarketer on the other end was informing me that I could receive the paper for 30% off and asked me if I would like to take advantage of these wonderful savings. I declined the offer because I am a student and do not have the financial means to have the paper on a monthly basis. I thought about it at the time and felt guilty that I wasn't able to get the paper considering I am a journalism student. I felt I was doing something wrong and that I should be supporting the newspaper industry now more than ever before. However, circumstances dictate what I can and cannot afford. Then I began to think, since when is news considered a luxury and not a must have or a need. I wonder how many othe people have to make this choice.
After seeing the movie Page One though, I thought it was very fitting to have had that call on the same day. That just proves to me that the newspaper industry is struggling and they are trying very hard to do what they have to.
What was interesting was the discussion about as a people, we have perceived the information we receive online is free. I realized that I do expect websites online where I find my news to be free. If I am not buying a hard copy of the newspaper, would I as a consumer be willing to pay for accessing a website to read news information? I wouldn't.
I also thought it was interesting how even the best of the best are not immune to the challanges within the newspaper industry. News is a business. I sometimes wonder when revenue can dictate what is covered in the news, this does convolute the values of traditional journalism. I am making this change to study journalism later in my life and I question if I am still interested in the subject. It makes me question, am I a writer or journalist or am I a salesperson like I have been before. Am I actually going back to school again to become what I have been all along? what I did realize was the newspaper game is a complicated web of relationships all needing each other to survive.
I went to the 7:00 PM show at Cinematheque on Saturday, September 24. I went with a girlfriend of mine who I haven't seen in a long time. Page One is about the life cycle of the newspaper The New York Times. I didn't really know what to expect going into the movie. I did find it a bit long but it was very interesting not just because I am a journalism major either. The friend who I was with also found the topic interesting and she is a realtor.
The interesting thing is during the day on Saturday, I received a phone call from a telephone solicitor from the Globe and Mail. The telemarketer on the other end was informing me that I could receive the paper for 30% off and asked me if I would like to take advantage of these wonderful savings. I declined the offer because I am a student and do not have the financial means to have the paper on a monthly basis. I thought about it at the time and felt guilty that I wasn't able to get the paper considering I am a journalism student. I felt I was doing something wrong and that I should be supporting the newspaper industry now more than ever before. However, circumstances dictate what I can and cannot afford. Then I began to think, since when is news considered a luxury and not a must have or a need. I wonder how many othe people have to make this choice.
After seeing the movie Page One though, I thought it was very fitting to have had that call on the same day. That just proves to me that the newspaper industry is struggling and they are trying very hard to do what they have to.
What was interesting was the discussion about as a people, we have perceived the information we receive online is free. I realized that I do expect websites online where I find my news to be free. If I am not buying a hard copy of the newspaper, would I as a consumer be willing to pay for accessing a website to read news information? I wouldn't.
I also thought it was interesting how even the best of the best are not immune to the challanges within the newspaper industry. News is a business. I sometimes wonder when revenue can dictate what is covered in the news, this does convolute the values of traditional journalism. I am making this change to study journalism later in my life and I question if I am still interested in the subject. It makes me question, am I a writer or journalist or am I a salesperson like I have been before. Am I actually going back to school again to become what I have been all along? what I did realize was the newspaper game is a complicated web of relationships all needing each other to survive.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Journalism and Publicity, A Solid Bond
Hello to you all. I hope you are enjoying your Friday afternoon and head into your weekend with a smile on your face.
I want to touch on the topic of how journalism relates to publicity or raising awareness. I would like to share with you fist hand experiences and how I made this happen as well as what it felt like to create a news story and watch it grow. I will use an example that is very dear to me that really represents one of my major accomplishments. It is about the public relations campaign I created and executed to ensure Frances Bay, a famous actress from Dauphin Manitoba, receive a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in 2008 for her 90th birthday.
My husband and I were out for dinner way back when in 2007 and were in a fight. We were sitting in the Boston Pizza lounge giving each other the silent treatment. My husband wrote something on a cocktail napkin to try to get my attention and get out of the dog house. On the cocktail napkin was the best idea that would change lives forever. I remember picking up the napkin to read it as my curiousity got the best of me. The message said, "Frances Bay for Canada's Walk of Fame." Well, my eyes lit up instantly and my husband and I started talking again. We fevereshly started hashing out this awesome idea that would turn out to be the most aggressive public relations campaign that the Walk of Fame office had ever seen.
Bay is my third cousin. She is known for her roles in Happy Gilmore as Sandler's grandma, the Marble Rye Lady in Seinfeld and Fonzie's grandma in Happy Days. She has been in three David Lynch movies and won a Gemini award for her work in Road To Avonlea. You perhaps won't recognize the name France Bay, but you would recognize her face. Fran was also known as the Girlfriend to the Canadian Forces and had her own radio show called Everybody's Program. I have letters going back to 1944 saying her voice kept soldiers alive during the war. Fran is a vital piece of Canadian heritage.
So, now that you have a bit of Bay's career history, let me share how important it was building relationships with the media to get the Frances Bay For Walk of Fame campaign off the ground. I couldn't have made this happen without the media. So, I first want to say thank you to all of the journalists that saw potential in my story and helped me make it newsworthy.
I must admit, I loved creating news. I found it so exciting, and it didn't feel like work. I do remember though scrounging for change in the bottom of my couch to pay for gas money to drive to the interviews at the television studios. Luckily, I made it there and back!
I think because I had so much passion for my subject that I was promoting, the process didn't feel like work and my determination mixed with my passion came through when I communicated the key messages to the public. I did remember though, when it came to providing factual information, I knew that I had to be very careful. A few times, I read wrong information in the paper about Fran's age, or personal information. I had to learn that sometimes, things are just out of my control and I can only do the best that I could. This experience made me think about what would happen if I worked in media relations for an organization and how incredibly stressful it would be if the wrong information did come out in the papers even when you checked and checked with reporters.
Okay, back to the topic at hand. I generated news stories in all local media plus national coverage including all the mediums such as radio, tv and print media. I will never forget how excited I was when Macleans did a full feature story on my campaign. This was especially gratifying for me because I graduated from the Public Relations and Management Program from the University of Winnipeg in 2005. So, to use my skill set towards a cause like this was unbelievable. I also generated media coverage on Entertainment Tonight Canada and CBC Sunday News. If you can imagine, a producer called me from Toronto and said they would like to bring their crew out to interview me about the public relations efforts I did for the campaign. That was a high. CBC coming to my little apartment in River Heights. Yikes. Well they did come, we shot the footage in just a couple of takes. I remember saying to myself, I am born for this. I loved it. I will never forget when it aired on CBC. Wow, was that exciting but daunting all at the same time. I hate seeing myself on camera. This was up close and personal. I got through it though reminding myself that this wasn't about me, it was about Fran.
I will never forget cold calling Morley Walker. He is a tough nut to crack. Luckily, I had a bit of a connection at the Free Press tha panned out. My mom's old time friend is the aunt to Margo Goodhand, the editor of the Free Press. I cold emailed her a few times. Then, Morley Walker's email was in my inbox. I remember Morley saying, "I don't think she is going to get it kid, she isn't big enough." I had to go to the Free press building for a photo shoot. Well, when the paper came out, wow. It was a full page spread with a huge picture of me smiling proudly holding Fran's picture up. I wish I had known the photo was going to take up half the page!
I continued to promote the campaign to the bitter end. I cold called Hollywood in my pj's until late in the evening trying to break through to personal assistants. Well, my determination and passion paid off because I was able to secure letters of support for Fran's nominaiton from Jerry Seinfeld, David Lynch and Henry Winkler. Wowee!
I will never forget when Fran did get the star and how I found out about it. The CEO of the walk of fame called me at my apartment. Now, that was something. He said he had to find out who I was because the work I had done was getting a buzz. He told me Fran was going to be inducted for their 10th anniversary special. Plus, she would be the oldest person inducted. It was awesome. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I did it! I also won't forget having Morley Walker call me directly. He simply said, "Kid, you were right, you did it." Now, that was affirmation.
WIthout people like Morley Walker, or Jon Hendricks for example who is a wonderful person, campaigns like these would not have a voice. I am so thrilled that our efforts paid off.
On September 15 at around 7:15pm in Studio City, California with family at her bedside, Frances passed away at the age of 93. Now more than ever I am honoured and so thrilled I did what I did for her in 2008. It is really overwhelming though when you work as hard and tirelessly as I did over a year to make something like this happen. Now, as I digest that she is gone, I am overwhelmed with knowing how meaningful her star is and what it represents. I never thought I would have these types of emotions. They are difficult to manage.
To conclude, journalists and publicists need each other to share informaiton and tell the sotries of people changing the world and leaving their marks. What a fascinating relationship.
Thank you,
Anrea Zaslov
I want to touch on the topic of how journalism relates to publicity or raising awareness. I would like to share with you fist hand experiences and how I made this happen as well as what it felt like to create a news story and watch it grow. I will use an example that is very dear to me that really represents one of my major accomplishments. It is about the public relations campaign I created and executed to ensure Frances Bay, a famous actress from Dauphin Manitoba, receive a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in 2008 for her 90th birthday.
My husband and I were out for dinner way back when in 2007 and were in a fight. We were sitting in the Boston Pizza lounge giving each other the silent treatment. My husband wrote something on a cocktail napkin to try to get my attention and get out of the dog house. On the cocktail napkin was the best idea that would change lives forever. I remember picking up the napkin to read it as my curiousity got the best of me. The message said, "Frances Bay for Canada's Walk of Fame." Well, my eyes lit up instantly and my husband and I started talking again. We fevereshly started hashing out this awesome idea that would turn out to be the most aggressive public relations campaign that the Walk of Fame office had ever seen.
Bay is my third cousin. She is known for her roles in Happy Gilmore as Sandler's grandma, the Marble Rye Lady in Seinfeld and Fonzie's grandma in Happy Days. She has been in three David Lynch movies and won a Gemini award for her work in Road To Avonlea. You perhaps won't recognize the name France Bay, but you would recognize her face. Fran was also known as the Girlfriend to the Canadian Forces and had her own radio show called Everybody's Program. I have letters going back to 1944 saying her voice kept soldiers alive during the war. Fran is a vital piece of Canadian heritage.
So, now that you have a bit of Bay's career history, let me share how important it was building relationships with the media to get the Frances Bay For Walk of Fame campaign off the ground. I couldn't have made this happen without the media. So, I first want to say thank you to all of the journalists that saw potential in my story and helped me make it newsworthy.
I must admit, I loved creating news. I found it so exciting, and it didn't feel like work. I do remember though scrounging for change in the bottom of my couch to pay for gas money to drive to the interviews at the television studios. Luckily, I made it there and back!
I think because I had so much passion for my subject that I was promoting, the process didn't feel like work and my determination mixed with my passion came through when I communicated the key messages to the public. I did remember though, when it came to providing factual information, I knew that I had to be very careful. A few times, I read wrong information in the paper about Fran's age, or personal information. I had to learn that sometimes, things are just out of my control and I can only do the best that I could. This experience made me think about what would happen if I worked in media relations for an organization and how incredibly stressful it would be if the wrong information did come out in the papers even when you checked and checked with reporters.
Okay, back to the topic at hand. I generated news stories in all local media plus national coverage including all the mediums such as radio, tv and print media. I will never forget how excited I was when Macleans did a full feature story on my campaign. This was especially gratifying for me because I graduated from the Public Relations and Management Program from the University of Winnipeg in 2005. So, to use my skill set towards a cause like this was unbelievable. I also generated media coverage on Entertainment Tonight Canada and CBC Sunday News. If you can imagine, a producer called me from Toronto and said they would like to bring their crew out to interview me about the public relations efforts I did for the campaign. That was a high. CBC coming to my little apartment in River Heights. Yikes. Well they did come, we shot the footage in just a couple of takes. I remember saying to myself, I am born for this. I loved it. I will never forget when it aired on CBC. Wow, was that exciting but daunting all at the same time. I hate seeing myself on camera. This was up close and personal. I got through it though reminding myself that this wasn't about me, it was about Fran.
I will never forget cold calling Morley Walker. He is a tough nut to crack. Luckily, I had a bit of a connection at the Free Press tha panned out. My mom's old time friend is the aunt to Margo Goodhand, the editor of the Free Press. I cold emailed her a few times. Then, Morley Walker's email was in my inbox. I remember Morley saying, "I don't think she is going to get it kid, she isn't big enough." I had to go to the Free press building for a photo shoot. Well, when the paper came out, wow. It was a full page spread with a huge picture of me smiling proudly holding Fran's picture up. I wish I had known the photo was going to take up half the page!
I continued to promote the campaign to the bitter end. I cold called Hollywood in my pj's until late in the evening trying to break through to personal assistants. Well, my determination and passion paid off because I was able to secure letters of support for Fran's nominaiton from Jerry Seinfeld, David Lynch and Henry Winkler. Wowee!
I will never forget when Fran did get the star and how I found out about it. The CEO of the walk of fame called me at my apartment. Now, that was something. He said he had to find out who I was because the work I had done was getting a buzz. He told me Fran was going to be inducted for their 10th anniversary special. Plus, she would be the oldest person inducted. It was awesome. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I did it! I also won't forget having Morley Walker call me directly. He simply said, "Kid, you were right, you did it." Now, that was affirmation.
WIthout people like Morley Walker, or Jon Hendricks for example who is a wonderful person, campaigns like these would not have a voice. I am so thrilled that our efforts paid off.
On September 15 at around 7:15pm in Studio City, California with family at her bedside, Frances passed away at the age of 93. Now more than ever I am honoured and so thrilled I did what I did for her in 2008. It is really overwhelming though when you work as hard and tirelessly as I did over a year to make something like this happen. Now, as I digest that she is gone, I am overwhelmed with knowing how meaningful her star is and what it represents. I never thought I would have these types of emotions. They are difficult to manage.
To conclude, journalists and publicists need each other to share informaiton and tell the sotries of people changing the world and leaving their marks. What a fascinating relationship.
Thank you,
Anrea Zaslov
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Writing Tips
Good afternoon my woderful followers. I hope you are doing well on this fantastic day of September 7, 2011. I saw frost on my car this morning but am happy that it will warm up this aftrnoon and be hot all week. I am not ready to put on my fall clothes yet. Are you?
With a new semester upon us, brings more blog entries. I have to blog once a week for my Journalism class. My last post invovled discussing the topic What Is Journalism? For this post, I thought to explore the world of writing for the news. I dont want to work in a newsroom but I thought it is still something I should be aware of if I am going to work in the exciting field of Journalism.
I came across a very informative article written by Peter Cole, a writer for an internet website called the www.guardian.cu.ca. Let me summarize Coles important points for you. He suggests that the first thing to do when writing news is stop and think and not start writing until you have a plan. He makes the point of saying it is really important to read through all your notes, marking the most important pieces of information and the quotes you want to use. The information you have gathered will not have entered your notebook in order of importance. You need to decide what is more important, what is less important, to establish a hierarchy of pieces of information. Cole indicates that this is where you must think about your audience. Not necessarily what interests you most, but what will interest them. It may not be the same thing, and this is where knowing, having a feeling for, understanding your audience is so important. As you stare at the blank screen try to imagine the reader.
I think this is so important. I have a background in public relations and graduated with a Diploma in Public Relations and Management from the University of Winnipeg. In every class our teachers emphasized the importance of knowing your audience. By the end of the course, I couldn't hear that expression any longer. However, from my work experience as a communicator in the non profit sector, knowing your audience only makes you a better communicator, a better fundraiser and a better manager as a whole. I get to know my audience by trying to put myself in their shoes at all times and asking open ended questions to promote two way communications with them. In my opinion, If you start with that remedy, you can't really go wrong.
Cole also suggests that you can start to know your audience by understading the intentions of the publication you write for. This to me makes total sense. If you write for a travel magazine, you make a few assumptions in that your audience will enjoy travelling, parhaps have a bit more disposable income to travel so may be more educated. Of course, assuming is risky but somtimes warranted to know your audience. Another hint Cole talks about in his article is The market sector in which the newspaper is located is also relevant to how you write.
These were the major points that I thought were very helpful and I will put these to use when writing in the future. I hope you found these tips as useful and helpful as I did.
Hae a fantastic Wednesday everyone!
Kindly,
Anrea Zaslov
With a new semester upon us, brings more blog entries. I have to blog once a week for my Journalism class. My last post invovled discussing the topic What Is Journalism? For this post, I thought to explore the world of writing for the news. I dont want to work in a newsroom but I thought it is still something I should be aware of if I am going to work in the exciting field of Journalism.
I came across a very informative article written by Peter Cole, a writer for an internet website called the www.guardian.cu.ca. Let me summarize Coles important points for you. He suggests that the first thing to do when writing news is stop and think and not start writing until you have a plan. He makes the point of saying it is really important to read through all your notes, marking the most important pieces of information and the quotes you want to use. The information you have gathered will not have entered your notebook in order of importance. You need to decide what is more important, what is less important, to establish a hierarchy of pieces of information. Cole indicates that this is where you must think about your audience. Not necessarily what interests you most, but what will interest them. It may not be the same thing, and this is where knowing, having a feeling for, understanding your audience is so important. As you stare at the blank screen try to imagine the reader.
I think this is so important. I have a background in public relations and graduated with a Diploma in Public Relations and Management from the University of Winnipeg. In every class our teachers emphasized the importance of knowing your audience. By the end of the course, I couldn't hear that expression any longer. However, from my work experience as a communicator in the non profit sector, knowing your audience only makes you a better communicator, a better fundraiser and a better manager as a whole. I get to know my audience by trying to put myself in their shoes at all times and asking open ended questions to promote two way communications with them. In my opinion, If you start with that remedy, you can't really go wrong.
Cole also suggests that you can start to know your audience by understading the intentions of the publication you write for. This to me makes total sense. If you write for a travel magazine, you make a few assumptions in that your audience will enjoy travelling, parhaps have a bit more disposable income to travel so may be more educated. Of course, assuming is risky but somtimes warranted to know your audience. Another hint Cole talks about in his article is The market sector in which the newspaper is located is also relevant to how you write.
These were the major points that I thought were very helpful and I will put these to use when writing in the future. I hope you found these tips as useful and helpful as I did.
Hae a fantastic Wednesday everyone!
Kindly,
Anrea Zaslov
Thursday, September 1, 2011
What Is Jourmalism?
What is Journalism?
This is the topic for my blog post this week. First of all, I wanted to say hello to my followers as I was off for the summer. I hope all of you enjoyed your summer. Now, I am back in school and my major is journalism.
It is fitting then that my instructor assigned us a blog topic such as what is journalism in our first week.I have given this question much thought. I had an idea to ask people of different ages what they felt Journalism was. I was very curious to hear what their answers would be and see how closely my answer matched. I wanted to make sure I also collected responses from people from different age groups because I wanted to see if the answer to what journalism means changed through the different generations. That is why I included people’s ages more so than their full names.
So, let’s take a look now at some of the responses I was able to collect.
1) “Journalism is reporting of major events or events of importance.” C.J. age 40
2) “Journalism means objective story telling; relating current events to a diverse audience while being able to include pertinent historical facts and information. Journalism needs to be clear, objective and fair. And offer all sides of a story.” Shelly, BW, 40’s
3) “Journalism is obtaining information then expressing that information in your own words however you perceive it.” Ryan, 15.
4)“Investigating things that are happening in the world and informing the public of said information, objectively" Pauline, 50’s.
5) “Journalism to me is the art of telling a story to the public in an unbiased way, using a variety of mediums.” Brad, 40’s.
6) "I think Journalism involves studying, researching and reporting events and incidents that take place on a day to day basis through all types of media, to reach a large audience.” Sevana, 17.
7) “Journalism is the practice of investigation and reporting of events, issues and trends to a broad audience.” Michaela, 20’s.
8) "I just think of journalism as writing articles or documents." E.D, 41
9) "Journalism to me means the pursuit of information or truth through the written or spoken word." Eric, 20's
10) "Journalism is seeing the grey. There is always two sides and not clear cut." Aby mid 40's.
My definition
I think journalism is about telling stories in an objective manner. I think it involves knowing your audience and understanding what information would be important to them and gathering this information in an ethical and unbiased fashion. I think journalism involves gathering the facts and emotions of the people that make up the stories being told.
I think Journalism is an evolving profession that adjusts to the technologies available that best help journalists tell these stories visually and with the written word. Journalism is an information sharing business that is vulnerable to pressures of maintaining high ratings and generating profits. This can present challenging situations regarding journalistic ethics if not managed properly.
I firmly believe that the core of the journalism profession is to be objective, to find truths, to paint the entire picture of a story rather than having to sell newspapers. Perhaps I am naïve though in this area. Is it sales or storytelling, I guess I will find this out in the real world when I graduate from the Creative Communications program.
Merriam Webster Dictionary definition:
First of all, it says journalism is a noun.
Journalism is defined a few different ways:
1) a) Journalsim is the collection and editing of news for presentation through the media
1) b) Journalsim is the public press
1) c) Journalism is an academic study concerned with the collection and editing of news or the management of a news medium
2) a) Journalism is writing designed for publication in a newspaper or magazine
2 b) Journalism is writing characterized by a direct presentation of facts or description of events without an attempt at interpretation
2) c) Journalism is writing designed to appeal to current popular taste or public interest
Wikipedia's definition of journalism is:
Journalism is the practice of investigation and reporting of events, issues and trends to a broad audience. Though there are many variations of journalism, the ideal is to inform the intended audience. Along with covering organizations and institutions such as government and business, journalism also covers cultural aspects of society such as arts and entertainment. The field includes editing, photojournalism, and documentary.
What do you think? Please feel free to post your opinion of what journalism is. Let's have a healthy discussion!
Thank you for reading today!
Anrea
This is the topic for my blog post this week. First of all, I wanted to say hello to my followers as I was off for the summer. I hope all of you enjoyed your summer. Now, I am back in school and my major is journalism.
It is fitting then that my instructor assigned us a blog topic such as what is journalism in our first week.I have given this question much thought. I had an idea to ask people of different ages what they felt Journalism was. I was very curious to hear what their answers would be and see how closely my answer matched. I wanted to make sure I also collected responses from people from different age groups because I wanted to see if the answer to what journalism means changed through the different generations. That is why I included people’s ages more so than their full names.
So, let’s take a look now at some of the responses I was able to collect.
1) “Journalism is reporting of major events or events of importance.” C.J. age 40
2) “Journalism means objective story telling; relating current events to a diverse audience while being able to include pertinent historical facts and information. Journalism needs to be clear, objective and fair. And offer all sides of a story.” Shelly, BW, 40’s
3) “Journalism is obtaining information then expressing that information in your own words however you perceive it.” Ryan, 15.
4)“Investigating things that are happening in the world and informing the public of said information, objectively" Pauline, 50’s.
5) “Journalism to me is the art of telling a story to the public in an unbiased way, using a variety of mediums.” Brad, 40’s.
6) "I think Journalism involves studying, researching and reporting events and incidents that take place on a day to day basis through all types of media, to reach a large audience.” Sevana, 17.
7) “Journalism is the practice of investigation and reporting of events, issues and trends to a broad audience.” Michaela, 20’s.
8) "I just think of journalism as writing articles or documents." E.D, 41
9) "Journalism to me means the pursuit of information or truth through the written or spoken word." Eric, 20's
10) "Journalism is seeing the grey. There is always two sides and not clear cut." Aby mid 40's.
My definition
I think journalism is about telling stories in an objective manner. I think it involves knowing your audience and understanding what information would be important to them and gathering this information in an ethical and unbiased fashion. I think journalism involves gathering the facts and emotions of the people that make up the stories being told.
I think Journalism is an evolving profession that adjusts to the technologies available that best help journalists tell these stories visually and with the written word. Journalism is an information sharing business that is vulnerable to pressures of maintaining high ratings and generating profits. This can present challenging situations regarding journalistic ethics if not managed properly.
I firmly believe that the core of the journalism profession is to be objective, to find truths, to paint the entire picture of a story rather than having to sell newspapers. Perhaps I am naïve though in this area. Is it sales or storytelling, I guess I will find this out in the real world when I graduate from the Creative Communications program.
Merriam Webster Dictionary definition:
First of all, it says journalism is a noun.
Journalism is defined a few different ways:
1) a) Journalsim is the collection and editing of news for presentation through the media
1) b) Journalsim is the public press
1) c) Journalism is an academic study concerned with the collection and editing of news or the management of a news medium
2) a) Journalism is writing designed for publication in a newspaper or magazine
2 b) Journalism is writing characterized by a direct presentation of facts or description of events without an attempt at interpretation
2) c) Journalism is writing designed to appeal to current popular taste or public interest
Wikipedia's definition of journalism is:
Journalism is the practice of investigation and reporting of events, issues and trends to a broad audience. Though there are many variations of journalism, the ideal is to inform the intended audience. Along with covering organizations and institutions such as government and business, journalism also covers cultural aspects of society such as arts and entertainment. The field includes editing, photojournalism, and documentary.
What do you think? Please feel free to post your opinion of what journalism is. Let's have a healthy discussion!
Thank you for reading today!
Anrea
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Bell Media Postings
Hello there,
I was on workopolis today and there are several Bell Media positions that range from morning reporter to video journalist.
Just wanted to give you guys a shout out!
Cheers!
Anrea
PS.
I might be changing the focus of my blog over the summer to learning Bangoli. My husband is from Bangladesh and I am limited to what I can say to his family. I thought I would blog about this. Do you think this would be interesting to follow?
Please let me know
Thank you!
Anrea
I was on workopolis today and there are several Bell Media positions that range from morning reporter to video journalist.
Just wanted to give you guys a shout out!
Cheers!
Anrea
PS.
I might be changing the focus of my blog over the summer to learning Bangoli. My husband is from Bangladesh and I am limited to what I can say to his family. I thought I would blog about this. Do you think this would be interesting to follow?
Please let me know
Thank you!
Anrea
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Promotion/Writer Position
Hi everyone,
I hope you are all doing well.I took a bit of a break but am back now. Her eis a posting I just found on Workopolis. I wanted to post it right away.
Good luck to those that apply!
Anrea
Promotion Writer/Producer (CTV),
BELL MEDIA
Winnipeg, MB, CANADA
Posted May 3, 2011
1 Position(s)
Salary: C.E.P. Local 816M, Group IV. Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week. Overtime as required.
Responsibilities:
• Write and produce sales promos, contest billboards, client commercials and CTV News image ads
• Research, write and produce weekly public service announcements
• Work with Promotion Director, Account Executives and clients on a regular basis to produce creative concepts that meet client and station marketing needs
• Ensure station image and branding needs are met in all creative projects
• Work with Promotion Assistant and Web Graphics Artist on the effective communication, coordination and implementation of all contest details
• Act as back-up for News Writer/Producer and Commercial Writer/Producer as needed
• Work with outside suppliers on production projects as required
• Ensure completion and timely delivery of accurate invoices and billing upon project completion
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• Degree or diploma from a post-secondary Creative Communications or related program
• At least 3 years of previous experience in television promotion and/or commercial production
• Must be independent and able to take ownership of all projects assigned
• Proven ability to effectively manage multiple projects using independent problem solving skills with a goal of delivering final product on-time and on budget
• Superior communication skills, both verbal and written
• Proven ability to turn around dynamic work under extremely tight deadlines and pressure
• Ability to direct and effectively work with on-air talent, graphics, and editors to ensure efficient use of production resources
• Good sense of graphics, music, sound and editing with an understanding of the application of Avid non-linear editing effects
• Knowledge of the internal workings of a newsroom is an asset
• Must possess a valid Class 5 (or equivalent) driver’s license
Application Deadline: 10 May 2011
Application Details: Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online at www.bellmedia.ca, or forward a current resume, demo and references in confidence to:
Human Resources
CTV Winnipeg
400-345 Graham Ave.
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 5S6
E-mail: winnipegcareers@bellmedia.ca
I hope you are all doing well.I took a bit of a break but am back now. Her eis a posting I just found on Workopolis. I wanted to post it right away.
Good luck to those that apply!
Anrea
Promotion Writer/Producer (CTV),
BELL MEDIA
Winnipeg, MB, CANADA
Posted May 3, 2011
1 Position(s)
Salary: C.E.P. Local 816M, Group IV. Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week. Overtime as required.
Responsibilities:
• Write and produce sales promos, contest billboards, client commercials and CTV News image ads
• Research, write and produce weekly public service announcements
• Work with Promotion Director, Account Executives and clients on a regular basis to produce creative concepts that meet client and station marketing needs
• Ensure station image and branding needs are met in all creative projects
• Work with Promotion Assistant and Web Graphics Artist on the effective communication, coordination and implementation of all contest details
• Act as back-up for News Writer/Producer and Commercial Writer/Producer as needed
• Work with outside suppliers on production projects as required
• Ensure completion and timely delivery of accurate invoices and billing upon project completion
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• Degree or diploma from a post-secondary Creative Communications or related program
• At least 3 years of previous experience in television promotion and/or commercial production
• Must be independent and able to take ownership of all projects assigned
• Proven ability to effectively manage multiple projects using independent problem solving skills with a goal of delivering final product on-time and on budget
• Superior communication skills, both verbal and written
• Proven ability to turn around dynamic work under extremely tight deadlines and pressure
• Ability to direct and effectively work with on-air talent, graphics, and editors to ensure efficient use of production resources
• Good sense of graphics, music, sound and editing with an understanding of the application of Avid non-linear editing effects
• Knowledge of the internal workings of a newsroom is an asset
• Must possess a valid Class 5 (or equivalent) driver’s license
Application Deadline: 10 May 2011
Application Details: Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online at www.bellmedia.ca, or forward a current resume, demo and references in confidence to:
Human Resources
CTV Winnipeg
400-345 Graham Ave.
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 5S6
E-mail: winnipegcareers@bellmedia.ca
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
News Anchor Position for CTV
Hi guys,
I was job searching today and came across this new posting!
What an awesome opportunity.
Check it out!
Anrea
News Anchor (1-Year Contract) (CTV),
BELL MEDIA
Winnipeg, MB, CANADA
Posted Apr 25, 2011
1 Position(s)
Salary: CEP Local 816M, Group XV. Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Hours of Work: 40 hours per week. Varying shifts including weekends. Overtime as required.
Responsibilities:
To work in the CTV Winnipeg Newsroom as a News Anchor. Responsibilities include:
• Anchoring the 11:30pm CTV News
• Writing and producing news and weather content
• Writing and anchoring live news and weather updates
• Writing and producing news stories and features
• Live studio and location reporting
• Writing web and social media updates
• Supervising and vetting reporter and web scripts when required
• Generating story ideas
• Back-up anchoring other newscasts as required
• Demonstrating professionalism and leadership on the job and in the community
• Representing CTV news at various community and charity events
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• A degree or diploma from an accredited post-secondary broadcast or related program
• At least 2 years experience anchoring “live” news
• Previous “live” weather presentation experience
• Proven writing and presentation skills
• In-depth knowledge of news, political and current affairs
• Proven editorial news judgment with high journalistic standards
• Demonstrated organizational skills, ability to work unsupervised and make quick decisions
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Must be well versed in a variety of computer programs as well as having a familiarity with the Internet and social media; preference will be given to candidates with experience in iNews and the WSI weather system
• Have a demonstrated ability to work in a deadline driven team environment
• Must have a valid driver’s licence
Application Deadline: May 6, 2011
Application Details: Interested candidates are encouraged to forward a current resume, demo tape and references, in confidence to:
Human Resources
CTV Winnipeg
400 – 345 Graham Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 5S6
Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Bell Media is dedicated to equity in the workplace
Relevant Work Experience:
2
Job Category:
Broadcasting, Other
Website:
http://www.ctvglobemedia.com
Job Type:
Contract
Other BELL MEDIA jobs (16) .
I was job searching today and came across this new posting!
What an awesome opportunity.
Check it out!
Anrea
News Anchor (1-Year Contract) (CTV),
BELL MEDIA
Winnipeg, MB, CANADA
Posted Apr 25, 2011
1 Position(s)
Salary: CEP Local 816M, Group XV. Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Hours of Work: 40 hours per week. Varying shifts including weekends. Overtime as required.
Responsibilities:
To work in the CTV Winnipeg Newsroom as a News Anchor. Responsibilities include:
• Anchoring the 11:30pm CTV News
• Writing and producing news and weather content
• Writing and anchoring live news and weather updates
• Writing and producing news stories and features
• Live studio and location reporting
• Writing web and social media updates
• Supervising and vetting reporter and web scripts when required
• Generating story ideas
• Back-up anchoring other newscasts as required
• Demonstrating professionalism and leadership on the job and in the community
• Representing CTV news at various community and charity events
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• A degree or diploma from an accredited post-secondary broadcast or related program
• At least 2 years experience anchoring “live” news
• Previous “live” weather presentation experience
• Proven writing and presentation skills
• In-depth knowledge of news, political and current affairs
• Proven editorial news judgment with high journalistic standards
• Demonstrated organizational skills, ability to work unsupervised and make quick decisions
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Must be well versed in a variety of computer programs as well as having a familiarity with the Internet and social media; preference will be given to candidates with experience in iNews and the WSI weather system
• Have a demonstrated ability to work in a deadline driven team environment
• Must have a valid driver’s licence
Application Deadline: May 6, 2011
Application Details: Interested candidates are encouraged to forward a current resume, demo tape and references, in confidence to:
Human Resources
CTV Winnipeg
400 – 345 Graham Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 5S6
Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Bell Media is dedicated to equity in the workplace
Relevant Work Experience:
2
Job Category:
Broadcasting, Other
Website:
http://www.ctvglobemedia.com
Job Type:
Contract
Other BELL MEDIA jobs (16) .
Monday, April 18, 2011
Sports Reporter Posting
Hey guys, I know there are some sport reporter around so I wanted to post this to make sure you saw it.
I received it from a friend of mine today.
If you plan on applying let me know how you made out and good luck!
Anrea
Sports reporter/photographer REF#: JG8546 Prince Albert Daily Herald Location: Prince Albert, Saskatchewan Posted: April 11, 2011 Deadline: April 22, 2011 Salary: Description The Prince Albert Daily Herald, a daily newspaper based in central Saskatchewan, seeks a sports reporter.
The successful candidate will help tell the tale of a vibrant sports community, including, at times, coverage of the WHL Prince Albert Raiders. The wide variety of sports pursued in Prince Albert demands the ability to write about everything from basketball to chuckwagon races and poker, so the better you are at covering diverse sports with a variety of story forms, the better your chances of landing this position.
Qualifications The successful applicant will also be asked to capture images as well, so proven photography skills should be considered essential. Applicants must have a valid driver’s licence, and although the Herald provides its reporters with access to a company car, applicants should either have access to a reliable vehicle or obtain a reliable vehicle once they arrive in Prince Albert. This position is ideal for a recent graduate, or a community newspaper reporter eager to learn the fundamentals of a daily news environment.
We will also consider a student at a Canadian journalism school looking for a summer job but is returning to studies in September. Sports reporters with more experience will be considered. In addition to salary, we’ll offer a robust benefits package that includes extended dental and medical coverage, a computer purchase plan and more. The Herald’s reporters use iMacs or G5 computers with flat panel displays. We also have Nikon digital SLRs, some point-and-shoot cameras and two digital video cameras. Deadline for applications is 5 p.m. April 22, 2011.
If this sounds like a career path you’d like to pursue, please submit a resume, cover letter, references, no more than three samples of your writing and no more than five samples of your photography by email. It is also acceptable to send the resume, cover letter and references by email along with a link to an online portfolio of your work. All of the writing and some of the photos must have been published while at a journalism job or a student newspaper. Send your application, stating you found this on Jeff Gaulin’s website, to: Barry Glass, Managing Editor Email: bglass@paherald.sk.ca Prince Albert Daily Herald http://www.facebook.com/l/1ba622H5uTvf9qKNo5KZfUaBGnA/www.paherald.sk.ca
I received it from a friend of mine today.
If you plan on applying let me know how you made out and good luck!
Anrea
Sports reporter/photographer REF#: JG8546 Prince Albert Daily Herald Location: Prince Albert, Saskatchewan Posted: April 11, 2011 Deadline: April 22, 2011 Salary: Description The Prince Albert Daily Herald, a daily newspaper based in central Saskatchewan, seeks a sports reporter.
The successful candidate will help tell the tale of a vibrant sports community, including, at times, coverage of the WHL Prince Albert Raiders. The wide variety of sports pursued in Prince Albert demands the ability to write about everything from basketball to chuckwagon races and poker, so the better you are at covering diverse sports with a variety of story forms, the better your chances of landing this position.
Qualifications The successful applicant will also be asked to capture images as well, so proven photography skills should be considered essential. Applicants must have a valid driver’s licence, and although the Herald provides its reporters with access to a company car, applicants should either have access to a reliable vehicle or obtain a reliable vehicle once they arrive in Prince Albert. This position is ideal for a recent graduate, or a community newspaper reporter eager to learn the fundamentals of a daily news environment.
We will also consider a student at a Canadian journalism school looking for a summer job but is returning to studies in September. Sports reporters with more experience will be considered. In addition to salary, we’ll offer a robust benefits package that includes extended dental and medical coverage, a computer purchase plan and more. The Herald’s reporters use iMacs or G5 computers with flat panel displays. We also have Nikon digital SLRs, some point-and-shoot cameras and two digital video cameras. Deadline for applications is 5 p.m. April 22, 2011.
If this sounds like a career path you’d like to pursue, please submit a resume, cover letter, references, no more than three samples of your writing and no more than five samples of your photography by email. It is also acceptable to send the resume, cover letter and references by email along with a link to an online portfolio of your work. All of the writing and some of the photos must have been published while at a journalism job or a student newspaper. Send your application, stating you found this on Jeff Gaulin’s website, to: Barry Glass, Managing Editor Email: bglass@paherald.sk.ca Prince Albert Daily Herald http://www.facebook.com/l/1ba622H5uTvf9qKNo5KZfUaBGnA/www.paherald.sk.ca
Saturday, April 16, 2011
The Moonlight Sonata of Beethoven Blatz
Hello my wonderful followers. I am doing this blog for a class assignment. It still may interest you though because it is about the arts rather than job searching!
Today, I went to see the Moonlight Sonate of Beethovan Blatz by Armin Wiebe who is an accomplished novelist and well known figure in our literary community. Other work by Wiebe includes three novels all based in a fictional town in Manitoba. These books are: The Salvation of Yasch Siemens, Murder in Gutenthal and The Second Coming of Yeeat Shpanst. Tatsea is also writen by Wiebe and is award winning.
I must confess, I had not heard of Wiebe before this class assignment,so I am happy that I learned about a Manitoba artist! What is unique about Wiebe that I am finding from my research is how he uses dialect and dialogue togehter that really shapes his characters' unique disposition.
First year Creative Communication student's were fortunate because Wiebe came to speak live on Thursday, April 14, 2011 in our seminar spot. What was interesting I found was what Wiebe said about the Monnlight Sonata of Beethoven Blatz. I remember him saying that "Unlike my previous stories that have wanted to grow into novels, this story wants to be a play." After watching it today, I can see why. The characters are so vivid and lifelike. The humour is real and funny and the music needs to be heard.
I went to the 2:00pm showing presented by the Manitoba Theatre Projects. I went to the wrong place at first because I went to the actual Manitoba Theatre Project's building. There were many stairs I had to climb to find out I was in the wrong facility. The actual show was in the Rachel Browne Theatre at 211 Bannatyne. So, I finally got there even though I was huffing and puffing.
I am actually glad I didn't go with the rest of the CreCommers because there are so many of us when we go places, we would have taken up the entire theatre. I made sure I was able to survey the crowd to see what the audience was like and it was varried but, there were several seniors. Everyone seemed to really enjoy the humour of the play and many laughs were heard throught the two hour production.
The setting of the paly is in the 1930's on a farm in rural Manitoba.What I liked most about Armin's writing style is that he really digs deep to build his characters unique personalities expressed by their desires and disappointments. The cast consists of two women and two men. Each of them seem to have thier own agenda but somehow come together in the end by the birth of a new baby.
The main character is Such Kehler who is a housewife full of life. Susch really longs to have a child but hasn't been able to with her husband Obrum Kehler for the past two years because he had a bad case of the mumps. There is one scene when Obrum gets Poison Ivey and cannot wear pants because of the rubbing and resorts to wearing his wife's long black wool skirt. This was a real audience pleaser that generated many laughs.
Susch is hard working and tries to adhere to the pressur society would have place on a woman during the 1930's. It is hard for her though because her husband Obrum is always away working and leaves her alone. To combat this issue, Obrum buys a out of tune piano for Susch so she can learn to play. Obrum calls on Beethoven Blatz to fix up the antique piano and teach his wife. The student and the teacher find themselves alone together on many stormy prairie nights.
Teen is Susch's best friend who may be in love with Susch but I was a bit confused with that story line because of what is not said between the two.
Then there is Beethoven Blatz, the eccentric musician from Russia that is in love with his beloved Sonia who died. Susch longs for a child and Beethoven Blatz longs for Sonia and lives for his music. Eventually, Blatz starts to develop feelings for Susch as she inspires his creativity. One night when Obrum is away, Blatz and Susch have sex and Susch becomes pregnant. Throughout this journey, Blatz continues to stay in the house when Obrum is away that causes great friction between Teen, Obrum and Blatz. We all can relate at one point of having the houseguest that never leaves.However when the baby is born, everyone calms down and eventually gets along.
What I did find interesting is how similar the sounds of Low German were to Yiddish. As I Jewish person, I don't think I would have chosen to go see this play on my own accord but I am glad I did. I enjoyed myself today.
THe Moonlight Sonata of Beethoven Blatz is playing until April 17, 2011.
Today, I went to see the Moonlight Sonate of Beethovan Blatz by Armin Wiebe who is an accomplished novelist and well known figure in our literary community. Other work by Wiebe includes three novels all based in a fictional town in Manitoba. These books are: The Salvation of Yasch Siemens, Murder in Gutenthal and The Second Coming of Yeeat Shpanst. Tatsea is also writen by Wiebe and is award winning.
I must confess, I had not heard of Wiebe before this class assignment,so I am happy that I learned about a Manitoba artist! What is unique about Wiebe that I am finding from my research is how he uses dialect and dialogue togehter that really shapes his characters' unique disposition.
First year Creative Communication student's were fortunate because Wiebe came to speak live on Thursday, April 14, 2011 in our seminar spot. What was interesting I found was what Wiebe said about the Monnlight Sonata of Beethoven Blatz. I remember him saying that "Unlike my previous stories that have wanted to grow into novels, this story wants to be a play." After watching it today, I can see why. The characters are so vivid and lifelike. The humour is real and funny and the music needs to be heard.
I went to the 2:00pm showing presented by the Manitoba Theatre Projects. I went to the wrong place at first because I went to the actual Manitoba Theatre Project's building. There were many stairs I had to climb to find out I was in the wrong facility. The actual show was in the Rachel Browne Theatre at 211 Bannatyne. So, I finally got there even though I was huffing and puffing.
I am actually glad I didn't go with the rest of the CreCommers because there are so many of us when we go places, we would have taken up the entire theatre. I made sure I was able to survey the crowd to see what the audience was like and it was varried but, there were several seniors. Everyone seemed to really enjoy the humour of the play and many laughs were heard throught the two hour production.
The setting of the paly is in the 1930's on a farm in rural Manitoba.What I liked most about Armin's writing style is that he really digs deep to build his characters unique personalities expressed by their desires and disappointments. The cast consists of two women and two men. Each of them seem to have thier own agenda but somehow come together in the end by the birth of a new baby.
The main character is Such Kehler who is a housewife full of life. Susch really longs to have a child but hasn't been able to with her husband Obrum Kehler for the past two years because he had a bad case of the mumps. There is one scene when Obrum gets Poison Ivey and cannot wear pants because of the rubbing and resorts to wearing his wife's long black wool skirt. This was a real audience pleaser that generated many laughs.
Susch is hard working and tries to adhere to the pressur society would have place on a woman during the 1930's. It is hard for her though because her husband Obrum is always away working and leaves her alone. To combat this issue, Obrum buys a out of tune piano for Susch so she can learn to play. Obrum calls on Beethoven Blatz to fix up the antique piano and teach his wife. The student and the teacher find themselves alone together on many stormy prairie nights.
Teen is Susch's best friend who may be in love with Susch but I was a bit confused with that story line because of what is not said between the two.
Then there is Beethoven Blatz, the eccentric musician from Russia that is in love with his beloved Sonia who died. Susch longs for a child and Beethoven Blatz longs for Sonia and lives for his music. Eventually, Blatz starts to develop feelings for Susch as she inspires his creativity. One night when Obrum is away, Blatz and Susch have sex and Susch becomes pregnant. Throughout this journey, Blatz continues to stay in the house when Obrum is away that causes great friction between Teen, Obrum and Blatz. We all can relate at one point of having the houseguest that never leaves.However when the baby is born, everyone calms down and eventually gets along.
What I did find interesting is how similar the sounds of Low German were to Yiddish. As I Jewish person, I don't think I would have chosen to go see this play on my own accord but I am glad I did. I enjoyed myself today.
THe Moonlight Sonata of Beethoven Blatz is playing until April 17, 2011.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
New Job Posting
Hi guys,
Here is another job I found. I found it on indeed.ca. Good luck to those of you that apply!
Anrea
Job Description
Marketing Coordinator-003IP
Description
Coordinate communication plans and materials
Execute marketing and communication tactics in conjunction with the agency within budgetary guidelines
Ensure legal compliance of all communication pieces both for MON and partners
Ensure all timelines are met for individual projects in line with Brand manager timelines and launch dates
Process all grower/retail claims for SGA spend/prizing
Assist in generating basic analysis of grower purchase/behaviour patterns
Work closely with brand manager/account managers to ensure timely updates of sales information and provide details back to TSTM's
Provide support for TSTM's for promo material, brochures, etc.
Aid in the development of presentations for TSTM's and Canola Leadership Team.
Qualifications
Computer skills including spreadsheet, database, word processing, presentation development
Creative thinker that can work well in a team environment
Self starter that is detail oriented with a strong commitment to job excellence
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Agriculture knowledge or background is an asset but not essential.
Job Marketing/Product Management
Primary LocationNorth America-Canada-Manitoba-Winnipeg
Organization Int'l Row Crops Business_51124890
Schedule Full-time
Here is another job I found. I found it on indeed.ca. Good luck to those of you that apply!
Anrea
Job Description
Marketing Coordinator-003IP
Description
Coordinate communication plans and materials
Execute marketing and communication tactics in conjunction with the agency within budgetary guidelines
Ensure legal compliance of all communication pieces both for MON and partners
Ensure all timelines are met for individual projects in line with Brand manager timelines and launch dates
Process all grower/retail claims for SGA spend/prizing
Assist in generating basic analysis of grower purchase/behaviour patterns
Work closely with brand manager/account managers to ensure timely updates of sales information and provide details back to TSTM's
Provide support for TSTM's for promo material, brochures, etc.
Aid in the development of presentations for TSTM's and Canola Leadership Team.
Qualifications
Computer skills including spreadsheet, database, word processing, presentation development
Creative thinker that can work well in a team environment
Self starter that is detail oriented with a strong commitment to job excellence
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Agriculture knowledge or background is an asset but not essential.
Job Marketing/Product Management
Primary LocationNorth America-Canada-Manitoba-Winnipeg
Organization Int'l Row Crops Business_51124890
Schedule Full-time
Friday, April 8, 2011
Communications Job!
ob Type: Full Time
Location: Winnipeg, MB, CANADA;
Job Category: Communications, Insurance
Industry: Insurance-Life
Date Posted: Mar 30, 2011
Position Overview:
This position would assist in the writing, distribution and maintenance of communication material provided to staff and retirees regarding our various benefit plans.
Accountabilities:
• Writing and coordinating the distribution of communication material for the annual benefits enrollment / re-enrollment.
• Other responsibilities include the writing, design, revisions and coordination of translation for all other written materials, including the online benefits manuals, enrollment packages, retiree booklets, as well as a variety of releases and benefit forms.
Qualifications and Competencies:
• Completion of a University degree or community college certificate program preferably in communication or related field. A combination of education and work experience may be considered.
• Strong technical/computer skills – Proficiency in MS Word, Excel and Power Point.
• Demonstrated initiative with the ability to manage many tasks at one time while prioritizing and managing job responsibilities efficiently in a team environment.
• Proven creative ability and desire to think ‘outside the box’, with ability to apply innovative approaches and solutions.
• Proven ability to adapt and manage change in a positive manner.
• Aptitude for learning new technology.
• Knowledge of HTML, Adobe Writer, and Microsoft Publisher a definite asset.
Take the next step
We offer a challenging, team-oriented work environment, competitive income and benefits, and opportunities for professional and personal growth. All Great-West Life employment opportunities are available on our website at www.greatwestlife.com. Please visit our Careers section and apply online by Monday, April 11, 2011.
Location: Winnipeg, MB, CANADA;
Job Category: Communications, Insurance
Industry: Insurance-Life
Date Posted: Mar 30, 2011
Position Overview:
This position would assist in the writing, distribution and maintenance of communication material provided to staff and retirees regarding our various benefit plans.
Accountabilities:
• Writing and coordinating the distribution of communication material for the annual benefits enrollment / re-enrollment.
• Other responsibilities include the writing, design, revisions and coordination of translation for all other written materials, including the online benefits manuals, enrollment packages, retiree booklets, as well as a variety of releases and benefit forms.
Qualifications and Competencies:
• Completion of a University degree or community college certificate program preferably in communication or related field. A combination of education and work experience may be considered.
• Strong technical/computer skills – Proficiency in MS Word, Excel and Power Point.
• Demonstrated initiative with the ability to manage many tasks at one time while prioritizing and managing job responsibilities efficiently in a team environment.
• Proven creative ability and desire to think ‘outside the box’, with ability to apply innovative approaches and solutions.
• Proven ability to adapt and manage change in a positive manner.
• Aptitude for learning new technology.
• Knowledge of HTML, Adobe Writer, and Microsoft Publisher a definite asset.
Take the next step
We offer a challenging, team-oriented work environment, competitive income and benefits, and opportunities for professional and personal growth. All Great-West Life employment opportunities are available on our website at www.greatwestlife.com. Please visit our Careers section and apply online by Monday, April 11, 2011.
Another Job Posting
Hi there Media Production Majors:
Check out this posting below. They are looking for people with 5 years plus experience but it still doesn't hurt to put your application in. Let them decide if they want you or not.
Perhaps even try to secure an informational interview. Be creative, be bold, be proactive in your career search.
You can tutor me along the way in Final Cut Pro as well!
Good luck.
Anrea Zaslov
City Winnipeg
Province/State Manitoba [MB]
Branch Winnipeg
Job ID 21252
Title Video Editor
Job Type Permanent
What is in it for you? Are you looking for an opportunity that will allow you to use your creative expertise? Are you an experienced Video Editor or Videographer who would like move more into the Editing role? Drake has partnered with an International leader in the exciting world of fashion to source exactly this type of talent. If you meet the requirements, and are looking for growth opportunities and advancement, apply immediately directly to this ad! All applications are highly confidential. We thank all that apply but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.
The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is an individual with unlimited creativity and a desire for perfection in all that they touch. This person will take pride in turning creative visualization into a well polished finished product that will be key in media promotion of our clients well established brand.
Requirements . Must have 5+ years of experience in video editing with solid expertise using AVID . Demonstrated experience using Final Cut Pro, Adobe After Effects, Adobe CS4 suite . Preference will be given to applicants with multimedia production education
Compensation and Benefits Details This position starts at $35,000.00 - $40,000.00 base with a bonus structure on top. Our client offers an excellent benefit package.
Check out this posting below. They are looking for people with 5 years plus experience but it still doesn't hurt to put your application in. Let them decide if they want you or not.
Perhaps even try to secure an informational interview. Be creative, be bold, be proactive in your career search.
You can tutor me along the way in Final Cut Pro as well!
Good luck.
Anrea Zaslov
City Winnipeg
Province/State Manitoba [MB]
Branch Winnipeg
Job ID 21252
Title Video Editor
Job Type Permanent
What is in it for you? Are you looking for an opportunity that will allow you to use your creative expertise? Are you an experienced Video Editor or Videographer who would like move more into the Editing role? Drake has partnered with an International leader in the exciting world of fashion to source exactly this type of talent. If you meet the requirements, and are looking for growth opportunities and advancement, apply immediately directly to this ad! All applications are highly confidential. We thank all that apply but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.
The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is an individual with unlimited creativity and a desire for perfection in all that they touch. This person will take pride in turning creative visualization into a well polished finished product that will be key in media promotion of our clients well established brand.
Requirements . Must have 5+ years of experience in video editing with solid expertise using AVID . Demonstrated experience using Final Cut Pro, Adobe After Effects, Adobe CS4 suite . Preference will be given to applicants with multimedia production education
Compensation and Benefits Details This position starts at $35,000.00 - $40,000.00 base with a bonus structure on top. Our client offers an excellent benefit package.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Job Opportunity
Hi everyone,
Here is an awesome summer job I found. I wanted to post it for you guys. Please make sure you apply!
Anrea
Marketing and Community Outreach Assistant
Sarasvà ti Productions
Sarasvà ti Productions is hiring two summer students through the Canada Summer Jobs Program. The individuals must be youth (under 30 years of age) and returning to full-time studies at a recognized institution in the fall. Both positions are for 30 hours a week for the full summer and we are particularly interested in candidates who would like to continue with part-time work in the fall; the wage is $10/hour. Below are descriptions of the two positions.
Marketing and Community Outreach Assistant
This individual will assist with the marketing and community outreach work for Sarasvà ti Productions’ upcoming projects, including FemFest (a festival of one-act plays by women). Tasks will include: communication with media, partner organizations, target audience groups, schools, community groups, and advertising outlets to pursue possible promotional opportunities; creating communications tools and promotional materials, including snail mail and e-mail campaigns; as well as booking school performances. In addition the student will coordinate promotional work, while exploring ways to reach out to under-represented communities. In conjunction with marketing tasks, the student will assist in the pursuit of media sponsorship and advertising dollars. Strong organizational, communication and computer skills are required with particular familiarity in Photoshop, In Design, Microsoft Publisher and Excel databases, as well as with on-line social media. Experience in marketing and/or development is an asset.
For more information on the company please visit our website – www.sarasvati.ca. To apply for either position please forward your resume and cover letter by e-mail only to info@sarasvati.ca.
The positions are dependent on funding, but we hope to start both roles on May 16th.
Application deadline: April 22nd.
For questions or information contact Hope McIntyre at info@sarasvati.ca or (204) 586-2236.
About Sarasvà ti Productions:
Sarasvà ti Dramatic Theatre Productions and Repertory Inc. (founded in Winnipeg in 2000) seeks to inspire artists and audiences through the use of theatre and to provide a place where artists can develop and showcase their skills, and celebrate their creativity.
Application deadline: 22 / 04 / 2011
Website: Sarasvà ti Productions
Email: info@sarasvati.ca
Here is an awesome summer job I found. I wanted to post it for you guys. Please make sure you apply!
Anrea
Marketing and Community Outreach Assistant
Sarasvà ti Productions
Sarasvà ti Productions is hiring two summer students through the Canada Summer Jobs Program. The individuals must be youth (under 30 years of age) and returning to full-time studies at a recognized institution in the fall. Both positions are for 30 hours a week for the full summer and we are particularly interested in candidates who would like to continue with part-time work in the fall; the wage is $10/hour. Below are descriptions of the two positions.
Marketing and Community Outreach Assistant
This individual will assist with the marketing and community outreach work for Sarasvà ti Productions’ upcoming projects, including FemFest (a festival of one-act plays by women). Tasks will include: communication with media, partner organizations, target audience groups, schools, community groups, and advertising outlets to pursue possible promotional opportunities; creating communications tools and promotional materials, including snail mail and e-mail campaigns; as well as booking school performances. In addition the student will coordinate promotional work, while exploring ways to reach out to under-represented communities. In conjunction with marketing tasks, the student will assist in the pursuit of media sponsorship and advertising dollars. Strong organizational, communication and computer skills are required with particular familiarity in Photoshop, In Design, Microsoft Publisher and Excel databases, as well as with on-line social media. Experience in marketing and/or development is an asset.
For more information on the company please visit our website – www.sarasvati.ca. To apply for either position please forward your resume and cover letter by e-mail only to info@sarasvati.ca.
The positions are dependent on funding, but we hope to start both roles on May 16th.
Application deadline: April 22nd.
For questions or information contact Hope McIntyre at info@sarasvati.ca or (204) 586-2236.
About Sarasvà ti Productions:
Sarasvà ti Dramatic Theatre Productions and Repertory Inc. (founded in Winnipeg in 2000) seeks to inspire artists and audiences through the use of theatre and to provide a place where artists can develop and showcase their skills, and celebrate their creativity.
Application deadline: 22 / 04 / 2011
Website: Sarasvà ti Productions
Email: info@sarasvati.ca
Monday, April 4, 2011
Job Posting!!!!
Job Description
Morning Program Remote Host - Rogers Media Television - Winnipeg-23951
Description
An opportunity exists for a Remote Host with Breakfast Television Winnipeg.
· Generate show content and remote segment ideas
· Book daily interesting, engaging and active live remote segments
(within the approved guidelines and parameters)
· Participate in story meetings and daily show run-through
· Represent station at selected charity and community events
· Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
· Post secondary degree in broadcast journalism or equivalent experience
· Must be comfortable in a live, un-scripted environment
· Must be a dynamic, engaging, "morning-person" with a good sense of humor
· Should be up to date on current local events and trends.
· Minimum 2 years "Live" broadcast experience
· Must be alert and entertaining in the pre-dawn hours
· Must have reliable transportation
Rogers is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The future is exciting and Rogers is leading the way.
Canadians count on Rogers to keep them in touch with those who matter most to them - whether at their desk, on the couch, or on the go. As Canada's telecommunications leader, we keep everyone informed, connected and entertained, with our exciting array of products and services. Our drive to provide the latest and most innovative products ensures that our customers enjoy unmatched convenience, reliability, and flexibility. Rogers continues to set the pace by investing in our networks, platforms, products and people. Are you ready for a high-energy career that feeds your enthusiasm? Join us now.
Job Posting Mar 31, 2011
Job On-Air Talent
Primary LocationCA-MB-Winnipeg
Schedule Full-time
Employee Status Regular
Travel No
Target Start Date Apr 10, 2011
Send this job to a friend
Send this job description to a friend by email. All the relevant details will be included in the message.
Send this job to a friend
Morning Program Remote Host - Rogers Media Television - Winnipeg-23951
Description
An opportunity exists for a Remote Host with Breakfast Television Winnipeg.
· Generate show content and remote segment ideas
· Book daily interesting, engaging and active live remote segments
(within the approved guidelines and parameters)
· Participate in story meetings and daily show run-through
· Represent station at selected charity and community events
· Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
· Post secondary degree in broadcast journalism or equivalent experience
· Must be comfortable in a live, un-scripted environment
· Must be a dynamic, engaging, "morning-person" with a good sense of humor
· Should be up to date on current local events and trends.
· Minimum 2 years "Live" broadcast experience
· Must be alert and entertaining in the pre-dawn hours
· Must have reliable transportation
Rogers is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The future is exciting and Rogers is leading the way.
Canadians count on Rogers to keep them in touch with those who matter most to them - whether at their desk, on the couch, or on the go. As Canada's telecommunications leader, we keep everyone informed, connected and entertained, with our exciting array of products and services. Our drive to provide the latest and most innovative products ensures that our customers enjoy unmatched convenience, reliability, and flexibility. Rogers continues to set the pace by investing in our networks, platforms, products and people. Are you ready for a high-energy career that feeds your enthusiasm? Join us now.
Job Posting Mar 31, 2011
Job On-Air Talent
Primary LocationCA-MB-Winnipeg
Schedule Full-time
Employee Status Regular
Travel No
Target Start Date Apr 10, 2011
Send this job to a friend
Send this job description to a friend by email. All the relevant details will be included in the message.
Send this job to a friend
Friday, April 1, 2011
Tribute to Tom Starr
Hello my wonderful followers, today I want to blog about work ethic.
My best friend of 30 years father died this week on Monday. His name is Tom Starr. Tom was a Deputy Fire Chief for about 40 years and he also worked at the Salisbury House for almost 60 years. Mr. Starr is a legend, a force and a Manitoba Icon. The one thing that everyone is saying about Tom is that he worked hard and his work ethic meant everything to him.
What a wonderful way to be remembered. I think we all can take Tom's dedication to his work to heart and whenever we put our best foot forward, remember that you will be remembered this way in life and death.
My dear friend is such an inspiration. She really loved her dad and had a very special relationship with him. I feel for her in her time of loss. So though we are all busy, let's take the time out this weekend to tell those we love how much they mean to us.
Thank you to all of you and no matter what your challenges or stresses are in your life, you are never too busy to say I love you.
Kindly,
Anrea Zaslov
My best friend of 30 years father died this week on Monday. His name is Tom Starr. Tom was a Deputy Fire Chief for about 40 years and he also worked at the Salisbury House for almost 60 years. Mr. Starr is a legend, a force and a Manitoba Icon. The one thing that everyone is saying about Tom is that he worked hard and his work ethic meant everything to him.
What a wonderful way to be remembered. I think we all can take Tom's dedication to his work to heart and whenever we put our best foot forward, remember that you will be remembered this way in life and death.
My dear friend is such an inspiration. She really loved her dad and had a very special relationship with him. I feel for her in her time of loss. So though we are all busy, let's take the time out this weekend to tell those we love how much they mean to us.
Thank you to all of you and no matter what your challenges or stresses are in your life, you are never too busy to say I love you.
Kindly,
Anrea Zaslov
Friday, March 25, 2011
Managing the Stress of the Unkown
Hello my wonderful followers. I hope all of you are well. Today, I am at home sick with bronchits and a fever. This has allowed me to think of a topic that i have not yet discussed before. The fear of the unknown which I am experiencing right now.
I am in the Creative Communications Program at Red River College. I am in my first year and will be completing it in about three weeks. Since I have downtime right now because I am sick, my mind races.
I think to myself, where am I going to work? What do I want to do? I have to find a summer job fast or I won't receive compensation from the government next year to complete my course. After my course, then what? I am not strong at technology and just know the basics of the softwears we were introduced to this year. That worries me.
Plus, I am 40 years old and I am really craving earning power in my life right now. I would like to be able to pay off my debts and buy a house this decade...My father is ill and I have always had this thing where I want to be successful before my father passes. I feel like I am runnig out of time now and it is horrifying.
So, here I am having a blog about career searching, and I am lost myself. I do stand by what I have said on this site, don't get me wrong. If any of you have any advice for me, I would be more than thrilled to know I am not alone.
Thanks for listening.
Warmly,
Anrea
I am in the Creative Communications Program at Red River College. I am in my first year and will be completing it in about three weeks. Since I have downtime right now because I am sick, my mind races.
I think to myself, where am I going to work? What do I want to do? I have to find a summer job fast or I won't receive compensation from the government next year to complete my course. After my course, then what? I am not strong at technology and just know the basics of the softwears we were introduced to this year. That worries me.
Plus, I am 40 years old and I am really craving earning power in my life right now. I would like to be able to pay off my debts and buy a house this decade...My father is ill and I have always had this thing where I want to be successful before my father passes. I feel like I am runnig out of time now and it is horrifying.
So, here I am having a blog about career searching, and I am lost myself. I do stand by what I have said on this site, don't get me wrong. If any of you have any advice for me, I would be more than thrilled to know I am not alone.
Thanks for listening.
Warmly,
Anrea
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Be Yourslef
Hello my wonderful followers. I was supposed to write on Friday but I had a horrible dose of writer's block. For that I deeply apologize. Something came to me just now and I knew I had to share it with you. Last night, I had to attend a function with my husband that was for his work. It was a networking group. The interesting thing is that three hours before the function, I didn't feel well at all and didn't want to go. I forced myself to get up and dressed as I didn't want to look frumpy. We headed out to Civita's on Corydon Avenue. I didn't know what to expect from the evening. I went without expectations.
When I arrived there I sat beside a very outgoing individual. The ironic thing is that when we exchanged names, she said she had heard my name before. I delved deeper into that because I have never known another Anrea before. Have you? If you have, please tell me about it!
I am digressing. The individual I sat beside said she had heard my name before and asked if I was in the Creative Communications program at Red River and I said yes. The funny thing was, so was she. Shs happened to be in second year. It was so funny. I ended up having a great eveing and was able to understand a few more things about the course I am in. It ended up being a great evening. I have an assignment due on Monday that is an important one. She even provided me with insight for that as well.
So, I guess I really wanted to reinforce the need to be yourself at networking functions and push yourself if you don't want to go. You never know what you will be missing out on. I even had some great laughs too!
Thanks for listening!
Anrea
When I arrived there I sat beside a very outgoing individual. The ironic thing is that when we exchanged names, she said she had heard my name before. I delved deeper into that because I have never known another Anrea before. Have you? If you have, please tell me about it!
I am digressing. The individual I sat beside said she had heard my name before and asked if I was in the Creative Communications program at Red River and I said yes. The funny thing was, so was she. Shs happened to be in second year. It was so funny. I ended up having a great eveing and was able to understand a few more things about the course I am in. It ended up being a great evening. I have an assignment due on Monday that is an important one. She even provided me with insight for that as well.
So, I guess I really wanted to reinforce the need to be yourself at networking functions and push yourself if you don't want to go. You never know what you will be missing out on. I even had some great laughs too!
Thanks for listening!
Anrea
Friday, March 11, 2011
Inspired to Inspire
Hello everyone,
I have spent the last two and a half days at the Creative Communications IPP's where students' present their professional projects they have been working on all year. Soon it will be my turn to present to the pannel of judges. I came home after the presentations, thinking about my idea and how I was going to market it. I got on the phone and made some calls. The power of cold calling at times is priceless in my opinion.
I have decided to do my IPP on a book about primary caregivers who care for a loved one that is ill. You see, the whole time I have been in Crecomm, my own father has been ill. He has type two diabetes and was in the hospital for six months. Now he has been moved to a nursing home at the young age of 75. He had five of his toes amputated recently and it has been a big adjustemnt for him.
My other dear friend takes care of her mom and her dad. Her Dad has diabetes and her mom had a stroke. I see how my mom has taken care of my dad and my dear friend her parents. I have decided to write a book or a resource guide about primary caregivers and their untold stories of spirit, compassion, resilliance and love. If any of you out there have a sick parent please let me know. I would love to hear your stories and hopefully include it in my book.
I also wanted to share some information I found out today about the primary caregiver tax credit that you can claim in Manitoba. It is relatively new within the past two years. Check out the link: http://www.gov.mb.ca/finance/tao/caregiver.html to see if you qualify.
Have a great weekend!
Anrea
I have spent the last two and a half days at the Creative Communications IPP's where students' present their professional projects they have been working on all year. Soon it will be my turn to present to the pannel of judges. I came home after the presentations, thinking about my idea and how I was going to market it. I got on the phone and made some calls. The power of cold calling at times is priceless in my opinion.
I have decided to do my IPP on a book about primary caregivers who care for a loved one that is ill. You see, the whole time I have been in Crecomm, my own father has been ill. He has type two diabetes and was in the hospital for six months. Now he has been moved to a nursing home at the young age of 75. He had five of his toes amputated recently and it has been a big adjustemnt for him.
My other dear friend takes care of her mom and her dad. Her Dad has diabetes and her mom had a stroke. I see how my mom has taken care of my dad and my dear friend her parents. I have decided to write a book or a resource guide about primary caregivers and their untold stories of spirit, compassion, resilliance and love. If any of you out there have a sick parent please let me know. I would love to hear your stories and hopefully include it in my book.
I also wanted to share some information I found out today about the primary caregiver tax credit that you can claim in Manitoba. It is relatively new within the past two years. Check out the link: http://www.gov.mb.ca/finance/tao/caregiver.html to see if you qualify.
Have a great weekend!
Anrea
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Breakfast Television Is Hiring
Hi all,
I found this posting online today and had to post it. What I find interesting is how it says must lead and own local content news cast. Plus I found out what RTNDA stood for today. It stands for the Association for Electronic Journalists I believe.
Just wanted to share!
Check it out.
Anrea
Anchor/Reporter
Citytv Winnipeg
Job Description
Anchor/Reporter - Citytv Winnipeg-22971
Description
Breakfast Television in Winnipeg is looking for an Anchor/Reporter. In this role you will be responsible for:
- Lead and mentor the Breakfast Television local news team
- Develop a network of contacts for stories, focusing on the community
- Generate story ideas
- Co-ordinate with camera crews for scheduling and locations
- Assist with development and production of segments
- Deliver scripted and unscripted information "live" on-air from remote locations and/or in studio environment
- Write clear, concise, accurate news copy under tight deadlines using sound news judgment adhering to the RTNDA code of ethics.
- Search the wires, monitor feeds, write scripts, voice-over visuals, edit and archive stories
- Assist in writing news items and in program preparation
- Participation in station driven community events.
- Other Duties as required
Qualifications
- Ability to lead and own the local news content for Breakfast Television
- Degree/Diploma from a recognized college in Journalism program
- Five (5) years experience in broadcast journalism or related experience
- Two (2) years experience in television hosting/anchoring or reporting
- Excellent knowledge of geography, cultural sensitivities and politics.
- Good interpersonal, communication and emotional intelligence skills required
- Proven ability to work as a member of a team
- Working knowledge of electronic gathering techniques and non linear editing
- Ability to multi task and work with multiple deadlines
- Flexibility to work within a constantly changing environment
- Must be available to work shifts
- A demonstrated sense of humour
The future is exciting and Rogers is leading the way.
Canadians count on Rogers to keep them in touch with those who matter most to them - whether at their desk, on the couch, or on the go. As Canada's telecommunications leader, we keep everyone informed, connected and entertained, with our exciting array of products and services. Our drive to provide the latest and most innovative products ensures that our customers enjoy unmatched convenience, reliability, and flexibility. Rogers continues to set the pace by investing in our networks, platforms, products and people. Are you ready for a high-energy career that feeds your enthusiasm? Join us now.
Job Posting - Mar 1, 2011
Job - On-Air Talent
Primary Location - CA-MB-Winnipeg
Schedule - Full-time
Employee Status - Regular
Travel - No
For more information, please click here.
Application deadline: 11 / 03 / 2011
I found this posting online today and had to post it. What I find interesting is how it says must lead and own local content news cast. Plus I found out what RTNDA stood for today. It stands for the Association for Electronic Journalists I believe.
Just wanted to share!
Check it out.
Anrea
Anchor/Reporter
Citytv Winnipeg
Job Description
Anchor/Reporter - Citytv Winnipeg-22971
Description
Breakfast Television in Winnipeg is looking for an Anchor/Reporter. In this role you will be responsible for:
- Lead and mentor the Breakfast Television local news team
- Develop a network of contacts for stories, focusing on the community
- Generate story ideas
- Co-ordinate with camera crews for scheduling and locations
- Assist with development and production of segments
- Deliver scripted and unscripted information "live" on-air from remote locations and/or in studio environment
- Write clear, concise, accurate news copy under tight deadlines using sound news judgment adhering to the RTNDA code of ethics.
- Search the wires, monitor feeds, write scripts, voice-over visuals, edit and archive stories
- Assist in writing news items and in program preparation
- Participation in station driven community events.
- Other Duties as required
Qualifications
- Ability to lead and own the local news content for Breakfast Television
- Degree/Diploma from a recognized college in Journalism program
- Five (5) years experience in broadcast journalism or related experience
- Two (2) years experience in television hosting/anchoring or reporting
- Excellent knowledge of geography, cultural sensitivities and politics.
- Good interpersonal, communication and emotional intelligence skills required
- Proven ability to work as a member of a team
- Working knowledge of electronic gathering techniques and non linear editing
- Ability to multi task and work with multiple deadlines
- Flexibility to work within a constantly changing environment
- Must be available to work shifts
- A demonstrated sense of humour
The future is exciting and Rogers is leading the way.
Canadians count on Rogers to keep them in touch with those who matter most to them - whether at their desk, on the couch, or on the go. As Canada's telecommunications leader, we keep everyone informed, connected and entertained, with our exciting array of products and services. Our drive to provide the latest and most innovative products ensures that our customers enjoy unmatched convenience, reliability, and flexibility. Rogers continues to set the pace by investing in our networks, platforms, products and people. Are you ready for a high-energy career that feeds your enthusiasm? Join us now.
Job Posting - Mar 1, 2011
Job - On-Air Talent
Primary Location - CA-MB-Winnipeg
Schedule - Full-time
Employee Status - Regular
Travel - No
For more information, please click here.
Application deadline: 11 / 03 / 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Spring Tourism Hospitality Job Fair Notice
Hello my wonderful followers,
With spring soon approaching, some of you may be looking for a summer job. Here is a place to start. It never hurts to start early.
Good luck!
Date: Wednesday March 23, 2011
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Register By: Monday March 7, 2011
Location: Riddell Hall Atrium Area, University of Winnipeg
With spring soon approaching, some of you may be looking for a summer job. Here is a place to start. It never hurts to start early.
Good luck!
Date: Wednesday March 23, 2011
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Register By: Monday March 7, 2011
Location: Riddell Hall Atrium Area, University of Winnipeg
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Job Posting
Hi there, I found this posting on workopolis today. Before Crecomm, I wouldn't have even known what they were talking about in this ad! Now I totally do. That is a learning curve in itself. I just was excited that I knew the jargon.
One skill at a time right!
Take a look crecomms!
Citytv Winnipeg has an excellent opportunity for a motivated person with technical aptitude to gain valuable experience in a major market television station. Working as part of Citytv's operations team, this position will be responsible for a variety of production duties to support Breakfast Television.
Responsibilities:
· Editing of footage for news and BT segments on non-linear editing system
· Digitizing footage; paying close attention to naming conventions
· Operating studio camera during production of BT
· Operating ENG camera
· Provide production support to various initiatives and special programs
· Remain conversant with all departmental production equipment
· Ensure that programs and segments meet company and industry standards for content and quality
· Work with Production Engineering on equipment faults and failures
. Operate live truck
· Other duties as assigned
•Minimum five years experience in television production
•In-depth knowledge of editing, shooting and technical facilities
•Experience with ENG/EFP and Studio production including editing both linear and non-linear, camera work.
•3 years experience with non-linear editing system (avid systems preferred, FCP also accepted)
•Experience with Ikegami cameras preferred
•Valid class 5 license and excellent driving and workplace safety records
•Must be highly motivated, show initiative and creativity
•Self-starter; well organized and detail oriented; Ability to prioritize effectively
•Strong communication and interpersonal skills
•Take direction and handle stressful situations well
•Able to meet tight deadlines
•Good organizational skills
•Ability to multi-task
•Excellent computer skills
•Work well within a team environment;
•Degree or Diploma from a recognized Broadcast/Journalism Program or equivalent experience
•Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
•Ability to work shifts, including early mornings,evenings and weekends
The future is exciting and Rogers is leading the way.
Canadians count on Rogers to keep them in touch with those who matter most to them - whether at their desk, on the couch, or on the go. As Canada's telecommunications leader, we keep everyone informed, connected and entertained, with our exciting array of products and services. Our drive to provide the latest and most innovative products ensures that our customers enjoy unmatched convenience, reliability, and flexibility. Rogers continues to set the pace by investing in our networks, platforms, products and people. Are you ready for a high-energy career that feeds your enthusiasm? Join us now.
One skill at a time right!
Take a look crecomms!
Citytv Winnipeg has an excellent opportunity for a motivated person with technical aptitude to gain valuable experience in a major market television station. Working as part of Citytv's operations team, this position will be responsible for a variety of production duties to support Breakfast Television.
Responsibilities:
· Editing of footage for news and BT segments on non-linear editing system
· Digitizing footage; paying close attention to naming conventions
· Operating studio camera during production of BT
· Operating ENG camera
· Provide production support to various initiatives and special programs
· Remain conversant with all departmental production equipment
· Ensure that programs and segments meet company and industry standards for content and quality
· Work with Production Engineering on equipment faults and failures
. Operate live truck
· Other duties as assigned
•Minimum five years experience in television production
•In-depth knowledge of editing, shooting and technical facilities
•Experience with ENG/EFP and Studio production including editing both linear and non-linear, camera work.
•3 years experience with non-linear editing system (avid systems preferred, FCP also accepted)
•Experience with Ikegami cameras preferred
•Valid class 5 license and excellent driving and workplace safety records
•Must be highly motivated, show initiative and creativity
•Self-starter; well organized and detail oriented; Ability to prioritize effectively
•Strong communication and interpersonal skills
•Take direction and handle stressful situations well
•Able to meet tight deadlines
•Good organizational skills
•Ability to multi-task
•Excellent computer skills
•Work well within a team environment;
•Degree or Diploma from a recognized Broadcast/Journalism Program or equivalent experience
•Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
•Ability to work shifts, including early mornings,evenings and weekends
The future is exciting and Rogers is leading the way.
Canadians count on Rogers to keep them in touch with those who matter most to them - whether at their desk, on the couch, or on the go. As Canada's telecommunications leader, we keep everyone informed, connected and entertained, with our exciting array of products and services. Our drive to provide the latest and most innovative products ensures that our customers enjoy unmatched convenience, reliability, and flexibility. Rogers continues to set the pace by investing in our networks, platforms, products and people. Are you ready for a high-energy career that feeds your enthusiasm? Join us now.
Friday, February 18, 2011
To Tweet or Facebook?
Hello my wonderful followers. For an in class assignment, I had to write about the difference between Facebook and Twitter. What I found is that using Twitter as a part of your career search strategy is actually a good idea to connect with companies. Please continue to read this post to see if you are using these social media platforms in the right manner and learn how other perople perceive them. To investigate the differences between Facebook and Twitter, I decided to ask some of my friends to find out what their perceptions are.
Michael Sharpe, graduate of the Public Relations and Management program from the University of Winnipeg feels that he uses Facebook more.
”I use Facebook and don’t like Twitter. Twitter is an added headache I don’t need.” he said.
Eirena Doerksen Rothwel 41, lives in Kelowna B.C with two children and works at her children’s school library.
”Facebook is more socieal, I like to use it for chatting, posting on walls, sending private messages, sharing pictures, videos and playing games. I find Twitter is just for status updates and that is it,” she said.
Ginette Lauren, crisis support worker uses both.
“I think Twitter would be where you can follow someone without being their friend but with Facebook you would have to be their friend,” she said.
To further my research about the Twitter and Facebook comparison, I searched the internet and came across a site called www.liveperson.com. I thought this site is amazing. This site connects you to Twitter experts. They have their photos up with their comments about Twitter and some of them offer to help you have the best tweeting experience ever. There are even fees attached and some charge .43 cents a minute. I never thought about the spin off effects of Twitter and realized how many jobs it can create.
According to this website and some of the experts on it say Twitter is fast becoming the world’s most respected real time content creation platform and search engine. How impressive is that? I never really thought of Twitter being a search engine before but I have learned that it is. Other comments on this site include Twitter being used on a daily basis to connect with business savvy individuals and also as a tool for building a business. Some suggest that Twitter is an integral tool in building your online marketing campaign and is an excellent option to keep in contact with clients for frequent updates.
According to www.everydaytweet.com, Twitter is a free social networking and micro-blogging service that allows its users to send and read other users’ updates known as tweets. You can use Twitter on the computer, cell phone, or mobile device. Twitter has also been referred to as the “SMS of the Internet” because the platform is based in text messaging technology. This website suggests Twitter is the following:
• A global village
• Expressing and sharing short messages
• Easy
• Effortless: 140 characters requires minimal exertion
• Fun
• Free
• It is sometimes like reality tv
• Free
On www.everydaytweet.com it says Twitter is like life in your pocket or purse. Twitter is not just care-free fun, you have access to a worldwide community of experts, leaders, educators, and just plain old smart, wise folks who not only share their knowledge but are open to helping you and others. You can also get access to big companies and can assist with a job search. Twitter becomes more enjoyable once you really start engaging with others it said. After reading this, I see Twitter as much more of a valuable tool.
My personal preference is isntant chat on Facebook. I love that thing. I love being able to say hello instantly to friends in other countries. I never feel to far away from old friends and I love seeing photos and birthday reminders. There is now never an excuse to forget your bff's birthday ever again!
Michael Sharpe, graduate of the Public Relations and Management program from the University of Winnipeg feels that he uses Facebook more.
”I use Facebook and don’t like Twitter. Twitter is an added headache I don’t need.” he said.
Eirena Doerksen Rothwel 41, lives in Kelowna B.C with two children and works at her children’s school library.
”Facebook is more socieal, I like to use it for chatting, posting on walls, sending private messages, sharing pictures, videos and playing games. I find Twitter is just for status updates and that is it,” she said.
Ginette Lauren, crisis support worker uses both.
“I think Twitter would be where you can follow someone without being their friend but with Facebook you would have to be their friend,” she said.
To further my research about the Twitter and Facebook comparison, I searched the internet and came across a site called www.liveperson.com. I thought this site is amazing. This site connects you to Twitter experts. They have their photos up with their comments about Twitter and some of them offer to help you have the best tweeting experience ever. There are even fees attached and some charge .43 cents a minute. I never thought about the spin off effects of Twitter and realized how many jobs it can create.
According to this website and some of the experts on it say Twitter is fast becoming the world’s most respected real time content creation platform and search engine. How impressive is that? I never really thought of Twitter being a search engine before but I have learned that it is. Other comments on this site include Twitter being used on a daily basis to connect with business savvy individuals and also as a tool for building a business. Some suggest that Twitter is an integral tool in building your online marketing campaign and is an excellent option to keep in contact with clients for frequent updates.
According to www.everydaytweet.com, Twitter is a free social networking and micro-blogging service that allows its users to send and read other users’ updates known as tweets. You can use Twitter on the computer, cell phone, or mobile device. Twitter has also been referred to as the “SMS of the Internet” because the platform is based in text messaging technology. This website suggests Twitter is the following:
• A global village
• Expressing and sharing short messages
• Easy
• Effortless: 140 characters requires minimal exertion
• Fun
• Free
• It is sometimes like reality tv
• Free
On www.everydaytweet.com it says Twitter is like life in your pocket or purse. Twitter is not just care-free fun, you have access to a worldwide community of experts, leaders, educators, and just plain old smart, wise folks who not only share their knowledge but are open to helping you and others. You can also get access to big companies and can assist with a job search. Twitter becomes more enjoyable once you really start engaging with others it said. After reading this, I see Twitter as much more of a valuable tool.
My personal preference is isntant chat on Facebook. I love that thing. I love being able to say hello instantly to friends in other countries. I never feel to far away from old friends and I love seeing photos and birthday reminders. There is now never an excuse to forget your bff's birthday ever again!
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