Don't Judge A Book By The Cover....or sometimes even by the first 50 pages

Though it is slightly belated, as this list would have been more helpful last week during the sentence we were given due to the snow, I think it is still relevant, and one that should be perused. I recently started reading In Cold Blood by Truman Capote for Dr. Stacy Spaulding’s Literary Journalism class (My first edition copy is pictured here). It begins a little slow, and as wonderfully descriptive as Capote is, some of the sentences do run a little long. You may occasionally have to return to the original thought at the beginning of the sentence to remind you of the information he was giving. I’ve been told since elementary school that it is wrong to begin a sentence with a conjunction. I don’t always agree with that belief, as I feel it can add emphasis to a sentence and allow it to stand out. However, when there are four sentences in two paragraphs that begin with ‘and’ or ‘but’, it can become slightly distracting. I am not attempting to deter you from reading this novel; in fact, it is quite the opposite, but I do feel that it is something of which you should be warned. If you have yet to read the following books, add them to your list of necessities.

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

On the Road by Jack Kerouac

One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey

Black Like Me by John Howard Griffin

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger (Resist any assassination desires.)

Existentialism by Jean-Paul Sartre

Anything written by Friedrich Nietzsche

When Cupid's Arrow Strikes The Achilles

Substance is not something you’ll find in the film Valentine’s Day, no matter how hard you try. A host of pretty faces does not save the film’s main problem of having no plot. It attempts to be a romantic comedy in the vein of Crash and Pulp Fiction, with characters coming in and out of each other’s lives, however, director Garry Marshall has forgotten to include one genuine exchange between them. You will also find no romance, and no comedy. The blonde boy (Bryce Robinson) in the film is eerily well spoken, and is somewhat reminiscent of a child from Village of the Damned with eyes like a resident in the Bradbury novel The Martian Chronicles. (The creepy photo of him is courtesy of IMDb. If you view the larger photo on the website, you'll see more of what I mean.) Also, am I the only one who lived in a neighborhood where you would have gotten beaten up if your first name was Edison? If predictability is something you desire, then you will absolutely love this film. If you miss anything, you will be quickly reminded by the 16,000 shrill teen screams in the audience when the characters dance from their puppet strings.

Road Chivalry Is Dead

While driving home last week in the snow, I came to the conclusion that most people who have a license SHOULD NOT have one. I’ve yet to determine whether they are really are just without the necessary hand-eye coordination, or if they are simply inconsiderate of everyone else on the road. When the snow has made it so the lines on the road can’t be seen, one would think that it would be obvious that it is dangerous to pass other cars, let alone at 50 and in the right-hand lane. If your car has a manual transmission, as mine does, try to stay in the highest possible gear to prevent excess wheel spin. Also, DO NOT downshift to slow the car down. This is something that really should be done even in good weather conditions. Remember—it is much less expensive to replace worn brakes than to replace a clutch. Most sources say to turn the wheel in the direction of the spin, however, it is also important to learn to counter-steer to correct the slide. Driving in heavy snow conditions should always be avoided when possible, but you CAN be safe about it. When the news says that no one should be on the roads except for emergency vehicles, don’t be one of those people who thinks it is a mere suggestion and doesn’t apply to them.

Yellow Snow Is No Longer Your Main Concern

I recently went to refill my water bottle from the fountain on the second floor of Towson's Van Bokkelen Hall, and was quite surprised when I went to take a sip and noticed that the water has a slight yellow tint. Ok, ok, I’ll admit, I was too thirsty at the time for that to keep me from drinking it, but I was still a little concerned. I will be speaking with administrators in an attempt to address this problem, and will hopefully have more information for you very soon. In the meantime, I would recommend not using these fountains. I have only noticed this in the Van Bokkelen building; however, this doesn’t mean that it is confined to this location. If anyone notices this in any other buildings, I would like to know so I can include this in my inquiry. Until then, it might be best to bring water from home or to buy it from the vending machines on campus.

A Hard Rain's Gonna Melt

The abundance of snow has Maryland up against the wall, and it was illegal to dump into the Chesapeake Bay until this recent storm, as officials don’t know what to do with it. It is now legal to do so, and experts say that it should not have a major effect on the salinity of the bay. However, they have said that a heavy rain could melt the snow too quickly, and could cause flooding and other problems. An article on WJZ’s website has more information on this potential problem. I think that it could be slightly premature to say that the immense amount of snow that will be deposited will only have this consequence. Just in case, prepare for extra salty crabs next season.

(Photo from original article)

A Temporary Hiatus

Though this will be my first post in the last 8 months, I think I may finally be ready to commit to it. I've always loved to write, however, I haven't always loved to share it. Obviously, this is something I'll have to grow accustomed to as an aspiring journalist. My main goal will be to provide relevant thoughts in an increasingly irrelevant world. I'd like to think I have a lot to say, but I suppose you'll be the judges of that.

Recent Beat Story

I found a story in the Baltimore Sun by Ken Murray entitled, "In Baltimore, a question: Why not a World Cup?"  It discussed the upcoming game to be played at M & T Stadium between European soccer teams Chelsea and AC Milan.  It also went on to discuss the possibility of Baltimore hosting the World Cup in 2018 or 2022.  

The article was informative, but I think it should have talked more about the upcoming game, as the amount of tickets sold show how well-received a World Cup match would be in Baltimore.  I would have also added some quotes from city residents or those who will be attending the game in July, telling how they feel about the World Cup being brought to their city.  Some pictures would have also brightened up the story and given it a little more life.  I would have, at the very least, added a picture of the stadium, and perhaps the World Cup logo.  The original story can be found here.

Slideshow Stumped

I've been having some trouble with this assignment in deciding on a person to profile that is related to my beat.  I'm not really sure who I could talk to that would be good for two minutes of airtime, especially one that would be considered somewhat of an "expert" on the subject.  I'm a little worried; any suggestions would be appreciated.  

I had thought about possibly interviewing the owner of a skate park, as it is a popular, fun activity that is inexpensive to do, and there would be a lot to photograph as well as people to talk to.

Non-Linear Project Ideas

I haven't quite decided yet how I'm going to approach this.  In keeping with the beat, it will be about something to do without spending a lot of money.  I was thinking, however, about doing something on being able to go on a vacation on a budget, and how to get the most out of your money on the trip.  I think this might be too long for a 250 word story though.  

I would also like to do something on the music scene in the Towson and Baltimore area, as it is something I enjoy and have yet to touch on in the beat so far.  I've been having a little trouble choosing someone to use for a source in that story idea.

I have a couple other ideas that I may explore, but I think these could turn into good stories.

Humble is an Understatement

I did my feature story on the Walters Art Museum, located on the corner of Centre and Cathedral streets in Baltimore.  It was a great experience, as I was trying to find something in the area that many people could appreciate, not to mention visit for free.  You could easily spend the day there if you wanted to see everything, which might not even be possible in seven hours.  

If you enjoy art or history, you will not be disappointed.  If you don't enjoy art and history, you should still go because it is something you should see simply because it is available to you.  Maybe my story can convince you.  It's something you don't want to miss out on.

Noticing Video Editing Techniques

I watched a National Geographic episode of Explorer called Peru's Mass Grave Mystery about the discovery of a site in Peru with over 100 skeletal remains of the Chachapoya civilization, who were known as the "Cloud Warriors."  It has not been determined what happened to these people, and they were found not buried, but on the floor of their houses.  

 

There was very good video editing in this show, with varying shots from different angles and distances, even if they were of the same subject.  It kept me interested and I was able to see how the narrator would introduce specific people and describe what is happening in general, and then cut to the person who would give much more detail.  

 

In the beginning of the show, a segment went from a wide shot of the mountain side and site to a close-up of an archaeologist brushing off a skull to a medium shot of the sectioned-off site to a close up shot of a photographer.  There was voice over the video for the entire show.    

Most shots were on the screen for 2-4 seconds, though there was an occasional 6-7 second shot, seemingly for dramatic effect.  Another segment showed the archaeologists descending a rock wall, going from a wide shot from below to a close shot from above to a medium shot from below, then to a close up of the pulley hammered into the rock, and back to a medium shot of a single climber.  

 

The shots were very well varied and edited.  I was able to notice many of the techniques that were discussed in class, and after editing video myself, appreciate the work that went into putting it together.  You can find out more at the National Geographic website.

My Audio Story

My audio story was about Bel Air Billiards.  It is located on Bel Air South Parkway in Bel Air, across from the Festival.  I wanted to find something that you could do that wouldn't cost a lot of money and was available late into the night.  It was the first time I had ever been there, and it is only about ten miles from my house.  I had a lot of fun and the guys working there are really friendly.  It can be very relaxing to shoot a few games of pool, not to mention have a couple beers and some wings, which are very good.  You should check it out; I think you'll have a good time as well.  You can hear the story on the Beer, Bleu Cheese and Bank Shots link.

Audio Story Ideas

I'm not entirely sure what I'm going to do for my audio story yet.  I've been thinking about doing a story on the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.  It is relatively inexpensive and there is a lot to see there.  I think I'd try to speak with a zoo guide, as well as some visitors to the zoo.  Also, with the animals, there would obviously be plenty of natural sound to capture, not to mention the sounds of children in the zoo.  This is my main idea right now and I think it could make for a good story, but any suggestions would be appreciated.

Recent Beat Story Addition

I found a story about the Maryland Zoo's annual Brew in the Zoo, an event where beer and wine are served and tents are set up with crafts and food for sale, as well as live music.  It was expected to be rained out, but the weather ended up staying clear for the day.  It had a good turnout, yet lines were short and people had a great time.

Source: http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/news/kasperontap/2009/05/brew_at_the_zoo_review.html

I would add quotes from someone from the Maryland Zoo, and a more information on how the event came to be.  There was only a couple quotes in the article.  I would also add at least one quote from someone that attended the event.  There was nothing in the article that said where the money or proceeds from the event went.  There were also no pictures of the event, only a logo of the advertisement for the Brew in the Zoo.  I think this would really add to the story and help publicize the event.

Broadcast Leads

An Anne Arundel County woman who had recently moved out west to have her first baby was found dead Friday in the Oregon home of a woman she might have met through Craigslist, police said. The baby also died.  

Source:  http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/annearundel/bal-pregnant0607,0,7224215.story

Broadcast Lead:  An 8-month pregnant woman from Anne Arundel County has been found dead in the Oregon home of a woman police believe she may have met on Craigslist.

Officials say a historic 19th century Rockville building that once housed a famed psychiatric hospital has been destroyed by fire.

Source:  http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-rockville-fire0607,0,4224299.story

Broadcast Lead:  A 19th century Rockville building that was once a famous hospital has burned to the ground.

Carroll County Sheriff’s deputies arrested and charged three Frederick men early Friday morning after police said the men attempted to burglarize the Crossroads Inn, 6694 Middleburg Road, Keymar, near the Frederick-Carroll County line.

Source: http://www.explorecarroll.com/news/2992/3-men-arrested-keymar-bar-burglary/

linked from Baltimore Sun Local Section

Broadcast Lead:  Carroll County deputies arrested three Frederick men charged with attempted burglary of the Crossroads Inn in Keymar.

Feature Story Idea

My feature story will be an extension of my first original reporting blog post.  I would like to do a more in-depth story on either The Walters Art Museum or The Baltimore Museum of Art.  I have contacted the head of volunteer coordination at The Walters Art Museum, though I prefer more contemporary art that can be found at The Baltimore Museum of Art.  I am a big fan of artists like Wassily Kandinsky, Jackson Pollock and Jean-Michel Basquiat.  I find surrealist art to be some of the most interesting art, as it is open to interpretation and individual judgment.  

As I discussed in my previous blog post, I believe that having these masterpieces available to us is quite a gift.  We have the ability to view these markers of history as they were meant to be seen, not to mention the close proximity and the free admission.

If you are interested in photography, as I am an avid photographer, you will be happy to learn that photography is permitted inside the museum, though tripods cannot be used and video cannot be recorded.  Aside from photographing the displayed paintings, it is often very interesting to observe people as they are viewing paintings.  Watching someone study something intently and being able to tell that they are analyzing it thoroughly can be very entertaining and even intense to watch.  

Masterpieces for Free, Can It Be?

As Friedrich Nietzsche said, "Great art justifies the suffering in the world."  I believe that those who do not expose themselves to art of all types are truly depriving themselves of much of the beauty in life.  Even those who are not into art can still appreciate the message it conveys, as well as respect the skill required to produce it.

Lucky for us, we have two great art museums in the area, both located in Baltimore and free to visit.  The Baltimore Museum of Art and The Walters Art Museum are each home to pieces done by some of the greatest artists the world has ever seen.  The Baltimore Museum of Art has more modern art, mostly from the 19th century and ranging to contemporary art.  The Walters Art Museum is mainly pre-1900 art, with pieces dating back to the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

I spoke with Stuart Kaufman (no relation) from The Walters Art Museum, who is an art major and a volunteer at the museum with visitor information.  The museum has something to offer everyone.  Mr. Kaufman said that the best times to visit were during the week, preferably early in the day, to beat the crowds.  The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday.  The Renaissance and Baroque exhibit is very popular, though you won't find anything by Michelangelo or Caravaggio.  Mr. Kaufman said that the exhibit had been set up to mimic how the paintings would have been displayed in the time they were created.  

There is an indoor conservation window, which allows visitors to view museum workers bringing in new pieces, as well as cleaning and restoring older pieces.  There is even an exhibit that shows the layout and construction of an ancient Egyptian tomb.  Mr. Kaufman said that the most popular exhibit was the 19th century art gallery, "because it is the largest and most diverse gallery in the museum, and features work by extremely famous artists like Monet and Manet."  The museum will soon be receiving a piece by Herman Maril, a modern artist who was from Baltimore, which Mr. Kaufman said that, "they were really excited about."

If you have any interest in art, these museums are a must-see.  Even if you are not an art buff, you would be foolish to not take the opportunity to see masterpieces of art in person.  I mean, if the pyramids were only a half-hour drive away, wouldn't you go see them?

The Wall Street Journal Formula

An article I found that utilized the Wall Street Journal formula was from The Baltimore Sun's website and was written by Susan Reimer, entitled, "See gardens at their peak."  It can be found at http://www.baltimoresun.com/features/custom/homegarden/bal-ae.li.susan04jun04,0,3527788.story.  

The article begins with the lead, "If gardeners are ever truly green, it is probably with envy, an emotion that overtakes them when they see someone else's garden."  The lead is somewhat extended as the next sentence is, "That's never more true than on garden tours, when you pay for a ticket to see gardens that are nicer than yours."  The article goes on to discuss the Historic Reservoir Hill Tour, which has been going on for 15 years.  People take self-guided tours of the area, and signs and balloons mark places of interest.  The article ends with the sentences, "If you decide to take one of these tours, don't be discouraged if what you see doesn't compare to what you have.  This isn't a competition."  

It follows the Wall Street Journal formula because it begins with a slightly vague, but intriguing anecdotal lead to draw the reader in.  It then tells the story, using the inverted pyramid.  Finally, it circles back to the lead in the conclusion, which readers enjoy, as it nicely wraps up the story, and in many cases, the feeling of resolution.

Feature vs. Summary Leads

Without a good lead, stories cannot succeed in drawing in the reader.  The lead is one of the most important parts of the story.  A feature lead is one that gives the reader a taste of what is to come, without revealing too much.  It should be interesting and thought-provoking to entice the audience to read further.  Summary leads give more of the facts, but well-written ones will give the readers reason to continue.  

One good feature lead I found was on CNN.com at http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/06/02/stem.cell.therapy/index.html.  The story is about U.S. citizens trying stem cell treatments in other countries.  It begins with "It's shortly after 5 a.m. when the phone rings, and on the line is a clearly anxious and worried parent."  This gives very little detail about the story to come, but anyone with children would be able to relate to this situation, even if they haven't had to go through it personally.  

Another good feature lead I found was on the Time magazine website at http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1902265,00.html, and was about the planned restructuring of General Motors, which recently filed for Chapter 11.  The lead is: "Before the new General Motors Corp. envisioned by the Obama administration can take wing, the remains of the old GM will have to be buried."  Most people never imagined that one of the biggest corporations in the world, as well as one of the United States largest employers, would be in the situation they are today.  With the economy in the poor state that it is, many major companies are in trouble.  Even though people are dealing with their own problems, they still worry about problems that are facing others.

Beat It Like A Drum

I've decided to do my beat on ways to have fun during the summer without spending a lot of money.  Most college students have tightly stretched budgets as it is, but you can still have a great summer without going broke.  There is much to do in Towson, as well as the surrounding areas, that can be enjoyed while keeping those flies in your wallet.  From athletic events to concerts, special nights at restaurants and bars to museums and historic locations, there is something in the area for everyone.  

I plan on not only letting you know about these activities, but also attending some of these events and places myself to give you the pertinent details or must-see attractions.  I believe that one of the reasons many students find themselves bored is because they are not aware of some of the options that are available to them.  Hopefully this blog will allow you to leave that group and make the most out of your summer without emptying your bank account.