Showing posts with label bad journalism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bad journalism. Show all posts

Monday, December 14, 2009

BREAKING NEWS!!!!!

The Hockey News has finally realized that Glen Sather is an utter failure as the GM of the Rangers!
"... Sather keeps swinging and missing like a blindfolded kid at a piƱata party in a wind tunnel ..."
What is it with MSM guys taking so long to realize what us fans have known for so long? First Brooksie, now Proteau?!? Are they blinded by their desire to remain "objective"? That, in itself, is a joke but I won't get into my ethics and journalism rant. Sather may be a horrible GM, but he may just be the smartest man in hockey - you have to be brilliant to be so very, very bad and stay completely out of the line of fire. And he has.

The Ranger Pundit, a diligent fan for more than 70 seasons, long ago dubbed Sather the Stealth GM. As usual, he is right on the money. By being a recluse, Sather has no media presence and zero interation with the fans. At the Garden we joke that we need to hire some hookers to infiltrate the organization as interns so Sather can pull an Isiah and thus be fired. For every good move Sather has made during his tenure, he has made three others that are horrific. I mentioned to some friends the other day that we have to pray for another labour stoppage when the CBA runs out so they can get another round of those no-penalty buy-outs so we can rid ourselves of Dru, Redden and Rozy.

Think about that.

It will take a second horrific season without hockey for the Rangers to have any chance of success in the near future. That's pathetic. Just like the Bible of Hockey taking a decade to see what we have said from the start.

Sather has got to go.



 BREAKING NEWS!!!!! - Unpacking the Impact and Dynamics of Breaking News in the Modern World



In the age of information, the term "BREAKING NEWS!!!!!" has become a ubiquitous and attention-grabbing phrase. Whether it flashes across our TV screens, dominates our social media feeds, or pops up as notifications on our smartphones, breaking news has the power to capture our immediate attention and shape our understanding of the world. But what does breaking news really mean, and how has it evolved in the digital era? In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of breaking news, dissect its impact on society, investigate the dynamics of its dissemination, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of this essential aspect of modern media.

Table of Contents

Introduction to BREAKING NEWS!!!!!
The Evolution of Breaking News
Impact on Society and Perception
The Race for Speed and Accuracy
Challenges and Ethical Dilemmas
The Role of Social Media and Citizen Journalism
FAQs About BREAKING NEWS!!!!!
: Navigating the Deluge of Information
1. Introduction to BREAKING NEWS!!!!!
"BREAKING NEWS!!!!!" is a phrase that demands attention, often implying that something significant and urgent has occurred. It serves as a gateway to information, sparking curiosity and concern among audiences. But beyond the eye-catching headlines lies a complex world of journalism, information dissemination, and societal impact.

2. The Evolution of Breaking News
Breaking news has evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from traditional media to the digital realm:

Print Newspapers: In the past, breaking news primarily relied on newspapers to inform the public of significant events. However, this method had limitations due to the time it took to print and distribute papers.

Radio and Television: The advent of radio and television allowed for more immediate reporting of breaking news, enabling people to receive updates in real-time.

Digital Media: The rise of the internet and digital media revolutionized the way breaking news is delivered. Online news websites, social media, and news apps now provide instant updates to a global audience.

3. Impact on Society and Perception
Breaking news has a profound impact on society and the way we perceive the world:

Immediate Awareness: Breaking news provides immediate awareness of significant events, allowing people to stay informed about critical developments in real-time.

Shaping Public Opinion: The way breaking news is presented can shape public opinion, influencing how people perceive and respond to various issues.

Emotional Impact: Breaking news often conveys emotionally charged stories, evoking strong emotions and responses from the public.

4. The Race for Speed and Accuracy
In the digital age, the race for speed and accuracy in reporting breaking news is more intense than ever:

Competition Among Media Outlets: News organizations strive to be the first to break a story, leading to a competitive environment that values speed.

Verification Challenges: The urgency to report quickly can sometimes lead to errors or misinformation, highlighting the need for rigorous fact-checking and verification.

Citizen Journalism: Everyday individuals can now report on breaking news through social media, adding to the challenge of separating accurate information from rumors.

5. Challenges and Ethical Dilemmas
Breaking news presents journalists with unique challenges and ethical dilemmas:

Balancing Speed and Accuracy: Journalists must strike a delicate balance between reporting news quickly and ensuring that the information is accurate and verified.

Responsible Reporting: The responsibility to report on sensitive and potentially traumatic events while respecting the dignity and privacy of those involved is a constant ethical challenge.

Avoiding Sensationalism: The temptation to sensationalize news for higher viewership can compromise the integrity of journalism.

6. The Role of Social Media and Citizen Journalism
Social media platforms have played a significant role in the dissemination of breaking news:

Rapid Spread: News can spread rapidly through social media, allowing stories to reach a vast audience within seconds.

Citizen Journalists: Everyday individuals become citizen journalists, sharing on-the-ground reports and footage, but this also raises concerns about the accuracy of information.

Misinformation: Social media can also be a breeding ground for misinformation and rumors, making it crucial to critically evaluate sources.

7. FAQs About BREAKING NEWS!!!!!
Q1: What constitutes breaking news, and who decides what is considered "breaking"?

A1: Breaking news typically refers to significant, time-sensitive events that are deemed of immediate public interest. News organizations and editors decide what qualifies as breaking news.

Q2: How can I discern reliable breaking news sources from unreliable ones?

A2: Reliable breaking news sources have a history of accuracy and transparency. Look for established news organizations with a commitment to factual reporting.

Q3: Why does breaking news often contain limited information initially?

A3: Breaking news reports often provide limited information initially because journalists are working to gather facts, verify details, and ensure accuracy before reporting more comprehensively.

Q4: What should I do if I come across breaking news that I suspect may be false or misleading?

A4: If you encounter breaking news that appears false or misleading, it's essential to verify the information with trusted sources before sharing it. Misinformation can spread rapidly on social media, so critical evaluation is crucial.

8. Conclusion: Navigating the Deluge of Information
In a world saturated with information, "BREAKING NEWS!!!!!" serves as both a beacon and a challenge. While it provides immediate awareness of significant events, it also demands responsible consumption and critical thinking. As we navigate the digital age, it is essential to approach breaking news with a discerning eye, seek reliable sources, and recognize the complexities of journalism in the quest for timely and accurate information. In doing so, we can make informed decisions and contribute to a more informed and responsible society.




Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Following Up: Hockey Blogs


Since my blog about the Hockey Night In Canada piece about blogging generated so much traffic and controversy, I thought I would follow up.

First off, for those of you that don't read the additional comments, I was called out by a fellow blogger for blasting the piece, saying "It sounds like a case of sour grapes. You were not chosen for the story so it must be bad." Its a valid conclusion but one totally offbase as I have had opportunities to be on television and have turned them down (face for radio, voice for the deaf ... thus I blog). But said blogger, from The Puck Stops Here, is also defending the CBC piece because he was in it. Some blogs, like his, regurgitate every hockey story and add their $0.02 and that's fine - I read plenty of them on a daily basis - but my point was the omission of team fan blogs from the piece. It spoke up the blogs that have MainStream Media (MSM) connections while tossing a few negative connotations towards the sites of diehard fans.

Rather than go over my individual responses, you can click on the first link at the top and reread them for yourself. Then head over to Tom Benjamin's page for his response to CBC's work. To cut to the chase, he sums things up so: "At best, we add to the existing coverage. At worst we keep the real media on their toes." And to add to that, I think that fan blogs like this one and this one and this one and even this one deserve mention when talking about the hockey blogosphere, and not with a negative connotation.

Why? Because basically we do the job of columnists better than the columnists themselves. Those MSM writers are beholden to their editors and the credentials they are given where we can call it as we see it. We help jumpstart those bar-room discussions and will call things how we see it. Does it mean that we have no journalistic integrity? Absolutely not. We still have to be correct, or we are called on it. Just look at the comments on my original piece where Taste_of_Flames pointed out that Heatley drove a Ferrari when he killed Dan Snyder, rather than a Porche. I was wrong, and owned up to my mistake. Henceforth I will be more cautious. When was the last time that you saw a MSM writer retract something incorrect? The only case I can think of recently is the one going on right now in Toronto, and that is only under duress of possible legal ramifications.

I think that blogging and the different forms that weblogs come in will certainly be a ongoing topic so I will just close this entry with this - CBC did a decent piece, but it looked like they suddenly discovered the internet despite it being 2007 and they didn't do a comprehensive news package. It omitted a major part of the story and then tossed negative opinions out there without allowing for rebuttal. If they are supposed to be an objective member of the MSM then that is simply not good journalism.

I hope they do better next time.



 Following Up: Hockey Blogs - A Deep Dive into the World of Hockey Blogging



Hockey, often referred to as "the coolest game on earth," has a dedicated and passionate following around the world. While watching games on TV or attending them in person is a great way to stay connected with the sport, many fans turn to hockey blogs to get an even deeper understanding of the game, its players, and its culture. In this article, we will explore the world of hockey blogs, their significance, the passionate community of hockey bloggers, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this niche but vibrant corner of the internet.

The Appeal of Hockey Blogs
Hockey blogs have become an integral part of the online sports community, offering a wealth of content and insights that cater to fans' diverse interests. Here's why they appeal to hockey enthusiasts:

1. In-Depth Analysis
Hockey blogs provide a platform for in-depth analysis of games, player performances, and team strategies. Bloggers often break down plays, tactics, and statistics, offering a deeper understanding of the sport.

2. Player Profiles
Fans can learn more about their favorite players and prospects through player profiles, which often include career histories, personal anecdotes, and interviews.

3. Unique Perspectives
Hockey blogs allow bloggers to express their unique perspectives, opinions, and fandom. This diversity of voices enriches the overall hockey conversation.

4. Niche Topics
Hockey blogs cover niche topics like equipment reviews, historical retrospectives, and even the culture surrounding the sport. This caters to fans with specific interests within the hockey world.

The Passionate Community of Hockey Bloggers
Hockey bloggers are driven by their love for the game and their desire to share their insights and opinions with fellow fans. This community is characterized by:

1. Fandom
Bloggers are often die-hard fans of their favorite teams, and their passion shines through in their writing. This shared enthusiasm creates a sense of camaraderie among readers.

2. Knowledge
Many hockey bloggers have an extensive knowledge of the sport, including its history, rules, and intricacies. They take pride in their expertise and strive to educate their audience.

3. Engagement
Hockey bloggers engage with their readers through comments, social media, and forums, fostering lively discussions and debates about the sport.

4. Independence
Hockey bloggers often have the freedom to express their unfiltered opinions, which can be refreshing in a media landscape dominated by mainstream narratives.

FAQs: Unveiling the World of Hockey Blogging
1. How can I find quality hockey blogs to follow?
You can find quality hockey blogs by conducting online searches, exploring social media, or asking fellow fans for recommendations. There are also blog directories and forums dedicated to sports blogging.

2. Are hockey blogs just for fans, or can they benefit players and coaches too?
Hockey blogs are primarily geared toward fans, but they can also provide valuable insights for players and coaches. Analytical blogs, in particular, break down game strategies and player performances that can be informative for professionals.

3. Do hockey blogs have a role in promoting the sport and growing its fanbase?
Yes, hockey blogs play a role in promoting the sport by providing accessible and engaging content. They can help educate new fans, spark interest in the game, and connect people from different parts of the world.

4. Are there any legal or ethical considerations for hockey bloggers, such as copyright or privacy issues?
Hockey bloggers should be aware of copyright laws when using images or content from official sources. Respecting players' privacy and adhering to ethical guidelines in reporting are also important considerations.

5. Can anyone start a hockey blog, or do you need specific qualifications?
Anyone with a passion for hockey and the willingness to learn can start a hockey blog. While specific qualifications are not necessary, a deep knowledge of the sport and strong writing skills can enhance the quality of the blog.


Hockey blogs are more than just a digital destination for fans; they are a vibrant community of passionate enthusiasts who contribute to the depth and richness of the sport's culture. These blogs offer a platform for fans to connect, learn, and share their love for hockey in all its facets. As we follow up on the world of hockey blogs, we uncover a realm where fandom meets expertise, where diverse voices contribute to the conversation, and where the love for the game is celebrated and shared. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, exploring the world of hockey blogs can be an enriching and immersive experience that enhances your appreciation for this beloved sport.




Sunday, September 2, 2007

Save Your $$$!!!

DO NOT, repeat DO NOT buy this magazine!!!

The Sporting News Hockey Yearbook this year is a disgrace. Easily the worse one I have ever read, this year's edition is garbage. It is incredibly poorly written, has astoundingly vague statements backed up by nothing and misinformation. Second or third-hand opinions masquerade as generalities. It was clearly written by people who do not watch hockey, and talked to some who did before looking at some year-end numbers in an effort to sum up last season and predict the next.

The front of the book articles are almost as poor and outdated. They run a story on the Staal brothers that was news six, seven months ago. They, of course, have a piece on television ratings and Versus but hey, here is an idea on how to drum up interest - don't put out shitty magazines! Big glossy pictures are nice but people who want to learn more about the game aren't fooled no matter how many nonsensical factoids you crush onto a page. Utter trash.

So far I have only read through one other yearbook for the coming season: the Hockey News' and it (of course) is top notch. The articles were well-written, the team-by-team previews/previews were done by beat writers who know what's going on ... it is an all around good read. My only complaint is that they had such an early deadline to get it done and on the newsstand that some moves are missed. But usually they account for them in the writing so I had no problem with it; after all, its September and we still don't know if Teemu or Scott Niedermayer are coming back ...

I have yet to read the Hockey News' fantasy guide or any other books but will check in if they prove worthy. Just don't bother with TSN, its trash ... well, unless you are in a fantasy league with me. I could use the advantage!