A Journalism Journey

Truth, Sources, and Watchdogs

2009-12-13T20:14:00.000-08:00

By Jessica De Vivo

Walking in the shoes of an on-the-go journalist in New York City is filled with excitement and suspense, as can be seen in Jo Kadlecek’s third novel in The Lightfoot Trilogy, A Minute Before Friday. Jonna Lightfoot MacLaughlin is an ambitious reporter devoted to the truth and standing up for what is right. As a reporter, she pushes to get her way and uncover the facts when she smells something fishy in the air. This may cause some to think of her as too assertive, however, her personality comes in handy with her reporting. MacLaughlin is determined to cover a concealed story concerning fraud at Regal University, even when her editor, Skip Gravely, wishes otherwise. In her mind, the truth is always worth fighting for.

Throughout her reporting and uncovering of the truth, one sees many examples of the journalism elements, derived from Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel’s, The Elements of Journalism. Not only is MacLaughlin devoted to the truth, but, in so doing, she verifies her research and goes to various sources to get the facts straight. Much of the novel focuses on the watchdog principle in that MacLaughlin tries to hold the institution of Regal accountable for its actions. In a discussion with Gravely, she tells him that the people of Regal should be held responsible “Because they didn’t do what they were supposed to” (Kadlecek 249). In MacLaughlin’s eyes, it is her duty to present the truth and hold people and institutions responsible.

2009-12-08T11:58:00.000-08:00

All the President's Men

2009-11-30T21:28:00.000-08:00

By Jessica De Vivo

Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein were the infamous journalists of the Washington Post who investigated the details of the Watergate scandal revolving around former President Richard Nixon. In the movie, All the President’s Men, in which Robert Redford stars as Woodward and Dustin Hoffman as Bernstein, the intensity of the life of the journalist devoted to the facts of the story is brought to life. Even when their lives may have been in danger, finding the details of the story and getting the truth out to the citizens remained the top priority.

In Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel’s The Elements of Journalism, much emphasis is placed on the discipline of verification in seeking numerous witnesses to the account and putting ample research into it. All the President’s Men clearly demonstrates this through the various scenes of picking up the phone and knocking on strangers’ doors to find the necessary information. The intense investigation can especially be seen through this time period in which journalists did not have the luxury of a computer to help them with their reporting. All the President’s Men portrays the immense time and energy Woodward and Bernstein prioritized to get to the bottom of the Watergate scandal.

State of Truth

2009-11-30T17:55:00.000-08:00

By Jessica De Vivo

Pursuing the truth in journalism may not always be an easy, safe ride. Despite all of the Hollywood connotations associated with the movie, State of Play, featuring Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck, and Rachel McAdams, it truly demonstrates the risk-taking involved and the importance of chasing after the truth at all costs. Set in Washington, D.C., the movie portrays Crowe as a journalist in the midst of the political hype and drama of the city, along with Affleck playing to role of a politician and McAdams, a blogging journalist. A complicated situation arises regarding a woman Affleck had an affair with and the questionable circumstances of her death.

Amid the twist and turns of digging to find the truth of the matter, Crowe experiences near-death circumstances. Seeking the truth of the story even causes his friend, Affleck, to lose faith in him and ridicule him for it, “You're just seeking the truth. . . You're not interested in me. [I]t's all about you and you getting your story” (State of Play). A journalist must be careful to keep one’s integrity and not defame another’s name, however, sometimes, the truth is more important and does not always appease everyone. The movie makes many references to the importance of truth in journalism and it is a definite must-see for any aspiring journalist.

Good Night and Good Luck

2009-10-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

By Jessica De Vivo

In the classic film, Good Night, and Good Luck, the archetypal journalist from CBS News, Edward R. Murrow, stated, “This instrument [the television as it portrays the news] can teach, it can illuminate; yes, and it can even inspire. But it can do so only to the extent that humans are determined to use it to those ends.” Murrow realized that the media had a duty to perform in illuminating Senator Joseph McCarthy’s actions regarding the communist scare. It must shed light on the truth, even when the truth is ostracized.

“Journalism’s first loyalty is to citizens,” as Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel stated in The Elements of Journalism (pg. 36). Murrow acknowledged this crucial factor and portrayed the truth to his viewers, even when his career was at stake. The media is responsible in its role of informing the public, even if it is not what they expect to hear. Murrow showed integrity in sticking to this responsibility. In Murrow’s loyalty to the citizens of the United States, he was also a slave to the truth. As a journalist, verification and truth-seeking may not be the easiest path to follow, but it is the righteous one. Journalists must keep their eyes fixed upon the old-time figure of Murrow and remain steadfast in their integrity.

The Role of Journalism in the Civil Rights Movement

2009-10-29T20:45:00.000-07:00

By Jessica De Vivo

The televised media brought the atrocities of the Civil Rights Movement to Americans’ living rooms. The images resembled that of a horrific nightmare, only they could not be shrugged off in the morning; they were real and were happening to real people. Through journalism, the truth of what African Americans experienced was disclosed, even if people had previously refused to acknowledge its existence.

“All That Jazz” at Gordon College’s Homecoming

2009-10-13T18:51:00.000-07:00

By Jesse Poole and Jessica De Vivo

Gordon College jazz ensemble, the Coy Pond Piranhas, was heard echoing from the Philips Music Center courtyard on the evening of Homecoming, Saturday, October 10. Conducted by music professor David Rox, the band featured both students and community members, with a majority of student musicians. Alumni, faculty, students, and parents still ventured out to experience “all that jazz,” despite the chilly, fall weather.

The finger-snapping music included the hit number, “Night and Day,” featuring the voice of Evangelyna Etienne ’12, music education major from Saugus, Ma. “It’s a lot of fun,” said Etienne, “you get to work with the whole band.”

Most of the pieces, however, were purely instrumental. “Have You Met Miss Jones,” “Big John’s Special,” and “La Suerte de Los Tantos,” were just a few of the songs performed. “It’s a great outlet for me,” said electric bass player, Sara Gassert ’10, music education major from Hingham, Ma.

Between 170-175 audience members attended the performance. Many found the “feel-good” music and laid-back atmosphere enjoyable. “I could sit out here for hours,” said Karen Curran, parent of a Gordon student. The talent of the group was outstanding. “The group is so together while still being relaxed,” said Alicia Tirrell, ’10, music education major from Mansfield, Ma. “I’m just amazed at how professional they sound,” said Curran.

After providing enjoyment to the Homecoming scene for at least 15 years, the jazz ensemble has been a major hit at Gordon College. “Jazz music helps you loosen up,” said spectator Ian Good, ’11, music performance major from Pocasset, Ma. The music department’s tradition has continued to bring nothing less than excellence and pure bliss.

Rabbi Speaking at Convocation Sparks Mixed Reactions

2009-09-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

By Jessica De Vivo

Rabbi Baruch HaLevi, a rabbi at Congregation Shirat Hayam in Swampscott, Ma, came to Gordon College to speak during convocation. HaLevi was the first part of the series, “Exploring Psalms with the Rabbis.”

Some students appreciated hearing from a Jewish scholar and his insight into the Psalms. Kaeli Byers, a pike-middle-eastern studies senior interns at HaLevi’s temple and was fascinated that the college brings those of the Jewish faith to speak. “Judaism informs Christianity to such a large extent,” said Byers. Although she found certain aspects of HaLevi’s speech to differ from her beliefs in Christ, she didn’t dismiss it. “Just because something is challenging to my current beliefs doesn’t mean it’s not valid,” said Byers.

Others, however, left the convocation feeling a bit uneasy. “It was hard for me to listen to someone teach me about my religion from someone who doesn’t practice my religion,” said Bethany Persenaire, ’11, a music-education major from Lynn, Ma. Persenaire, like Byers, agreed that followers of Judaism do have much to teach Christians, but did not think that convocation was the proper place for it. “Our God sent us a savior. They don’t believe that he has yet. In a way, we’re talking about different gods,” said Persenaire.

HaLevi’s lecture stirred up conversation among the students. It appears that the rest of the rabbi series promises continued discussion and reactions across campus.

Newcomers Series: International Student, Rebekah Kang, Enjoys Her Time at Gordon College.

2009-09-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

By Jessica De Vivo

Rebekah Kang always imagined what life would be like in the States. As a first-year international student born in Seoul, Korea, double majoring in communication arts and Spanish, Kang is thrilled to be at Gordon College in Wenham, Ma. She likes it very much. “I like the professors here. They are so nice,” said Kang.

Kang appreciates the small setting Gordon offers. It reminds her of school she went to in the Philippines, where her parents are missionaries. “I realized I should go somewhere that I fit into well,” said Kang. She likes how close-knit the classes are. Of great importance to Kang is the Christian atmosphere. “It’d be hard if I had non-Christian friends to talk with about what’s going on in my life with God,” said Kang.

Residing in Wilson Hall, Kang loves the girls on her floor. “We’re really tight.” She enjoys the amount of floor activities provided. Both Kang and her roommate already knew each other from the Philippines. “We’re helping each other,” said Kang.

Kang sees life in the States at Gordon as a great experience. “Being an international student helps you because you get to see a lot of different cultures-so you broaden your views,” said Kang. Kang likes it in America so far. “I wish I could stay here longer, even after I graduate.”

Zinsser's 30-year-old Book on Writing Still Speaks to Modern Writers

2009-09-10T11:12:00.000-07:00

By Jessica De Vivo

The classic guidebook for writing, On Writing Well, by William Zinsser, first published in 1976, is now in its seventh edition, and has sold over one million copies. Talented students and future writers in Professor Jo Kadlecek’s journalism class at Gordon College are delving into Zinsser’s book with eagerness and are filled with nothing but praise. Even after 30 years, On Writing Well continues to speak to the heart of the journalist.

“He had a lot of practical tips for writing that are timeless,” said Naomi Peirce, ’11, a communication arts major from Claremont, NH. “I really liked what he said about not cluttering your writing and adding extra words and phrases that aren’t needed.” Peirce finds Zinsser’s expertise beneficial, including his chapter on the importance of leaving out the “fluff” in writing. “Get to your point,” said Peirce.

Michelle Webber, ’11, a communication arts major from Blue Hill, ME, couldn’t agree more. “It’s a good, classic guide for writing.” Webber also finds Zinsser’s writing tips very helpful. They hit-home with her. “Getting rid of clutter is important because I tend to write a lot of unnecessary things…and I hate having to cut, but I know I will have to do that if I’m going to get to the point of what I’m writing about.”

Webber was enlightened to the helpful hint that writers just need to be themselves. “Don’t put up a façade to impress you readers.” Webber reflects on how she was taught to write with huge, impressive words when she was younger. “We write to make the reader think we’re more intelligent than we are, rather than writing what’s on your mind and what comes from your heart.”

There is no doubt that On Writing Well has made a lasting impression on Kadlecek’s writing students. Though the book is 30-years-old, they see it as a helpful tool in their future writing. “I see it helping me…he has a lot of experience and he knows what he’s talking about,” said Peirce. Peirce and Webber both agree that Zinsser’s piece is still relevant and contains lessons for journalism writing that will never fade. “There are some fundamental aspects of journalism that won’t change,” said Webber. It is remarkable that Zinsser’s helpful guide is still impacting the future writers of America.

Pictured: Michelle Webber

2009-09-03T15:02:00.000-07:00

College Students Mixed About Online Journalism
By, Jessica De Vivo

“I have mixed feelings, but am generally opposed,” said 20 year-old Kaeli Byers, a Gordon College Pike-Middle-Eastern Studies major, when asked what she thought of the campus’ Tartan newspaper ending its print to become an online source. Byers believed that, while much is currently online, there is too much dependency on technology these days.

“It is a great way for students to publish their work and actually have a newspaper to hold,” said Byers, reflecting on the “good old days” of print journalism. She feels that people will be much less inclined to read the Tartan once it goes completely online. “Why read it online when you can read the BBC News?” The readership of the campus paper will decrease, according to Byers.

Many students obtain their news from various sources, some preferring the television, while others use the radio or internet, as seen in Professor Jo Kadlecek’s journalism class. Katherine Sama, a Gordon College student from Windsor, Connecticut, said that she mainly uses the Internet for her news because it is somewhere she goes on a daily basis.

Others, such as sophomore Maia Mattson, obtain news from the National Public Radio. Many students, however, seem to embrace the ease of using the Internet as a news source. Perhaps this is a sign that many students will find themselves reading the Tartan more often than they would have if it remained in print. However, the Tartan is a completely different news source. It pertains mainly to issues surrounding the campus, rather than covering the hottest news off the press that such students in Professor Kadlecek’s class were seeking when they ran to the Internet as a news source.

The current issue surrounding the Tartan’s shift from print to the Web obviously encourages concern and debate. On the one hand, the Tartan will no longer remain a paper which students can grab on the go or read while cramming in a meal, yet, on the other side of the spectrum, with the population of students today being technologically inclined, perhaps much hope remains for this new day for the Tartan. One can only wait and see.