OU Society of Professional Journalists

Freelance Journalism

2010-02-17T15:40:00.001-08:00

Last night in Scripps 111 Jamie Ratermann led us in a discussion and overview of Freelance journalism. Assistant professor Ellen Gerl contributed by discussing her experiences as a freelance journalist for magazines such as Midwest Living and Ohio Magazine.

Freelance journalism is something anyone can break into, including college students. Attempting this might be even more beneficial for college students as they may get published, press, and paid- a bonus for any and all college student. They won't have to rely 100% on the income of a freelance journalist (which is sadly minimal, unless you have built a name for yourself and your writing is very valuable) but can use the change to begin to build a name for themselves. Another amazing by-product of freelance journalism is the networking chances it brings. Often freelance journalism can serve as a sort of application process. The editor will already know you, know your writing and know that they can rely on you to meet a deadline (if that is true.) Thus, an editor may be more likely to offer you a job if the opportunity arises versus an unknown writer.

SPJ members are offered multiple different resources for freelance journalists including a freelance directory that may match you up with editors, a job bank as well as a "list of resources and organizations devoted to aiding freelancers in everything from pitching stories to paying taxes."

Check out this SPJ article: "New media helps freelancers and fights repression."

Business Journalism- Angie Lau

2010-02-15T19:19:00.000-08:00

Hello SPJ-ers,

If you missed the past week in SPJ you missed two great events! First, on Tuesday award-winning journalist and fellow SPJ-er, Angie Lau, spoke to SPJ about business journalism. Lau gave students great advice. She said the key to coming up with stories is to ask the uncommon question and then answer it. "A lot of opportunities in this industry you will create yourself," Lau said. This has proved true for Lau who eventually worked her way up to work as an anchor and producer for the business news company, Bloomberg.

According to Inc Volume 11, "Bloomberg is located in more than 135 locations around the world and employs more than 10,000 people." Scripps is one of nine lucky schools in the world to receive a Bloomberg terminal. We, as students, should take advantage of this resource because as Lau said, "that terminal is used by financial professionals who pay up to $2000 per month to use it." For the many of students who don't know, the terminal is located in Scripps' Lasher Learning Center and has nearly unlimited pages of business and finance information.

Saturday SPJ and Ed2010 collaborated to host our first annual Battle of the Bands, a fundraiser that brought four music journalists into Athens to judge the bands and provide valuable information to students interested in music journalism. During the 2 hour panel the judges discussed their experiences in the field and answered any type of question thrown their way. From "how to write a compelling review" to "what was the biggest problem you had after writing a negative review" and many more in between. We learned not to put an artist down in a negative review and the extreme benefits of freelancing- hopefully landing a job-as it is proof that you can write interesting articles on time.

"You don't stop being a student once you graduate" - Angie Lau

Thanks!

Writers Wanted!

2010-02-07T18:02:00.000-08:00

Many of you (hopefully all of you if you're a Scripps student) have received SPJ's weekly publication, Inc. This is our journalism focused publication with tons of valuable/ interesting information on the field you chose to compete in! This also means that there are typically no ethics problems between Inc. and other campus publications. With the change from a bi-weekly to a weekly production, we are looking for even more writers and copy-editors to contribute! All you have to do is come to our meetings, Tuesday at 5 in Scripps 111 and explain your interest in helping. There are multiple article choices including a meeting preview, an overall journalism story, an internship overview, a "how-to," a transcript and a column. Articles vary in length from 750-800 words or 450-500 words depending on the type and are due that Saturday at 2:00 p.m.

Writing for Inc. is a great way to gain clips, gain writing experience, boost a resume and contribute to SPJ!!

Study Abroad- to Uganda!

2010-01-20T11:06:00.000-08:00

While many students have already had internships, many are still looking. Why not expand your search to a journalism study abroad option? This summer Scripps Jschool is offering a 4 week, 9 credit hour trip to Africa! The title of the program, "Uganda: Media, Diversity and Governance: Summer 2010," gives a little insight into what an exciting opportunity this trip truly is!

The coordinator behind this trip, and the Director of the Institute for International Journalism, Dr. Yusuf Kalyango, gave SPJ members a more in-depth look into the program. While you do receive credit, it is more of an internship, hands-on type of program. Students will have the opportunity to speak with government leaders, professors, and even participate in a dinner with the King of Uganda. Students will be able to focus on specializations by working with news organizations, advertising firms, the national parliament, and nongovernmental organizations. They will also go on weekend trips to see the local flora and fauna of Eastern Africa, visit historical and cultural sites, visit a game-wildlife national park, and in the process receive 9 credit hours and complete a tier III course. Is it the chaos of Africa you are worried about? Dr. Kalyango has arranged for everyone to stay in a four star hotel with all the amenities of a four star hotel in the United States, including an indoor and outdoor pool, workout facility, and a variety of food choices for breakfast and dinner everyday.

If this is a program that even slightly catches your interest, go to the information session February 2, in Sing Tao room 101 at 6:00 p.m. There Dr. Kalyango will discuss further details such as price and affordability and any other questions you may have. There isn't a lot of spots left in this competitive internship so if you are really interested you could always secure a spot by going here and signing up!

Thanks!

Mark of Excellence Award

2010-01-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

You worked hard last year to write, produce and hopefully publish your journalism articles or broadcasts. A college journalist attempts to publish their work to obtain clips, create a portfolio, gain some experience and have proof that your career path isn't entirely a dead end. Now, SPJ is offering a chance to use those published works to win the Mark of Excellence Award.

This Award is presented annually to honor the best in student journalism. It is offered to any student in a college or university in the U.S for work published in 2009 in print, radio, television or online categories. There is also a category for published art/graphics or photos! Entries will first be judged at the regional level then first place regional winners will make it to the national competition. Ultimately, the national winners will be honored at the 2010 SPJ Convention & National Journalism Conference, October 3-6 in Las Vegas. Judging will be based on certain criteria such as accuracy and completeness, enterprise and ingenuity, significance, clarity, and adherence to high journalistic standards among others

To sign up or nominate a friend click here There is a $9 entry fee for SPJ members and an $18 entry fee for non SPJ members (but everyone should be an SPJ member anyways!)

As journalists we are nearly obsessed with writing the next best story in an attempt to inform the public, why not attempt to boost our resume while we're at it? A Mark of Excellence Award is a perfect honor to do that!

go to http://www.spj.org/a-moe.asp for full details.

OU SPJ's New Year, New Agenda

2010-01-09T11:01:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

Welcome back from break! OU SPJ has a lot of exciting new ideas and plans to benefit all of you! First of all, we will now have our blog updated about twice a week with profiles, meeting information, interviews and any other interesting journalism information we can find! Our twitter and fan group will be reminding you of our meetings to come and keep you up-to-date with our national chapter. Our goal is to supplement your journalism education in any way we can to give you a leg up in such a competitive field.

Our first meeting of the quarter will be Tuesday January 12th at 5:00 p.m. We will be securing a computer lab for an iMovie Workshop with Taylor Mirfendereski, a J-school student, former NBC intern and OU SPJ's Vice President! Check out her website to see more of Taylor's credentials. This will be a great opportunity to branch out and get some interactive media experience- a must for today's journalists, who are expected to have knowledge in many areas of media. Check our twitter roll soon for the exact location!

In the meantime look forward to our agenda for the rest of the quarter. Things such as a Women in Communications meeting, an interview with a sports journalist, an anchoring workshop with RTNDA and our February Battle of the Bands! A collaborative event with ed2010 we will have 3 journalism judges, great bands and a lot of fun!

Stay in touch with this blog for more updates, news and valuable information to keep you current and in the know.

SPJ Statement on North Korea Situation

2009-06-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

INDIANAPOLIS – The Society of Professional Journalists is outraged over the 12-year prison labor sentence for U.S. journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling, convicted over the weekend in North Korea.

Lee and Ling, who work for San Francisco-based Current TV, were detained March 17 while filming a documentary near the China-North Korea border. Though legally filming in China, it’s unclear whether the pair and their cameraman actually crossed into North Korea illegally. Some reports indicate North Korean border guards may have crossed into China to arrest them.

“This entire case is absolutely a sham and an unnecessary show of force by a hostile government,” said SPJ President Dave Aeikens. “North Korea will never be taken seriously on the world stage if it continues to stymie press freedom and act like an adolescent bully.”

The Obama administration has been tracking the situation and vowed to “engage in all possible channels” to secure the journalists’ release. An envoy or goodwill negotiator from the U.S. is one possibility. Former U.N. ambassador and current New Mexico governor Bill Richardson, for example, negotiated the 1996 release of Evan C. Hunziker, who was accused of spying after crossing from China into North Korea on a dare.

“We encourage the U.S. State Department to engage North Korea in diplomatic talks to help bring these two courageous women home,” said Aeikens. “Send an envoy or step-up pressure from the United Nations. Whatever it takes, we can’t let North Korea continue to use these innocent journalists as political bargaining chips.”

This marks the second time SPJ has spoken out for the release of Lee and Ling. Read a previous statement here. SPJ also advocated during the same time for the release of U.S. journalist Roxana Saberi, detained in Iran in late January, sentenced to eight years and eventually released in May. See a previous SPJ statement on Saberi here.

Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. For more information about SPJ, please visit www.spj.org.

With Heavy Hearts

2009-06-02T22:27:00.000-07:00

It is important for us as a chapter to keep up-to-date with happenings at a national level.

Unfortunately, this is not a happy one.

The following is a letter from SPJ President David Aeikens:

-Evan Millward, outgoing OU SPJ President

---------------------------------------------------------------

Subject: Terry Harper

Dear Board and committee members,

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you Executive Director Terry Harper passed away at 1:20 p.m. EST today.

As many of you know, Terry had been battling brain cancer for the past two years. He deserves a great deal of credit for the strong position SPJ is in as the nation's largest and leading journalism organization. He served as executive director for seven years.

Terry was not only a steady, energetic and decisive leader, he was our friend. Terry and his family are in our thoughts and prayers.

For those of you who knew Terry, you won't be surprised to hear there will be a "nontraditional" tribute to him on Saturday evening in the Indianapolis area. On Sunday evening, per Terry's request, there will be a rip-roaring party in his honor. All are welcome to attend. More details will be provided in the coming days.

I hope as many of you as possible can make it to Indianapolis this weekend to show our respect and love for Terry. Anyone who plans to attend should contact Chris Vachon cvachon@spj.org so she can assist with hotel accommodations. Unfortunately, this is not something we can use our stipends to pay for.

As news of Terry's failing health spread the past few days, many of you asked how you could help. We have opened an account on behalf of Terry's family. This money will be used as the family chooses during this difficult time. We will also later be announcing details for a more lasting tribute to Terry.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Dave Aeikens
National President

Nail the Interview

2009-05-26T09:50:00.001-07:00

Join OU SPJ as we discuss and practice good interviewing skills for when you are seeking out that dream job or internship.

Come and share your experiences and advice with each other as well as hear some tried-and-true tips from kids who have been at this for a while.

This is our last meeting of the year, so we will also be discussing the programming and events of this year and how to improve for the next. You don't want to miss it!

See you in Scripps 116 at 5 p.m.!

More Congratulations

2009-05-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

AT the same time as the outstanding seniors we met Tuesday were announced, several other OU SPJers were honored with awards, shcolarships or other recognitions.

Those members included:
*Ian Bowman-Henderson
*Taylor Mirfendereski
*Evan Millward
*Rue Khalsa
*Garrett Downing
*Ashley Lutz

Ashley Lutz was named the editor-in-chief of The Post for the 2009-2010 school year.

Congrats to everyone who was recognized - it just goes to show how dedicated of a group our SPJers are!

Meet Our Outstanding Seniors!

2009-05-18T22:42:00.001-07:00

Join OU SPJ as we talk with three of Scripps Outstanding Seniors for 2009!

On our panel will be:
*Anastasia Pronin - outstanding overall
*Alexandra Hazlett - outstanding magazine
*Taylor Randall - outstanding public relations

They'll discuss what they've done and their best advice to underclassmen and incoming seniors.

You don't want to miss this opportunity to meet Scripps' best graduates from the class of 2009! Who knows, maybe you'll be working with or for them some day!

A JSchool Commentary

2009-05-15T08:38:00.001-07:00

J-Schools Must Change, Add 'Specializiation' and Second Major

By Ron Martz

Published: May 15, 2009 11:00 AM ET

DAHLONEGA, GA. -- (Commentary) Over the next few weeks, hundreds of colleges and universities will send thousands – if not tens of thousands – of aspiring, but ill-prepared, young journalists out into a communications environment that already is over-populated and under-resourced.

As the number of traditional communications vehicles decline, and the need for large numbers of workers with journalism or mass communications degrees declines with it, it might be time for colleges and universities to re-think their approach to preparing students for the new news business.

In the four years since the current crop of journalism graduates began their degree pursuit, the business has changed so radically as to be almost unrecognizable. While some schools may have had the foresight to begin preparing their students for the challenges ahead by offering multi-media courses, the harsh truth is that the news business can no longer support the number of journalism/mass communications graduates being produced each year.

By continuing to offer journalism or mass communications majors in which students train almost exclusively in the particulars of news gathering and writing, colleges and universities are doing the students, and the news business, a disservice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2005 and 2008 the newspaper business eliminated 20 percent of its work force. Thousands more jobs have been axed this year as newspapers, radio and television struggle to find their places in the new news universe.

Journalists have been taught in school to be generalists and the news industry to a great extent encouraged generalization over specialization. How many times in how many news organizations have reporters settled into a beat only to be told they are being moved to another beat because a “fresh approach” is needed?

The new news business should encourage specialization among its reporters and editors rather than generalization. By extension, colleges and universities should do the same thing by making journalism or mass communications no more than a minor degree track or, at the very least, require a second major – journalism and another discipline such as the law, business, psychology, military, criminal justice, or any number of other disciplines.

Specialization brings expertise that often has been missing in the news business. It has been my experience that those who bring outside expertise to the news business produce far more interesting and in-depth work.

My thoughts on this began to crystallize last year after I took a part-time job teaching writing for the media and serving as the adviser to the student newspaper at North Georgia College & State University, a school of about 5,500 students 65 miles north of Atlanta.

The school has no journalism program, no journalism facilities and no budget for a newspaper. Yet, I was asked to get students to produce a campus newspaper on a regular basis. During the previous school year only two editions of the student paper were produced – both in print.
I had five students in the newspaper class the first semester. Four were English majors, the other was a sociology major. Not a single one had ever written a news story. But it was then that I began to discover the value of the outside expertise and experience that students brought to class.

One student in that first class frequently used graphics in her job outside school and she designed a masthead for us. Another student had magazine layout experience and helped us with page designs. Another had interest in marketing and she went to work looking for local advertising. Still another had experience and interest in fine arts and she wrote extensively on that subject.

It took us two months of planning and preparing but we finally published our first edition on Oct. 30 through a national Web site that publishes about 650 other college papers. We did it all at no cost to the university because of the national advertising on the site. We have been publishing online exclusively every week since then, except over winter break and now over the summer break.

This past semester, I had 12 students in the newspaper class. A number were English majors but brought other skills to the table. One worked as the sales manager for a construction company and reported and wrote with great expertise on school expansion and new construction.

Another was a history major who had written for a sports blog and brought that expertise to the staff. One student was a computer science major who was also studying Chinese. He worked on technical issues related to the paper. I also had a psychology major, a business administration major, and a studio art major, all of whom contributed significantly to the growth of the paper that first year because of the expertise in other disciplines they brought to journalism.

As society and business have gotten increasingly complex, journalism has failed to keep pace by failing to properly educate, or insist that reporters be properly educated, about the intricacies of what they cover. The basics of journalism – interviewing and doing the who, what, when, where, why and how – can be taught. And as my students and many others have demonstrated, it is something that can be learned by those willing to make the effort.

What traditional journalism students cannot learn is expertise in another field, unless they bring that with them or are required to learn it in school.

Until traditional news outlets become more demanding of their reporters in terms of what expertise other than journalism they bring to the job, and until major colleges and universities stop pumping out journalistic generalists by the thousands every year, the industry is going to continue its free-fall into irrelevance.

That’s why colleges and universities should re-think journalism and mass communications as a sole major course of study and insist that those with interest in the news business acquire expertise in another discipline as well.

Continuing on the current path is not helping the news business, or those who would be part of it.

Ron Martz is a former reporter for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution who now teaches writing for the media at North Georgia College & State University in Dahlonega, Ga.

Your thoughts??

Soledad Says...

2009-05-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

For those who missed it, here is a quick recap of the Soledad O'Brien speech on diversity that was held at the University of Cincinnati on Monday evening.

You can read the full article, written by UC SPJ president Taylor Dungjen, at the News Record website.

Here are some notable quotes Taylor sent along as well:

“Don’t be afraid at how bad the market is. When I was first leaving school in 1988 I was told by the people you will never get a job, the evening news cast is dead and nobody’s watching. I’ve been in the business for 21, going on 22 years. Not bad for a girl who wasn’t supposed to be able to be employed. There’s opportunity in chaos and there’s a lot of chaos. Everywhere I go I have to Twitter, I have to blog and you do that naturally. I would argue that you’re in a good position. You all have to shoot on your own, you have a camera. My niece, my eight-year-old daughter, can work so much more technology than I can … The foundation still is what’s most important; reporting accurately and with fairness.”

“Anything that I have done badly in my job, that was me failing in some way: I didn’t do the work I should have done, it wasn’t because I was a girl or a minority. I didn’t do the work, that was the first thing. I guess I just try to outwork people and do such a good job that the fact that people had expectations that would just melt away … I used to be a terrible reporter in San Francisco. I would cover every single fire story and all the calls come at 2 a.m. and I didn’t do it because I wanted to, but because I knew I needed to do 100 before I got it right. Now I can do fire stories in my sleep ‘It began after 5 a.m. duh duh duh … The value was out working people so I would get better.’ ”

“I think you have to do internships first to see what you like and don’t like. Just grill people on ‘How did you get here, how did you start?’ What’s great about the age that you are is you’re willing to sleep on a friends couches. At 43 I’m done with that. When I was 20 I could, I worked that way. I shared with a friend, I lived in some of the most awful apartments but they were cheap.”

Enjoy!

Special thanks goes to Taylor Dungjen and our friends at UC!

It's Nice Outside...

2009-05-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

Join OU SPJ today at 5 p.m. for some fun in the sun outside of Scripps!

Bring your friends and get ready for a good time!

We'll see you there!

Meet CNN's Soledad O'Brien

2009-05-06T19:28:00.001-07:00

We've been invited by the UC SPJ chapter to share in this special event next week on their campus. I know this is short notice for everyone, but you anyone is interested in going, I will be leaving Athens promptly at 3:30 p.m. on Monday for the trip to Cincy to attend this lecture.

Please let me know if you are interested in joining ASAP at either 937.974.0138 or at em176906@ohio.edu

Thanks!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Diversity: On TV, Behind the Scenes, and In Our Lives

Come hear inside information about TV, politics and the world around us, as Soledad O'Brien will visit UC’s campus to talk about her experience at CNN. O'Brien is an anchor and special correspondent for CNN: Special Investigations Unit, and reports stories and documentaries for many CNN programs, including the recently critically acclaimed CNN Presents: Black in America.

This event is free of charge, so come and be part of a special evening.

When:
Monday, May 11
7:00 pm

Where:
University of Cincinnati
Tangeman University Center - Great Hall

Cost:
Free Admission

You, Me and iMovie

2009-05-04T17:45:00.000-07:00

Join OU SPJ this week for a workshop for those interested in learning iMovie from our personal expert, Taylor Mirfendereski.

iMovie will be a useful tool if any of you would like bridge into broadcast journalist or to blow future employers away with editing knowledge. We will be meeting in Scripps 001 in the computer lab in the basement. Come ready to learn!

We'll see you at 5 p.m. in the Graphics Lab!!

Weekend Update

2009-04-28T18:50:00.001-07:00

Here is the latest from around the Athens campus (...and beyond!) that went down while everyone was enjoying the beginning of Fest season here at OU or just the absolutely beautiful weather!

OU Board of Trustees
The BoT commented on many critical issues during their meeting Friday, including one of the letters delivered by the protesters Thursday evening. OU SPJ President Evan Millward and President-elect Ian Bowman-Henderson were in attendance at the rally, with Ian giving an impassioned speech and calling for more accountability by those in charge.

The Board again delayed finalization of the Statement of Expectations, though they did approve a slew of student fee increases for the 2009-2010 academic year. Chair C. Daniel Delawder even addressed the much-publicized quote that was run in July by the Athens NEWS and has since been posted here several times. In a (hopefully) positive change, Delawder will be replaced as chair next year by C. Robert Kidder.

Read more from The Post: 1, 2, 3
and The Athens NEWS: 1, 2

Hocking College Public Records Disaster
For those who don't know, Hocking College (just up US 33 in Nelsonville) is in the midst of a presidential search. However, when pressed to see public records and evaluations of the candidates' visits to campus, a faculty union representative discovered that those records had been destroyed...what makes this more interesting is that the man who did the destruction is a former OU Trustee...

Read more from The Post and the Athens NEWS.

It would appear that as spring is blossoming in southeast Ohio, so is the tangles of First Amendment and Open Records issues at hand.

We'll keep you updated here as these stories develop!

Let's Get Ethical...Ethical...

2009-04-27T18:34:00.001-07:00

Celebrate National Ethics Week with OU SPJ as we discuss the coverage of the Tax Day tea parties across the country and as well as other current media problems.

Bring your friends for what never fails to prove lively and provocative discussion!

PLUS - Get your copy of the SPJ Code of Ethics at the meeting!

See you there!

Join the Cause

2009-04-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

Dear SPJers,

Please join the Ohio University Student Union and OU SPJ tonight on College Green at 8 p.m. for a rally to protest the Statement of Expectations explained in the last blog post.

This is a nonviolent rally that will conclude with a march to President Roderick McDavis' residence on Park Place, where OUSU leaders and rally attendees will present him and the board with a bottle of wine and letters and petitions expressing grievances.

Roger Sikes, of the OUSU, tells WOUB's NewsWatch tonight that he hopes the meeting and rally will generate dialogue between the administration and the students.

We hope to see you there to support not only other students, but the union leaders and faculty and staff members who are suffering because of the financial crisis.

8 p.m. on College Green - well see you there!

Evan Millward
President, OU SPJ

Great Expectations

2009-04-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

The Ohio University Board of Trustees is headed back to Athens on Thursday for another meeting.

This time, they will be voting on the resolution so innocently titled the "Statement of Expectations."

In the fall, enough protest and outcry arose from campus groups that the vote was delayed until this Friday.

So, what is the "Statement of Expectations?"

You can read it in its entirety here on pages 445-448.

It is basically a resolution outlining the role of the Trustees in the university community and, more importantly, in the university's corporate culture. And while minor changes have been made that now make it explicitly clear that Trustees can voice individual dissent as long as they are not speaking for the Board as a whole, this clauses catches my eye:

"e. While Trustees should seek information and ask questions of others, they should refrain from publicly criticizing the President or other members of the University Community. Criticisms or concerns that Trustees may have about the President or other members of the University Community should be conveyed to the Chair who will determine the appropriate method for the Board to address the issue."

In essence, this clause undoes all the freedoms that the document previously afforded Trustees who wish to voice their dissent. Who constitutes as a "member of the University Community?" Do I? Do you? If so, then what can a Trustee say when they disapprove of a policy or resolution?

The good news here, though, is that this resolution is non-binding and acts as guidelines only so, as far as I know, no repercussions will be felt if a Trustees does dissent vocally or publicly criticize the President.

I encourage everyone to let your voices be heard, however, and tell the Trustees that this resolution is unnecessary and that the muzzle-effect doesn't work. You cannot successfully silence dissent without blatant disregard for the First Amendment right of freedom of speech.

Insist that this resolution be thrown out...the implications of its passing are too great. Should this resolution be successful, the culture of fear and inaccessibility will reach a fever pitch here in Athens and we will have passed a point of no return. In the fall, a group of vocal students and constituents stopped voting on this resolution - we can do it again...and this time we can silence those who wish to silence others.

Evan Millward
President, OU SPJ

Resumes and Cover Letters

2009-04-20T18:15:00.001-07:00

Join OU SPJ and Professor Cary Frith as we discuss the Do's and Dont's of professional journalism resumes and what is really necessary in a cover letter.

Bring your updates resume and cover letters for work and get a headstart on making yourself stand out from the crowd!

We'll see you in Scripps 116 at 5 p.m. for the workshop!

Reflections

2009-04-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

Last week was a packed one for us. Let's recap quickly, shall we?

Tuesday evening during our regular meeting time we elected a new Executive Board for the 2009-2010 school year. You can see those individuals listed a couple of posts below. Give them congrats and wish them luck when you see them!

Thursday evening we welcomed Adnrew Revkin, environment reporter for the New York Times to campus for a discussion which he title "9 Billion people + 1 Planet = ?". He was VERY interesting. What'd everyone think of his speech?

And we capped it all off with inductions and a Centennial Celebration on Friday evening. A special thanks to everyone who attended in spite of the gorgeous weather! Also a congratulations to all those who were inducted. 2007 Scripps alum Jon Peters was our keynote speaker and he discussed his time at Scripps and what SPJ means to him and to the field.

Let us know what you thought about last week's festivities!!

Revkin Tonight

2009-04-16T11:13:00.001-07:00

For those of you planning to attend Andrew Revkin's keynote address at 7 p.m. in Scripps 111, we are warning you to arrive no less than 15 minutes early because seating is extremely limited and all parties involve expect to fill the auditorium.

Again, arrive early to hear Andrew Revkin this evening.

We'll see you there and again tomorrow for our Centennial Celebration!

2009-2010 Executive Board

2009-04-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the 2009-2010 Executive Board and thanks to all our members who came out this evening and voted!

President: Ian Bowman-Henderson

Vice President: Taylor Mirfendereski

Secretary: Jamie Ratermann

Treasurer: Emma Morehart

Publicity: Lauren Smith

Programming: Kevin Zeiber, Gina Edwards

Congrats to everyone!

Elections TONIGHT

2009-04-14T09:21:00.001-07:00

Please join us as we vote on the 2009-2010 Executive Board this evening at 5 p.m. in Scripps 116. Each candidate will make a short presentation prior to voting.

Here is the ballot:

President:
Sarah Maloy
Ian Bowman-Henderson

Vice President:
Taylor Mirfendereski

Secretary:
Melisa Michael
Jamie Ratermann

Treasurer:

Publicity Chair:
Lauren Smith

Programming Chairs (choose 2):
Kevin Zieber
Miaomiao Shao
Emma Morehart
Graylyn Roose
Gina Edwards

We'll see you all there and best of luck to all candidates!

State of Play

2009-04-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

Students-

We at Ohio University have the unique opportunity to screen a new journalism film before it opens to the general public.

A synopsis is listed below for State of Play which will be shown on Wednesday, April 15 at 9:30 p.m. at the Athena Grand on East State Street.

Tickets can be picked up starting Thursday outside of the Front Room in Baker or at either main entrance to Scripps.

Oscar® winner Russell Crowe leads an all-star cast in a blistering thriller about a rising congressman and an investigative journalist embroiled in a case of seemingly unrelated, brutal murders. Crowe plays D.C. reporter Cal McCaffrey, whose street smarts lead him to untangle a mystery of murder and collusion among some of the nation's most promising political and corporate figures in State of Play, from acclaimed director Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland).

Handsome, unflappable U.S. Congressman Stephen Collins (Ben Affleck) is the future of his political party: an honorable appointee who serves as the chairman of a committee overseeing defense spending. All eyes are upon the rising star to be his party's contender for the upcoming presidential race. Until his research assistant/mistress is brutally murdered and buried secrets come tumbling out.

McCaffrey has the dubious fortune of both an old friendship with Collins and a ruthless editor, Cameron (Oscar® winner Helen Mirren), who has assigned him to investigate. As he and partner Della (Rachel McAdams) try to uncover the killer's identity, McCaffrey steps into a cover-up that threatens to shake the nation's power structures. And in a town of spin-doctors and wealthy politicos, he will discover one truth: when billions are at stake, no one's integrity, love or life is ever safe.

More information here.

Congratulations!

2009-04-07T11:51:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, six Ohio University student journalists took home Mark of Excellence Awards at the SPJ Region 4 Conference in Columbus.

Here is our press release with more details:
MoE Presser

Publish at Scribd or explore others:

InDesign, In-the-Know

2009-04-06T19:26:00.001-07:00

Join OU SPJ in Scripps 001 (yet again a different room - in the basement) as we learn some InDesign basics and create a page using this program.

We'll be taught by Mike Dibari, a graduate student in E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. He has been a working photojournalist for the past 20 years. His work has been published in a variety of newspapers and magazines including: the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, the Baltimore Sun, the Detroit Free Press, the Albuquerque Journal, and Time magazine.

Come hone your skills on this crucial design software with OU SPJ!

Get Elected!

2009-04-06T18:01:00.001-07:00

Just a friendly reminder:

Now is the time to begin nominating yourself (and others with their permission) for Executive Board positions for the 2009-2010 school year.

The following positions are available:
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Programming Chair (2)
Publicity

If you are interested (and you all should be), please email Jamie at jr923107@ohio.edu. All nominees will be required to make a short speech on Tuesday, April 14 at 5 p.m. in Scripps 116 just prior to elections.

You have until Friday at 5 p.m. to make nominations and fill out the forms Jamie will provide you. Best of luck to all candidates!

Descriptions:
Exec Board Descriptions 09-10

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Presentations & Spre leadership spirituality

Letter of Intent:
Executive Board Application Executive Board Application OhioUSPJ

Publish at Scribd or explore others: School Work Education leadership spirituality

Conference Recap

2009-04-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

For those who attended the Region 4 Conference, what'd you think?

Share your thoughts here!

You can read our tweets at #ouspj as well!

How Tweet It Is

2009-04-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

For those of you who can't make it to the SPJ Region 4 Conference in Columbus this weekend, OU SPJ now allows you to continue to follow the excitement!

For you Twitter users, you can read all about the happenings from members who are at the event by visiting this group - http://bit.ly/7eZN. Our members in attendance will be Twittering the events using the hashtag #ouspj.

Don't miss a minute of this thrilling conference!

Evan

NYT Reporter to Visit OU SPJ

2009-04-02T13:20:00.001-07:00

In celebration of Earth Month (April), OU SPJ is extremely proud to bring Andrew C. Revkin of the New York Times to campus April 16.

Mr. Revkin will present the keynote speech,
"9 Billion People + 1 Planet = ?"
in Scripps 111 at 7 p.m.

For the first time in its history, the human species has both become a planet-scale force and become aware of that fact. Spikes in population and resource appetites have been sustained by technology and fossil fuels -- so far. But with an estimated 9 million people living on the planet by 2050, the road to a stable, prospering human population is highly uncertain.

Revkin, a prize-winning author and environmental reporter for The New York Times, explores how people are, and aren't, working to smooth the path, from the Arctic to the Amazon to the White House.

This event is co-sponsored by the Office of Sustainability, OU SPJ, the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Dr. Debatin's 1804 Grant, and the School of Visual Communication.

As members of OU SPJ we may also have a unique possibility to meet Mr. Revkin on a more personal level. We'll have more as it becomes available.

This is just another in the long list of unique and thrilling opportunities OU SPJ has planned for Spring Quarter 2009!

2009 Schuneman Symposium

2009-04-02T12:55:00.001-07:00

Folks,

This is a phenomenal opportunity available to anyone on campus next Thursday. While not directly affiliated with OU SPJ, it is an incredible opportunity for those who can attend. It also features our OU SPJ advsier, Cary Frith in the afternoon panel!

The 2008 election brought monumental change to the Presidency but it also marked significant changes in how campaigns are run and how they are covered by the media.
The impact of the Internet and “new media” changed the face of the electoral politics and election coverage forever. It is this changing political and media landscape that will be examined, in detail, on April 9th at the first Schuneman Symposium on Photojournalism and New Media sponsored by the E. W. Scripps School of Journalism and alumni R. Smith Schuneman and Patricia W. Schuneman.

The day-long event will consist of three panels held in Baker University Center Rooms 240-242 and two major keynote addresses in Templeton-Blackburn Memorial Auditorium.

Amy Goodman of Democracy Now will speak to the community at 5 p.m. in the Templeton-Blackburn Memorial Auditorium and. Steve Hildebrand, one of the masterminds behind the successful Obama campaign, will also speak there at 7 p.m. He will talk about how the Obama campaign used “new media.”

Leading off the morning will be a panel of photojournalists talking about the changing nature of how they visually capture and document campaigns. The panel will feature noted photographers from the School of Visual Communication and major news publications. That panel will be from 9-10:30 a.m.

A second panel will examine the election from the media side. It is titled New Media v. Traditional Journalism. National “new media” experts Bob Benz and Peter Shaplen will join advertising specialist Gary Moneysmith and international expert Dr. Bernhard Debatin to dissect the changing media climate.

In the afternoon (3 to 4:30 p.m.) a panel of political experts headed by professor and author Albert L May from George Washington University and alumnus and AP White House correspondent Phil Elliott will focus on Political New Media. May authored an article “Campaign 2008: It’s on UTube.” Elliott is the youngest reporter ever to be assigned to the White House by AP.

The day will be topped off by the keynote addresses by Goodman and Hildebrand.
All sessions are open and the public is cordially invited to attend.

This impressive Symposium is made possible by the generosity and dedication of the Schunemans. As the director of the E. W. Scripps School of Journalism, I personally express my appreciation to them for making this possible.

Read more here.

Hope to see you all there!

From SPJ President, Dave Aikens

2009-04-02T12:42:00.000-07:00

A Federal Shield Law Protects Free Flow of Information
April 2nd, 2009

The House of Representatives passing the Free Flow of Information Act is a big step in the process of finally providing federal protection for journalists from being forced to reveal anonymous sources. SPJ will work diligently to get Senate and presidential approval later this year.

This bill is important to democracy and to making sure government operates well. People who are aware of wrongdoing should be able to make that information public without facing retribution. Journalists who report the wrongdoing based on secret sources should not be forced to break promises and reveal their sources. All but one state has legislative, administrative or common law protections of this nature for journalists. It’s time to extend that protection to the federal level. Too many times federal prosecutors and civil lawyers have come to journalists first when doing their investigations.

This potential Shield Law is an effort by many national media organizations including the Society of Professional Journalists, the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization. The bill enjoys bipartisan support among Representatives and Senators who understand the importance of a free press in society. Passage of the bill will allow reporters to continue to do the essential work of serving as government watchdogs and being the vital link between citizens and government. Journalists would be able to do their jobs without fear of subpoenas and threats of jail time and fines for not revealing sources.

SPJ and its 9,000 members look forward to the continued discussion and debate on this important public issue.

Return of a Classic

2009-04-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

On behalf of the entire Executive Board of OU SPJ, we are pleased to announce the return of the...

Grammar Smackdown!

This year Speakeasy Magazine and SPJ are bringing back Grammar
Smackdown, a fun, free event open to all students who enjoy the English
language in all its glory and a little friendly competition. The
Smackdown will take place Thursday, April 23 at 6 p.m. in Scripps 111,
and we're looking for contestants.

Teams of five members will compete in flights to answer the most
grammar-related questions correctly. As teams are eliminated, the
questions get tougher. Prizes will be awarded to the top-winning
teams.

For any questions or to enter your team, e-mail Jennifer England at
jen.l.england@gmail.com with
creative team names and contact information of members by Friday, April
17.

Let's put together a winning OU SPJ team - now open to name suggestions...be clever!!

Shield Law Passes House

2009-03-31T20:55:00.000-07:00

INDIANAPOLIS – The Society of Professional Journalists is encouraged by the action of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, which today passed H.R. 985, the Free Flow of Information Act. The bill now awaits a vote before the full House.

“If this crucial bill eventually comes before President Obama, we urge him to sign it immediately and affirm his support for openness,” said SPJ President Dave Aeikens.

Known as the Shield Law, the measure would grant protections to journalists who refuse to reveal confidential sources, even when compelled by a subpoena and the threat of penal action. Currently, 49 states offer legislative or administrative protections to journalists. No such law exists at the federal level.

As the most broad-based journalism organization in the country, SPJ has been at the forefront – along with numerous media organizations – of the fight to safeguard information and ultimately maintain vital news reporting in the public interest.

“This isn’t about granting special privileges for reporters,” said Aeikens. “This fight is for everyone – the public and the press. This is about preserving and strengthening our democracy.”

The effort to enact a federal shield law has been ongoing since 2005. The most recent bill, H.R. 985, was introduced in February. Although the bill previously passed the House last year, it ultimately stalled in the Senate in July 2008, despite bipartisan support in both chambers.

While campaigning for president, both then-Senator Barack Obama and current Senator John McCain voiced their support for the bill, eventually becoming cosponsors for the Senate version.

Obama administration officials have already shown support for such a law. Attorney General Eric Holder, in his confirmation hearing, indicated he did not hold the same view as former Attorney General Michael Mukasey, who recommended President Bush veto the bill if passed by Congress.

Along with SPJ, a number of other organizations have joined the effort to pass a federal shield law, including the Newspaper Association of American, Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, Radio and Television News Directors Association, and Investigative Reporters and Editors. Learn more about SPJ’s efforts by clicking here.

Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well- informed citizenry; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. For more information about SPJ, please visit www.spj.org.

IMPORTANT CHANGE

2009-03-31T17:19:00.000-07:00

So, due to circumstance beyond our control at OU SPJ, we will be having our meetings in Scripps 116 for the remainder of the quarter.

If you happen to wander in on Scripps 111 you will be attending Dr. Peters' Ethics class.

Tell your friends and make sure people know.

We apologize for the inconvenience and hope to continue to see you all each and every Tuesday at 5 p.m. in Scripps 116!

A Breath of Fresh Air

2009-03-31T17:15:00.000-07:00

As spring blows into Athens and the temperature warms up, we all feel a little happier and optimistic.

Here is a great piece that Alec shared with us here on the blog about the Buffalo News. It's VERY refreshing to read and could spur some interesting debate.

Read it here.

And as always, let the Sun Shine!

Evan

An interview with Frank Deaner

2009-03-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

During OU's celebration of Sunshine Week (3/9 - 3/14), Frank Deaner, the president of the Ohio Coalition for Open Government, visited our SPJ chapter and shared some anecdotes regarding Open Record Laws.

We had the opportunity to interview Deaner following our meeting. See snippets from our interview below.

Deaner talks about an audit that was conducted in 2004 that resulted in some provisions to benefit journalists with Open Record Law requests.

Understanding your rights as a journalist and knowing what information you have access to can be overwhelming, but it's important. Deaner offers suggestions to brief you on your rights and explains how to give yourself more credibility as a student journalist.

Taylor Mirfendereski

AP Lists Losers

2009-03-30T13:33:00.001-07:00

The Associated Press has published a list of all daily newspapers that have cut back editions in the past year. Here's a look at Ohio:

- Bellevue Gazette - Dropped Mondays in January.

- Fairborn Daily Herald - Dropped Mondays in November.

- The Galion Inquirer - Dropped Mondays in September.

- Greenville Daily Advocate - Dropped Mondays and Tuesdays in January.

- Times-Gazette, Hillsboro - Dropped Mondays in November.

- The Madison Press, London - Dropped Mondays in November.

- Piqua Daily Call - Dropped Tuesdays in February.

- The Sidney Daily News - Dropped Tuesdays in February.

- Troy Daily News - Dropped Tuesdays in February.

- Van Wert Times-Bulletin - Dropped Mondays last fall.

- Wilmington News Journal - Dropped Mondays in September.

- The Xenia Daily Gazette - Dropped Mondays in November.

You can read the entire list here.

On a personal note, I began my journalism career with the Fairborn Daily Herald and Xenia Daily Gazette back in high school. I interned there for two summers and really learned the basics of the craft during that time. It pains me to see the paper be forced to cut back.

Do you see any hometown papers on the list? Please share with us.

Thanks!

Evan

Welcome Back!

2009-03-29T18:10:00.001-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful and relaxing spring break!

It's getting warmer and nicer outside and OU SPJ is getting busier than ever before!

We kick it all off on TUESDAY (March 31st) at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111.

There has never been a better time to attend an OU SPJ meeting - we'll be discussing elections, inductions, Regional Conference, and continuing to work on our open records service project.

You'll also get a sneak peek at what we have planned for the rest of the academic year!

See you there!

Conference Schedule

2009-03-27T23:18:00.000-07:00

Region 4 Conference is exactly one week away!

Here’s the lineup:

Friday, April 3

6-8 p.m. — Reception at Winking Lizard Crosswoods

Saturday, April 4
(specific session times and descriptions are subject to change):

7:30-8:30 a.m. — Registration

8:30-9:30 a.m. — Breakfast with Walter Middlebrook (Sponsored by Nationwide)

9:45 to 11:15 a.m. — (choose one)

Moving Beyond the Mainstream: The Impact of Digital Media on Public Affairs Coverage (presented by the Kiplinger Program) (Sponsored by OSU Office of Communications)

This session is designed to get you up to speed on the latest trends in the digital world and how they impact public affairs reporting. You’ll examine how the Internet is changing the shape and delivery of news and information. You’ll familiarize yourself with how journalists and others are communicating through Twitter, YouTube, blogs, Facebook, and a variety of other sites and technologies (including QR codes, Publish2 and Ping.fm). And you’ll learn how to apply new reporting strategies in multiple platforms. This is a foundations session for those who want to better understand and navigate the digital age.

Ethics of User-Generated Content with Ray Marcano, internet general manager at Cox Ohio Publishing.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Mark of Excellence luncheon and awards ceremony with keynote Leonard Pitts

1:15 to 2:45 p.m. — (choose one)

Beat Blogging with Henry Gomez of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Bob Baptist of the Columbus Dispatch and Chris Seper of MedCityNews.com. Learn how these pros are engaging readers on a whole new level. Blogging is quite different what reporters do in print. Blogs aggregate content from elsewhere, allow interaction with readers and allow for posting lots of tidbits and additional information – items that cannot fit in print. Blogs also can contain video and audio, and are part of an interactive online network of other blogs and social networking sites. (Presented by Online News Association) (Sponsored by Columbus Dispatch)

Time for Transition: Life after Newspapers. A career coach and other panelists guide attendees through the next steps in the life of a former or about-to-be former journalist. Do you go into PR? Back to school for a brand new career? What’s next? (Sponsored by Paul Werth Associates)

3 to 4:30 p.m. — (choose one)

Following the Crowd: How to Reach New Audiences on the Web (presented by Kiplinger Program)

In this session, you’ll explore how journalists, non-profits, start ups and other organizations are using new technologies and techniques to gain attention and expand their reach. You’ll learn the sophisticated ways people are using  Twitter, Second Life and other social media sites, for example. And you’ll explore how new semantic tools are changing they way groups collect, organize and make meaning from thousands of people who comment daily on the Web.

Narrowcasting: On-camera Professions in New Media

Assistant Managing Editor Dave Maetzold of college broadcast Web site palestra.net will provide insight into the changing world of online broadcasting. The site’s network of paid student reporters cover news, sports and entertainment. The network was founded in 2006 by a group of former Columbus TV sports guys who realized that the media was moving away from the half-hour evening TV newscast to an online and on-demand world.

The network has grown to nearly 100 schools and more than 120 student reporters. Reporters have covered every BCS bowl game, college basketball’s Final Four, the Super Bowl, the Sundance Film Festival, the Bonarroo Music Festival and both the 2008 Republican and Democratic National Conventions. Student reporters have filed stories from all 48 continental states. Palestra.net is a content partner of Fox News Channel and Fox Business Channel providing student reporters opportunities to appear on both TV networks. Palestra.net is also a content partner with Fox Sports Interactive, providing reporters one more national platform on which to showcase their work.

Spring Conference 2009 is sponsored by Nationwide, Ohio State University — University Communications and School of Communication, Columbus Dispatch, Cox Ohio, Paul Werth Associates, Scripps College of Communication at Ohio University, Graydon Head and Ohio Newspaper Association.

For those of you attending, please be at our first meeting on Tuesday!!

From the Office of Richard Cordray

2009-03-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

In recognition of Sunshine Week, Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray has released the 2009 Ohio Sunshine Laws Manual in partnership with Ohio Auditor of State Mary Taylor. The updated manual, known as the "Yellow Book," is available for viewing, downloading, ordering and even embedding on host Web sites at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov/sunshine.

The Yellow Book details Ohio's open government laws, and it changes from year to year based on new court decisions. Sunshine Week, which highlights the importance of accountable and transparent government, runs from March 15 through March 21.

Any Web site can now host the up-to-date Yellow Book, thanks to a tool that will display the book and automatically update as the law changes.

"Today's online tools and the Internet mean we can put Ohio's open government resources directly into the hands of any citizen and increase the level of accountability through their vigilance," Attorney General Cordray said.

In order to ensure that officials follow open government laws, the Attorney General's Office offers training sessions across the state throughout the year. Find a full schedule of these free sessions at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov/sunshine.

Check www.SpeakOutOhio.gov/sunshine for updates throughout Sunshine Week.

Some Sun

2009-03-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

Congressman, Marking 'Sunshine Week,' Calls For Passing a Federal Shield Law in 2009

By Rep. Mike Pence

Enshrined in the First Amendment are these words: “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press.” As a conservative who believes in limited government, I believe the only check on government power in real time is a free and independent press.

This week we celebrate “Sunshine Week” in America, and we take time out to recognize the importance of a free and independent press in our nation. But, we must be ever vigilant about maintaining and protecting the freedoms and independence our press enjoy.

Four years ago, I originally authored the Free Flow of Information Act with Congressman Rick Boucher of Virginia. The bill, also known as a federal media shield bill, provides a qualified privilege of confidentiality to journalists, which enables them to bring forward information to the public that might otherwise never see the light of day. The bill is not about protecting journalists, it’s about protecting the public’s right to know.

The Free Flow of Information Act simply provides qualified protection for members of the news media against compelled disclosure of confidential sources. In doing so, this legislation strikes a balance between the public interest in the free flow of information against the public interest in compelling testimony in limited circumstances such as situations involving grave risk to national security or imminent threat of bodily harm.

In October 2007, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the Free Flow of Information Act. Unfortunately, the Senate did not pass the legislation before the end of the last Congress. On February 11, 2009, I was pleased to join Congressman Boucher, House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers, Vice Ranking Member Bob Goodlatte and 35 of our colleagues in reintroducing the same legislation that previously garnered 398 votes.

I believe that sufficient bipartisan majorities exist in both the House and the Senate to enact this critical legislation this year. President Obama pledged his support for a federal media shield when he was serving as a U.S. Senator. The time for ensuring the free flow of information is now.

We all remember when not long ago a confidential source brought to light abuses at the highest levels of government in the long national nightmare of Watergate. History records that W. Mark Felt never would have come forward without the assurance made to him of confidentiality.

Over thirty years later, journalists cannot assure confidentiality to sources without risking fines and jail time. The protections provided by the Free Flow of Information Act are necessary so that members of the media can bring forward information to the American public without fear of retribution or prosecution. Without the free flow of information from sources to reporters, stories will not be written that could better inform the public and strengthen our democracy.

In recent years, we have famously seen reporters such as Judith Miller jailed and David Ashenfelter, Mark Fainaru-Wada and Lance Williams threatened with imprisonment. They are a few names among many who have been subpoenaed for taking a stand for the First Amendment and refusing to reveal confidential sources.

Compelling reporters to testify, and in particular, compelling them to reveal the identity of their confidential sources, is a detriment to the public interest. Without the promise of confidentiality, many important conduits of information about our government will be shut down. The dissemination of information by the media to the public on matters ranging from the operation of our government to events in our local communities is invaluable to the operation of our democracy.

Thirty-six states and the District of Columbia have various statutes that protect reporters from being compelled to testify or disclose sources and information in their courts. Thirteen states have protections for reporters as a result of judicial decisions. The Free Flow of Information Act would set national standards similar to those that are in effect in the states, ensuring that the American people have the facts that they need to make choices as an informed electorate.

Thomas Jefferson warned that, “Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that limited without danger of losing it.” This Congress would be wise to take those words to heart. Now is the time to heed the advice of Mr. Jefferson, and stitch this tear in the First Amendment freedom of the press.

Rep. Mike Pence is a five-term congressman from the 6th district of Indiana. His twitter page is at: http://twitter.com/RepMikePence

No Meeting Tuesday

2009-03-16T17:43:00.001-07:00

To allow us all to focus on finals there will be no meeting tomorrow.

Have a wonderful spring break and best of luck on exams!

We will have our first meeting of spring quarter on Tuesday, March 31st at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111. We will be following up with service project information and doing some final work before we begin our project. This will also be the time to get information on elections, inductions, and the final details about our trip that weekend to Columbus for regional conference.

See you then!

Sunshine Week Hits National

2009-03-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

This week is the official National Sunshine Week.

You can read a good report on the issues here.

Let the Sunshine In and best of luck on all your exams!!

Regional Reminder

2009-03-13T14:36:00.000-07:00

From headquarters:

Are you coming to the SPJ Region 4 Spring Conference April 3-4 in beautiful Columbus, Ohio?

Act now! The early-bird registration deadline is March 20. Register now by clicking here for $20 off admission.

All journalists in the region (Michigan, West Virginia, Ohio and Western Pennsylvania) are welcome, with special discounts for SPJ members and students. And, in light of recent layoffs at newspapers across our region, we are offering journalists in transition the student rate.

Registration fees: $45 for journalists in transition; $70 professional SPJ member; $45 student SPJ member; $80 professional nonmember; $55 student nonmember;

On the schedule will be a keynote address and book signing by Miami Herald columnist Leonard Pitts, a breakfast welcome from Detroit News recruiter Walter Middlebrook, professional development sessions dedicated to new media, the Regional Mark of Excellence Awards luncheon and a Friday night happy hour. See the full schedule, session descriptions and bios of the presenters at the Central Ohio SPJ Web site. (ed. centralohiospj.org)

For more information, please contact conference planner Katy Waters at 614-220-5468 or kwaters@bizjournals.com.

Scripps Findings

2009-03-13T14:08:00.001-07:00

Just in time for National Sunshine Week, which kicks off on Sunday, our friends at the Scripps Survey Center at Ohio University, in association with the American Society of Newspaper Editors (ASNE) have released the results of a nationwide survey that shows some public opinion of government secrecy is leveling off, for the first time in four years.

You see all of the results and information here.

Thanks to all those involved with the survey here in Athens for their wonderful work!

This story will run in newspapers across the country on Sunday, as a kickoff to National Sunshine Week!

Best of luck on finals!

Getting Some Recognition

2009-03-12T07:43:00.000-07:00

"Next week, every day is Sunday.

Sunshine Week is an annual event dedicated to promoting open records, transparent government and freedom of information. Ohio University's chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists has already conducted several "sunny" events this week. The national Sunshine Week actually takes place next week, March 15-21, but it would be a shame to let something like exams get in the way of such an important discussion - and make no mistake, open records are important."

The Post editorial board comments on Sunshine Week, Freedom of Information and open government in today's issue.

You can read it here. Or pick one up across campus today.

Paint the Graffiti Wall!

2009-03-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!

We need YOUR help on one final Sunshine Week project.

Tomorrow (Thursday) night we want to paint the graffiti wall along Richland Ave next to Bentley Annex. However, we need people to help.

If you are interested, please email Evan at em176906@ohio.edu.

Time has yet to be determined, but it will be LATE so that we don't get painted over.

Just let Evan know!

Thanks!

Noteable Quotes

2009-03-11T08:19:00.000-07:00

Some food for thought about open government:

"A popular government, without popular information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a prologue to a farce or a tragedy; or, perhaps, both." President James Madison, August 4, 1822

"When information which properly belongs to the public is systematically withheld by those in power, the people soon become ignorant of their own affairs, distrustful of those who manage them, and - eventually - incapable of determining their own destinies." President Richard Nixon, 1972

"Government ought to be all outside and no inside." President Woodrow Wilson

We'll present some more tomorrow. Also, if you want to help paint the graffiti wall, let me know.

Your thoughts?

Day 3: Good Eats, FOIA Treats

2009-03-10T17:48:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came out this evening to talk with Frank Deaner of the Ohio Coalition for Open Government!

Mr. Deaner is certainly the authority on Ohio open records and open meetings laws. Check out the blog in a few days as we post our interview with him!

Thursday we will be holding a brown bag lunch with Dr. Aimee Edmondson, a professor at Scripps, who has extensively researched the federal Freedom of Information Act and done comparative studies between state laws. The lunch will occur from noon to 1 in Scripps 107.

Bring some Grab 'n Go or Bagel Street, whatever your favorite may be, and join us for a casual discussion about FOI and Sunshine Laws.

This is our last official event of the week. However, let me know if you want to help us paint the graffiti wall Thursday night!

Thanks and see you tomorrow at noon!

New Feature

2009-03-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

Has OU Sunshine Week 2009 got you interested in the Freedom of Information Act and Ohio Sunshine Laws?

Have you been bitten by the watchdog bug?

Then check out a new feature of our blog, the RSS feeds located at the bottom of the page. These feeds show the latest news headlines about both the federal Freedom of Information Act as well as Ohio's Sunshine Laws!

We are proud to bring you this addition in honor of OU Sunshine Week 2009!

Post comments on what other features you'd like to see added to the blog in the future!

Day 2: Frank Deaner

2009-03-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those of you who made it out to watch "All the President's Men" tonight!

The weather couldn't be more perfect for us to Let the Sunshine In this week in Athens!

Please join us tonight at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111 as we welcome back Frank Deaner, the president of the Ohio Coalition for Open Government!

Frank Deaner is a 1967 Scripps grad who made the rounds of all areas of journalism. He spent 15 years as a broadcaster, worked public relations and advertising and since 1990 he has worked for the Ohio Newspaper Association, including as its Executive Director.

Mr. Deaner will speak about Ohio open records and open meetings laws and how YOU can use them effectively as a journalist. He will also address the problems with obtaining open records at Ohio University. Come ready to ask good questions and learn a great deal that will be important in your future career!

See you there!

Welcome to Sunshine Week!

2009-03-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

As a reminder, tonight is the kickoff of our 2009 OU Sunshine Week celebration!

For you folks in Washington Hall, come down to the first floor study lounge (right off the lobby at 8 p.m. and watch the classic journalism film, "All the President's Men" based on the book of the same name.

The film follows scrappy Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein as they investigate the break-in at the Watergate complex. The investigation would ultimately lead to the impeachment of President Richard Nixon and his later resignation from office.

After the film, we will discuss the importance of open records and how the team protrayed in the film used them.

Bring friends, bring snacks, and come ready to enjoy a great movie and maybe learn a little too ;)

Jason Motlagh on Freelance Journalism

2009-03-08T16:59:00.000-07:00

Jason Motlagh is an international freelance journalist currently based in Washington D.C. He studied Foreign Affairs in college and upon graduating from his university spent time as a fisherman in Alaska. Journalism was a career that he later fell into.

“At the time, it seemed like a chance where I could explore a lot of different fields and have access to a lot of different people and places,” Motlagh said. “It was a vehicle that would give me greater mobility to pursue things more in depth. That’s ultimately why I decided to pursue it.”

He got his start in the profession by securing journalism internships.

“I really just learned by doing. I was very rough in the beginning, but had easy access to seasoned professionals who I could learn from. There was a real immediacy when I was learning so I think that whole process was accelerated and I picked up the trade very quickly,” Motlagh said.

Motlagh has reported from about 35 countries. He started his career in West Africa and has extensively covered Central Asia and the Mideast. Over the past two years he has spent a significant amount of time covering the war on the ground in Afghanistan.

To hear from Motlagh about his experiences as a freelance journalist and to gain some advice about freelance and international reporting, watch the exclusive interview with Jason below.

Taylor Mirfendereski

OU Sunshine Week 2009

2009-03-08T14:16:00.000-07:00

Join OU SPJ as we celebrate the rights afforded to journalists and the public by the federal Freedom of Information Act and the individual state Sunshine Laws.

These laws provide us with the ability to keep track of our government by creating a level of transparency using open records and open meetings.

Below is the schedule of events for this week:

MONDAY 3/9
Sunshine Week Outreach - Washington Hall Movie Night
"All the President's Men"
8 p.m. Washington Hall study lounge (first floor)
*NOTE: This event open only to students in Washington Hall*

TUESDAY 3/10
Sunshine Week Headline Speaker
Frank Deaner
President, Ohio Coalition for Open Government
5 p.m. Scripps 111

WEDNESDAY 3/11
Sunshine Week Brown Bag Lunch
With Dr. Aimee Edmondson
12 p.m. Scripps 107
*Please bring your lunch (will not be provided)

Throughout the week, I encourage you all to write Letters to the Editor at local
newspapers to help educate our friends and peers about their rights as taxpayers
and as journalists.

We will also be painting the graffiti wall at a date and time TBD.

All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

You can RSVP to our Facebook event and invite your Jschool friends by clicking here.

Regional Conference Deadline SOON!

2009-03-04T18:35:00.000-08:00

Folks,

Those of you who are interested in attending the SPJ Region 4 Conference in Columbus needs to sign up soon to meet at March 15 deadline for a discount.

You can register here.

Registration includes some quality food and admission to all events on Friday and Saturday, April 3-4.

We need to know as soon as you register so we can coordinate transportation and hotel arrangements.

Below is the list of programs for the conference - the BEST networking event in the state!

Friday
An evening cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception at Winking Lizard Crosswoods

Saturday’s schedule (specific session times and descriptions are subject to change):

7:30-8:30 a.m. — Registration

8:30-9:30 a.m. — Breakfast with Walter Middlebrook

9:45 to 11:15 a.m. –Moving Beyond the Mainstream: The Impact of Digital Media on Public Affairs Coverage and Following the Crowd: How to Reach New Audiences on the Web (concurrent). Presented by Kiplinger Program.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Mark of Excellence luncheon and awards ceremony with keynote Leonard Pitts

1:15 to 2:45 p.m. — Beat Blogging and Art of the Two-Minute video sessions (concurrent)

3 to 4:30 p.m. — Powerhouse Writing for the Web and to-be-decided broadcast sessions (concurrent)

Breakfast and lunch are included in the registration fee.

DON'T MISS OUT!!!

Important Updates

2009-03-03T19:42:00.001-08:00

Team-

First off, thanks to all of your who turned out for Jason Motlagh's presentation this evening! It was a truly enlightening speech and really addressed several important foreign correspondence issues. Special thanks goes to the Institute for International Journalism at the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Dr. Yusuf Kalyango, and the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting for helping bring this guest to our campus!

Also, tomorrow (Wednesday) at 5 p.m. there will be an information meeting about "College Green" a new campus environmental magazine. Anyone interested in being a writer for this upstart publication should attend at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111 or email Katherine Bercik at collegegreen.editor@gmail.com

Next week, the E.W. Scripps Journalism Student Organizations, led by OU SPJ, will be celebrating National Sunshine Week since the actual week falls during finals for us. Please be on the lookout for a full schedule of events later this week. We can't wait to have you join us as we celebrate the importance of the Freedom of Information Act and state Sunshine Laws!

Finally, regional conference is quickly approaching! Let me know if you are interested in attend the weekend in Columbus on April 3-4 ASAP so that we can arrange transportation and hotels for the weekend.

Have a good one!

Evan Millward,
President, OU SPJ

This Week's Very Special Guest

2009-03-01T19:45:00.001-08:00

This week, SPJ is honored to welcome Jason Motlagh.

Jason Motlagh is an international roving journalist currently based in Washington, D.C. He has covered conflicts in South Asia and West Africa, including recent assignments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Jason was desk editor at United Press International, has reported for the Washington Times, Christian Science Monitor, San Francisco Chronicle, and some major United Kingdom newspapers such as The Economist, The Scotsman, and The Globe and Mail. He is a regular contributor to Asia Times Online and other international magazines and publications.

He will share his experiences in reporting international conflicts and provide tips about freelance journalism. He will give lectures on Tuesday and provide students interested in international journalism/affairs with fresh information on global issues such as conflicts and the current social and political situations in a number of countries.

Mr. Motlagh is presented by The Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting, with special help from Dr. Yusuf Kalyango.

**NOTE: This program will last until approximately 6:15 p.m. and will be starting promptly at 5 p.m., please try to be on time. We will be viewing a brief documentary before we are joined by Dr. Kalyango's Foreign Correspondence class and Mr. Motlagh.***

Please invite your friends to this outstanding educational opportunity coming directly to us in Athens!!

See you there!

Ohio SPJ Awards Deadline Extended

2009-02-26T13:03:00.001-08:00

Folks,

Please consider submitting materials for this award. Not only will you make OU and Scripps proud, but you will have one heck of a nice award to brag about. haha

Please note the new deadline.

The deadline has been extended for the 13th annual statewide competition - the Ohio SPJ Awards - the professional development and recognition program jointly managed by the Central Ohio (Columbus), Cincinnati, and Cleveland pro chapters of the Society of Professional Journalists. Together, we honor the best of Ohio's print, television, radio, online, trade and college journalism.

The new postmark deadline for entering this year's competition is March 20, 2009. A printed copy of this year's Call for Entries is in "Ohio's Best Journalism" (aka, the 2008 winners book) distributed at the Rock Hall of Fame awards banquet in October and also mailed in January. Can't find your copy? An online version of the official 2009 Call for Entries is available here for you to download, print and mail by the entry deadline. Simply click here.

Mail your entries, postmarked by March 20, 2009, to:

Ohio SPJ Awards
1331 South High Street
Columbus, OH 43207

Sad Day in Denver

2009-02-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

In a bit of shocking news, the E.W. Scripps Co. (you know? the name on your degree when you graduate) has announced that Denver's Rocky Mountain News, a leader in quality journalism for years, will publish its final edition on Friday.

You can follow the story at the paper's website, here, as well as on Editor and Publisher's website.

This is the third major publication in the past several months to announce an end to its print edition, but this one goes much further, ceasing all operations.

We will have the chance to hear a presentation from Detroit News recruiter Walter Middlebrook about his paper’s plan to cut back home delivery and boost digital readership at Regional Conference in April - you can sign up now!

Reaction to "Post" Cartoon

2009-02-26T12:46:00.000-08:00

Headquarters released their reaction (from the diversity committee) to the political cartoon published by the New York Post last Wednesday, albeit a little late.

It can be found on the diversity committee webpage, here.

Your thoughts?

The Sunshine Project

2009-02-22T22:45:00.000-08:00

Last week, we introduced you all to basic FOIA and state Sunshine law information as well as the growing problem of getting public records from Ohio University.

This week find out what we're going to do to educate our administration and help create a stir to ensure compliance with the Ohio Open Records Law.

If you've ever wondered just what SPJ does and how YOU can get involved more, this is the meeting to be at! Come and join us as we start to make some waves!

We'll see you in Scripps 111 at 5 p.m. on Tuesday for our first service project meeting of 2009. This is YOUR chance for hands-on experience and YOU chance to make a difference in FOIA and Sunshine Law education and compliance at Ohio University.

Aimee Edmondson on the Freedom of Information Act and Sunshine Laws

2009-02-21T17:32:00.000-08:00

At last week's meeting, Assistant Scripps Professor, Aimee Edmondson gave us a basic overview of FOIA and Sunshine laws as a precursor to our spring service project. If you missed last week's meeting or need more clarification about open record laws, check out our snipets from our interview with Edmondson below.

Open Record Laws 101

What is Ohio's Open Record Law and what should you remember when requesting a document?

Dr. Edmondson gives an example of an open record law scenario and provides tips about how to ensure you get your request.

Exclusive Internship Meeting

2009-02-18T20:06:00.000-08:00

From Scripps:

There will be an Exclusive Internship Information Session on Thursday, February 19th from 6-8 PM in Scripps 111. All Scripps College of Communication Students are welcome. The meeting will cover application requirements and deadlines. Past interns from the Today Show, Procter & Gamble Productions, and The Miss Universe Organization as well as last year’s recipients of the Don Perris Scholarship will give testimonials and answer questions.

Questions or more info? Contact Tina Stewart (we met her fall quarter, remember?) at 740.593.9994 or stewart1@ohio.edu

See you there!

Know Your Rights!

2009-02-16T21:36:00.001-08:00

Team -

This week's meeting is of utmost importance to anyone studying journalism at Ohio University and anyone who cares about First Amendment rights.

We will first be educated on all things FOIA (at least the basics, haha) by professor Aimee Edmondson.

Then, OU SPJ will release details about our 2008-2009 service project and how YOU can get involved in what may be the most ambitious project this organization has undertaken on our campus.

Check back here for more details later this week!

We'll see you there at 5 p.m. in Scripps Hall 111.

P.S. as a reminder, there is a great networking opportunity this Thursday in Cincinnati where we can mix and mingle with University of Cincinnati SPJ members and faculty as well as Cincinnati pro chapter members and working journalists in the Tri-State area. Please email Evan at em176906@ohio.edu or come to the meeting and sign-up tomorrow if you are interested. We would be leaving Thursday at about 2:30 p.m. from Athens and at least one car would be returning by about midnight.

Thanks!

Still Need an Internship?

2009-02-12T21:36:00.000-08:00

Each year, the Society of Professional Journalists sponsors internships for 12 bright, motivated and hard working SPJ student journalists to staff The Working Press, a daily tabloid newspaper that covers the SPJ National Convention. Student writers, photographers and designers are invited to apply for these select positions.

This year's convention is set for August 27-29 in Indianapolis. Interns will need to arrive in Indianapolis by noon Wednesday, August 26 and the internship ends Sunday, August 30.

To apply, send 2 sets of the following (submissions will not be returned)

— Cover letter
— Résumé (include summer contact information)
— Three clips, layouts or published photos (relevant to your area of expertise). Please send copies of clips on letter or legal-size paper.

Postmark deadline: April 17, 2009

You provide:

— Energy, talent, great ideas and a good attitude
— Your transportation to and from Indianapolis
— Photographers: bring your own gear (digital)

The Society provides:

— Complimentary convention registration
— Complimentary accommodations at convention hotel
— Mentoring by professional journalists
— Networking venues
— A place to showcase your talents in front of many professionals

Mail applications to:
Society of Professional Journalists
Attn: The Working Press
3909 N. Meridian St.
Indianapolis, IN 46208

Or e-mail your application to Heather Porter.

Questions about The Working Press?
Contact Heather Porter, Professional Development Coordinator, @ 317/927-8000 ext. 204 or via e-mail.

Note: As a Working Press intern, the Society retains all rights to the work you produce during the convention as part of your internship.

Headquarters Makes Waves

2009-02-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

This email was sent to all members of national SPJ this evening - proving once again just how important this issue of transparency and open records is. This can work to our advantage here at OU - it is time the administration got tuned in to the national movement! Enjoy:

Dear SPJ Member:

We're delighted to announce that the Free Flow of Information Act, more commonly referred to as the Federal Shield Law, was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives today as H.R. 985.

You're probably aware that the Society of Professional Journalists has been actively urging Congress and President Obama to pass and sign into law a bill that will protect journalists who refuse to reveal their confidential sources. Because you are a member of the largest journalism association in the country, your voice and opinion matter in this extremely important process.

Today, we are asking you to join the fight to improve and protect journalism. Please contact your representative and voice your support for this measure that is essential to upholding a free and independent press. A list of current contact information for U.S. Representatives can be found here.

When you contact your representative, please tell him or her about your SPJ membership - and that our organization (some 9,000 strong) supports this vital piece of legislation.

In closing, thank you for all that you do for SPJ and for making this organization an industry leader in fighting for the First Amendment rights of journalists.

Yours in the profession,

Dave Aeikens,
SPJ President

Special Thanks!

2009-02-11T18:43:00.001-08:00

Thanks to all members who attended the Valentine's Day Shuffle this evening!

Hope everyone had a great time socializing with other Scripps students while helping make Valentine's Day special for some very deserving ladies!

Stay tuned to our blog as we begin the greatest journey our chapter has ever taken beginning NEXT WEEK! We'll keep you updated!

OU Alums Come "Alive!"

2009-02-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

Join OU SPJ for our weekly meeting tomorrow at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111!

This week we are videochatting with two Scripps and SPJ alumni who currently work at Columbus Alive!, an alternative weekly newspaper and product of The Columbus Dispatch that focuses on culture and entertainment. We'll talk industry and alternative papers with Chris DeVille and Brittany Kress for the majority of our meeting.

As an added bonus, Columbus Alive! is currently seeking summer 2009 interns - so come prepared to ask questions and make valuable contacts!

Check out Columbus Alive! here

OU Open Records - Moving Forward

2009-02-05T19:42:00.000-08:00

We have received quite a bit of national attention this week regarding our present open records issue. The following email was sent as a response tonight to those who had expressed concern.

Enjoy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Good evening-

I want to take minute to thank everyone who has responded to the current open
records crisis at Ohio University and the commentary that has circulated for the
past week. It is so inspiring to see such outpouring of support from our fellow
journalists, SPJ members and alumni.

I promised an update to those of you who wrote to me or commented on our blog
(ohiouspj.blogspot.com) and I intend on delivering it.

Moving forward, we must maintain a non-confrontation approach at the outset.
The executive board of our chapter agrees that we must first investigate
instances of noncompliance and disregard for the Ohio Open Records Law, then we
must educate not only our administration on the law but also the community on
their rights.

Three years ago, the OU student chapter garnered the National Chapter of the
Year award for a service project that audited all 4-year public universities in
the state of Ohio. Not surprisingly, Ohio University failed, coming in last
place. Attached is a rather lengthy description and report of the findings of
that study.

Over the coming months, OU SPJ will be revisiting the Ohio University part of
that audit. Our intent is to recreate and improve upon the research done by
those students in 2005-2006 and compare our results. This will actively involve
our membership and engage them in practices associated with open records
requests - in essence, the ultimate learning experience.

We are also beginning to conduct exhaustive research on local media's past
dealings with the Board of Trustees. Without the proper background knowledge,
we cannot execute an effective educational campaign and pinpoint areas that need
covered. It is our sincere hope that the local media will help us in this
endeavor - journalists working for journalists, the integral part of SPJ for the
past 100 years.

Many of you have asked how you can aid us in our efforts and for that we are
eternally grateful. Again, the outpouring of support has been inspirational and
motivational.

Tonight, the Ohio University student chapter of the Society of Professional
Journalists is issuing a proverbial call to arms.

Journalists are armed with the strongest of weapons - the pen. And it is with
this device that we request the assistance of those who feel so compelled to
speak out on this issue.

Write. Write about this situation. Write to newspapers in Athens, OH (their
contact information follows) and write to other concerned journalists - spread
the word and help us gather support for the cause. Strength lies in numbers and
we must show the board and the administration that this issue will not be
ignored or shrugged off, especially by our alumni.

I encourage you to contact me with any questions or advice you may have - we are
still just beginning to determine our ultimate course of action and want to hear
from YOU. Professional advice and support will continue to guide our moves
through the next several months as we attempt to educate and reverse the culture
that has developed on our beautiful Athens campus.

Thank you for your time and support again! I look forward to hearing from you.

IMPORTANT INFO:

Letters to the Editor
The Post (OU student paper) - posteditorial@ohiou.edu
Athens NEWS - news@athensnews.com
Athens Messenger - address to Ann Kamody - akamody@athensmessenger.com

OU Board of Trustees
trustees@ohio.edu

Read More at the OU SPJ Blog!
ohiouspj.blogspot.com

Help us "Let the Sunshine In" at Ohio University and in Athens!

Thanks again!

Evan Millward
President, Ohio University Society of Professional Journalists

Yusuf Kalyango on International Reporting

2009-02-03T17:23:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

This evening SPJ had the pleasure of hearing from Prof. Yusuf Kalyango, director of OU's Institute for International Journalism.

We also had an opportunity to speak with Dr. Kalyango in a video interview. He shared memories about his international reporting and told us about the challenges and risks of international correspondence. You can view excerpts from our video interview below.

Dr. Kalyango shares a memory that changed the way he views war correspondence.

Dr. Kalyango explains one of the biggest challenges impacting international journalists.

Dr. Kalyango speaks about the impact that ethnocentrism has on international reporting.

Dr. Kalyango talks about the treatment of foreign correspondents in developing countries and gives advice to people who wish to report outside of the United States.

If you're interested in hearing more from Dr. Kalyango, plan on taking his international correspondence course in winter quarter of next year.

Taylor Mirfendereski

Looking Ahead

2009-02-02T10:03:00.000-08:00

SPJers -

I want to extend a warm "Thank You" to our friends at UC SPJ for their continued support of our efforts to spread the word about our situation here at Ohio university as we begin an effort to improve the understanding of open records laws in Athens. (Please see the commenatry two posts below)

Over the weekend, we have received numerous inquiries about how fellow journalists and SPJ members across the country can help in these efforts. I am honored and thrilled at the prospect of so much enthusiasm for our efforts to create a better environment for not only journalists, but also for the general public.

We have a large task ahead of us at OU SPJ in the coming months as we begin to tackle this blatant disregard of freedom of information. We are open to any and all suggestions and I encourage everyone to contact national SPJ as well as local papers here in Athens about the issue. Here is the link to the two origianl stories about this issue:

The Post (January 21, 2009)

The Athens NEWS (July 14, 2008)

After our Executive Board meets on Thursday, we will have a better and more developed understanding of how we plan to proceed so stay posted right here as the next few weeks progress.

Thanks again and remember, it is time we "Let the Sunshine In" here at Ohio University.

Evan Millward,
OU SPJ President

Another One Bites the Dust

2009-02-02T09:54:00.000-08:00

More doom and gloom for everyone this morning - but fear not! The next blog entry is VERY VERY exciting!

Three daily papers in Troy, Sidney and Piqua are scaling back by stopping circulation of their Tuesday editions. This comes from the Dayton Daily News this morning.

Read more here.

This is a continuing trend in the industry today - cutting a day or more and then promising more content on the Web. We'll see how this plays out for these papers and Brown Publishing.

Helpful Stuff

2009-02-01T16:05:00.000-08:00

Sometimes editors and reporters need a little help from their friends. That’s why the Society of Professional Journalists is introducing the Journalists Toolbox. With more than 10,000 listed Web resources and links, this site is a one-stop destination for any reporter or editor working on any story or beat, from crime to the environment to religion.

Now the Society of Professional Journalists is proud to offer this dynamic and incredible resource, free of charge, to any and all. Just visit www.journaliststoolbox.org and see how this resource can work wonders for you! And be sure to bookmark the site and visit often.

Sincerely,
Scott Leadingham
Society of Professional Journalists
sleadingham@spj.org
317-927-8000 ext. 211

Losing trust in our Trustees

2009-01-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

“The Ohio University Board of Trustees serves the public trust. The members of the Board are charged with the responsibility to be accountable to the institution’s mission and cultural heritage, the transcendent values and principles that guide and shape higher education and the public interest as well as the legitimate and relevant interests of the institution’s various constituencies.”

Visitors to the official website of the Ohio University Board of Trustees are greeted by this message. The board has a noble mission, yes – protecting the assets of the first university in the Northwest Territory and the oldest in the state while continuing to foster success and growth. But they also serve to enhance and protect the educational experiences of over 20,000 students across 6 campuses. In order to operate efficiently and effectively in this role requires a strong sense of the community that exists on each of these campuses. The board says so themselves, they have a responsibility to be accountable to the interest of OU’s various constituencies – faculty, students, and alumni.

With this responsibility comes the need for transparency and openness. The board holds the purse strings for the university and acts as watchdog over administration. These 14 people wield and great deal of power – and yet are accountable not only to the staff and students of the university, but also to the state as a whole, which provides much of the annual budget funding.

Imagine, then, the shock that comes with the revelation of this kicker from board chairman C. Daniel Delawder in an email in July 2008 after the Athens NEWS picked up on the board’s continued disregard for fulfilling records requests from student-run newspaper The Post:

“This is a very sore subject for me, and perhaps it’s time we started pushing back. And I am quite serious; I am even unsure that we should provide the next document without a fight. It sickens me to think of the waste and unproductive time being spent in the name of open records and freedom of the press.”

It seems as though the pesky reporters out in Athens are getting on Mr. Chairman’s last nerve and he won’t have it anymore. And who could argue with the man, filling those requests for PUBLIC records is a waste of the money handed to the board by the general fund paid by the same students who made the request.

Maybe it is time we remind Mr. Delawder and the rest of the board that despite their high, mighty, and very distant position with this institution, they are a state entity and therefore must act within the letter of the law. Some of us have a name for that law even – the Ohio Open Records Law, a state extension of the Freedom of Information Act.

While it may seem that records requests are a “waste” and “unproductive” to Mr. Delawder, it is a necessary element to our free society and to our jobs as journalists. But journalists aren’t the only people affected by this brash and blatant disregard for transparency and accountability. Providing open access to meetings and availability of related public documents is something we should ALL fight for. It is certainly worth our time and dedication. Thus, I invite all students who believe in the public’s right to open records to speak out and stand up – join SPJ’s efforts to curb this movement within our university community!

To use Mr. Delawder’s own words, this is a very sore subject for me, and perhaps it is time we start pushing back. And I am quite serious. Should this asinine policy be implemented by the OU Board of Trustees, SPJ will certainly push back – just like it has done for the past 100 years in order to protect the nature and rights of people and journalists across the nation. The Board needs to live up to its creed of account ability to its constituencies and hiding public records is quite counterproductive.

--------------------------------------------------------

This commentary will appear beginning tomorrow in the newest edition of "inc." - pick it up in Scripps Hall! This will be the final print edition on "inc." before we move to an electronic format, allowing us to change our writing style and content somewhat for better ease of access for you.

We at OU SPJ encourage everyone to take a copy tomorrow and over the next week and pass along this commentary to fellow journalists and involved students, faculty, and staff - this is an issue for ALL of us because it is OUR money at stake. Public records are available to the PUBLIC....not just the media.

Evan Millward
President, OU SPJ

Congrats Athens NEWS!

2009-01-27T21:23:00.000-08:00

Editor and Publisher - a website dedicated to the news of the news (mainly the newspaper industry) has released 10 papers "that bucked the trend" of falling profits in 2008.

At the top of that list?

Athens, OH's very own - The Athens NEWS.

According to E&P:

1. The Athens News in Athens, Ohio, finished 2008 with revenue up 3.14 percent over the prior year with profitability also growing by 7.75 percent. While the paper took a hit in insert advertising due to the loss of one major client, classified and display sales were up a combined 4.19 percent and special-issue sales were up 11.67 percent, according to publisher Bruce Mitchell.

He says he remains optimistic about opportunities in the new year. “It’s all in the people you hire and work environment you create," Mitchell says. "Try to overlook the doom and gloom and look for opportunity and great people.”

The full list can be found here.

Evan

URGENT MEETING NOTICE FOR 1/27

2009-01-27T10:03:00.001-08:00

Folks,

Due to the impending winter storm that will be hitting the Athens area any time between now and tomorrow morning, SPJ has postponed its presentation by Yusuf Kalyango. We believe it is more important that he get home form campus safely than speak to us as originally scheduled.

Instead, we WILL STILL MEET tonight as planned in Scripps 111 at 5 p.m. However, we will be watching a documentary called "Peace, Propaganda and the Promised Land" that discusses coverage of the Palestine-Israel situation. This should spark some very good debate.

AND as an added bonus, there is a presentation at 7 p.m. tonight in Baker Ballroom sponsored by Bobcats for Israel that will provide an alternative viewpoint of this hot button issue. Join some SPJers then to listen to Jeff Jacoby from The Boston Globe as he talks about "Why the media get the Middle East wrong."

Please be safe this evening - if you are driving, be especially careful - and we'll see those of you who can still safely make it at 5 p.m.!

Evan Millward

Covering Crisis

2009-01-26T16:27:00.000-08:00

Join us tomorrow at 5 p.m. in Scripps Hall 111!

We'll be hearing from broadcast news faculty member and director of the E.W. Scripps Institute of International Journalism, Yusuf Kalyango.

Dr. Kalyango will speak to us about how American media cover crisis and what we as journalists need to know when reporting on sensitive situations. He will also discuss foreign correspondence and international journalism. Yusuf is a wealth of knowledge, so come prepared to learn a lot and ask questions!

You can also order your 2008-2009 official OU SPJ t-shirt for just $10 at the meeting! Represent our organization around campus and when we travel to conferences across the country! We've been "AP Stylin' since 1909" and are damn proud of it!

Don't forget about the "Spread the Word" book drive! You can donate all kinds of books in the boxes located at all campus dining halls, Baker Center, and Alden Library - or you can just bring them to our meetings! The book drive runs through February 20th and benefits Athens County Children Services so donate today and give a child the love of reading to foster an interest in journalism!

See you tomorrow!

Evan

Miss Tuesday's Meeting?

2009-01-24T16:06:00.000-08:00

Senior public relations major and PRSSA president Paul Matson led our first New Media Workshop last Tuesday. Paul talked about and demonstrated how to utilize new media tools like Facebook, blogging, Twitter, and Google Reader, while SPJ members followed along on their laptops.

Prior to the meeting, Paul offered some additional insight about social media in an interview with SPJ. You can view snippets from the interview below:

Paul discusses the advantages of utilizing social media.

Thinking about starting a blog? Paul gives advice about how to create one and what to write about.

If you're interested in what else Paul has to say, visit his website, where he offers more tips about utilizing social media.

A Friend in the White House?

2009-01-22T10:43:00.000-08:00

IN an interesting follow-up to The Post's editorial that did indeed run today, there is news coming out of Washington yesterday that President Obama has issued a memorandum ensuring that his administration will be more open than past administrations and will fight on the side of FOIA and public records.

Here is the link.

So, we have a nice little drama that may play out here in Athens, don't we?

Evan

Thoughts on Free Press and Public Records

2009-01-21T20:01:00.000-08:00

So I was perusing The Post's website just a few minutes ago in between some work and stumbled upon this kicker in their editorial (I am assuming for Thursday's paper).

"The board wants to put on a public mask that hides the sometimes-ugly realities of running a university. It expects students and taxpayers to believe that this board and the administrators it hires are the arbiters of good decisions, and it refuses to answer to those who question that authority.

But we should have seen this coming. The writing was on the wall in July, when The Athens News reported that C. Daniel DeLawder, the board chairman, opposed a records request The Post filed.

The News reported that DeLawder wrote this in an e-mail: “This is a very sore subject for me, and perhaps it’s time we started pushing back. And I am quite serious; I am even unsure that we should provide the next document without a fight. It sickens me to think of the waste and unproductive time being spent in the name of open records and freedom of the press.”"

NOTE: bold added by myself for emphasis.

Full article here.

Looks like something we, as an SPJ chapter, should be looking into...

What kinds of implications does this have on the media in the area? What kind of legal implications could this have on the university?

Should prove to be fodder for some good group discussions.

Evan

T-Shirt Time!

2009-01-20T20:05:00.000-08:00

Hey gang!

Hope everyone enjoyed the meeting today - I know I sure learned a lot! I wonder if anyone new joins Blogger and comments on these after that one. Anyway, a big thank you to Paul for doing an awesome job as always!

Here is the design for the 2008-2009 OU SPJ t-shirts!

For whatever reason, the text didn't show up - above the bobcat will read "AP Stylin'" and below it: "Since 1909." The back will say "Ohio University Society of Professional Journalists". Sorry about the mix-up.

T-shirts can be ordered at our meeting on Tuesday, January 27! We'll let you know if we extend the order period.

Have a good one!

Evan

New Media Workshop is Tomorrow!

2009-01-19T20:02:00.000-08:00

Join fellow Scripps student and PRSSA president Paul Matson tomorrow at 5 p.m. in Scripps Hall 111 for our first New Media Workshop!

We all know the media is changing, and changing drastically. This is your chance to be on the cutting edge and learn the tools of the trade - Facebook, blogging, Flickr, twitter, and a slew of other ways to market yourself as a journalist and to report the news happening around you.

We invite you to BRING YOUR LAPTOPS so you can follow along and create yoru own new media experiences!

Paul Matson is a senior student at Ohio University, majoring in public relations with a minor in marketing. Paul is highly involved on campus and has served a number of internships in public relations, marketing and advertising. He is currently the president of The Public Relations Student Society of American (PRSSA), a previous member of the Ohio University Forensics Speech and Debate team, and a member of Campus Crusade for Christ. His internship experiences include positions at General Electric, Lamar Advertising, Coldstone Creamery, The Kempton Group, and Ohio University. In his current job, Paul is the marketing intern under Vice President Howard Lipman at the office of Advancement in McGuffey Hall. In his spare time, Paul is the drummer in a local band, enjoys rock climbing and is training to run in the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon in May.

Cabin Fever Reliever!!

2009-01-13T11:46:00.000-08:00

Join SPJ for:

Cabin Fever Reliever!

Pizza, games and getting to know all your fellow SPJers!!

Tues Jan 13th from 5-6 in Scripps 111

Meeting Music

2009-01-07T18:34:00.001-08:00

Now for a fun blog post...

We want to start playing music before our meetings (in that awkward 5 -5:10 p.m. time frame) but want to know what YOU want to hear!

Reply to this post with a list of ideas and, who knows, maybe you'll hear your playlist at the next meeting!

Thanks!

The OU SPJ team

Layoffs and Budget Cuts hit Dayton TV

2009-01-07T18:31:00.000-08:00

The Dayton Daily News reports this evening that each TV news station in the market is reducing costs in one of several ways.

WDTN, the NBC affiliate, is not renewing the contracts of an anchor and of a reporter. WHIO, the CBS affiliate, is on a hiring freeze. WKEF and WRGT, the ABC and Fox affiliates respectively, announced earlier that they had not renewed the contract of anchor Mark Pompilio.

Here's the link

Looks like papers aren't the only ones suffering...

Thoughts?

FIRST MEETING TOMORROW

2009-01-05T17:04:00.001-08:00

SPJers,

Join us tomorrow (Tuesday) at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111 for our first meeting of the quarter!

In 2009, SPJ marks 100 Years of Improving and Protecting Journalism and we at the OU chapter are kicking it off right with a full-slate of exciting projects and programming to involve you in the media industry and help you connect with professionals across the state.

If you are interested in becoming more involved with our group or even if you are a casual attender - this is a meeting you want to be a part of!

Hope your Syllabus Day was splendid and that winter quarter will be kind to you!

See you tomorrow at 5!

Evan

2009 SPJ Announcements!

2008-12-30T20:59:00.000-08:00

Fellow Students and Journalists:

Greetings and warmest holiday wishes to you and your family this season! I hope Winter Intercession has provided each of you an opportunity to relax and take a breather from the daily stresses and fatigues of college life at OU. However, winter quarter is creeping ever closer and soon enough we will be returning to Athens and the daily grind.

The New Year is in just a couple of days and we at OU SPJ have made our resolution already – to be more proactive in working for YOU. In 2009, we celebrate 100 years of improving and protecting journalism and the Ohio University chapter has a full slate of helpful workshops and programs to further YOUR education and experience and to connect YOU to hundreds of working professionals across the country.

Fall quarter we offered you a variety of unique programming geared toward “Hot Topics” from the election to the economic meltdown. But that was just the beginning… Here’s a quick look at what OU SPJ has up its sleeve for you this January:

Meetings

Our first meeting will occur on Tuesday, January 6 and will be a detailed introduction to the programs I outline below. We will also introduce you to SPJ’s Centennial plans on a nationwide scale. From here we will meet as committees to plan the work the needs to be completed throughout the quarter – this is YOUR chance to make a difference and leave a legacy – make SPJ something more meaningful then a weekly meeting.
Then on Tuesday, January 13 we will have pizza and board games as a chance to get to know each other better and build a community here at Scripps. We hope you’ll join us for free food and fun and bring your friends!
This quarter we are focusing on the values upheld by national SPJ – diversity, First Amendment, and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Come to SPJ and know YOUR rights as a journalist across the country.

inc. – internships. news. commentary.

By far the most exciting of our new projects is the new OU SPJ publication, “inc.”
“inc.” includes insightful stories and helpful hints from alumni and guest speakers in the industry. Also inside you’ll find a continuously updating list of available internships.
“inc.” will be the definitive resource for Scripps students interested in internship opportunities, free-press activism and in what’s going on in the media industry. Editions can be picked up in Scripps Hall and at weekly SPJ meetings.
“inc.” will initially be published bi-weekly, with an expanded schedule and online version to be available in future months.
“inc.” drops Tuesday, January 13.

Book Drive

Reading is one of the most crucial aspects of good journalism – it is the stepping stone to the English language and, ultimately, the world of journalism. This is the basis for our 1st ever book drive in Athens and on campus. Books can be donated in bins located not only in select buildings on campus, but also at businesses in town.
This community effort will bring the joy of reading to children in struggling Appalachian schools which have little or no funding to provide adequate libraries of books to be read for pleasure.
The initiative will last from January 23 to February 30.

High School Essay Contest

As part of a larger national endeavor, OU SPJ is joining in the 2009 SPJ High School Essay Contest as judges for our region. This year’s theme is “Why Free News Media Are Important” and essays are to be 300-500 words.
Using the WOUB service area as a map, we will be contacting and recruiting for essays from high schools in 19 counties. As an organization, we’ll be reading and judging the submitted essays in March.
Our winner will compete against others for a $1000 scholarship.

This is just the tip of the iceberg for our schedule for Winter Quarter – we at OU SPJ hope that you share in our excitement about the programs scheduled for these next three months.

We’ll see you and your friends for our first meeting on Tuesday, January 6 at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111! Don’t forget to read our blog at http://ohiouspj.blogspot.com to keep in touch and learn more about the programs mentioned above.

Hope you had a safe and happy holiday season and we will see you in 2009!

Warmly,

Evan Millward
President
SPJ Ohio University chapter

Trouble Hits Home

2008-12-29T14:37:00.000-08:00

In a front page note Sunday, Cincinnati Enquirer publisher Margaret Buchanan announced the paper will debut a narrower page size in March as well as combine its Local and Life sections.

The Associated Press also reports the paper plans on cutting classified ads on Mondays and Tuesdays as part of further cost-cutting efforts after seeing revenues decline all year.

The Enquirer is owned by Gannett, which recently cut some 2000 jobs in the latest of budgetary precautions being taken by the publishing powerhouse.

Looks like print editions are going to be taking the Jenny Craig route to save money at least for the time being.

Thoughts?

Evan

Holiday Message

2008-12-24T13:45:00.000-08:00

SPJers -

I know we had promised some announcements before the holidays, but we all have been very busy these past few weeks with other obligations.

You'll see those come next week, I promise haha. We'll also catch you up on what's happening in the media world then too.

Thanks for hanging in there and we'll see you all in Athens in just under two weeks!

On behalf of SPJ the OU chapter - Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

Evan

Detroit Papers - No More Home Delivery

2008-12-16T18:42:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official.

We reported here last week rumors that the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News would both be cutting home delivery on most days of the week.

We also reported that they would announce their final plans today

CNN and other sources have reported what we feared most... read on.

But, is this a bad thing? It's been no secret that the future lies online, and that is what these papers are doing now - cutting home delivery on all but three days and boosting their electronic editions. Is this the future of the industry?

What do you all think about this news? Does this affect anyone's plans to major in news writing/editing at OU?

Also, we will have our promsied announcement up tomorrow, once we send it to membership via email! :D

Evan

Waiting for Tuesday

2008-12-12T17:26:00.000-08:00

Uh-oh.

It looks as if the rumor that has been flying all week, that the Detroit News and the Detroit Free Press would cut daily circulation down to a select couple of days each week, may be coming true.

The Wall Street Journal reports today that people close to the company have said that the president is scheduled to make an announcement Tuesday and this is the leading scenario.

Here is the full story.

On a related note, everyone's favorite raging conservative pundit (or bitch?), Ann Coulter, has now thrown her opinion (as if anyone cares) into the ring - she is thrilled about the supposed impending death of newspapers.

Watch the video here.

Finally today, regardless of the news out of Detroit Tuesday, we at OU SPJ will have some VERY exciting news coming via email that day. I'll post it here as well - be on the lookout for it!

Have a great weekend!

Evan

Someone Tell Dr. Stewart

2008-12-11T11:47:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun story-

Tickets are now on sale for a little competition in Washington D.C. called "Journopalooza."

Four bands made up of reporters from The Washington Post, the LA Times, McClathy Newspapers, the Washington Independent, Bloomberg News, and others will compete for the title of Best Reporter-Based Washington Rock Group.

The proceeds from the event benefit both the Committee to Protect Journalists and the National Press Club and their efforts to train and support journalists.

Visit the official website and check out the contenders!

Who knows - maybe one day our very own Bob Stewart will be taking the stage as a journalist-musician in D.C. as well!

Trouble in Toledo

2008-12-10T22:39:00.001-08:00

Turns out Dayton wasn't next, it was Toledo.

The Associated Press is reporting that the Toledo Blade, owned by Block Communications, is cutting 25 jobs from the newsroom due to declining ad revenues and its ties to the faltering auto industry.

Is it me or has this month been a landslide of trouble for newspapers?

I want to know what you all think newspapers should be doing to slow this snowball effect of layoffs and closures or sales...thoughts?

Evan

Could Dayton Daily be next?

2008-12-10T21:07:00.000-08:00

More bad news from the newspaper world and Cox Publishing this evening.

Cox, which owns the Dayton Daily News, announced last week the imminent closure of its D.C. bureau.

Now it appears the Cox-owned Atlanta Journal-Constitution will cut its distribution area by 27 counties in Georgia and North Carolina as well as 156 full- and part-time jobs in the newsroom and business sectors.

Read more on this

My worry - will Dayton soon see similar cuts and struggles? Though it appears to be the flagship paper of the company (since it is the birthplace of Cox Enterprises and all), I feel like these economic times and the news coming in from around the business are taking no prisoners.

Something to watch for those of us in and around the DDN's distribution area, me thinks.

Evan

A Win for Public Records

2008-12-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled in favor of the "Toledo Blade" in a debate over public records.

Seneca County commissioners must now hand over emails that discuss proposed plans to replace a 120-year old courthouse.

Read more here

On a side note, join us Winter Quarter for discussion on YOUR rights as journalists and reporters to these public records. We'll be spending time discussing the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and First Amendment rights as well.

A full schedule of Winter events will be announced shortly.

Evan

Making Friends

2008-12-09T14:28:00.000-08:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to meet with Taylor Dungjen and Elissa Sonnenberg today in Cincinnati.

Taylor is the president of the University of Cincinnati SPJ chapter and Elissa is the organization's faculty adviser.

We discussed membership challenges and programming opportunities in our chapters as well as the state of the media and business in general.

As we prepare for the 100th Anniversary of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Region 4 conference in Columbus in April, it was nice to meet other involved students and faculty. Especially following the news from publishers across the country last week, networking is becoming more important than ever before.

Be on the lookout - OU SPJ has made some new friends and maybe, just maybe, we'll be seeing more of them over the next few months too ;)

As a reminder, dues need to be paid by December 31. Be on the lookout - we'll be sending members emails over the next week or so about the exciting new projects and schedules for Winter Quarter!

Evan

Plain Dealer Announces Layoffs

2008-12-05T05:43:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!
It has been a rough week for newspapers across the country. In addition to the last couple posts, the Cleveland Plain Dealer also announced layoffs earlier this week. Editor Susan Goldberg cited lack of participation in the sale of the 166-year-old publication, which is currently owned by Advance Publications (Sun Newspapers, Conde Nast). Twenty-seven employees were notified Tuesday through a telephone call from Goldberg that they did not need to come into work.

http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003918104

On a side note, I hope everyone is having an awesome break! Let me know if you have any suggestions! I look forward to working with you!

Sincerely,
Stefanie Toth
Treasurer