news tracker

No Surprise: Vick The Butcher Cops A Plea

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 00:22:00 +0000

" Vick agrees to guilty plea deal, prison possible" -CNN

"Vick to plead guilty to dogfighting charges" -MSNBC

"Vick to Plead Guilty" -ABC

"Michael Vick To Plead Guilty" -CBS

"Vick to Plead Guilty to Dogfighting Charges" -FOX

And what we all knew was coming (but kept hoping was not true), has finally come to fruition. Michael Vick has pleaded guilty to federal charges of being involved in the horrific and illegal dog fighting spectacle that has tackled the media for weeks.

His lawyers released this statement into the media today:

"After consulting with his family over the weekend, Michael Vick asks that I announce today that he has reached an agreement with federal prosecutors regarding the charges pending against him," said his attorney Billy Martin in a written statement.

"Mr. Vick has agreed to enter a plea of guilty to those charges and to accept full responsibility for his action and the mistakes he has made."

"Michael wishes to apologize again to everyone who has been hurt by this matter."

-CNN

And although the NFL is conducting their own investigation into Vick's extra-curricular activities, there is no doubt (at least in my mind) that he will not play for the Atlanta Falcons or the entire NFL ever again.

A spokesman for the NFL said in a statement today that An NFL spokesman said that the league "is aware" of the plea agreement and is considering what, if any, sanctions they should impose on the player.

"We totally condemn the conduct outlined in the charges, which is inconsistent with what Michael Vick previously told both our office and the Falcons," the spokesman said in a statement.

"We will conclude our own review under the league's personal conduct policy as soon as possible. In the meantime, we have asked the Falcons to continue to refrain from taking action pending a decision by the commissioner."

However, when Vick arrives in a Richmond, Virginia court on August 27 to officially plead guilty, some are already upset that maximum penalties will not be invoked. If he had gone to trial and lost, there would be no deal, meaning nothing would be spared in his sentencing. In this case, a judge will determine what he has to do in order to pay his debt to society. But, what about paying the minimum of 8 innocent dogs he executed?

Nonetheless, he will go to jail, probably for at least one year, have to pay fines in the hundreds of thousands (though he can afford it), and have a completely ruined reputation for the rest of his life. GOOD!

The Falcons, who are most certainly in a complete state of panic for who will lead their team through the 2007/2008 season and beyond have released to following statement:

“We are certainly troubled with the news today concerning Michael Vick’s guilty plea to federal charges. It is our understanding that the terms of Michael's plea will not be available until next Monday, August 27. Additionally, Commissioner Goodell has asked us not to take any action until he has completed his own review of Michael's situation. Accordingly, we will have no further comment until that time

What can they do? Not much. What can they say? Nothing at all. Possibly the worst hit PR for an organization to experience, the Falcons will have to continue to sit, listen, wait and finally hear about what will inevitable happen to their star, and what this means for the future of football in Atlanta.

Side Note: The comments posted on the big 5 Web sites about this story are pretty unbelievable. From those who think that Vick should not get punished because dog fighting is a sport (sickos), to others who are so upset and outraged that they were a fan of this monster for so long. ABC had 300 comments!; CBS had 5 pages chock full of readers and their opinions; FOX doesn't even have a section for readers to comment (not surprising); CNN has 50 comments; and MSNBC doesn't have a comment section, rather a "Rate this story," from 1 to 5 (it's at a 4) which has been by 942 users.

What Have We Learned?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 14:45:00 +0000

1. Utilizing the full abilities of Web 2.0 is essential in conveying the news in a complete, balanced and contextualized manner so that nothing is misunderstood, and everything is let through the gate.

2. Hyperlinking is the key to publishing on the Web. The 9-11 report is referred to in a story about possible future attacks in the United States' most vulnerable points (i.e. trains, ports, skyscrapers, etc.), link to the report. The story continues in a mine tragedy for a week or two. Provide links to every story published since the beginning of the event. A former Secretary of State passes away. Link to his/her biography and possibly news stories of their achievements.

3. Interactivity involves the readers with the new Web site. They read, respond, comment and provide their opinions to the story. This is true public participation at its best. People need to hear their fellow citizen's ideas (whether they agree or disagree) along with what the news puts out there. Questioning is key. Without public participation in the news (and especially with the ease of use on the Internet), obtaining the news would be a act of passivity, and no one would go beyond the story they read to dig deeper, find out more, hear what others have to say and look beyond the news organizations who are formulating the news to both inform and entertain readers. It's not what you want to know, but what you need to know to be and involved, active and informed part of the public.

4. Non-traditional forms of news including blogs, podcasts and video streams are vital to news on the Web. They expand and widen the horizon of a story. They add images, ideas and context beyond what is being told. Although "traditional" journalism is strictly reporting the news, and then letting the people make their decisions and form their own opinions themselves, reporters' actively participating in the their own blogs and podcasts adds dimension to stories they are simply reporting. They allow their education in the workings of news and how it is formulated to transcend into the minds of the people. Videos, slide shows and images add a graphic dimension that further delves into a story, leaving no stone unturned when an event occurs.

5. The big five news organizations have a responsibility to the public in that their news-telling must be accurate, timely and easily-accessed to the public. This is ever-more-so important on the Web when stories are out in cyberspace in a snap and where citizens are journalists themselves. Citizen blogs and news sites has pushed the news forward on the Web into one where you must be on top of what your telling and provide a complete package in order to provide context to those who read it, want it and seek it. These large news organizations do have the time, the people and the monetary resources to integrate every Web 2.0 technology into their foundations, but many of them fail to do this 100% of the time? Why is this? Is it laziness? A lack of a larger interest? Does it have to do with the fact that so many other sites (including blogs and smaller news Web sites) are publishing the same stories and will fill in the blanks themselves? Maybe, or maybe not. Perhaps it is that the people publishing news on the Web don't like Web news at all, and prefer to sit down with a paper in hand and read, research themselves and move onto the next story. Perhaps they feel that the news should not have to be spoon fed the public. If they do not know what the 9-11 report says, they can GOOGLE it.

The Tragedy Goes On...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 14:55:00 +0000

As if the situation were not worse enough in Utah, today there was another major blow added. While trying to dig through the rubble to reach and rescue already-trapped miners, three rescue workers were killed, while six were injured when the tunnel caved in, ending in more tragedy than one would ever wish to imagine.

"Cave-in at Utah mine kills three rescue workers" -MSNBC

"3 Killed by Collapse During Search for Missing" -ABC

"3 Killed, 6 Hurt In New Coal Mine Collapse" -CBS

"Rescue efforts uncertain after three killed at Utah mine" -CNN

"Future of Utah Mine Search Uncertain After Cave-In Kills 3 Rescuers" -FOX

The first thing that strikes me in today's story were the headlines. Although yes, 3 people did die, having a lasting and truly terrible effect on their families, six people were also injured, seriously. However, only one news site, CBS added this information to their headline.

This reminds me of headlines that have been seen throughout the Iraq war that discuss the troops that died, but rarely highlight the ones who are gravely hurt, in critical condition and have a story to tell as well.

Why does the Media do this? Well, the news industry is a tragedy-saturated and drama-filled cycle of sensational headline after another. Yes, want to invoke empathy, sympathy and interest from their readers and viewers, however, they also need these fatal tragedies to keep them alive and "interesting." Now, this is not to say that death should not be covered in the top of news stories. They should be all means. However, it is just as vitally important to cover those who did not have their lives claimed. It is imperative to make them just as important and to have their stories heard as well. Although it won't compare to the drama and tragedy of death, it is a part of the history.

Another point must be made about FOX and CNN's headlines, which not only touch upon the death of the present events, but segways into if, when and how the trapped miners can be brought out. The question is raised that they may not be able to be reached, and although a lot of it may be speculation, FOX and CNN are the only ones to broach this topic in their main headlines, (while others discuss it later in the report), setting them apart from the rest of the pack.

Back To Iraq

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 01:27:00 +0000

In the deadliest of bombing attacks since the Iraq War began, an estimated 500 Iraqi civilians of the Yazidi sect living in Northern Iraq near the Syrian border have been killed by suicide bombers, Al-Qaida insurgents.

The Islamic State in Iraq, an al-Qaida front group, distributed leaflets a week ago warning residents near the scene of Tuesday's bombings that an attack was imminent because Yazidis are "anti-Islamic." -MSNBC (AP)

Calling it "Ethnic Cleansing" and a "massive slaughter," this horrific event comes just
4 weeks before U.S. commander, Gen. David Petraeus, and U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker for the Bush administration were set to give a report painting the current efforts of America in the war as "positive." I think some speech writer will be up late into the night tonight.

"Up To 500 Killed In War's Deadliest Attack"-CBS
The comments posts on CBS have overflowed to five pages, while they have uploaded five gruesome images of the scene of the crimes, the hospitals and officials trying to clear the debris and recover bodies. Sidebars run alongside the story containing interactive features for the visitor including background about the war, photos, relating stories and links. Although they do use Web 2.0 features, CBS just has an overall feeling of not being as up-to-date of concerned (and aware) of the vast array of features available to them, and how they are an integral part of the online news media.

"Bombings are deadliest since Iraq war began"-MSNBC (AP)
MSNBC continues to not integrate readers into their content with no area for comment postings, however they have uploaded an interesting report by correspondent Richard Engel. However, they have a ton of other interactive features including slide shows, graphs and charts, relating stories, a section detailing the impact of the war that includes images, content and videos as well as a tour led by Richard Engel time lining the events of the war along with a prominent link to their blog. All in all, the coverage is very good (complete and insightful), and the AP story used is extremely detailed and thorough.

"New Level of Horror in Iraq"-ABC
ABC, as seems to be a recurring theme, has an incredibly short report on the event, resorting to utilizing a very eye-pleaseing layout that keeps the reader there by looking at pictures, commenting and interacting with the news site. However, if the reader does not have all of the information, or at least links that leads them to all of the information, how can they effectively participate in the other tools? The reader can post their own video, comment, "Talk Back," "Discuss & Debate" and view relating stories, but there seems to be a lack of detail, depth and going that extra mile in the written report.

"Iraqi officials: Truck bombings killed at least 500"-CNN
CNN contributes more content than ABC, but against a layout that is so bland, why would a Web reader stay? Remember, the reading on the Web commands attention that is kept even though there is nothing tangible for the reader to touch. There's no page turning, or outlining, or cutting out a story that interests them. It's reading, plain and simple. However, to counteract the tendency for reading on the Web to seem monotonous, images, videos, slideshows, etc. are a vital component to drawing the reader in, and keeping the reader there. The contrast of CNN's pages to ABC's is quite startling, and somewhat shocking. In this day and age, when competition between organizations is fierce, you would think you would be viewing the most innovative, vibrant, well-laid out and wonderfully produced Web sites. I mean, I don't think money is the issue at all. Right?

"Death Toll Rises From Coordinated Attack in Northern Iraq"-FOX
Well, Bravo, FOX! It seems as thought my words from earlier today went straight from my fingertips to yours. You have uploaded images!!! Although you lack any other real interactivity like videos, blogs, slide shows, etc., I will give you credit for photos, related stories and depth of content in your online news coverage of the attack. But, wait, I'm mistaken...on the right hand side bar, there is a Video Tab, a Top Email tab and a Most Read Tab. Well, it's not exactly out of the park, but it's a start. However, your insanely prominently placed add for "Imus Comeback? Vote Now!" with a hideously large picture right next to a story that invokes so much heartache and tragedy never lets me forget that you are, indeed, FOX.

Reckless Referee

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 18:15:00 +0000

Will there ever be a season where a sports scandal fails to arise? Nonetheless, the current one that has captured America's attention is not through the misdealings of a professional sports player, but a professional sports official. Does this make it even worse? By some standards, yes.

Officials are there to keep players in line, stop them from obstructing the integrity of the game and call plays as they see them, genuinely, truthfully and without bias. It's somewhat like the job of a journalist. However, when journalists fail to oblige by the rules of their own profession whether it be through plagiarism or unfair and unbalanced reporting, they commit a crime that goes against their profession's principles.

In this specific case involving the NBA, former referee Tim Donaghy:

pleaded guilty to two felony charges Wednesday in an NBA betting scandal that rocked the league and raised questions about the integrity of games.

Donaghy faces a maximum of 25 years in prison when he is sentenced for conspiracy to engage in wire fraud and transmitting wagering information through interstate commerce...

Speaking in code during telephone calls, Donaghy provided recommendations, called “picks,” to co-conspirators about what team they should bet on, said U.S. District Judge Carol Bagley Amon. If he was correct, they paid him $5,000. - MSNBC (AP)

It's sad to see someone who had opportunities, privilege, a family and a career throw it down the drain because of greedy misconduct. It is evident from the comment postings on the Web sites' discussion forums that the public is outraged and appalled, as they should be. He took a professional sport and degraded it to dishonesty and disloyalty to the integrity of basketball. It seems that nowadays even the simple innocence and fun of professional sports (despite the tremendous money and big business behind it) has lost its true purpose, giving way to out of control players, over indulgence and plain, old greed. We see players like Michael Vick and his alleged horrific acts, past players like Michael Irvin who abused drugs because "the fame was too much for them," and the list goes on and on.

Do the news media perpetuate this problem that has plagued professional leagues for years? Do they build players up to an insurmountable pedestal, or do young fans, or the organizations' owners, or the players around them? Who knows. It's probably a combination of all.

"Ex-NBA ref pleads guilty to gambling charges" -MSNBC

"Ex-NBA Referee Pleads Guilty To Charges" -ABC

"Ex-NBA Referee Pleads Guilty" -CBS

" Ex-NBA ref pleads guilty in betting scandal" -CNN

"Ex-NBA Referee Tim Donaghy Pleads Guilty in NBA Betting Scandal" -FOX

Side Note: Why does FOX refuse to use images? Do they fear it will distract the reader from the content, or are they lazy? I don't think it's either of those factors, but I continue to try and figure it out.

News, But No Common Cigar

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:44:00 +0000

This morning's news is again, fragmented across the big 5. With no major events occurring in the last 12 to 24 hours, each network has taken it upon themselves to raise an issue to the forefront of their organization.

"When staying alive means going bankrupt" - MSNBC
For MSNBC, it's health care and how a woman plagued with ovarian cancer has been failed by America's very flawed health care system, which has in turn bankrupt her financial security. It's an interesting story because 1)It is written by an MSNBC Senior News Editor, Mike Stuckey rather than a generic and short-winded take of an event by the ever-so-present AP; 2) It goes into the life of one individual that most probably represents many or millions around the world.

"Exclusive: U.S. Studying Two Dozen 'Clusters' of Possible Homegrown Terrorists" -ABC
ABC has chosen to instill even more fear into the American public by discussing a report made public today by New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelley, concluding that the 9/11 attacks were an "anomaly," making today's "clusters" of terrorists that are spread through parts of the United States and the World the true threat to our homeland. Not to say that Americans should not be attune to this type of information, but the question, what do they do about it? Live in fear? Never go outside of their home? Wait for the day for another plane, bomb or kidnapping? The report outlines the "path" of these groups of terrorists, but not what to do to counteract them. So fine, we'll never leave our homes, actually, our basements. We'll stock up on canned food, bottles water and pray that the boogey man doesn't come in and get us.

"Bill's The Sizzle, Hill's The Steak" -CBS
CBS took on the 2008 Presidential Elections with a profile on the hot combination of Hillary and Bill. He may be a big push for her vye for the big office, but as the article discusses, he also brings a ton of baggage. Well, yeah! Didn't we all know that? Truly, it's a story that captures reader's attention because they are more than political figures now, they are both (and their marriage) full-blown celebrities with scandal, heartache and drives that will stop at nothing.

"Tropical Storm Flossie lashes Hawaii" -CNN
When you're the only major network to be running a story at the top of your list that is occurring right now and can be considered a tragedy, an event or a major new story, you've got something going for you that no one else has caught onto yet. CNN has elevated Tropical Storm Flossie over Hawaii to the top of the heap. No, the segregated part of the U.S. really has nothing to do with anyone else, but they are part of the United States, and what happens in their weather pattern waaaay over there, can presumable affect us at some point or another. No, it's not a story of drama, scandal or will even ignite booming interest, but wait, we've seen horrific weather touch various parts of the country and have been just as wrapped up in the reporting of it as we were for Paris Hilton going to jail. And, there must be a sense that this will raise awareness and get attention or CNN wouldn't have it in a top spot...unless they couldn't find anything on the AP. No, wait, that's MSNBC.

"Report: U.S. to Call Iran Revolutionary Guard ‘Terrorists’" -FOX
FOX is reporting a top story today that was originally published in The Washington Post about the United States will be referring to an Iranian military division as a "specially designated global terrorist." Failing to report their own version of the break news, FOX then links to the story on the Washington Post page, with a barely two-paragraph explanation of what was reported. Below is what FOX wrote:

The Bush administration has been debating whether to target the Revolutionary Guard Corps in full, or only its Quds Force wing, which U.S. officials have linked to the growing flow of explosives, roadside bombs, rockets and other arms to Shiite militias in Iraq and the Taliban in Afghanistan, the Post reported.

The Revolutionary Guard boasts such veterans as Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and many Iranian business leaders.

Three Out Of Five

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 01:43:00 +0000

The three "main networks," MNSBC, ABC and CBS all have NASA at the top of their lists tonight.

"NASA runs tests to weigh shuttle options" - MSNBC

"NASA Mangers Wrestle With Shuttle Decision" - ABC

"NASA Mulls Risky Shuttle Repairs" - CBS

Reports the AP:

NASA conducted a swift series of tests on the ground Monday to determine whether spacewalking astronauts need to fix a deep gouge in Endeavour’s belly for re-entry, and assembled a special team to weigh the three repair options.

While both MNSBC and CBS "gathered" their information on this developing piece of history from the Associated Press, ABC continues to be the standout in molding a story all on their own with interesting facts, multiple sources and even more quotes that create a complete story for the reader.

It cannot be ignored, that day after day, story after story, ABC pushes itself beyond the confining limits of traditional journalism by utilizing every tool offered on the Internet, and specifically, Web 2.0.

Discussion boards, comment postings, detailed photographs that actually have something to do with the current scenario rather than a stock photo pulled from their generic files, video posts, links to related stories about the specific subject or past similar occurrences, and much more.

The best feature ABC offers is their "Talk Back" section that accompanies each piece of news. It is here that interactivity takes its truest and purest form of citizen participation in regards to shaping the news. Their comments are welcome, sought after and encouraged. The section consists of "Tell us what you think," "Add new facts" and "Talk straight to the news maker." All in all, it's an excellent piece of innovation that ABC seems to be taking a firm grasp of and integrating it into their entire site.

CBS does its comments postings and slide show of about two photos, while MSNBC sticks to their AP buddies and a plethora of videos. Interactivity? Yes, but not to the fullest.

Rove Trumps All

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 19:32:00 +0000

Well, on a day when one of Bush's highest and closest aids "steps down," not much else in the news can trump it. Across the big 5, every network leads with a different story, though most continue to carry this morning's news about Rove as well as the press conference on the White House lawn while surrounded by the President and the First Lady.

One thing I just noticed today is that ABC news has implemented a very user-friendly tool next the headline on its homepage. Alongside to each story there are a maximum of five icons: A camera for "photos"; A red video camera for "video"; a sheet of paper with lines for "story"; a box with a check mark for "vote"; and a bubble quote block for "blog."

Here, at the top of their list, they are fully integrating Web 2.0 technologies with traditional news avenues. Blogs, voting polls, slide shows, photos and video are an integral part of the story-telling techniques for the Web site. Each event goes beyond just telling what happened followed by speculation; they delve deeper into allowing the user to read, view, listen and engage themselves with news. It may be considered a form of entertainment, but it's a sure-fire way to easily keep visitors returning.

The top stories on the sites right now (excluding Rove) are:

"Taliban frees 2 South Korean hostages" - MSNBC

"Fed: Banks Tightening Subprime Standards" - ABC

"NASA Mulls Risky Shuttle Repairs" - CBS

"Toy company CEO kills self" - CNN

"Chicago Suburb Rallies to Save Skewered-Car Sculpture" - FOX

(photo courtesy of ABC)

Hip, Hip, Horray!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 14:20:00 +0000

"Karl Rove to leave White House at month's end" - MSNBC (AP)

"Rove's Resignation an Amicable Breakup" - ABC

"Top Bush Aide Karl Rove Resigns" - CBS (AP)

" Rove says he was not forced to quit" - CNN

"Bush Adviser Karl Rove to Resign at End of Month" - FOX

OK, so I should be this outwardly ecstatic about the resignation of Karl Rove, but I'm sorry, I just am (as most of the county probably is).

President Bush's close friend and Deputy Chief of Staff has resigned his position in Bush Jr.'s administration as his chief political advisor citing to the Wall Street Journal, "I think it's time," further adding that he is leaving "for the sake of his family."

Hmmm...let's think about that for a minute. "For the sake of this family?" How about a few other reasons:

1. For being known as the "architect" for getting Bush into the White House Twice. Right, because he won that?

2. Being under sever scrutiny for he criminal investigation into who leaked the name of Valerie Plame, the CIA operative.

3. Refusing to testify in front of Congress for his alleged part in the firing of 9 U.S. Attorneys by United States Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Rove cited, "Executive Privilege."

Yes, so I'm sure that he's leaving the spotlight with just 1 1/2 years to go in Bush's presidential term because his family all of a sudden misses him.

What will be interesting to see is if the big 5 delve deeper into the plethora of possibly reasons for Rove leaving that have some ounce of truth. Yes, it may all be in speculation and hard to decipher without blatantly being biased one way or the other, but they can not honestly stick to the family excuse as the real reason for him leaving.

They (the news media) need to research the truth, report the truth and convey it to the American public and to the world. Let out what should be let out, rather than masking behind bogus White House press conferences that formulate these reasons for top officials leaving. The excuses almost always have to do with the person in the limelight (who has seemingly always loved it) to have a moment of consciousness and suddenly long to spend lazy summer nights with his wife while attending every baseball game of his son and ballet recital of his daughter.

What are the real reasons? Most probably he was about to be exposed and had nowhere to hide. He couldn't testify in regards to the Attorney General mishaps because he would be guilty of some sort of wrongdoing, and Bush, fully aware of what he has been scheming during the last 8 or so years (and liking it), asked him to leave so that he could preserve his already severely tarnished reputation. Is this true? Who knows. But, it makes a bit of sense, and is probably just one tiny part of the bigger issue.

Another Day, Another Mine

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 18:22:00 +0000

Well, it seems as thought another horrific mine tragedy has fallen upon us, this time in Indiana. An airshaft under construction was the culprit, killing three workers in the mine. Apparently, they were in a "basket" that takes them up and down the shaft, when it broke.

In Utah, workers used a steel drill bit to bore a 2½-inch-wide hole more than 1,800 feet into the mountain site of Monday’s cave-in. They reached their targeted spot late Thursday, but the drill might have drifted into a neighboring sealed chamber.

“The advantage of the 2½-inch hole is that it’s fast. The disadvantage is that it’s not as accurate,” said Richard Stickler, head of the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Officials planned to next test whether they had missed the chamber. - MSNBC (AP)

When will it finally get to a point that it will be enough, and more safety precautions will be put into place? Not that I know if that could possibly happen, because the fact is that the men who work in these mines are fully aware of the grave dangers, while also being full aware of the good money they make.

So, it's a trade off, as most things in life are, but what do these families do for the rest of their lives to continue on?

Might I add that four of the big five used other news agencies' reports of the story. Not a surprise, FOX was not one of the, as they never seem to be. MSNBC, ABC and CBS all used the AP, while CNN very appropriately chose to use a news story that came straight from the geographic area of the accident, TheIndyChannel.com

"Mine rescue drill might have missed target" - MSNBC (AP)

"3 Dead in Indiana Mine Accident" - ABC (AP)

"Indiana Mine Accident Leaves 3 Dead" - CBS (AP)

"Police: 3 Killed At Indiana Coal Mine" - CNN (TheIndyChannel.com)

"Indiana Coal Mine Accident Kills Three People" - FOX

Bravo, MSNBC!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 17:44:00 +0000

Well lookey, lookey...MSNBC has taken the chance today in a breaking story to NOT sit back lazily while summoning the AP to do its own news work.

"2nd suspect held in N.J. slaying surrenders" - MSNBC (NO AP!)

Why did they do this? Well, you can bet your bottom dollar that I will be asking this to the network as soon as I get a hold of someone. But, beyond that, this is the way a news organization should work (and how many others do including the other big 4) on the majority of occasions.

They have the money, the staff resources and the time to continually update throughout the day with their own material. Civilian bloggers do it. You do not see them going to the AP for complete stories. They may reference the Associated Press and use information that has been given, but then they dig a bit deeper, look into it a bit more to create a context that expands beyond a single news report that is put over the wire minute after minute.

MSNBC even added a video next to the article, which again I will convey my kudos to them. Bravo!

"Manhunt Ends as Newark, N.J., Triple Murder Suspect Surrenders" - ABC

"Two Arrested In Newark Execution Slay" - CBS

"Pair arrested in Newark schoolyard slayings" - CNN

"Latino Man, 31, Surrenders in N.J. Students' Execution-Style Murders" - FOX

Side Note: I find it very interesting that FOX News is the only network out of the big 5 that used "Latino" in the headline. Is this a significant piece of information that directly pertains to the story? Do their readers need to know this, or do they want to know this? In my opinion, the Latino reference so blatantly integrated into the headline is there to just perpetuate stereotypes, and in a not-so-subtle way, it's saying, "of course it wasn't a white person." Nice try, FOX. But, very expected.

Even Sports News Is News

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 15:30:00 +0000

No, this may not be the most important piece of information out there at this moment, but it's leading the headlines at the top networks.

Barry Bonds, the arrogant and not-so-mysterious slugger for the San Francisco Giants his finally hit his 756th homerun, breaking the 755 homerun record held by Hank Aaron for the last 33 years.

So, no it's not the war that leads the top spot of today's stories, or the miners in Utah or another story about a husband killing his wife and then burying her in his backyard (sorry, but there seems to be a lot of that lately). No, it's MLB topping the list in what seems to be a very appropriate-to-lead story considering the amount of attention baseball receives during its season, the amount of scrutiny Bonds has gotten since that little word known as steroids has come to the forefront of the game and because it truly is the biggest (and baddest) record to be broken.

The big five all led off with it for a reason, and it doesn't seem to be to bad of a reason either.

"Bonds new king of swing after 756th home run" - MSNBC (AP)

"Bonds Makes History With 756th Homerun" - ABC

"Barry Bonds Breaks Home Run Record" - CBS

"History maker: Bonds slugs No. 756 to pass Aaron as home run king" - CNN (Sports Illustrated

"The Night Barry Bonds Entered the History Books — for Better or Worse" - FOX

To Each Their Own

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 17:28:00 +0000

On days when there isn't a major breaking story, or an ongoing investigation that takes up the space of the five major networks' Web sites, each has the opportunity to take a personal direction as to what they see fit to splash across their home page.

"Adults binge on ale, teens on liquor, CDC says"

MSNBC has chosen to bring alcohol to the top of their news list in an AP story (no surprise here) about two studies performed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention about the binge drinking habits of both adults and teens. At the bottom of the article, MSNBC has actually done an interesting and informative thing by posting a section entitled, "More From Addictions," that includes other top stories about addictive behavior including smoking, cold medications, going to rehabilitation centers, etc.

"Roadside Bomb Kills 4 US Troops in Iraq"

ABC has taken a drastically different route by putting the Iraq war at the top of their agenda with a short article referencing the most recent atrocities happening in one of the most devastating parts of the world.

"26 U.S. Troops Killed In 1 Week In Iraq"

CBS also chose to go the war route in giving a total tally of how many US troops have been killed in Iraq in the last week. It's interesting to see how when there is no other breaking stories occurring in the news media at a certain time (i.e. collapsed bridge, Lindsay Lohan being arrested for the second time, etc.), the attention is turned back to the issue that has plagued this country since 2003, and is probably the largest issue we are faced with as an entire nation.

"Millions face flood disease threat"

CNN has gone global in their own right on a specific topic that has swept through the globe during the last five years or so, leaving a feeling of imminent disaster that is hard to put of your mind. Was this article brought to the top of the heap today due to the lack of "major news stories," or is it something we all need to know and be aware of? It does not say a date in which UNICEF made this announcement, only that they recently released their reports and statements.

The United Nations is warning of a massive "health crisis" in southern Asia, where 30 million people have been overwhelmed by the monsoonal rains and flash flooding sweeping across India, Nepal and Bangladesh.

"Hitler's Music Collection Turns Up in Dead Russian Soldier's Attic"

FOX seriously gone outside of the box with a story that seems insanely out of left field, however catch the attention and interest of many leads their homepage with an article about the irony that a musician that Adolf Hitler notoriously hated, was in fact, a part of his own personal music collection. Actually, there is no surprise to this. His hypocrisy was a vast part of his twisted being.

What They Do Best...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 02:00:00 +0000

What the five top networks do best on their Web sites is telling a news story as it is happening. With updates being conveyed "up-to-the-minute," vast news organizations have the staff, the time and the money to constantly update a story that is currently in motion.

Today's tragic story about the six miners trapped 1,500 feet below the ground in Utah is the latest in a story that is happening now, at home (domestically) and will eventually lead somewhere (whether good of bad). This particular story brings drama, empathy and a communal bonding that every American can relate to.

When huge events occur, people go to the big guys to get all of the details. It is here where MSNBC, ABC, CBS, CNN and FOX shine their brightest. Althought CNN, FOX and MSNBC have 24-hour news stations on television, their Web sites are just as informative, perhaps more because readers can log on, read through the stories, click on the hyperlinks, scroll throught slideshows and comment. It happens at the users' own pace, rather than the news organizations'.

"Hundreds race to save six trapped Utah miners" - MSNBC (AP)

"6 Trapped After Utah Coal Mine Collapse" - ABC

"Mine Exec: 'We're Going To Get Them'" - CBS

"Six miners trapped in Utah coal mine collapse" - CNN

"Six Trapped in Collapsed Utah Coal Mine" - FOX

Three Out Of Five

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 15:14:00 +0000

This morning, I have found only one news story that made its way to three out of the five Web sites.

"3 friends lined up, shot dead at Newark school" - MSNBC (AP...as usual)

"4 'Good Kids' Shot Execution-Stye" - CBS (and yes, "Stye" is their typo, not mine)

"Four College Students Shot Execution-Style in Newark, N.J." - FOX

ABC & CNN...on a break?

Take away the fact that CNN and ABC just decided to not cover this story for whatever reason (which I cannot seem to come up with), I have three questions in reference to MSNBC, CBS and FOX' coverage:

1. Why does MSNBC insist on only using AP stories?
2. Why do both MSNBC and FOX faith to utilize the easiest tool on the Web...the image?
3. Why must CBS characterize the four victims to prominently in their headline as "Good Kids"?

1. I hope to answer this question when the Assistant Editor at MSNBC decides to get back to me.

2. I am going to make an educated guess that both MSNBC and FOX are either understaffed and therefore probably do not have the time to put up the images that are probably emailed to them directly by their best friends at the AP. Or, they are just plain lazy? We would hope that neither one of these are the cases. But, if CBS can manage to upload a slideshow of 4 images, that these other two major networks could do the same, or better.

3. For this question, I will take another educated guess and say that because these kids are from the "wrong side of the track," that is Newark, NJ, CBS is making a rather annoying effort at trying to paint them as "good kids," so that the reader does not assume that this is a routine occurence that happens all the time in places like these. These kids were headed to college, working legitimate jobs and although they are black, they do not associate themselves with murderers such as these that they were so unfortunate to cross paths with. However, the use of "Good Kids" in quotations and so blatantly put forth to the reader comes across as patronizing and unnecessary. 4 kids were shot execution style...their age, background and socio-economic status, does not matter.

The Aftermath

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 16:03:00 +0000

As would be expected, following Wednesday's horrific bridge collapse in Minneapolis, the major news networks are flying high with story upon story about what went wrong, why it went wrong, who's to blame, how to prevent it from happening again and the actual tragedy that occurred, including the six victims who lost their lives.

MSNBC has a few stories published on their homepage that give an overall view as to what happened and its aftermath. With the expected dramatic tale of one family and why they didn't go on the bridge (as if they knew this would happen), Today happily displayed them in a feature story, eating up time with a tale that really has nothing to do with the incident. Sensationalism? Yes, at it's best. But, to their credit, they incorporated the tragedy into their blog, Cosmic Log into their top bridge headline stories as well as a video, utilizing integral Web interactive features.

Death toll from bridge collapse rises to six
I-35 bridge was rated among the nation's worst
Fatal choice: One family’s heartbreak

ABC took a much more sensational approach with headline stories created to instill fear, I believe.
With a Photo section entitled, "Bridge Rescue: Getting Out Alive," you cannot help but look, but also be terrified of something like it happening to you. It's a tactic used too much by the news media in hopes of gaining a captive audience that will come back day after day to find out the next think that could kill them.

Fifth Body Recovered After Bridge Collapse
Death Bridges? 20 Most Dangerous
How to Survive in a Sinking Car
Bridge Collapse: Who's At Fault?

CBS has one story on its homepage, a more fitting approach to a few days after the tragedy. With a very simple, and non-sensationalist headline, CBS has done a terrific job of simply putting the news out there as an informative tool, rather than a way of promoting hysteria amongst its readers. Once you click on the story, there are other links to past headline from the last two days, all neatly combined and integrated into the new and present facts of today. Rather than rehashing and over-dramatizing a situation that is dramatic in itself, CBS accomplishes the usually unseen task of conveying while not causing more grief.

Bridge Safety Rule Under Scrutiny

CNN has done something that none of the other networks did. They have a front page, headline story about the actual victims! Rather than solely telling how many died, they are telling who died and who they were.

Bridge victims include athlete, 'chatterbox,' student.

FOX, in much the same way as CBS tells it like it is. Surprisingly not inundating its viewers with graphic and overly-dramatic headlines, images and grossly told stories, they discuss the recovery process of missing victims and have a very thorough sidebar with links containing all of the stories from the past few days, easily accessible, accomplishing the contextualizing component of online news.

Minnesota Collapsed Bridge Death Toll Rises to 5, 8 Still Missing

Dow Jones Moves On Out

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:38:00 +0000

"Murdoch clinches deal for publisher of Journal" - MSNBC (AP)

"Dow Jones Agrees to Be Bought by Murdoch" - ABC (AP)

"A New Era For The Wall Street Journal" - CBS

"News Corp. wins fight for Dow Jones" - CNN

"News Corp. to Buy Dow Jones for $5.6 Billion" - FOX News

The first thing I find interesting here in looking at these five headlines is the fact that only two of them decided to go with the entire truth. Meaning, that News Corp., the company owned by the well known (or infamous) Rupert Murdoch's owner acquired the Dow Jones & Co.,owned for years by the Bancroft family, and a staple on Wall Street.

The cost? A mere $5 billion. Eh, but that's really just pennies for the conglomerate mogul.

However, just two out of the three network Web sites chose to use the Dow Jones & Co. name in its headline, while three of them decided to go with The Wall Street Journal, a commodity of the company, most probably because the name, "The Wall Street Journal," would bring more attention to the story, because that's what people recognize. Possibly they feared that if they just wrote Dow Jones, no one would care, because what do they own?

And, as usual, MSBC used the AP story (no judgement, I promise), as did ABC. CBS, FOX (no surprise) and CNN wrote their own. FOX News had it blasted across at the very top of their homepage, which can only be expected since they are part of the News Corp. family.

CBS added an interesting component to their story by implementing a "Fast Facts" box underneath the image in the story:

Murdoch says any concerns about corporate interference in the Journal's news pages are unwarranted. News Corp. has agreed to create a committee that would have to sign off on any decision to hire or fire top editors at the paper.

Underneath the box was a Comments section for the user to click on, and quite a few had. It seems very tech savvy for a Web site who I have failed to see really use any of Web 2.0's offerings. Additionally, CBS added a "slide show," that yes, only consisted of two images, but nonetheless, it was a slide show.

CNN added in some interesting commentary to their piece. They told the story, then posed the question, "Can the Washington Post Survive?" (another piece of the Dow Jones, lastly the author, Paul R. La Monica wrote her blog piece right underneath! Her commentary, opinion and analysis of the story was "printed" on the same page as the "news story." Now, 10 years ago, that would never happen. Not even 5.

In the end, it seems as though MSNBC and FOX News have a lot to learn.

Just Another Story?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 14:45:00 +0000

"3 babies found dead; woman arrested earlier" - MSNBC

"Remains of Four Infants Found on Maryland Mother's Property" - FOX News

"Police: Bodies of 3 babies found at scene of infant slaying" - CNN

"Police: Bodies of 3 babies found at scene of infant slaying" - ABC

"3 Bodies Found At Home With Dead Infant" - CBS

In this story that was plastered all over the news just one week ago, now comes new developments, however the main news organizations have seemingly lost some of their interest in it. Namely, CBS who did not even have this story on its main page, rather tucked away, three clicks in (in the smallest of type sans any image).

As is evident, both CNN and ABC used the AP's headline and the image of the woman (pictured above) whom allegedly butchered four babies (originally thought to be one, however three more were found). FOX News also utilized this chilling image, however they were the only Web page to write their own story, rather than using the AP.

Although it is normal practice for large news organizations to use AP stories due to the ease of them just "being there," and the supposed lack of time to write up even just a 100 to 200-word blurb, isn't it getting old see these massively endowed news conglomerates reaching for someone else to do their job in telling the news? And even if they did have to (and want to) use the AP, couldn't they add in their own hyperlinks (which not one Web site did), or add in commentary from their correspondents for a local, horrific event (in Ocean City Maryland) that has become a national news story?

I will give credit to ABC news for tacking on a Comment and Contribute section, right next to the story. By using an innovative feature of Web 2.0, ABC allows thoughts, opinions and ideas to be flood in by their readers (although only five readers did so). How come not of these sites linked to the stories from last week, so that readers who may have not originally been aware of what had happened could read background information and catch themselves up to the current state of affairs?

Again, if you read closely into what is reported on the Web by news organizations with such vast budgets, the real effort is lacking. The Internet offers ease and convenience to the reader, however that is only true when the news conveyors do their part in making it easy and convenient for a reader to know the whole truth behind a story in terms of its timeline of events, comments by authorities, background information about the accused and what actually happened, and if available, why?

"TSA Warns Airport Security About Terror Dry Runs" - FOX News

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:01:00 +0000

"Airport security officers around the nation have been alerted by federal officials to look out for terrorists practicing to carry explosive components onto aircraft, based on four curious seizures at airports since last September.

The unclassified alert was distributed on July 20 by the Transportation Security Administration to federal air marshals, its own transportation security officers and other law enforcement agencies." - MSNBC(AP)

What seems to be a credible threat, is blasted across every home page of the five major news networks. With similar stories coming out of each news organization, MSNBC was the only one to use the AP story, while ABC news was the only Web site to not correctly utilize the Web's prime feature, hyperlinking, which can be done throughout a story to create a contextual background of what is being reported.

* ABC News had one link to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) advisory, however, did not even write it in html code, rather just inserted the full URL (from MSNBC's Web site to be exact). Because of this, the link does not even work!

* CNN inserted one link, supposedly to the TSA. However, when you click on it, it does not bring you to the TSA Web site. Instead, you are brought to CNN's own search page of TSAstories, which have nothing to do with the current situation. They go as far back as 1985!

* CBS News implemented two links to stories on their own Web site featuring comments about the warning by a U.S. military commander and a story about the warning from the air traffic controllers about the practice runs.

* MSNBC's AP story linked the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (which turned out to be just a search on the Web site for stories in the past). The same was done for Homeland Security and the Pacific Ocean. There were three links in total, but none went directly to the source.

* FOX News is as disappointing as the rest of them with a total of three links that all directed the user to searches of the terms on the FOX Web site.

In sum, how are Web users supposed to get the full story of what is seemingly made to be one of the (if not the) top story of the day? The links only promote each Web site's own self, with a lack of utilizing other sources/government agencies/experts to analyze (besides their own correspondents), etc. Is this the service that should be done for the public? Even though newspapers do not have the ability to use links, they do what they can in the medium that they have by using outside sources and experts, they refer to pieces of information directly from the information conveyors, and it seems that they don't push their own organizational agenda onto the reader.

"Bush to cede power to VP during colonoscopy" - MSNBC

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 20:27:00 +0000

Admittedly, this may not be the news you absolutely need to know, however MSNBC felt that it deserved a place on the home page.

It's a colonoscopy. Everyone at one time or another will get one, should get one and will undoubtedly dread it. However, I guess because the President will be on the table (and not under general anesthesia), the VP must step up to the plate for the 30 or so minutes the procedure takes. Oh, and it will be in the comfort of his own home, to say the least.

ABC News. Check.
CBS News. Check.
FOX News. Check.
CNN. Check.

All prominently featured this "breaking news story" on the home pages, yet can this really be considered a prime placement piece of information. Yes, I will admit that when a President hands power over to his VP, it's news. But, does doing it for a 30 to 60-minute procedure make it headline news? I think not.