Amity- Hot dogs, fireworks and sunny weather are not the only things to celebrate this Fourth of July in Amity, Mass., as a shark blamed for the death of two swimmers has been caught and killed.
Police Chief Martin Brody was on site to see the giant shark, caught by fisherman Mike Swenson, Medford, Mass., hung by the tail and snout.
“The fishermen who caught the beast will receive a $3,000 reward for their heroic and selfless efforts,” Brody said.
Matt Hooper, marine biologist from the Oceanographic Institute in Woods Hole Mass., inspected the shark once it was brought ashore and identified it as a nurse shark weighing 875 pounds.
“Nurse Sharks are among the most brutal and dangerous of all sharks,” Hooper said. “[They] have been responsible for hundreds of swimmers’ deaths along the East Coast of the United States.
“I urge all residents to recreate at the beaches in order to encourage the participation of all our visitors in the wonderful water sports of which we all so happily partake throughout the summer,” Brody said.
All of the Amity beaches have now been reopened. “Swim and have fun!” Brody said. After a hesitation by many at the beginning of the day, the beach goers slowly began to trickle into the water.
Brody warned “islanders and guests alike” not to be alarmed by the shark spotters who have remained on the beaches. The Coast Guard, Marine Patrol, Massachusetts State Police, U.S. Navy, Homeland Security and the FBI have representative stationed in Amity, along with local municipal and county police agencies.
“They are simply a safety precaution that we hope will put our visitors at ease,” Brody said.
There was a frightening moment when a dorsal fin was spotted in the water and those swimming quickly fled to shore.
Closer inspection revealed that Wayne Winston, 12, and Brad Kaplan, 12, were swimming in wet suits with a makeshift fin, pulling a prank on the Amity vacationers.
“He made me do it,” Winston said as the two boys were pulled from the water by shark spotters. The spotters are stationed in boats along the coast equipped with firearms.
Apart from a few bumps and bruises exciting the water, there were no injuries.
While Brody said that the island officials “believe that the danger of further shark attacks has probably passed,” a toll-free shark sighting hotline has been set up.
Brody requested that any sightings be reported to 1-800-sharksee.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Local Fisherman Offers to Find and Kill Shark
Amity- A sign reading “Reward: $3,000 bounty to the man or men who catch and kill that shark that killed Alex Kintner” hung on the wall outside of a special held last night to discuss future actions in response of the recent tragedies at two Amity beaches.
Amity Mayor Larry Vaughn and Police Chief Martin Brody met with the Amity Board of Selectmen at Town Hall at 6 p.m. last night to establish the next steps to be taken after two beach goers were killed by a shark.
“We’re going to put extra summer deputies and shark spotters on the beach,” Brody said to the assembled audience.
Brody continued by adding that Oceanographic Institute experts will be coming to Amity to further address the two deaths that took place yesterday.
Christine Watson, 17, a senior at Amity High School, was last seen at a beach party Sunday night with Christopher Hoggenbottam, former island resident, before her body was found washed onto the shore of South Beach early Monday morning.
Later that afternoon, Alex Kintner, 10, of Mayfair Court was playing in the water with his friends when he became a victim of what appeared to be an unprovoked shark attack. The body has not been recovered, but Alex Kintner’s damaged raft washed ashore and appears to have a large bite taken out of it.
Ben Quint, local fisherman, commanded the attention of the room by scrapping his fingers nails on the chalkboard to gain the audience’s attention.
“It’s not gonna be pleasant,” Quint said, after he offered to find and kill the shark for a $10,000 reward.
“For that you get the head, the tail; the whole damn thing.”
“I don’t want no volunteers,” Quint said, making it clear he prefers to work alone.
The mayor later responded that the town of Amity would contribute $7,000 to the $3,000 reward set by Marion Kintner for the capture and kill of the accused shark.
Amity Mayor Larry Vaughn and Police Chief Martin Brody met with the Amity Board of Selectmen at Town Hall at 6 p.m. last night to establish the next steps to be taken after two beach goers were killed by a shark.
“We’re going to put extra summer deputies and shark spotters on the beach,” Brody said to the assembled audience.
Brody continued by adding that Oceanographic Institute experts will be coming to Amity to further address the two deaths that took place yesterday.
Christine Watson, 17, a senior at Amity High School, was last seen at a beach party Sunday night with Christopher Hoggenbottam, former island resident, before her body was found washed onto the shore of South Beach early Monday morning.
Later that afternoon, Alex Kintner, 10, of Mayfair Court was playing in the water with his friends when he became a victim of what appeared to be an unprovoked shark attack. The body has not been recovered, but Alex Kintner’s damaged raft washed ashore and appears to have a large bite taken out of it.
Ben Quint, local fisherman, commanded the attention of the room by scrapping his fingers nails on the chalkboard to gain the audience’s attention.
“It’s not gonna be pleasant,” Quint said, after he offered to find and kill the shark for a $10,000 reward.
“For that you get the head, the tail; the whole damn thing.”
“I don’t want no volunteers,” Quint said, making it clear he prefers to work alone.
The mayor later responded that the town of Amity would contribute $7,000 to the $3,000 reward set by Marion Kintner for the capture and kill of the accused shark.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Shark Sidebar Story
Durham, N.H. – For many New Hampshire residents, the recent shark attacks in Cape Cod have hit a little too close to home, fearing that similar attacks could occur off of a New Hampshire beach.
With the tragic deaths of two Amity beach goers fresh in the minds of those on the New England coast, local shark experts reassure residents that the likelihood of being attacked by a shark is still very slim.
According to WMUR, “bees, wasps and snakes are responsible for more fatalities than sharks every year” and “the odds of getting killed by a shark are extremely minimal.”
Also, for those who live in the U.S., the chance of being struck and killed by lightning is 30 times greater than being killed by a shark, making sharks less of threat than many realize.
In a report published on their website, the shark experts at the Florida Museum of Natural History offer some insight as to why humans have developed an intense fear of sharks. They attribute part of the fear to the media and its portrayal of sharks.
“In today's world we constantly are subjected to the media's stereotypic
characterizations of sharks, which are rife with misinformation and actively promote fear and loathing.”
The discussion continued with perhaps a rooted instinct or human characteristic that has developed over the years as a cause for the fear.
“We as humans are used to controlling the world around us…sharks, like typhoons, lightning and tornados, are something we cannot control, hence our great interest in them.”
For those who are still worried that a shark may appear near Hampton Beach, the Florida Museum of Natural History offers some helpful tips for avoiding attacks on their website such as staying in a group, avoiding ocean swims at twilight or dark hours and refraining from wearing shiny jewelry while swimming.
With the tragic deaths of two Amity beach goers fresh in the minds of those on the New England coast, local shark experts reassure residents that the likelihood of being attacked by a shark is still very slim.
According to WMUR, “bees, wasps and snakes are responsible for more fatalities than sharks every year” and “the odds of getting killed by a shark are extremely minimal.”
Also, for those who live in the U.S., the chance of being struck and killed by lightning is 30 times greater than being killed by a shark, making sharks less of threat than many realize.
In a report published on their website, the shark experts at the Florida Museum of Natural History offer some insight as to why humans have developed an intense fear of sharks. They attribute part of the fear to the media and its portrayal of sharks.
“In today's world we constantly are subjected to the media's stereotypic
characterizations of sharks, which are rife with misinformation and actively promote fear and loathing.”
The discussion continued with perhaps a rooted instinct or human characteristic that has developed over the years as a cause for the fear.
“We as humans are used to controlling the world around us…sharks, like typhoons, lightning and tornados, are something we cannot control, hence our great interest in them.”
For those who are still worried that a shark may appear near Hampton Beach, the Florida Museum of Natural History offers some helpful tips for avoiding attacks on their website such as staying in a group, avoiding ocean swims at twilight or dark hours and refraining from wearing shiny jewelry while swimming.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Second Incident at Beach Points to Shark Attacks
Amity- Amity Island beach goers witnessed a terrible incident this afternoon at Village Beach when a boy floating on a raft off shore suddenly disappeared under the water.
Alex Kintner, 10, of Mayfair Court was playing in the water with his friends when he became a victim of what appeared to be an unprovoked shark attack. The body has not been recovered, but Alex Kintner’s damaged raft washed ashore and appears to have a large bite taken out of it.
An emergency meeting was held by town officials where Police Chief Martin Brody announced the incident stating that "it appears, with emphasis on the word “appears," to have been a vicious shark attack.
“I join Amity major Bob Farley in expressing the town’s deepest and most sincere condolences to the Kintner family,” Brody said. “Now we know that these random acts of senseless violence, victimizing innocent, helpless citizens, do not just happen in the city.”
Amity Chief of Police Martin Brody witnessed the incident along with Alex Kintner’s mother, Marion Kintner and other beach goers.
Marion Kintner is being treated for shock at Amity General Hospital where she is in fair condition. No other injuries were reported.
Police officials now believe that a similar attack may have caused the death of Christine Watson late last evening.
Christine Watson, 17, a senior at Amity High School, was last seen at a beach party with Christopher Hoggenbottam, former island resident who is currently a sophomore at Trinity College.
Her body was found washed onto shore at South Beach earlier this morning after Hoggenbottam reported her missing to the police at 6 a.m.
Dr. Robert Nevin performed the autopsy on Watson’s body and initially reported that it was “severely mangled” and had wounds “consistent with [prior] boating accidents” in the area.
According to Brody, the ongoing investigation of Watson’s death is now thought to be linked to possible shark activities in the Amity vicinity.
Farley and Brody, along with the Amity Board of Selectmen, are holding a special meeting at Town Hall tonight at 6 p.m. to address possible future plans in light of the recent tragedies.
Among the discussions are Brody’s plans to close the beaches on July 4, the Kintner family’s reward of $3,000 for the capture of the perpetrators and an offer by Ben Quint, a fisherman, to hunt the shark thought to be involved in these incidents.
Alex Kintner, 10, of Mayfair Court was playing in the water with his friends when he became a victim of what appeared to be an unprovoked shark attack. The body has not been recovered, but Alex Kintner’s damaged raft washed ashore and appears to have a large bite taken out of it.
An emergency meeting was held by town officials where Police Chief Martin Brody announced the incident stating that "it appears, with emphasis on the word “appears," to have been a vicious shark attack.
“I join Amity major Bob Farley in expressing the town’s deepest and most sincere condolences to the Kintner family,” Brody said. “Now we know that these random acts of senseless violence, victimizing innocent, helpless citizens, do not just happen in the city.”
Amity Chief of Police Martin Brody witnessed the incident along with Alex Kintner’s mother, Marion Kintner and other beach goers.
Marion Kintner is being treated for shock at Amity General Hospital where she is in fair condition. No other injuries were reported.
Police officials now believe that a similar attack may have caused the death of Christine Watson late last evening.
Christine Watson, 17, a senior at Amity High School, was last seen at a beach party with Christopher Hoggenbottam, former island resident who is currently a sophomore at Trinity College.
Her body was found washed onto shore at South Beach earlier this morning after Hoggenbottam reported her missing to the police at 6 a.m.
Dr. Robert Nevin performed the autopsy on Watson’s body and initially reported that it was “severely mangled” and had wounds “consistent with [prior] boating accidents” in the area.
According to Brody, the ongoing investigation of Watson’s death is now thought to be linked to possible shark activities in the Amity vicinity.
Farley and Brody, along with the Amity Board of Selectmen, are holding a special meeting at Town Hall tonight at 6 p.m. to address possible future plans in light of the recent tragedies.
Among the discussions are Brody’s plans to close the beaches on July 4, the Kintner family’s reward of $3,000 for the capture of the perpetrators and an offer by Ben Quint, a fisherman, to hunt the shark thought to be involved in these incidents.
Tragic Death on South Beach
Amity Island -The Amity Village Police Department is investigating the tragic and untimely death of a teenage girl at South Beach on Amity Island Sunday night.
Christine Watson, a senior at Amity High School, was last seen at a beach party with Christopher Hoggenbottam, former island resident who is currently a sophomore at Trinity College.
Watson, a member of the varsity swim team at Amity High School as well as a lifeguard at the YMCA in Oak Bluffs, entered the water near the South beach Shoal bell buoy, Hoggenbottam told the police.
Hoggenbottam contacted the police around 6 a.m. when Watson did not return from the water. After a searching the beach early Monday morning, police found Watson’s body washed up on shore. Her body shows signs of serious injury from an unknown attacker and was taken to the coroner’s office for a full autopsy.
Dr. Robert Nevin performed the autopsy on Watson’s body and reported that it was “severely mangled” and has wounds “consistent with [prior] boating accidents.”
“It was a calm clear night when fishers often go out,” Nevin said.
In his thirty years as a medical examiner in Amity, Nevins said he has seen many accidents and Watson’s body appears to follow the typical signs of being attacked by a motor propeller
Despite the medical examination, Police Chief Martin Brody said that no possibility is being ruled out. “We just don’t know,” Brody continued.
Brody said in a press release Monday morning that “although a shark attack has not been completely ruled out, we want to assure all residents and visitors on our fine island that they are in no danger.”
Investigators have learned from witnesses Sunday night that both Hoggenbottam and Watson showed signs of heavy drinking and possibly smoking marijuana.
The police have not yet filed charges and are continuing to investigate the incident. Police are interviewing all boaters who were out in the harbor last night, Brody reported. The harbor master’s records as well as the Amity webcam will also be reviewed.
“Our lovely beaches will remain open for swimming pending the outcome of the investigation,” Brody said.
Christine Watson, a senior at Amity High School, was last seen at a beach party with Christopher Hoggenbottam, former island resident who is currently a sophomore at Trinity College.
Watson, a member of the varsity swim team at Amity High School as well as a lifeguard at the YMCA in Oak Bluffs, entered the water near the South beach Shoal bell buoy, Hoggenbottam told the police.
Hoggenbottam contacted the police around 6 a.m. when Watson did not return from the water. After a searching the beach early Monday morning, police found Watson’s body washed up on shore. Her body shows signs of serious injury from an unknown attacker and was taken to the coroner’s office for a full autopsy.
Dr. Robert Nevin performed the autopsy on Watson’s body and reported that it was “severely mangled” and has wounds “consistent with [prior] boating accidents.”
“It was a calm clear night when fishers often go out,” Nevin said.
In his thirty years as a medical examiner in Amity, Nevins said he has seen many accidents and Watson’s body appears to follow the typical signs of being attacked by a motor propeller
Despite the medical examination, Police Chief Martin Brody said that no possibility is being ruled out. “We just don’t know,” Brody continued.
Brody said in a press release Monday morning that “although a shark attack has not been completely ruled out, we want to assure all residents and visitors on our fine island that they are in no danger.”
Investigators have learned from witnesses Sunday night that both Hoggenbottam and Watson showed signs of heavy drinking and possibly smoking marijuana.
The police have not yet filed charges and are continuing to investigate the incident. Police are interviewing all boaters who were out in the harbor last night, Brody reported. The harbor master’s records as well as the Amity webcam will also be reviewed.
“Our lovely beaches will remain open for swimming pending the outcome of the investigation,” Brody said.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Cover Letter for China Daily.com
Allison Ginwala
GSS Box 8263
Durham, NH 03824
603-568-3742
allison.ginwala@unh.edu
November 28, 2011
China Daily.com
Beijing, China
Dear Sir or Madam,
As a journalist with experience in foreign affairs and Chinese culture, I would be an ideal candidate for the position of full-time, English language copy editor for China Daily.com. In my career thus far I have written for the Concord Monitor,based in New Hampshire and The New Hampshire the student-run newspaper the University of New Hampshire where I am currently attending.
In my reporting, I have covered an array of topics from individual profiles and speeches to local government and feature stories, making me an ideal fit for the copy editor postition, covering news, features and supplements. My experience in editing has been less formal, but equally thorough. I have edited, both grammatically and conceptually, for creative writing essays, research papers and news articles. I have an eye for detail and strong organizational skills which aid in my ability to edit efficiently.
Not only do I have skills regarding the journalism profession, but I have a thorough understanding of Chinese life and culture, making me an excellent fit for this position. I have studied Chinese culture in an academic setting and written research papers on various topics about Chinese government and policies. I am also at an intermediate level of fluency in Mandarin, with aspirations to become completely fluent. Upon my graduation in 2014, I will have spent a semester at Donghua University in Shanghai, completing one aspect of my international affairs major.
I also offer an extensive background in current affairs, based on courses I have taken, studies and readings I have done as well as personal experiences such as traveling to India and living for a semester in England while studying at Cambridge University.
Being a journalism and international affairs dual major with a minor in Asian studies, I bring a well-rounded background of experiences. My academic as well as personal interests have been focused on an international style of journalism. This paired with my language and culture experience would make me a great asset to China Daily.com.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please contact me with any further inquiries.
Best,
Allison Ginwala
GSS Box 8263
Durham, NH 03824
603-568-3742
allison.ginwala@unh.edu
November 28, 2011
China Daily.com
Beijing, China
Dear Sir or Madam,
As a journalist with experience in foreign affairs and Chinese culture, I would be an ideal candidate for the position of full-time, English language copy editor for China Daily.com. In my career thus far I have written for the Concord Monitor,based in New Hampshire and The New Hampshire the student-run newspaper the University of New Hampshire where I am currently attending.
In my reporting, I have covered an array of topics from individual profiles and speeches to local government and feature stories, making me an ideal fit for the copy editor postition, covering news, features and supplements. My experience in editing has been less formal, but equally thorough. I have edited, both grammatically and conceptually, for creative writing essays, research papers and news articles. I have an eye for detail and strong organizational skills which aid in my ability to edit efficiently.
Not only do I have skills regarding the journalism profession, but I have a thorough understanding of Chinese life and culture, making me an excellent fit for this position. I have studied Chinese culture in an academic setting and written research papers on various topics about Chinese government and policies. I am also at an intermediate level of fluency in Mandarin, with aspirations to become completely fluent. Upon my graduation in 2014, I will have spent a semester at Donghua University in Shanghai, completing one aspect of my international affairs major.
I also offer an extensive background in current affairs, based on courses I have taken, studies and readings I have done as well as personal experiences such as traveling to India and living for a semester in England while studying at Cambridge University.
Being a journalism and international affairs dual major with a minor in Asian studies, I bring a well-rounded background of experiences. My academic as well as personal interests have been focused on an international style of journalism. This paired with my language and culture experience would make me a great asset to China Daily.com.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please contact me with any further inquiries.
Best,
Allison Ginwala
Monday, November 21, 2011
Monday 11/21/11
An article that caught my attention in today's paper was about airlines bumping up first class seats to near ridiculous proportions. What used to be nicer food and more leg room has turned into private showers and fully-reclining chairs and beds. It began abroad with companies like British Airways adding the amenities to first class and has since spread to the US. In a time when many people in the US and abroad are strapped for cash, airlines are expecting to see more people upgrade to business class rather than first which has become somewhat of a far-reaching possibility. For most of the average travelers, coach and maybe business class will be seen and first will stay small and reserved for the super-rich who deem to fly.
The delayed lede on this piece was quite prolonged; more so than I've seen with most of the NYT articles I've read. It works in favor of this subject though,displaying the differences and leaps between airline classes. it wasn't the lede or catchy headline that made me read this piece though, just my familiarity and interest in flying and the evolution of first class seating.
The delayed lede on this piece was quite prolonged; more so than I've seen with most of the NYT articles I've read. It works in favor of this subject though,displaying the differences and leaps between airline classes. it wasn't the lede or catchy headline that made me read this piece though, just my familiarity and interest in flying and the evolution of first class seating.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Wednesday 11/16/11
Today is going to be a long day for me. I woke tired and began my usual morning routine is a kind of slow-motion fog. When I sat down to read the paper, most of what greeted me was an article about troubles in Syria, lots about Occupy Wall St and an array of other rather depressing stories. On any other day I would be fine to delve into these pieces, but I needed some peppier today.
The front page article telling of Arizona's quest to make the chimichanga its official state food was perfect. The reported used a delayed lede, recounting other states that have famous food like Idaho and Georgia. In the third paragraph began the claims of who accidentally invented the fried burrito dish. The piece continued with other accounts of whose family lineage the chimi came from and how its gained incredible popularity and revenue for the state. In the end, its up the the governor to sign the petition into law, yet at this point she believes Arizona has bigger things to worry about.
The front page article telling of Arizona's quest to make the chimichanga its official state food was perfect. The reported used a delayed lede, recounting other states that have famous food like Idaho and Georgia. In the third paragraph began the claims of who accidentally invented the fried burrito dish. The piece continued with other accounts of whose family lineage the chimi came from and how its gained incredible popularity and revenue for the state. In the end, its up the the governor to sign the petition into law, yet at this point she believes Arizona has bigger things to worry about.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Tuesday 11/15/11
I jumping into an article early on in today's paper, especially because the front page had a lot I'm interested in. One article was about the campaign, but a focus not yet touched on amid the Republican debates and snafus of recent days. In 2008, Obama was served by an army of young voters dedicated to see him win. Because of this, he was able to win certain states that had been red for years. Four years later, the Obama campaign hopes for the same type of following but is most likely to be disappointed by the turnout. Many of the college students from 2008 are now entering the workforce and feeling the strain of not being able to hold or even find a job. They did so much work for Obama in 2008 and feel like he did little to repay them. One woman quoted in the article put it best by saying, "It’s hard to be a passionate follower of him. It’s easier to be a thoughtful supporter.”
The delayed lede for this story worked well. The reporter focused in on one student who worked so vigorously in 2008 and has now cooled a bit because of other priorities. The tone of the article is definitely quote-based, with almost every other paragraph being student testimony to the change from 2008 to 2012. I like this style a lot because it really gives a feel for how big the demographic being covered in the article really is.
The delayed lede for this story worked well. The reporter focused in on one student who worked so vigorously in 2008 and has now cooled a bit because of other priorities. The tone of the article is definitely quote-based, with almost every other paragraph being student testimony to the change from 2008 to 2012. I like this style a lot because it really gives a feel for how big the demographic being covered in the article really is.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Monday 11/14/11
I didn't find much that drew my attention right away in today's paper. I scanned the headlines, reading an article here and there before I decided to stop and write about the front page article boasting Google's wildest dreams. The article is about Google X, a secret lab facility that only a select few know details of where Google staff dream up their next big ideas like the driverless car and space elevators. Situated in an area only those who work there know about, the information given was very limited and all from employees who were briefed on the topic, not first hand accounts.
This article was interesting because most of the information used by the reporters was not first hand. Since its such a top secret place, they had to use other sources a bit farther away from the center to get any information at all. In my experience so far, going directly to the source and then those around it has been the best option for writing articles. I never really considered what it would be like to write a piece about something so secret no one would speak of it. Either way, the technology they are dreaming up sounds fantastic and a bit reminiscent of irobot.
This article was interesting because most of the information used by the reporters was not first hand. Since its such a top secret place, they had to use other sources a bit farther away from the center to get any information at all. In my experience so far, going directly to the source and then those around it has been the best option for writing articles. I never really considered what it would be like to write a piece about something so secret no one would speak of it. Either way, the technology they are dreaming up sounds fantastic and a bit reminiscent of irobot.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Wednesday 11/9/11
Nothing in the front page area really caught my eye today, so I decided to do a specialized search for my articles of choice. I'm taking a contemporary conservation class this semester and have had my interests turned to topics relating to the environment. I didn't have to look very far to find a piece in the paper relating to some environmental issue. The headline read " US to open new areas of offshore drilling," a very hot topic issue.
The Obama Administration announced a 5 year plan for more drilling in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska waters, but none on either the West or East coast, as was previously asked for by Congress. This deal seems to be a true compromise because neither side is completely happy with the results. Prominent figures on both sides of the debate have voiced concerns. One claims that we have learned something from the BP disaster and setting limits it wise, while on the other side the oil industry claims in a time where we need jobs, drilling would have revitalize the economy.
it was a tough decision for the Obama Administration I'm sure, and since neither side got all that they wanted, Obama doesn't have full support from either. Depending the outcome and if they plan sticks to its original components, I think it was a wise decision. Environmentalists may not be happy that Alaska is being touched, but it could have been have been extended further. The oil industry claims more drilling would offer more jobs, but there are other ways to create jobs and limiting oil drilling is really a good idea for us and the environment.
The Obama Administration announced a 5 year plan for more drilling in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska waters, but none on either the West or East coast, as was previously asked for by Congress. This deal seems to be a true compromise because neither side is completely happy with the results. Prominent figures on both sides of the debate have voiced concerns. One claims that we have learned something from the BP disaster and setting limits it wise, while on the other side the oil industry claims in a time where we need jobs, drilling would have revitalize the economy.
it was a tough decision for the Obama Administration I'm sure, and since neither side got all that they wanted, Obama doesn't have full support from either. Depending the outcome and if they plan sticks to its original components, I think it was a wise decision. Environmentalists may not be happy that Alaska is being touched, but it could have been have been extended further. The oil industry claims more drilling would offer more jobs, but there are other ways to create jobs and limiting oil drilling is really a good idea for us and the environment.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Tuesday 11/8/11
One of the first headlines in today's paper was a continued story about Herman Cain's sexual assault accusations. Since I read a few articles about it previously, I was interested to see the latest development. This article is the first I've heard of one of the accusers coming forward with a name, saying that Cain groped her fourteen years ago. Cain has been on various talk shows speaking of his innocence and willingness to testify to prove that fact. The back and forth between the two has become much more heated since this woman is the first of the 4 to put a name and facts to the charges Cain is accused of. Cain's campaign keeps returning with denial of the claims just as the woman insists on the truth of her words. A controversy such as this typically ends poorly for the public figure. In the past few years sadly, many political figures have revealed true colors after weeks of denying accusations against. While he is still managing to stay atop the polls as a Republican candidate, I hope Cain doesn't become the next Jon Edwards.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Monday 11/7/11
Looking at today's paper, my eye was immediately drawn to the headline, "Preaching Virtue of Spanking, Even as Deaths Fuel Debate." Growing up attending a church where this topic was prominent, the article piqued my interest easily. This article was pretty loaded and to summarize it all would be difficult. In essence, a pastor and his wife published a book about disciplining children that wound up in the hands of three families with adopted children who took the principles too far. As far as legislation banning the book or even the practice of spanking, is hard to settle. Since its a religion based issue, there are heated opinions on both sides. While the pastor meant it well and obviously did not harm his children, when in the wrong hands, a book like that could and has become fatal for three children which should cause all in connection to it to reconsider.
I thought the article was well written and organized. The headline obviously caught my attention right away and the delayed lede worked for the type if issue being covered. Since it was an article covering a controversial issue that happens to tie in to religion, I expected to see a bit more of a bias or leaning in one direction, but was gladly proved wrong. Both sides of the issue were very well represented, allowing the reader to come to his or her own conclusions. One sentence though did give away a bit of what the reporter thought. The tidbit telling of the pastor's hobby of being a knife and tomahawk throwing champion, giving the subject of the article, was cleverly added to show the reporter's feelings in an understated manner.
I thought the article was well written and organized. The headline obviously caught my attention right away and the delayed lede worked for the type if issue being covered. Since it was an article covering a controversial issue that happens to tie in to religion, I expected to see a bit more of a bias or leaning in one direction, but was gladly proved wrong. Both sides of the issue were very well represented, allowing the reader to come to his or her own conclusions. One sentence though did give away a bit of what the reporter thought. The tidbit telling of the pastor's hobby of being a knife and tomahawk throwing champion, giving the subject of the article, was cleverly added to show the reporter's feelings in an understated manner.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Wednesday 11/2/11
It was the headline that got interesting in the front page article about jeans. "Stone-washed blue jeans (minus the wash)." It was intriguing and made what could be a boring subject very interesting. Next to article talking about Cain's harassment scandal and Greek austerity measures, this article especially popped. I really enjoy feature pieces like this, that come across my radar every now and again. Its fascinating to me the things going on in the world I had no idea of and its nice to be uplifted by stories like this.
Levi Strauss % Co. determined that 919 gallons of water are put into a pair of jeans throughout their lifetime, from cotton picking to washing machine. In order to promote conservation and protect the future of their company, Levi is teaching farmers in the countries cotton is picked like India and Brazil how to conserve and collect rainwater. As far as minimizing at home, Levi suggests people wash rarely and only with cold water. One suggestion is to never wash and put them in the freezer to kill the germs that cause odor.
Water scarcity has been on the horizon for sometime and is finally being recognized as an environmental issue as dire as global warming. Apart from Levi,who "woke up" after flooding in the Middle East impacted their production, Pepsi and other large companies are reevaluating and looking into alternative methods to conserve water and ultimately save their business practices. Its encouraging to see big companies making an effort to save water and use it only when necessary. I'm not at the point of freezing my jeans yet, but considering that alternative to cold washing is definitely viable.
Levi Strauss % Co. determined that 919 gallons of water are put into a pair of jeans throughout their lifetime, from cotton picking to washing machine. In order to promote conservation and protect the future of their company, Levi is teaching farmers in the countries cotton is picked like India and Brazil how to conserve and collect rainwater. As far as minimizing at home, Levi suggests people wash rarely and only with cold water. One suggestion is to never wash and put them in the freezer to kill the germs that cause odor.
Water scarcity has been on the horizon for sometime and is finally being recognized as an environmental issue as dire as global warming. Apart from Levi,who "woke up" after flooding in the Middle East impacted their production, Pepsi and other large companies are reevaluating and looking into alternative methods to conserve water and ultimately save their business practices. Its encouraging to see big companies making an effort to save water and use it only when necessary. I'm not at the point of freezing my jeans yet, but considering that alternative to cold washing is definitely viable.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Tuesday 11/1/11
Even though yesterday was my designated candidate follow up day, the article claiming Cain's sexual harassment history was too enticing to be over looked. The information was first released on Politico where it claimed that Cain spoke in a suggestive manner to two female employees while he was chief of the National Restaurant Association. Since the news broke, Cain has been dealing with his first controversy, doing damage control to save his high standing in the polls.
What is hurting Cain is his change in the information relayed. The article cited two instances where Cain was asked the same questions and gave different answers. No matter what the answer he gives, he needs to stick to his story, ideally the true one, because otherwise he will look guilty. This is a chance for Perry and Romney to point out flaws in Cain's ability to deal with issues, to gain their own standing. It's November 1st, so I guess a candidate scandal was due to happen.
What is hurting Cain is his change in the information relayed. The article cited two instances where Cain was asked the same questions and gave different answers. No matter what the answer he gives, he needs to stick to his story, ideally the true one, because otherwise he will look guilty. This is a chance for Perry and Romney to point out flaws in Cain's ability to deal with issues, to gain their own standing. It's November 1st, so I guess a candidate scandal was due to happen.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Lost Leopard Causes Panic at Local Zoo 10/31
Visitors to the Durham Zoo were rushed to the exit at 9am this morning when a leopard was found missing from its cage. A press conference was held to address the issue while police and zoo workers frantically searched the grounds for the lost leopard.
Gerry Durrell, director of the Durham Zoo, said that when the zoo opened 7:30 a.m. this morning, Fluffy, the spotted leopard, was immediately noticed as absent from her cage.
“Everything about her cage seemed normal,” Durrell said. “The door was shut and did not appear to have been tampered with.”
“We have no idea what time Fluffy escaped or where she went,” Durrell continued. “We love that cat, and we don’t want to lose her,” Durrell finished, leaving the stage with tears in his eyes.
James Petronkis from Newmarket was at the zoo at 7:30 a.m. this morning for his daily visit to see his favorite leopard, Fluffy.
“Everything seemed normal, until I got to the cage,” Petronkis said. Petronkis is accustomed to seeing the leopard asleep in a nest of straw that she draws together in a small house inside her cage. Today there was no straw and no leopard.
Petronkis alerted a guard of his observation and was instructed to “mind his own business.” To try and raise concern, Petronkis pulled the fire alarm and waited for the zoo guards to check the leopard’s cage.
“This time they checked the house, and then all hell broke loose,” Petronkis said. Police officers and zoo staff arrived with guns in hand and visitors to the zoo began to panic.
“It sounded like a thousand cars squealing their tires,” Petronkis said. “It was mayhem.”
Children were crying and adults were grumbling because of the disaster taking place at the zoo. Some people called out the leopard’s good nature while others demanded a refund for their lost visit. At the time, the main concern of the zoo staff and police department was to locate and secure the leopard.
According to Kitty Smith, chief biologist at the Durham Zoo, Fluffy is a 10-year-old Romanian spotted leopard, one of only five left in existence. The leopard is noted to be “extremely dangerous” with an appetite for young children, causing a major concern for Police Chief William Blair.
“We will first search every inch of this zoo. If possible, Fluffy will be shot with a tranquilizer gun,” Blair said. If the leopard is not found in the zoo, the search will move to the surrounding neighborhood where an elementary school is located.
“We have to find her before 3 p.m.,” Blair said. “If we don’t, it could be a very messy night.”
“Fluffy is a wonderful, warm, gentle cat who has never hurt anyone,” Smith said. “But if these cats are cornered- or encountered on a dark night- their defense is to kill, and to kill quickly.”
Smith said the leopard is black with white spots, weighs 146 pounds and can run up to 60 miles an hour. Smith advised anyone who may encounter the cat in the search to avoid eye contact, get slowly to the ground and lay still.
The New Hampshire State Police, the State Wildlife Department and the National Guard are assisting in the search and providing supplies such as helicopters and infrared sensors to help locate the leopard in the dark.
“We’re going to find this cat if it kills us,” Blair said.
Gerry Durrell, director of the Durham Zoo, said that when the zoo opened 7:30 a.m. this morning, Fluffy, the spotted leopard, was immediately noticed as absent from her cage.
“Everything about her cage seemed normal,” Durrell said. “The door was shut and did not appear to have been tampered with.”
“We have no idea what time Fluffy escaped or where she went,” Durrell continued. “We love that cat, and we don’t want to lose her,” Durrell finished, leaving the stage with tears in his eyes.
James Petronkis from Newmarket was at the zoo at 7:30 a.m. this morning for his daily visit to see his favorite leopard, Fluffy.
“Everything seemed normal, until I got to the cage,” Petronkis said. Petronkis is accustomed to seeing the leopard asleep in a nest of straw that she draws together in a small house inside her cage. Today there was no straw and no leopard.
Petronkis alerted a guard of his observation and was instructed to “mind his own business.” To try and raise concern, Petronkis pulled the fire alarm and waited for the zoo guards to check the leopard’s cage.
“This time they checked the house, and then all hell broke loose,” Petronkis said. Police officers and zoo staff arrived with guns in hand and visitors to the zoo began to panic.
“It sounded like a thousand cars squealing their tires,” Petronkis said. “It was mayhem.”
Children were crying and adults were grumbling because of the disaster taking place at the zoo. Some people called out the leopard’s good nature while others demanded a refund for their lost visit. At the time, the main concern of the zoo staff and police department was to locate and secure the leopard.
According to Kitty Smith, chief biologist at the Durham Zoo, Fluffy is a 10-year-old Romanian spotted leopard, one of only five left in existence. The leopard is noted to be “extremely dangerous” with an appetite for young children, causing a major concern for Police Chief William Blair.
“We will first search every inch of this zoo. If possible, Fluffy will be shot with a tranquilizer gun,” Blair said. If the leopard is not found in the zoo, the search will move to the surrounding neighborhood where an elementary school is located.
“We have to find her before 3 p.m.,” Blair said. “If we don’t, it could be a very messy night.”
“Fluffy is a wonderful, warm, gentle cat who has never hurt anyone,” Smith said. “But if these cats are cornered- or encountered on a dark night- their defense is to kill, and to kill quickly.”
Smith said the leopard is black with white spots, weighs 146 pounds and can run up to 60 miles an hour. Smith advised anyone who may encounter the cat in the search to avoid eye contact, get slowly to the ground and lay still.
The New Hampshire State Police, the State Wildlife Department and the National Guard are assisting in the search and providing supplies such as helicopters and infrared sensors to help locate the leopard in the dark.
“We’re going to find this cat if it kills us,” Blair said.
Monday 10/31/11
After scanning the first pages of the A section, I decided to read an article about the upcoming presidential election. I enjoy politics and haven't read an article in depth about it recently, so I must be time. I read the article about Rick Perry's stance on crime; quite a controversial topic. While Perry has been governor of Texas, he has seen over 200 executions take place. In most instances he was not directly involved, seeing as he is not part of the justice system, but for the example cited in the article, he had the chance to grant mercy to a schizophrenic man who committed murder and instead let him be executed. In this case, Perry said he wanted to make sure a man like this would not be free to commit murder again. The response he received was that a man that dangerous would not be set free to roam the streets.
This article had a delayed lede, effective sine the topic is deep and controversial. I think the reporter made the right decision in feeding us the information slowly so as not to overload. As far as the issue goes, its a tough subject. Perry has a reason for what he has done and sticks to his decisions, which I think is honorable. Yet when talking about the death sentence one will always find many people unhappy. The biggest thing working against Perry here is his similarities with former president George W. Bush; Texas governor and who believes in the death penalty. If Perry is able to defend his decisions and stick to what he has said and done, instead of catering to a crowd, he will have a much better chance at nomination.
This article had a delayed lede, effective sine the topic is deep and controversial. I think the reporter made the right decision in feeding us the information slowly so as not to overload. As far as the issue goes, its a tough subject. Perry has a reason for what he has done and sticks to his decisions, which I think is honorable. Yet when talking about the death sentence one will always find many people unhappy. The biggest thing working against Perry here is his similarities with former president George W. Bush; Texas governor and who believes in the death penalty. If Perry is able to defend his decisions and stick to what he has said and done, instead of catering to a crowd, he will have a much better chance at nomination.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Wednesday 10/26/11
There were a lot of interesting articles on the front page alone today. Skimming through before reading, I found a handful I'd like to read, including the HPV vaccine being acceptable for young boys and China's initiatives towards clean water. The one most interesting to me though was a new amendment stirring and a few states that would make an embryo a human, adding more conflict to the abortion debate. In Mississippi, what would happen is the "personhood amendment" would make a fertilized egg a human being, therefore rendering abortion and certain birth control methods illegal. Those who oppose the the amendment claim that it is a dangerous mix of criminal law into medical care, which has the potential to cause great harm. Those in favor see it as an "inspired moral leap." In the coming days, many Mississippi residents plan to protest, either by handing fliers out against the amendment or speaking for it.
In this next paragraph, I typically give my thoughts and opinions on the issue at hand. While I do have firm beliefs in the abortion debate, i don't think this is the time or place to share them. Instead, I'll talk a bit about the style of this article. The summary lede and to-the-point headline work very well in favor of this piece. The topic is controversial enough, so once the reader is in, I think he or she will most likely continue to read it. Throughout the article, I noticed a bit of a theme. While the reporter displays both sides, you can see a bit that he is not in favor of the new amendment, calling it "far-reaching" and often citing "doctors and women" as being against it, as if there are none of either in favor. With such a hot button issue, I excepted opinions to shine through and I'm interested to see the aftermath in Mississippi, no matter what the outcome of this amendment is.
In this next paragraph, I typically give my thoughts and opinions on the issue at hand. While I do have firm beliefs in the abortion debate, i don't think this is the time or place to share them. Instead, I'll talk a bit about the style of this article. The summary lede and to-the-point headline work very well in favor of this piece. The topic is controversial enough, so once the reader is in, I think he or she will most likely continue to read it. Throughout the article, I noticed a bit of a theme. While the reporter displays both sides, you can see a bit that he is not in favor of the new amendment, calling it "far-reaching" and often citing "doctors and women" as being against it, as if there are none of either in favor. With such a hot button issue, I excepted opinions to shine through and I'm interested to see the aftermath in Mississippi, no matter what the outcome of this amendment is.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Tuesday 10/25/11
Not much jumped off the page at me from today's paper. After flipping through the pages and reading a few stories, I settled on the article about Tunisia's election and the moderate Islamist party most likely to win. In an article from the Times last week, I read and wrote about political cartoons having an impact on the elections, which is why I chose to go deeper into this one to see the predicted results for the historic elections.
Tunisia is the first nation involved in the Arab Spring elections which makes this an exciting and cautionary time for the other nations. Historically, nations who have had Islamist parties in the lead have led to military coups and confrontation. Since the party leading in Tunisia is a moderate Islamist party the people hope incidents seen in other Arab countries will not take place. There could still be a change before the elections, but whichever party wins, the Tunisian people are anxious to take part in a democratic election and have a constitution written.
Tunisia is the first nation involved in the Arab Spring elections which makes this an exciting and cautionary time for the other nations. Historically, nations who have had Islamist parties in the lead have led to military coups and confrontation. Since the party leading in Tunisia is a moderate Islamist party the people hope incidents seen in other Arab countries will not take place. There could still be a change before the elections, but whichever party wins, the Tunisian people are anxious to take part in a democratic election and have a constitution written.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Monday 10/24/11
There was a headline in today's paper about schools in NYC cutting back on homework requirements. Being a diligent and informed college student, this caught my attention right away. The article was about a handful of highly-competitive and expensive Upper East Side NY private school evaluating the impact large amounts of homework has on the health of students. These schools have a reputation of charging a lot of money for an intense academic routine. Now that they may be lessening the workload in favor of students getting more free and sleep time, mixed emotions have risen in response.
I particularly enjoyed the lede of this story because not only did it make me smile for its humor, but it really connected the reader to the subject of the story: students. With a story like this, its not vital to get all of the information out right away, so the reporter can ease into it to engage a reader like me, which it did.
As far as lowering the homework load goes, I think it should stay rigorous, just not insane. Parents who send there kids to this school pay a lot of money and expect results so I can see how they would be a bit upset for the toughness level to be lowered. The schools are correct in analyzing the situation with scientists and professionals because it shows ultimately they do have concern for the health and well-being of their students.
I particularly enjoyed the lede of this story because not only did it make me smile for its humor, but it really connected the reader to the subject of the story: students. With a story like this, its not vital to get all of the information out right away, so the reporter can ease into it to engage a reader like me, which it did.
As far as lowering the homework load goes, I think it should stay rigorous, just not insane. Parents who send there kids to this school pay a lot of money and expect results so I can see how they would be a bit upset for the toughness level to be lowered. The schools are correct in analyzing the situation with scientists and professionals because it shows ultimately they do have concern for the health and well-being of their students.
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