Free Food or Free Life?

Kenneth McNulty, Reporter

The First Amendment Free Food Festival, hosted by the Society of Professional Journalists, gave Ohio University students and members the Athens community a chance to experience an unusual scenario last Friday at the Howard Hall Site.

After symbolically signing away their First Amendment rights, festival attendees were given free food. However, if these surrendered rights were abused, the  “goons”, enforcers of the new law on the festival’s grounds, escorted the attendees who failed to comply off the premises.

The motive behind this event was to emphasize the importance of the First Amendment rights.

“We’re trying to spread awareness of what the First Amendment is,” Planning Chair for OU SPJ Sandhya Kambhampati said.

Kambhampati believes that many people in our country do not fully know or appreciate what the First Amendment does for us.

“It’s something you don’t really think about, but take for granted,” Kambhampati said.

Being a national organization, SPJ events in smaller chapters such as OU’s can help spread the message to multiple locations.

“It’s [the festival] a national event and held at a lot of other campuses,” said Taylor Mirfendereski, President of the Ohio University SPJ chapter. “We were lucky enough to have that foundation; it wasn’t our idea from the start”.

Mirfendereski helped organize the festival and was one of the “goons” who enforced the First Amendment restrictions and rules during the event.

Upon entering the festival, attendees were given passports to symbolize their entrance into a new country along with a list of “commandments” to abide by. These commandments included, but were not limited to, no speaking in line or to members of the opposite sex, dress code restrictions and a requirement for members of the press to be supervised at all times.

Some participants had difficulty adjusting to these rules.

“I mean, I understood what I had to do, but it was kind of hard being with your friends and not being able to talk to them,” OU student Ariel Stiggers said.

Overall, the event helped students and members of the Athens community see just what the First Amendment rights entail and how lucky Americans are to have these rights.

“Even in a free country, you will always have different interpretations of the First Amendment and there are people who don’t necessarily follow it, but when you compare that to other countries,” Mirfendereski said, “…I am grateful for what we have.”

 

 

Resumes are InDesign

Kenneth McNulty, Reporter

On Tuesday, September 27 ,the Society of Professional Journalists will be hosting an InDesign workshop from 5-7 pm in the 002 Mac lab of Scripps Hall.

Sarah Grothjan, Publicity Chair for SPJ organized the event to help out journalism students who may not know what InDesign is or how to use it.

“We felt that it was important that people could get skill sets at these meetings that they can’t necessarily get in the classroom unless they take courses within the school of visual communication,” said Grothjan.

Grothjan said she wanted to hold this workshop to help journalism students of all fields.

InDesign is an ever-growing tool in the journalistic field and Grothjan sees the program as vital for students to be comfortable with early on.

Grothjan will be teaching students how to use InDesign and will specifically go through how to make a resume using the program. She wants the students to not only be able to use InDesign comfortably after the session, but also to come out with something to prove what they have learned.

President of SPJ, Taylor Mirfendereski said,  “We just wanted to benefit our members however possible, so it was kind of like a two birds with one stone kind of deal.”

Mirfendereski sees these events as a very beneficial force in helping students get a more in depth overview of the software, which are skills they may not be able to fully encompass during their classes.

“Really whatever programs our members are eager to learn, we will find a way to make it happen,” said Mirfendereski.

SPJ encourages students who may need help with learning the mechanics of the InDesign software, or just want a head start on their resume design, to come to Scripps 002 this Tuesday and leave with the skills and materials desired.

 

Newcomers flock first SPJ meeting

Amy Worrell, Contributing Writer

Last Tuesday journalism students of all sequences gathered in Scripps 111 for the first SPJ meeting of the year.

The meeting began with a Powerpoint presentation by President Taylor Mirfendereski who explained what the Society of Professional Journalists is.

SPJ, a national journalism organization, awarded the Ohio University SPJ chapter the 2009-2010 National Chapter of the Year award.

Each week, SPJ hosts a variety of workshops and speakers who are knowledgeable about the industry.  Mirfendereski informed the newcomers of the many networking and leadership opportunities the organization provides year after year.

Mirfendereski also encouraged members to make suggestions on how to improve SPJ.

“We will do anything to make sure you’re getting out of it what you want,” she said.

Hallie Rawlinson, a freshman attendee who heard about SPJ at the involvement fair, said she thought the networking possibilities were intriguing.  Getting an early start on being involved was important to her, she said.

After the presentation, the executive board introduced themselves and described their positions.  All members stressed the importance of becoming involved within SPJ and encouraged everyone to consider running for positions.

The board also informed attendees of how SPJ provides opportunities for freshmen to become noticed right away through the freshman liaison position, which allows the student to act as a member of the executive board by helping the board with decision making and programming ideas.

Another major theme of the meeting was how members are able to use SPJ as a launching pad to other activities on campus that involve journalism.

“It’s easy to be involved in other publications because SPJ isn’t a publication,” said Mirfendereski.

Next Tuesday SPJ will host an internship panel that will discuss information about how to apply for internships, what types of internships are available, and descriptions of various internships.

SPJ meets every Tuesday in Scripps 111 at 5 p.m.

An experienced SPJ executive board to focus on meeting recruitment

Alex Felser, Reporter

Last year’s nationally top-ranked Society of Professional Journalists chapter has one big focus in the upcoming year: involvement.

The newly elected executive board held their first meeting together last week and are “focusing on recruiting new members for next year,” said Junior Taylor Mirfendereski, next year’s Chapter President.

Mirfendereski, along with the rest of the executive board, has been involved with SPJ since her freshman year.

“I’ve invested so much and saw it grow throughout the years. I wanted to help and represent the organization,” Mirfendereski said.

SPJ has been one of the most important organizations to Mirfendereski, who has been Vice President the previous two years. This encouraged her to help SPJ continue to grow and stay involved, she said.

Mirfendereski is also excited about the new executive board. Each person brings their own strengths and diversity that helps a lot in event planning.

Freshman Sandhya Kambhampati, next year’s co-programming chair, enjoyed planning different meetings and organizing events for the chapter as one of this year’s freshman liaisons, which motivated her to run for an executive position.

“It’s a good organization to get involved with and next year I will get to help plan meetings for future freshman and members,” Kambhampati said.

SPJ’s biggest event this past year was the Sunshine Summit, which brought together students from all over Ohio to Ohio University to discuss press freedom issues confronting student journalists.

“We want people to realize we do these events,” Mirfendereski said.

As far as for the events, “we would like to increase attendance,” said junior Emma Morehart, next year’s vice president.

Morehart, who has been treasurer the past two years, feels she has a lot of experience on how the executive board works and looks forward to working with Mirfendereski next year, despite having an internship fall quarter.

Sophomore Sarah Grothjan, who will be next year’s publicity chair, hopes to inform students about SPJ and the resources it offers.

“My goal for next year is to simple spread the word about our chapter,” she said.

“It’s a great organization for anyone who wants to learn more and keep up on the facts in our field,” said junior Gina Mussio, next year’s secretary.

“I want people to look forward to our meetings each week. I have gotten so much out of them, and I’d love other students to as well,” Grothjan said.

“Every year we continue to grow,” Mirfendereski said.

SPJ members take lessons and warnings from Outstanding Seniors

Story // April Jaynes, Reporter

Last week, Ohio University’s Society of Professional Journalists provided members with a chance to hear this year’s Outstanding Seniors reflect on their time at Scripps, share experiences, and provide practical advice.

Work ethics, internship insight, job search tips, and personal life advice were reiterating topics of discussion at Tuesday’s panel.

The panel featured seniors unanimously advocated jumping into campus publications early as a way to test the waters.

“Within Scripps, do it all so that you can do it all,” said Evan Millward, winner of the Outstanding Senior award.

The panelists also discussed how exploring different journalistic avenues allows room for growth and self-discovery.

Sarah Holt, Carr Van Anda winner, said she dove in headfirst during her freshman year at Scripps. Holt said she found herself trying things she didn’t know she could do, like trudging up Jeff Hill at 5 a.m. with a bottle of Mace in hand to report on sporting events she was not familiar with.

“You never know where you’re going to end up,” Millward said. “Your needs change. Your wants change.”

Holt said she remembers the emotional moment when she realized that public relations suited her more than her previous focus of broadcast news.

“I know both sides of the fence now,” Hold said. “It’s about what fits with you and your personality best.”

Having already stepped into the working world through internships, the panelists encouraged SPJ members to network and ask questions while interning.

Alyse Kordenbrock, Online Journalism winner encouraged students not to be afraid to ask questions.

“You’re not bothering them. “You’re learning, and you’re there to learn,” Kordenbrock said.

Millward told students to research and come in with story ideas for your internship.  “An internship is what you make of it,” he said. “Pretend like it’s your job.”

However, dealing with the struggles and conflicts that come with the job are just as critical as excelling in abilities.

“Stick it out and realize that you won’t do the job awesome right away,” said Devin Hughes, the Public Relations winner.

Refraining from arguing and asking questions about how to be better are the strategies that Kordenbrock said would significantly help in the long run.

“Learn to be able to take criticism,” she said. 

However, even with a practiced work ethic and a professional attitude, a job is not guaranteed.  The search is uncertain and the process can be lengthy.

“It’s a full-time job (looking for a job),” Millward said.

Erich Hiner, News Editorial winner, said to “be pushy” when searching for a job, but to not be obnoxious.

Hiner also said to disregard comments about the journalism job market from people outside of the JSchool  

“If you have the skills and you know what you’re doing, you’re going to find something,“ he said.

Holt also offered encouragement about the job market.

“It’s only going to get better for you guys,” she said.

Despite their job-hunting concerns and constant efforts to do their best, the panelists said taking time away from the demands and work of a journalist is vital.

The panelists unanimously advised journalism students to know their limits, make time for a life outside of Scripps, and be aware of different ways to make a difference.

“Have a hobby,” Holt said. “Give yourself something to talk about with the people you network with.”

Millward and Hiner agreed that community service work outside of Scripps is just as important as writing for student publications. Millward admitted the service aspect is something he wishes he had made more time for during his college career.

“You can make a difference here,” said Holt said. “These are your four years to do what you want to do.”

SPJ to host 60 Minutes producer on in-depth reporting

Story // Nicole Spears, Reporter

The SPJ event this week presents Ohio University students with a rare opportunity. The event, covering in-depth news reporting, will center on a Skype interview with CBS’s 60 Minutes producer, Robert Anderson.

This distinguished guest speaker has worked with 60 Minutes for 20 years, serving as a producer for both Mike Wallace and Scott Pelly. Throughout his time at CBS, he has produced more stories than any other producer in the broadcast field, worldwide. In addition to these accomplishments, he is also a Yale graduate and a multiple-time Emmy winner.

SPJ hoped to switch things up with this event. For journalism students who find they are more prepared to deliver breaking news, this event will offer an opportunity to learn about a different side of the industry. While the challenges of breaking news may include fast deadlines, the form of in-depth coverage produced by 60 minutes requires a type of detailed reporting that may be unfamiliar to students.

“We’ve always talked about breaking or fast paced news coverage,” said SPJ’s vice president, Taylor Mirfendereski. “But not in-depth (reporting).”

The Skype interview will be moderated as a discussion, providing SPJ members and attendees the chance to join in with questions or commets. The event will serve as an opportunity to speak with a high-caliber professional in the in-depth news industry.

The discussion will cover Anderson’s time at CBS, as well as questions about in-depth news in general. SPJ is interested in finding out more about Anderson’s path to the notable position he currently holds.

Anderson will also be asked to share his views on the future of the news industry. Another interesting topic of discussion will be the inside operations of 60 minutes.

Although in-depth news may be a smaller portion of the news industry, students can gain valuable experience by being well-versed in it. While breaking news entails working with a shorter deadline, in-depth coverage can teach journalists to be more thorough and detail-oriented.

“We want to open some eyes about what else is out there,” Mirfenderski said about the SPJ event.

The event takes place tonight at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111.

Outstanding Seniors talk achievement

Story // Mat Roberts, Reporter

On Tuesday, May 10th, Ohio University’s Society of Professional Journalists held their annual elections followed by a springtime ice cream social and movie event. The elections for new positions began at 5 P.M and included opening slots for president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, pub- licity chair and co-programming chairs.

Following the elections, SPJ decided to wind down and relax with ice cream and a movie. Students met in Scripps 116 for a viewing of the film Morning Glory.

“The social went great, [and] we enjoyed four different types of ice cream. People came and went as they pleased, but overall I think it was a nice way to unwind after elections and have fun with our members,” said Gina Mussio, SPJ secretary.

Today, SPJ will be featuring the recently announced Outstanding Seniors of 2011 to speak as a panel to SPJ members. The Outstanding Seniors, who were announced at the Scripps Awards Banquet last Wednesday, include Jennifer Bak (Advertising), Will Tapper (Broadcast), Sarah Holt (Carr Van Anda), Savannah Aepli (Honors Tutorial College), Natalie Knoth (Magazine), Erich Hiner (News Editorial), Alyse Kordenbrock (Online), Devin Hughes (Public Relations), and the Overall Outstanding Senior, Evan Millward. SPJ will host these nine seniors today at 5 P.M in Scripps 111. It will serve as a great opportunity for students to ask the seniors what they have accomplished and to understand the process of how they were able to achieve their newly gained title.

“Overall, this event, which occurs almost every year, should be very beneficial to all of SPJ’s members,” said Taylor Mirfendereski, vice president of SPJ.

For those who dare, SPJ will also be leading the First Amendment Free Food Festival co-sponsored by College Media Advisors and the Society of Professional Journalists.

The event will be held Friday, May 20th, from 1-4 P.M. Free lunch will be awarded to all of those who attend, but there is a catch. Students and staff who participate will symbolically sign off their First Amendment rights and receive a “passport,” listing the rights they have relinquished.

“The event is open to all students, not just journalists, and is a prime way of advocating 1st amendment rights and showing people how it can be taken for granted,” Mirfenderski said.

While waiting in line for food, students carrying on with their normal 1st amendment rights of speech and religion will be halted by the “goon squad” who are determined to enforce the new laws and take away the students’ right of assembly. In SPJ terms, this means the students will be denied the right to sit with friends while delighting in their free food. So far, this type of event has taken place at Pacific Lutheran University, University of Baltimore, University of Miami, Florida Atlantic University and Grand Rapids Community campus.

“Students will be able to think twice about countries that don’t have these rights and how journalists keep fighting for our current first amendment rights,” Mirfendereski said. “We hope it will be a good turnout and become an unique eye-opening experience.”

Socialize with the Society of Professional Journalists

April Jaynes, Reporter

Ohio University’s Society of Professional Journalists, winner of both the regional and national 2010 chapter titles, will elect the upcoming year’s executive staff today at 5 p.m. in Scripps 111.

Available positions include president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, programming chairs and publicity chair.  All JSchool students are encouraged to run for a position to join the SPJ team.

After the election, SPJ will hold a social for JSchool students at 8 p.m. in the Scripps Amphitheater. The social will include free ice cream and a showing of the movie Morning Glory, starring Rachel McAdams, Harrison Ford and Diane Keaton.

The movie characterizes the struggles of a young producer (Rachel McAdams) as she fights to increase the ratings of a morning show program. Does this movie hit the nail on the head for aspiring journalists? Join the SPJ social and decide for yourself!

SPJ encourages journalism students to come out tonight to take a study break with peers, ice cream and Morning Glory.

SPJ sheds light on conquering the PR blockade

Story // Nicole Spears, Reporter

No one enjoys a relationship they can’t trust. The complex communication that ties journalists with PR professionals will be the topic of this week’s SPJ event that is aptly titled, Being Blocked as a Journalist.

Mary Rogus, an Ohio University professor with 20 years experience in local television journalism, will be speaking at the event, along with other guests.

The meeting is intended to help future journalists become prepared to work closely with public relations practitioners. While many students get a good start through student-run publications at Ohio University, the meeting is geared toward delving deeper into alternate communication techniques.

Apart from practicing the certain skills, certain approaches can be learned to improve the exchanges between journalists and PR professionals.

“As a journalist, you deal with PR people and press releases every day,” said Graylyn Roose, SPJ co-programming chair. Roose said that this event was inspired to work around publicity campaigns and high profile sources by using careful and skillful interviewing tactics.

The apprehension, possibly even fear, of the barrier between the two communicators likely stems from their varying goals. Breaking down this adversary relationship benefits both the journalist, and the PR practitioner by ensuring the ethical flow of information.

“Not all PR professionals are our enemies, and we don’t have to be adversaries,” Rogus said.

SPJ has asked Professor Rogus to speak about situations where she has run into roadblocks in her journalism career, specifically with regards to PR practitioners. She believes she has plenty to offer on the topic, sharing a wealth of experience with exchanges between communicators.

“As a news and information journalist, we assume that someone standing in the PR role, between you and someone you want to speak to, is someone you naturally dislike,” Rogus said.

Rogus believes that many journalists take a guilty-until-proven-innocent stance towards PR pros.  She admits that these are people who are skilled at their job and adds that she has worked with many good and honest PR professionals.

This event is intended to surpass the preconceived notions and teach future journalists the best means of communication when dealing with their public relations counterparts. Rogus plans to go beyond the typical methods of gaining information by knowing journalists’ rights. Rogus will be advising students on how persistence, attention to detail, and devoted investigation can truly pay off—even when it comes to gaining information that you are not entitled to.

“You can’t just be content with what you’re getting, you have to investigate further to get the information that they’re hiding,” Rogus said.

For further tips on getting information that will push your story to the next level, be sure to check into this week’s SPJ event.

SPJ talks repercussions of defunding news outlets

Story // Mat Roberts, Reporter

On Tuesday, April 19th, SPJ hosted another spectacular event on current events and media connections across the entire Appalachia region. The event was organized by Ohio University’s Society of Professional Journalists’ Ian Bowman-Henderson and Graylyn Roose. SPJ welcomed Jeannie Jeffers, director of WOUB development and communications, to speak on effects of media coverage in Athens and in rural areas across the country.

“Most people in the country’s larger rural areas have minimum access to media coverage and can only get Public Radio and TV,” Roose said.  Last month, Republican Doug Lamborn sponsored a proposal that passed in the House to prevent federal funds from going to National Public Radio. The Washington Post reports that the bill will ban any federal money from going to NPR, which receives $5 million in annual funds. NPR supports roughly 600 member stations that this bill will now prevent from using federal funds to purchase programming and to pay station dues.

“Our primary goal of this event was to raise awareness about the defunding of NPR and to recognize it turning public to private,” Roose said. “As a strong supporter of public radio, it’s important for citizens and reporting journalists to see that people living in rural areas will suffer from this defunding because now they have a significantly less amount of information availability.”

The cut has been locally damaging to Athens’ WOUB, which has had several funding cuts over the past few years making it difficult to manage. Roose later stated, “We want to show that NPR has very well educated people and they deserve support as a worldwide distributor of public radio news.”

This Tuesday at 5 P.M, SPJ will open the doors for a chapter segment on using personal computer programs to better enhance reporting skills. The event will show how to gather stats and facts from these unique techniques to better journalism reporting.

“The event should be very useful on learning how to use current databases to improve the depth of your interviews and using many programs to create your own statistics for stories,” said OUSPJ’s President, Jamie Raterman. Led by an all-star Scripps connected cast including Kevin Viever, Aimee Edmonson, and Lawan Williams, SPJ will look to bring Ohio University’s aspiring journalists an edge at harder reporting by finding their own facts on programs that aren’t usually used for the journalist profession.

Graylyn Roose commented, “The meeting will be very useful to student journalists because it can give them more knowledge on reporting and greater technology intelligence.”

Journalism particularly isn’t a profession that uses computer programs to improve reporting, which is why this event is a must see. “This event will bring focus to programs like Excel and how to complete in depth Google searches for a stronger story,” Ratermann said.

If you are interested in learning a few tricks to create better stories, stop by Scripps 111.