By Alena Boczek
The American Urology Association (AUA) Foundation and the urology community have recognized Dr. Darius Bägli as the 2012 Distinguished Mentor. This honour has been bestowed upon Dr. Bägli for his track record of mentoring numerous research scholars to impeccable standards. He was selected by a panel of his peers who wanted to acknowledge the respect and admiration he has earned from the entire urologic research community.
“Dr. Bägli is an incredibly deserving recipient of the Distinguished Mentor Award,” says Dr. Janet Rossant, Chief of Research. “He consistently displays an authentic generosity and creates a supportive environment for every individual in which he interacts. The AUA Foundation has selected a recipient who truly exemplifies the values this award represents.”
Dr. Bägli is a Senior Attending Paediatric Urologist and Associate Surgeon-In-Chief at The Hospital for Sick Children, and Senior Associate Scientist in the SickKid's Research Institute. He is also a Professor of Surgery at the University of Toronto. Dr. Bägli is currently investigating extracellular matrix biology as it pertains to wound healing and biomechanically-mediated injury in the lower urinary tract.
The Distinguished Mentor Award will be presented at the annual AUA Foundation Scholar Awards Breakfast on Monday May 21.
For more information on Dr. Bägli and his work, please see his Researchers in Profile interview.
Original content via SickKids.ca
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Dr. John Brumell: A rising star in the field of Cell Biology
By Alena Boczek
SickKids researcher, Dr. John Brumell will receive the GE Healthcare New Investigator Award of the Canadian Society for Molecular BioSciences (CSMB) for his meritorious research in cellular biology. As part of this honour, Brumell will give a lecture at this year’s 55th Annual CSMB Conference, and have a manuscript published in the CSMB Bulletin. The GE Healthcare New investigator Award is given to scientists who have no more than ten years of independent research experience and have accomplished outstanding research.
Noting his future promise and prolific authorship of high-quality publications, Dr. William Trimble, the Program Head of Cell Biology at SickKids, did not hesitate to nominate Brumell, “I think that it is without question that John Brumell is one of Canada’s rising young stars in the broader field of Cell Biology. His thirst for knowledge and creative approach to his research are what helps to drive his success.”
Brumell is a Senior Scientist in the Cell Biology Program at SickKids. His area of focus is bacteria in which examines how bacteria interact with cells to cause disease. Currently, Brumell’s research is focused on Salmonella typhimurium, a common cause of food poisoning in North America, and how autophagy, a cellular system, can target bacterial pathogens.
To learn more about Dr. John Brumell and his research read this profile story!
Original content via SickKids.ca
SickKids researcher, Dr. John Brumell will receive the GE Healthcare New Investigator Award of the Canadian Society for Molecular BioSciences (CSMB) for his meritorious research in cellular biology. As part of this honour, Brumell will give a lecture at this year’s 55th Annual CSMB Conference, and have a manuscript published in the CSMB Bulletin. The GE Healthcare New investigator Award is given to scientists who have no more than ten years of independent research experience and have accomplished outstanding research.
Noting his future promise and prolific authorship of high-quality publications, Dr. William Trimble, the Program Head of Cell Biology at SickKids, did not hesitate to nominate Brumell, “I think that it is without question that John Brumell is one of Canada’s rising young stars in the broader field of Cell Biology. His thirst for knowledge and creative approach to his research are what helps to drive his success.”
Brumell is a Senior Scientist in the Cell Biology Program at SickKids. His area of focus is bacteria in which examines how bacteria interact with cells to cause disease. Currently, Brumell’s research is focused on Salmonella typhimurium, a common cause of food poisoning in North America, and how autophagy, a cellular system, can target bacterial pathogens.
To learn more about Dr. John Brumell and his research read this profile story!
Original content via SickKids.ca
An investment in the future of paediatric research at SickKids
By Alena Boczek
The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canada’s Minister of Health, visited The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) to announce a $12 million investment in childhood cancer research. Over five years, the investment from The Government of Canada, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), will support four new research teams in partnership with the Garron Family Cancer Centreat SickKids, C17 council, the Canadian Cancer Society, theCancer Research Society, the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research and the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario.
Two of the research teams to receive this funding are led by SickKids principal investigators, Drs. Shinya Ito andPaul Nathan. Dr. Ito’s team will study how childhood leukemia treatment affects brain function, while Dr. Nathan’s team will research cardiotoxicity and evaluate the importance of genetic differences between individuals in determining who is at greatest risk of developing heart disease as a result of exposure to chemotherapeutic agents.
“As Canada’s leading paediatric academic health-care centre, SickKids sees firsthand the devastating impact cancer can have on children and their families,” says Mary Jo Haddad, SickKids President and CEO. “Through the funding from this important initiative, SickKids researchers can continue improving cancer treatments for Canada’s children and youth that will enhance the quality of life for paediatric cancer patients.”
For more information on this investment visit the CIHR website for the official news release and a detailed fact sheet.
Original content via SickKids.ca
Monday, February 28, 2011
Collins Gas Grill - [MOCK] Press Release
New Collins Gas Grill Makes Tailgating a Dream
TORONTO, August 20, 2010 – Collins Gas Grills is launching their unique Tailgating Dream Grill with the release of their annual tailgating survey. The grill will be available in all stores across Canada September 1, 2010 to kick-off this year’s Canadian football season.
The new Tailgating Dream Grill is lighter and more compact for easy transportation, and features enhanced security and safety elements for a secure tailgating experience.
“Tailgating is to participate in an informal Barbeque picnic,” according to Bill Davis, Founder of the Canadian Tailgater’s Association, he adds they are usually held “in the parking lot of a sports stadium prior to attending a sporting event.”
“We’re very excited to launch this new product,” says Roy Collins, President of Collins Gas Grills “The Tailgating Dream Grill has been a long time coming. The grill’s unique design was created for its safety and convenience.”
Collins Gas Grills recently conducted their annual survey of 1000 Canadians (600 men and 400 women) and found that tailgating is on the rise:
ü 74 per cent said grilling is always an element of their tailgates
ü 59 per cent prefer gas grills
ü 97 per cent of tailgaters under 35 grill at every event while 80 percent of those aged 35-55
ü tailgating party sizes increased 20 per cent between 2007 and 2008, up to 18 people
ü the average tailgating parties lasts three hours
ü top foods for grilling respectively: hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken, sausages
Collins Gas Grills is a proud Canadian company based in Barrie, Ont. Collins Gas Grills produces only the finest quality grills to meet the highest Canadian standards. Collins Gas Grills offers a variety of products that are manufactured and distributed in Canada. The annual tailgating survey is conducted at a variety of CFL and NFL games with high Canadian attendance.
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Media Contact:
Alena Boczek
Media Relations Officer
Collins Gas Grills
(555) 792 5555
AlenaBoczek@CGG.com
Alena Boczek
Media Relations Officer
Collins Gas Grills
(555) 792 5555
AlenaBoczek@CGG.com
Dixie Chicks Comeback Tour - [MOCK] Media Alert
MEDIA INVITATION:
LONG TIME GONE:
THE DIXIE CHICKS’ UNISIGNED CONTESTANTS SNEAK-PREVIEW PERFORMANCE
TORONTO, June 5, 2010— After being off the scene for over two years the Dixie Chicks, Natalie Maines, Emily Robinson, and Martie McGuire will reunite for their There’s Your Trouble Tour which kicks-off in Toronto August 28. But first, The Chicks must select an act to open with Canada’s own Terri Clark.
WHO— The Dixie Chicks and The New Country 95.3 team up to give aspiring country musicians a chance to open for the Dixie Chicks during their There’s Your Trouble Tour.
WHAT— The final 10 contestants will perform at Massey Hall as The Chicks judge and choose their new opening act.
WHEN— June 10, 2010 at 11 a.m.
WHERE— Massey Hall
178 Victoria St.,
Toronto, Ont.
Media is invited to watch the performances as well as photograph and conduct interviews with the aspiring musicians. Canadian country musicians specifically have a difficult time drawing a following and getting recognized, The Chicks hope to ease the process a little.
For more information about The Dixie Chicks, the There’s Your Trouble Tour or the Unsigned contest please visit www.dixiechicks.com.
The Dixie Chicks are an American country music group comprised of Natalie Maines, lead vocals, guitar, songwriter; Emily Robinson, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist; and
Martie McGuire, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist. The Chicks are defined by their dynamic sound, personal lyrics, political involvement, passion for protecting the
environment and their work with Conservation International.
For more information please visit www.dixiechicks.com
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Media Contact:
Alena Boczek
GHPR
555-539-9979
aboczek@dchicks.com 
Dixie Chicks Comeback Tour - [MOCK] Biography
BIOGRAPHY
The Dixie Chicks began in Texas with sisters Martie MaGuire, Oct. 12, 1969 and Emily Robinson, Aug. 16, 1972, then both Erwin. They were well known for their amazing talent and elaborate costumes that they often showcased at different country festivals throughout Texas. Though the group originally started with four members, two of the members were replaced with current lead singer Natalie Maines, Oct. 14, 1974. Natalie brought a new sound to the group and the Dixie Chicks began their career, becoming the phenomenon they are now.
The Chicks have been awarded 13 Grammys, including Best Country Album, nine Country Music Association awards (CMAs) and one Canadian Country Music Association awards (CCMAs).
After Natalie’s controversial statement about president George Bush and the ensuing Iraq war came the release of their Shut Up and Sing documentary. The documentary took the Chicks from country stars to political activists, which thrust them onto the mainstream scene. Since they have explored different genres and have done well on mainstream media
Before the comment, the Chicks were dominating the country music scene with their Home album, which had two number one singles, Landslide and Travelin’ Soldier.
The Chicks began their work with Conservation International after many years of Natalie’s personal interest in the organization’s work, but formally became involved during their 2006 Accidents and Accusations tour where they agreed to donate the cost of their tour’s environmental impact.
The Dixie Chicks are an American country music group comprised of Natalie Maines, lead vocals, guitar, songwriter; Emily Robinson, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist; and
Martie MaGuire, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist. The Chicks are defined by their dynamic sound, personal lyrics, political involvement, passion for protecting the
environment and their work with Conservation International.
For more information on the Dixie Chicks please visit www.dixiechicks.com or www.cmt.com/artists/az/dixie_chicks/artist.jhtml
--30--
Media Contact:
Alena Boczek
GHPR
555-539-9979
aboczek@dchicks.com
Dixie Chicks Comeback Tour - [MOCK] Backgrounder
CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Conservation International (CI) is a prominent non-profit organization focused on preserving biodiversity and raising awareness about other issues such as fresh water, cultural services, climate, food, and health around the world.
BEGINNINGS
Conservation International started as the dream of a small group of people who wanted to preserve untouched natural areas. Their dream eventually grew and with some innovative thinking, that group changed the face of conservation. With others, co-founders Peter Segilman and Stephen Beebe envisioned a form of conservation that looked to the future, rather than holding on to the past. CI now works with indigenous peoples, governments, corporations, groups and individuals to bring a future where people live in harmony with nature
MISSION
Building upon a strong foundation of science, partnership and field demonstration, Conservation International empowers societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature for the well-being of humanity.
EFFORTS
CI is concerned with climate change, fresh water, food, health, cultural services and biodiversity. CI encourages different corporations to use sustainable production systems to create sustainable products and to use renewable energy. They work with different government partners to lobby the government for changes or the implementation of new laws or policies pertaining to sustainability. CI plays a key role in governments’ creation of environmental action plans.
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PARTNERS
CI has teamed up with a variety of groups to pursuer their environmental pursuits. Ci is partnered with Alcoa, Aveda, Kraft Food Inc., Wal-Mart, MacDonalds, Coco-Cola, Dell and Volkswagon. They are also involved with such governments as the United States of America, China, France, and Guyana.
CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL DIFFERENCE
CI is distinct from other environmental organizations in their unique Soujourn Program. This program offers individuals interested in conservation an opportunity to travel different areas of the world to experience their local conservation issues, biodiversity and culture. CI holds these programs in an effort to ensure human understanding with nature and how it directly affects our everyday lives. Soujourner can create personalized itinerary for places they would like to experience, and what they would like to do. This gives sojourners the opportunity to connect with nature, and return with a different prerogative and new understanding in hopes of encouraging them to create proactive change in their everyday lives.
Conservation International literally wants to save
the dirt under your finger nails
The Dixie Chicks are an American country music group comprised of Natalie Maines, lead vocals, guitar, songwriter; Emily Robinson, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist; and
Martie MaGuire, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist. The Chicks are defined by their dynamic sound, personal lyrics, political involvement, passion for protecting the
environment and their work with Conservation International.
For more information please visit www.conservationinternational.org
--30--
Media Contact:
Alena Boczek
GHPR
555-539-9979
aboczek@dchicks.com
Dixie Chicks Comeback Tour - [MOCK] Press Release
Let ‘Er Rip On Stage With the Dixie Chicks at the Air Canada Centre
TORONTO, May 2, 2010 – The Dixie Chicks and Toronto’s Country 95.3 are giving aspiring musicians a chance to open for the Dixie Chicks at the Air Canada Centre on August 28 during their There’s Your Trouble Tour. In conjunction with the station’s Unsigned program, upcoming country artists can submit their entries online and may be chosen to open for the Dixie Chicks with Terri Clark and perform in front of over 15, 000 screaming fans.
After being off the scene for over two years the Dixie Chicks, Natalie Maines, Emily Robinson, and Martie McGuire will reunite for their There’s Your Trouble Tour in Toronto. The concert kicks–off in Toronto on August 28 with the Chicks stopping in eight Canadian cities including: St. John’s, Halifax, Quebec City, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, and Vancouver. The tour will then continue through the states with their final date being in Texas, Maines’ home state.
This year The Chicks are focusing on environmental sustainability, “we’ve always been strong advocates for Conservation International and their amazing initiatives,”says Maines, “this year we’re taking it to our fans.” The concert will featureenvironmentally responsible special effects including LED lighting. All T-shirts sold by The Chicks are made of 100% organic cotton and 25 per cent of all ticket sales will go to Conservation International.
Conservation International was founded in 1987 with the unique concept of humanity living in harmony with nature as opposed to simply preserving it. Peter Segilmann, Co-founder and CEO is thrilled with the Dixie Chicks, “their involvement with our organization has been incredible, their advocacy, vital, and now with their donation commitment, we truly feel we can make a difference in the earth’s biodiversity.”
The Chicks first heard of The New Country 95.3’s Unsigned program after they announced Toronto as the kick-off during their tour. The Chicks originally agreed to the comeback tour after overwhelming requests from their fans. As this tour was for the fans, The Chicks wanted to go back to their roots, when they were struggling to make it, and help aspiring Canadian Country musicians.
“We’ve always thought of Canada as our second home, we’re so welcome here by everyone,” says Martie McGuire, “we really wanted to do something special for Canada.” Canadian country musicians specifically have a difficult time drawing a following and getting recognized, The Chicks hope to ease the process a little.
Interested aspiring musicians can sign-up online at www.country953.com/Unsigned and enter as a solo artist, duet, or group. The preliminary decisions will be made by Country 95.3 listeners, after which the final ten will perform for The Chicks live at Massey Hall or via satellite if they are out-of-province.
For more information about The Dixie Chicks, the There’s Your Trouble Tour or the Unsigned contest please visit www.dixiechicks.com or for information about The Chicks and Conservation International visit www.conservation.org/dixiechicks
The Dixie Chicks are an American country music group comprised of Natalie Maines, lead vocals, guitar, songwriter; Emily Robinson, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist; and
Martie McGuire, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist. The Chicks are defined by their dynamic sound, personal lyrics, political involvement, passion for protecting the
environment and their work with Conservation International.
--30--
Media Contact:
Alena Boczek
GHPR
555-539-9979
aboczek@dchicks.com
Dixie Chicks Comeback Tour - [MOCK] Fact Sheet
CONCERT QUICK FACTS
Concert
Who: The Dixie Chicks and Conservation International
What: The Chicks with Terri Clarkson and special guest
When: August 28, 2010
Where: Air Canada Center
Performances
• Special guest: Dixie Chicks and The New Country 95.3’s Unsigned Contest winner
• Terri Clark
• The Dixie Chicks
• Never before seen Terri Clark and Natalie Maines duet
Environmental Sustainability
• 25% of every ticket sold will go to Conservation International
• All special effects will use LED lights and environmentally friendly smoke machines
• Both The Dixie Chicks and Terri Clark will be donating their outfits to Conservation International for auction with all
proceeds supporting the organization
• The Chicks will be traveling in a new Hybrid Tour Bus
• Bottled water will not be sold at the concert but fans can fill up their own reusable bottles at watering stations at each gate entrance to the show
• All The Dixie Chicks’ t-shirts are made of 100% organic cotton
The Dixie Chicks are an American country music group comprised of Natalie Maines, lead vocals, guitar, songwriter; Emily Robinson, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist; and
Martie MaGuire, songwriter, vocals, and multi-instrumentalist. The Chicks are defined by their dynamic sound, personal lyrics, political involvement, passion for protecting the
environment and their work with Conservation International.
For more information please visit www.dixiechicks.com
--30--
Media Contact:Alena Boczek
GHPR
555-539-9979
aboczek@dchicks.com
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Activist Project
I’ve always been involved with volunteering and fundraising in high school, but there was never a project that I felt very strongly about. When I turned 17 I started donating blood, and continue to on a regular basis. This is my activist project. “Approximately every minute of every day, someone in Canada needs blood. In fact, according to a recent poll, 52 per cent of Canadians say they, or a family member, have needed blood or blood products for surgery or for medical treatment.” With this information, I know that my blood donation counts. I think I have such a strong connection with blood donating because I’m really patriotic. I know Canada is in need, but often times we give aid to other countries. I think that more Canadians should donate blood, it only takes an hour, and you can save up to three lives. People don’t realize the urgent need for blood Canada is constantly in. My one donation, is one unit of blood, the average liver transplant requires approximately 100 units of blood (Who). I have a B+ blood type that is only common with 9% of the population, if someone with my blood type needed major surgery, they would have trouble getting the required blood because of low amount of people that donate. Donating does not take a lot of time, and it doesn’t hurt. One person can only donate every 56 days, that’s only 6 times a year, which is why more people need to start donating. What if it were you on the operation table?
Works Cited
“Who Needs Blood.” Canadian Blood Services. 26 November 2008. < http://www.bloodservices.ca/centreapps/Internet/UW_V502_MainEngine.nsf/page/E_Who%20Needs%20Blood>.
Works Cited
“Who Needs Blood.” Canadian Blood Services. 26 November 2008. < http://www.bloodservices.ca/centreapps/Internet/UW_V502_MainEngine.nsf/page/E_Who%20Needs%20Blood>.
Participatory Culture
Participatory Culture
I first heard about Post Secret through my high school, and have participated in it ever since. Post Secret is a blog created by Frank Warren to help people. On his blog, Warren posts secrets people send him. People write these secrets on pictures, or post cards, and mail them to Warren. By expressing their secrets Warren feels that they will liberate themselves and inspire others (Frank). There four books that have between them thousands of secrets. Some of the secrets are sad and some are happy, but most of the people that write in are inspired by other’s secrets. They feel better because they’re not the only one with a certain problem, or they feel better when they read a worse secret than theirs, with an author who got through it. The post secret program is really inspiring. The people that participate, and read the secrets are from all over the world, with all types of secrets; it’s nice to see people come together.
Works Cited
“Frank Warren, PostSecret Founder at Depauw University.” [Video]. 16 June 2008. 25 Novemebr 2008.
.
This is a video of many different post secrets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFVN5VpgVU
I first heard about Post Secret through my high school, and have participated in it ever since. Post Secret is a blog created by Frank Warren to help people. On his blog, Warren posts secrets people send him. People write these secrets on pictures, or post cards, and mail them to Warren. By expressing their secrets Warren feels that they will liberate themselves and inspire others (Frank). There four books that have between them thousands of secrets. Some of the secrets are sad and some are happy, but most of the people that write in are inspired by other’s secrets. They feel better because they’re not the only one with a certain problem, or they feel better when they read a worse secret than theirs, with an author who got through it. The post secret program is really inspiring. The people that participate, and read the secrets are from all over the world, with all types of secrets; it’s nice to see people come together.
Works Cited
“Frank Warren, PostSecret Founder at Depauw University.” [Video]. 16 June 2008. 25 Novemebr 2008.
This is a video of many different post secrets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFVN5VpgVU
Culture Jamming
“Culture jamming is an intriguing form of political communication that has emerged in response to the commercial isolation of public life”
To me, a culture jam is like a metaphor: two or more seemingly unrelated things put together in an effort to show a comparison between the two. Culture jams can be seen in many different forms, such as billboards, videos, music, or posters.
An example I found is shown below. It is a culture jam in music video form that was posted on youtube. It features the song “I’m too sexy” by Right Said Fred. The beginning of the video features popular beauty product slogans, it then goes on the many different pictures and video clips of different models and celebrities. It then contrasts these images with normal women, and their struggle to achieve this. The final picture shows a severely anorexic girl and the L’oreal slogan “Because you’re worth it.”
When L’oreal uses this slogan, it is accompanied by a beautiful model that their target audience would envy. By doing this, women who strive for the model’s Photoshopped perfection will buy L’oreal products. By accompanying the slogan with a picture of an anorexic girl, it questions L’oreal’s ethics. It suggests that L’oreal expects every woman to conform to that image, and that they are aware of the repercussions of their advertisements.
Works Cited
“Real Beauty” [Video]. 25 March 2007. 20 November 2008..
To me, a culture jam is like a metaphor: two or more seemingly unrelated things put together in an effort to show a comparison between the two. Culture jams can be seen in many different forms, such as billboards, videos, music, or posters.
An example I found is shown below. It is a culture jam in music video form that was posted on youtube. It features the song “I’m too sexy” by Right Said Fred. The beginning of the video features popular beauty product slogans, it then goes on the many different pictures and video clips of different models and celebrities. It then contrasts these images with normal women, and their struggle to achieve this. The final picture shows a severely anorexic girl and the L’oreal slogan “Because you’re worth it.”
When L’oreal uses this slogan, it is accompanied by a beautiful model that their target audience would envy. By doing this, women who strive for the model’s Photoshopped perfection will buy L’oreal products. By accompanying the slogan with a picture of an anorexic girl, it questions L’oreal’s ethics. It suggests that L’oreal expects every woman to conform to that image, and that they are aware of the repercussions of their advertisements.
Works Cited
“Real Beauty” [Video]. 25 March 2007. 20 November 2008.
Buy Nothing Day
Buy Nothing Day is an annual event in which people are encouraged to ‘buy nothing.’ This event happens to promote the consumerism in our country. The purpose of the event is prove to people that we spend unnecessarily everyday. We buy coffee every morning even though we have some at home. We decide to walk through the mall and pick up a few things that we don’t need, and often can’t afford. Why do we do this? I personally find this answer in nearly every Sears commercial I listen to. After spending a pre-set amount of money, you receive a free gift, and next week, buy two get the third free. With this mind set, we think it necessary to purchase three spatulas, but we reassure ourselves, “Christmas presents.” Once we see how unnecessarily we spend our money, we are in a better position to make more conscious decisions. They say 5% of the population controls 95% percent of the wealth, most Canadian deny it, but we are in that 5%. Canada is ranked the 15th wealthiest country (according to GDP) with an incredible low population in relation to the countries that rank higher (Rank). The sooner Canadians realize we are part of the problem, the sooner we can fix it.
Works Cited
“Rank Order: GDP (Purchasing Power Parity).” CIA World Factbook. 20 November 2008. 23 November 2008..
Works Cited
“Rank Order: GDP (Purchasing Power Parity).” CIA World Factbook. 20 November 2008. 23 November 2008.
Net Neutrality
The Internet is something my generation has come to rely on. It’s where I start most of my research, where I find most of my entertainment, and how I connect with family and friends. Because I’ve always had the Internet, I’ve never questioned it, or realized how much I appreciated it. When we discussed the ethics on which the Internet is based, I truly realized the potential of the Internet, and how much we need it. Now, we have Network Neutrality, this “prevents Internet providers from blocking, speeding up or slowing down Web content based on its source, ownership or destination.” The Internet allows for the marketplace of ideas that major media hegemonies does not. The newspapers and news programs we rely on have obligations to their networks and the corporations that own those networks. The freedom of the Internet allows people to do what I am doing now, to state and publish their opinion. Network Neutrality has been a hot topic during the U.S presidential election. Newly elected president, Barack Obama stated that if “providers start to privilege some applications or websites over others, then the smaller voices get squeezed out and we all lose” (Barack). A lot of our news is already censored by corporate interest, if phone companies control the Internet and corporations become involved, the Internet will no longer be an equal, neutral playing field. Www.SaveTheInternet.com has more information on net neutrality, and information on how you can help save the Internet.
Works Cited
“Barack Obama: On Net Neutrality” [Video]. 14 November 2007. 15 November 2008..
Works Cited
“Barack Obama: On Net Neutrality” [Video]. 14 November 2007. 15 November 2008.
Media Hegemonies
The ‘market place of ideas’ allows for people to express and publish their ideas. With publishing costs so high however, the average Joe does not have the funds necessary to express and publish his thoughts. To create a balance, journalists from various news agencies are expected to be objective and publish every angle of every story. What it often comes down to however, is corporate interest. With very few corporations controlling the majority of media, the needs of the corporation need to be met first, before news, and before objectivity. Most people probably haven’t heard of News Corp, but are probably effected by them daily. News Corp. owns 47 television stations, 11 film production companies, 28 newspapers, 6 magazines, 45 book publishers including 13 children’s books publishers, as well as a variety of sports teams, radio stations, websites, and other various media companies (Resources). Having this many media companies On January 15th 2008 Canada’s Regulators for Telecommunications (CRTC) announced a policy that ensures that “a person or entity will be permitted to control only two of the three types of media outlets — radio, TV, or newspapers — in a single market” (CRTC). These restrictions prevent a person or corporation from holding a monopoly of media. Though this does not ensure better journalism, it puts forth an effort that will hopefully stop corporate interest from influencing the news that is publish, and that which is cut.
Works Cited
“Resources.” Columbia Journalism Review. 7 August 2008. 8 November 2008..
“CRTC Imposes Cross-Media Ownership Restrictions.” CBC News. 15 January 2008. 8 November 2008. < http://www.cbc.ca/money/story/2008/01/15/crtc.html>.
Works Cited
“Resources.” Columbia Journalism Review. 7 August 2008. 8 November 2008.
“CRTC Imposes Cross-Media Ownership Restrictions.” CBC News. 15 January 2008. 8 November 2008. < http://www.cbc.ca/money/story/2008/01/15/crtc.html>.
Fake News
Fake news is the reason it is mandatory for us to take Internet Survey and Research. We are so bombarded with information; we are so busy trying to retain everything that is thrown at us everyday, that we lose sight of what is reality and what is not. In our Internet class we learn how to distinguish between a credible source, and an unreliable source. The overall message I’ve take from that course is that all sources are credible, depending on what you’re looking for, and that all sources have a bias and an agenda. We are the test generation of the information age. We are bombarded with this information and are taught to decipher it. This is the most prominent point for me because of the audience of fake news. An article from the ctv website states that satirical news shows, specifically the Daily Show “has more viewers in the coveted 18-to-31 age demographic than any other nightly news program in the United States” (Janus). If we are the target audience what are we getting from this news? A journalist is ideally objective, whereas these shows are usually quite opinionated. Many young people are discredited because of their lack of interest and involvement in the news and politics, but are we being misinformed? Or are we just not interested in an objective point of view anymore? Personally, an opinionated perspective is something I cherish. Though this is not the accepted, traditional form of news deliverance, I think there is something to be said for this style. With all the information out there, one doesn’t know how to decipher it, when John Stewart puts a spin on it, I better understand the information, and the different perspectives available for me to choose.
Fake news shows often reject the regular news stories we read. Often politically slanted, fake news dismisses PR sugar coating. With the control major corporations have on the media, the media deliver the news, but choose to omit some facts that would damage reputations. I tend to think fake news journalists are the ones that bring up the controversial issues other journalists can’t bring up without fearing job loss.
Works Cited
Janus, Andrea. “Is ‘fake news’ informative? Study Tests Fun vs Facts.” CTV News. 15
September 2008. 1 November 2008.
20080914?hub=TopStories>.
Fake news shows often reject the regular news stories we read. Often politically slanted, fake news dismisses PR sugar coating. With the control major corporations have on the media, the media deliver the news, but choose to omit some facts that would damage reputations. I tend to think fake news journalists are the ones that bring up the controversial issues other journalists can’t bring up without fearing job loss.
Works Cited
Janus, Andrea. “Is ‘fake news’ informative? Study Tests Fun vs Facts.” CTV News. 15
September 2008. 1 November 2008.
20080914?hub=TopStories>.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Social Uses/Implications of Technology and Media
Though I used music as my strongest media influence for my media autobiography, I am going to discuss my computer, more specifically the Internet, and its impact on my life. Every morning, I wake up and turn on my computer, waiting for it to start, I shower, and get ready. Before I get dressed, I check the Weather Network for today’s forecast, and then put on one of my favourite radio stations on via their website. Before I leave for class, I check my e-mail and Facebook page. I then shut my laptop, and take it to class. In class I use it take notes, and to look up concepts I don’t know on Google. I then come home, check my e-mail again, and do my homework, which almost always involves the Internet, I then usually catch up with people from home on MSN, and finally go to bed, to do it all over again tomorrow. I don’t know what I would do without my computer. I wouldn’t know what to wear, sometimes I would be lost in class, and I would get bored of the music on my iPod. The way my dorm room is set up even shows how my life revolves around my computer. When you walk in, my room is usually very clean, with not much stuff lying around, and my chair and my computer waiting anxiously for me on my desk beside my printer. I think I’m so drawn to the Internet as opposed to television or print media because I feel as though I have more control. I do not have to sit through commercials, though there are advertisement banners, I feel they are easier to ignore. To me, the Internet is more of a personal form of media, but still has the ability to connect you to the masses. I can listen to music, or connect with friends, or I can learn about the latest technology in Japan if I really wanted to. As much as I enjoy the Internet, I do believe that it has some negative implications. A lot of the information is not trust worthy, and the media is more hidden than in a television commercial. An example of this are those sneaky pop-ups that claim to have a million dollars waiting for you just because you’re the ten millionth visitor. There have been times where I am so distracted by what I am doing on my computer, that I have ignored reality. I think this is a really dangerous, and ignorant type of behavior and try to stay away from it as much as possible, but the Internet is so encompassing… speaking of which, I have just received a new e-mail from Facebook.
Theory/Praxis
Media literacy. This is a term that was foreign to me prior to this course. I never appreciated the need to fully understand everything I saw and heard from the media, until I realized how much I didn’t know. When watching a commercial, or listening to the radio, I rarely looked beyond the surface of the ad. After reading McLuhan, and seeing the Media Autobiography presentations, I am better able to conceive the truth behind the message, or rather decipher the equivocations. Through researching the theory, I came across a definition I find to be parallel to my own understanding, “Media literacy education must aim to produce students who have an understanding of the media that includes a knowledge of their strengths and weaknesses, biases and priorities, role and impact, and artistry and artifice” (AML). I’d heard the term “don’t trust everything you read” but didn’t know how ignorant I was to the impact of the media. I really appreciate the idea of media literacy. To me it means taking something for more than its face value, to find out what is really being said (or meant), and to think critically for oneself. I am so easily sucked into ads, and am the target of cross merchandising. Now I can actually see the marketing behind the advertisements; I’m able to see why certain companies use celebrities, and who they’re appealing to.
Rather than taking everything at face value, people should look deeper and find the true meaning behind the message.
Works Cited
“What is Media Literacy?” The Association for Media Literacy. 06 October 2008.
Rather than taking everything at face value, people should look deeper and find the true meaning behind the message.
Works Cited
“What is Media Literacy?” The Association for Media Literacy. 06 October 2008.
Decoding and Deconstructing an Advertisement
The advertisement I am analyzing is one I found in the September 2008 issue of Vogue magazine. Michael Kors, the self-promoted “leading American designer for luxury sportswear and accessories” is the subject and the hefty funds behind the full-page ad (Kors). This ad features a man standing beside an old-fashion car with a large group of paparazzi behind a fence in the background. The most interesting part of this ad, in my opinion, is the fact that half of it is distorted by lens flare. Because of the sunspots, the main subject of the photo lacks detail. Rather than seeing the handsome facial features of the model or even the superb fit and texture of the clothing we are used to seeing in advertisements, we instead are graced with the presence of this obviously important gentleman. The luxurious ambiance of this photo is displayed without the need for detail. Though I cannot make out the hood ornament, the car is obviously high-end; it is a classic creamy white, very clean, looking as though it has never been used, complete with white walled tires. The model is in a dark navy-blue suit, and seems very nonchalant with the situation he is encountering, acting as a well-seasoned celebrity might when stepping out of a car into a crowd of crazed photographers. The subject’s attitude towards the whole situation gives the impression that this is a regular occurrence. This leads us to believe that the subject’s Michael Kors suit and matching sunglasses are the reason he is able to handle this event in such a classy and sophisticated manner. The message is that the clothing is of such a prestigious caliber that one who wears Michael Kors should expect to attract attention. For Michael Kors to sell his clothing, he does not need to advertise them. What he is instead advertising the life style this ad portrays.
Works Cited
“About Us.” Michael Kors. 2007. 6 October 2008.
Works Cited
“About Us.” Michael Kors. 2007. 6 October 2008.
Mass Media
After discussing the term media in class, my original ideas abut ‘the media’ were changed. I had always thought of media as being newspaper, television, the radio etc. I’m not sure ‘the media’ know what media is; Dictionary.com defines media as “the means of communication, as radio and television, newspapers, and magazines, that reach or influence people widely” (Dictionary). This is a general and basic definition, widely excepted by most people, and one I have come accustom to. I never thought outside the realm of journalists and photographers. After discussing McLuhan, and the way media affects us, I better understood the term media. The process is information or any idea that is delivered to someone. In this process the information is the content, and method of delivery is the medium. Taking this into consideration newspaper is a medium, but so is the apple you ate this morning. Both deliver some form content; the newspaper delivers the daily news, and the apple delivers the common connotations that people hold when they look at an apple. This may seem like a stretch, but everything we see carries some form of personal connotation. The apple for example, comes with religious connotations, as mentioned in class, and perhaps memories of Autumn. This shows us that an apple is a medium, just as rightly as the newspaper, and a basket of apples is the media. From this, we can re-work Dictionary.com’s definition, and make it less specific; I define media as the means of communication. After narrowing this definition, I can look more at mass media. Mass media is a medium that delivers a message to a large group of people. Within this line of thinking, I also think that this same idea applies even if the message received isn’t perceived the same by every individual it reaches.
“Media.” Dictionary.com. 05 October 2008.
“Media.” Dictionary.com. 05 October 2008.
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