The Addison Independent has acquired the Mountain Times.
The weekly paper for Killington and surrounding towns,was owned and published for many years by Royal Barnard. Addison Independent Publisher Angelo Lynn said today the acquisition took place October 1. The Times' circulation area is the southernmost of a "family" of western Vermont newspapers owned by the brothers Angelo and/or Emerson Lynn.
The new publisher is Polly Lynn, daughter of Angelo. Her sister, Elsie, publishes the Essex Reporter and the Colchester Sun. The Lynn brothers themselves are sons of a newspaper publisher, making theirs a three-generation family of publishers.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Former VPR prez named to lead Maine public radio, TV
FROM VERMONTBIZ NEWS - Nov. 30, 2011
The former president of Vermont Public Radio has been hired to lead the Maine Public Broadcasting Network. The Board of Directors of the MPBN announced Tuesday that it had chosen Mark Vogelzang as its new President and CEO. Vogelzang will be in charge of both public radio and television. In Vermont, public television is a separate entity.
Vogelzang, 56, is a veteran of public broadcasting, having served most recently as station manager at WBFO-FM, Buffalo's NPR member station, where he helped facilitate a merger to be completed in 2012 between WBFO and WNED in western New York.
Vogelzang was also president of Vermont Public Radio (VPR) for 16 years, from 1993 to 2009, where he helped the organization complete a $10 million endowment campaign and created two regional networks - one that carries news, information and cultural programming and another devoted to classical music and the arts. He was elected to NPR's Board of Directors for seven years (2001-2008), and served as the Executive Director (Interim) of the NPR Foundation for most of 2009, overseeing the foundation's entire fundraising operation.
Like its Maine counterpart at MPBN, VPR is a statewide network in a largely rural state with a relatively small population, and the similarities in the challenges faced by each played a key role in his selection, according to MPBN Board Chair Henry "Hank" Schmelzer.
"Mark's long tenure as the leader of a statewide public media network in northern New England with a roughly equal number of stations, individual donors and corporate supporters," said Schmelzer, "combined with his deep knowledge of non-profit fundraising, makes him the ideal candidate to lead MPBN into the future."
When he takes over as the head of MPBN in January, Vogelzang will replace Jim Dowe, who has been MPBN's President and CEO since April 2006 and who last spring announced his plans to retire at the end of this year.
Prior to leading VPR, Vogelzang worked as Program Director and Radio Manager at WHYY in Philadelphia, helping Terry Gross with the national launch of "Fresh Air" and assisting colleagues with national television productions, and led a major format change in Philadelphia public radio in the early 90's.
Vogelzang received his BA degree from Dordt College in Iowa, where he also began his public radio career at the campus radio station. He and his wife Rhonda have 5 adult children and 5 grandchildren.
Vogelzang, 56, is a veteran of public broadcasting, having served most recently as station manager at WBFO-FM, Buffalo's NPR member station, where he helped facilitate a merger to be completed in 2012 between WBFO and WNED in western New York.
Vogelzang was also president of Vermont Public Radio (VPR) for 16 years, from 1993 to 2009, where he helped the organization complete a $10 million endowment campaign and created two regional networks - one that carries news, information and cultural programming and another devoted to classical music and the arts. He was elected to NPR's Board of Directors for seven years (2001-2008), and served as the Executive Director (Interim) of the NPR Foundation for most of 2009, overseeing the foundation's entire fundraising operation.Like its Maine counterpart at MPBN, VPR is a statewide network in a largely rural state with a relatively small population, and the similarities in the challenges faced by each played a key role in his selection, according to MPBN Board Chair Henry "Hank" Schmelzer.
"Mark's long tenure as the leader of a statewide public media network in northern New England with a roughly equal number of stations, individual donors and corporate supporters," said Schmelzer, "combined with his deep knowledge of non-profit fundraising, makes him the ideal candidate to lead MPBN into the future."
When he takes over as the head of MPBN in January, Vogelzang will replace Jim Dowe, who has been MPBN's President and CEO since April 2006 and who last spring announced his plans to retire at the end of this year.
Prior to leading VPR, Vogelzang worked as Program Director and Radio Manager at WHYY in Philadelphia, helping Terry Gross with the national launch of "Fresh Air" and assisting colleagues with national television productions, and led a major format change in Philadelphia public radio in the early 90's.
Vogelzang received his BA degree from Dordt College in Iowa, where he also began his public radio career at the campus radio station. He and his wife Rhonda have 5 adult children and 5 grandchildren.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Jim Cantore of the Weather Channel teaches at Lyndon State
Almost 30 years ago, when I was a reporter for the St. Albans Messenger, I discovered that curious readers wanted explanations for strange weather phenomena. Once I called Stuart Hall of WCAX to explain that double corona around the sun. He was very cordial and helpful, and I think the story was well read because everyone in St. Albans had seen the strange phenomena that morning and wondered what had caused it. And when the paper hit the streets that afternoon - voila! And by the way - the answer was "atmospheric ice crystals."
The following press release from Lyndon State College, one of the nation's finer training grounds for media people covering the weather, was printed on Vermont Digger this morning.
LYNDON CTR., VT.: The Weather Channel’s on-air personality and self-described ‘Weather Geek’ Jim Cantore (LSC Class of ’86) visited Lyndon State for his annual workshop “TV Weathercasting Techniques” on November 12. This is the eighth year Cantore has given the class. The full day class offers senior broadcast meteorology students the opportunity to be mentored, coached, and critiqued by Cantore.
Cantore was again joined by meteorologist Kerrin Jeromin (Class of ’08). Jeromin is the meteorologist for Fox 44 Local News This Morning and ABC22 This Morning in Burlington, Vermont.
The following press release from Lyndon State College, one of the nation's finer training grounds for media people covering the weather, was printed on Vermont Digger this morning.
LYNDON CTR., VT.: The Weather Channel’s on-air personality and self-described ‘Weather Geek’ Jim Cantore (LSC Class of ’86) visited Lyndon State for his annual workshop “TV Weathercasting Techniques” on November 12. This is the eighth year Cantore has given the class. The full day class offers senior broadcast meteorology students the opportunity to be mentored, coached, and critiqued by Cantore.
Cantore was again joined by meteorologist Kerrin Jeromin (Class of ’08). Jeromin is the meteorologist for Fox 44 Local News This Morning and ABC22 This Morning in Burlington, Vermont.
The day began with a presentation about the general state of broadcast meteorology, strategies for breaking into the business, and trends from within the field including the push towards “hyperlocal.” Cantore stressed the importance of being both passionate and compassionate in your line of work. Both Cantore and Jeromin discussed the process of finding that first broadcast job and tips on becoming successful. The class visited via Skype with Lou Michaels of Talent Dynamics.
Michaels talked to the students about producing a solid resume tape. She also discussed developing a viewer-friendly personality and the importance of on-air appearance. Michaels spoke of the role of social media and helped with advice about the job search.
The afternoon session concentrated on one-on-one studio work. Cantore watched tapes of each student’s earlier broadcast work and offered individual critiques and guidance. The student then had time to work in front of the chroma-key wall (green screen) where weather maps are projected. These sessions were taped and allowed Cantore and the students a final individual session. While Cantore was in studio, Jeromin watched show tapeswith the other students and shared advice on improving on-air performance.
The class didn’t end there. Both Cantore and Jeromin subsequently send each student a written assessment. The pair will watch more broadcasts in the spring and submit analysis on the students’ progress.
Michaels talked to the students about producing a solid resume tape. She also discussed developing a viewer-friendly personality and the importance of on-air appearance. Michaels spoke of the role of social media and helped with advice about the job search.
The afternoon session concentrated on one-on-one studio work. Cantore watched tapes of each student’s earlier broadcast work and offered individual critiques and guidance. The student then had time to work in front of the chroma-key wall (green screen) where weather maps are projected. These sessions were taped and allowed Cantore and the students a final individual session. While Cantore was in studio, Jeromin watched show tapeswith the other students and shared advice on improving on-air performance.
The class didn’t end there. Both Cantore and Jeromin subsequently send each student a written assessment. The pair will watch more broadcasts in the spring and submit analysis on the students’ progress.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Andy Potter, George Commo, John King, and Rudy Vallee named to HOF
From the Vermont Business Magazine website:
A news reporter, a sportscaster, a station executive and a legendary crooner have been named to the Vermont Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
Radio and TV news reporter Andy Potter, sportscaster George Commo and Vermont Public Television President and CEO John King will be inducted during the annual VAB Awards Banquet November 19 in Burlington. Radio and movie star Rudy Vallee will be inducted posthumously.
Vallee was born in 1901 in Island Pond. A teenage bandleader, he drew attention with the band he started at Yale University, “Rudy Vallee and the Connecticut Yankees.” In 1929, Vallee began hosting “The Fleischmann’s Yeast Hour” on NBC, later “The Royal Gelatin Hour.” The show was one of the two most popular programs in the country for the next ten years (the other being “Amos ’n’ Andy”). His program was the first to present acts such as Burns and Allen, Milton Berle, Kate Smith, the Mills Brothers and Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy. His radio, stage and film career was lengthy. He worked into the early 1980’s, when he occasionally served as the opening act for the Village People. Vallee passed away in 1986. His wife, Eleanor Vallee, said she was thrilled with the VAB honor. “I’m so pleased and appreciative of this honor for my late husband, my ‘vagabond lover,’” she said from her home in Los Angeles. “Vagabond Lover” was the name of Vallee’s first film, in 1929. Eleanor Vallee, a prolific actress and model in her own right, is planning on attending the VAB Hall of Fame ceremony.
The recently-retired Andy Potter is a legend among news reporters in Vermont. He started his radio career while attending Middlebury College in the mid-1960’s. After serving in Vietnam, he returned to Vermont, where he brought his reporting skills to a variety of radio stations, including WJOY, WDOT and WKDR among others. He carved a second career on TV, where he was a longtime senior reporter for WCAX in Burlington.
George Commo is a nine-time winner of the Vermont Sportscaster of the Year award and is also a member of the Vermont Press Association Hall of Fame. George has been a radio and TV sportscaster since the early 1970’s and was the longtime voice of UVM Hockey and Vermont minor league baseball. Since 1998, he has been covering Norwich University Hockey for WDEV. Among his fans and peers, George is considered one of the greatest hockey play-by-play sportscasters to ever climb behind a microphone.
John King joined VPT in 1987 and has served as President and CEO since 1998. He also serves on the PBS Board of Directors and has served as Chairman of the Vermont Television Broadcasters Co-location Association. He is credited with helping to form a strong bond between public and private broadcasting in Vermont.
WDEV Radio in Waterbury has been named the “Broadcaster of the Year” for 2011. The station did an extraordinary job of keeping the public informed during and after Tropical Storm Irene. Their around-the-clock coverage of the disaster is credited with saving lives and keeping people informed.
John Likakis, Executive Director of WBTN-AM in Bennington is also being recognized for outstanding coverage of Tropical Storm Irene. Likakis is one of two winners of the VAB’s Distinguished Service Award. Likakis and station volunteers at WBTN provided critical information to their community before, during and after the storm. For days, they were the only link between local emergency officials and stranded citizens.
The other Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Ginny McGehee of WJOY radio in Burlington. Ginny is the longest-serving female radio personality in Vermont history, having started at WJOY in 1983. Her radio family wouldn’t think of starting the day without her good humor and upbeat attitude. She’s served her community in other ways as a board member of Champlain Valley Crimestoppers and the Vermont and New Hampshire Valley chapter of the American Red Cross.
The Alan Noyes Community Service Award is going to WJJR-FM in Rutland for their amazing annual Gift-of-Life blood drive. WJJR personalities Terry Jaye and Nanci Gordon helped collect 1,400 pints of blood in one day last December, breaking a New England record set in Boston. The annual drive has been a focal point of community involvement in Rutland. The regional and national record has since been eclipsed by Manchester, New Hampshire. This year’s drive is scheduled for December 20.
Two other Community Service Awards will be presented to WOKO-FM and ABC22/FOX44-TV. WOKO radio in Burlington has been conducting their “Big Change Round-up for Kids” for seven years. Last year, the station raised an astounding $206,000 for the Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen. The annual campaign culminates in a four-day radiothon.
ABC22/FOX44 is being honored for organizing a telethon for June 8 that raised more than $45,000 for the local Red Cross. The stations took action when reporter Natalie Paterson came back from covering damage from Vermont’s spring floods and asked General Manager Vic Vetters what the stations could do to help their neighbors. The telethon helped replenish the local Red Cross coffers at a critical time.
A news reporter, a sportscaster, a station executive and a legendary crooner have been named to the Vermont Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
Radio and TV news reporter Andy Potter, sportscaster George Commo and Vermont Public Television President and CEO John King will be inducted during the annual VAB Awards Banquet November 19 in Burlington. Radio and movie star Rudy Vallee will be inducted posthumously.
Vallee was born in 1901 in Island Pond. A teenage bandleader, he drew attention with the band he started at Yale University, “Rudy Vallee and the Connecticut Yankees.” In 1929, Vallee began hosting “The Fleischmann’s Yeast Hour” on NBC, later “The Royal Gelatin Hour.” The show was one of the two most popular programs in the country for the next ten years (the other being “Amos ’n’ Andy”). His program was the first to present acts such as Burns and Allen, Milton Berle, Kate Smith, the Mills Brothers and Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy. His radio, stage and film career was lengthy. He worked into the early 1980’s, when he occasionally served as the opening act for the Village People. Vallee passed away in 1986. His wife, Eleanor Vallee, said she was thrilled with the VAB honor. “I’m so pleased and appreciative of this honor for my late husband, my ‘vagabond lover,’” she said from her home in Los Angeles. “Vagabond Lover” was the name of Vallee’s first film, in 1929. Eleanor Vallee, a prolific actress and model in her own right, is planning on attending the VAB Hall of Fame ceremony.
The recently-retired Andy Potter is a legend among news reporters in Vermont. He started his radio career while attending Middlebury College in the mid-1960’s. After serving in Vietnam, he returned to Vermont, where he brought his reporting skills to a variety of radio stations, including WJOY, WDOT and WKDR among others. He carved a second career on TV, where he was a longtime senior reporter for WCAX in Burlington.
George Commo is a nine-time winner of the Vermont Sportscaster of the Year award and is also a member of the Vermont Press Association Hall of Fame. George has been a radio and TV sportscaster since the early 1970’s and was the longtime voice of UVM Hockey and Vermont minor league baseball. Since 1998, he has been covering Norwich University Hockey for WDEV. Among his fans and peers, George is considered one of the greatest hockey play-by-play sportscasters to ever climb behind a microphone.
John King joined VPT in 1987 and has served as President and CEO since 1998. He also serves on the PBS Board of Directors and has served as Chairman of the Vermont Television Broadcasters Co-location Association. He is credited with helping to form a strong bond between public and private broadcasting in Vermont.
WDEV Radio in Waterbury has been named the “Broadcaster of the Year” for 2011. The station did an extraordinary job of keeping the public informed during and after Tropical Storm Irene. Their around-the-clock coverage of the disaster is credited with saving lives and keeping people informed.
John Likakis, Executive Director of WBTN-AM in Bennington is also being recognized for outstanding coverage of Tropical Storm Irene. Likakis is one of two winners of the VAB’s Distinguished Service Award. Likakis and station volunteers at WBTN provided critical information to their community before, during and after the storm. For days, they were the only link between local emergency officials and stranded citizens.
The other Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Ginny McGehee of WJOY radio in Burlington. Ginny is the longest-serving female radio personality in Vermont history, having started at WJOY in 1983. Her radio family wouldn’t think of starting the day without her good humor and upbeat attitude. She’s served her community in other ways as a board member of Champlain Valley Crimestoppers and the Vermont and New Hampshire Valley chapter of the American Red Cross.
The Alan Noyes Community Service Award is going to WJJR-FM in Rutland for their amazing annual Gift-of-Life blood drive. WJJR personalities Terry Jaye and Nanci Gordon helped collect 1,400 pints of blood in one day last December, breaking a New England record set in Boston. The annual drive has been a focal point of community involvement in Rutland. The regional and national record has since been eclipsed by Manchester, New Hampshire. This year’s drive is scheduled for December 20.
Two other Community Service Awards will be presented to WOKO-FM and ABC22/FOX44-TV. WOKO radio in Burlington has been conducting their “Big Change Round-up for Kids” for seven years. Last year, the station raised an astounding $206,000 for the Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen. The annual campaign culminates in a four-day radiothon.
ABC22/FOX44 is being honored for organizing a telethon for June 8 that raised more than $45,000 for the local Red Cross. The stations took action when reporter Natalie Paterson came back from covering damage from Vermont’s spring floods and asked General Manager Vic Vetters what the stations could do to help their neighbors. The telethon helped replenish the local Red Cross coffers at a critical time.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Funeral services for John Curran, AP reporter, 54, to be held Thursday, 11 am
Just a week after posting news of the untimely death of a well-respected member of the Vermont media, Susan Jarzyna of the Hardwick Gazette, vermontpressconnections sadly reports yet another passing of a journalist in the prime of life. John Curran, head of the Vermont bureau of the Associated Press, died Saturday afternoon at Central Vermont Medical Center after suffering a heart attack while mowing the lawn at his Colonial Drive, Montpelier home. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, and a funeral mass will be held Thursday morning (see Burlington Free Press obit below for details).
Sunday afternoon, I was talking with a prominent attorney who has represented several high-profile, unpopular causes. He praised John as a "fair" reporter, meaning of course "fair and balanced" in the true sense. Speaking as someone who has worked both as a reporter and with my former colleagues in a "flack" capacity, this is a goal to which all aspire and some achieve better than others. Based on my dealings with John as a communications professional for various not-for-profits, I agree wholeheartedly with my lawyer friend. I gladly pay John one of the highest compliments that can be paid to any reporter: "If he/she had a bias, I never knew what it was."
At his press conference Tuesday, September 20, Gov. Peter Shumlin praised Curran as "an extraordinary journalist and friend." On behalf of those who knew him he expressed "extraordinary grief and loss" and said that our hearts go out to his wife Trisha, and children Julie, Mary and Patrick. "Our love and prayers are with Trish and his family at this tough time," he said.
Before the press conference began, one of his peers noted - without referring to John in particular - that the life of the newspaper reporter is not always conducive to healthly lifestyle choices. There are long hours, lots of pressure and endless deadlines, lots of travel, too much fast food, and an over-reliance on caffeine and an underreliance on sleep (AKA "the poor man's medicine"). It would be well for all news professionals "of a certain age" to self-evaluate and not put off that annual checkup.
JOHN FRANCIS CURRAN MONTPELIER - John Francis Curran, 54, of Colonial Drive in Montpelier, died unexpectedly on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, in Central Vermont Medical Center. He was born on Sept. 16, 1957, the son of S. Robert and Mary (Sullivan) Curran in New York City, N.Y. On Aug. 19, 1989, he married Patricia Flynn in Southbridge, Mass. He worked as a Journalist for the Montpelier Bureau of the Associated Press. Survivors include his wife, Patricia "Tricia" Curran of Montpelier; children, Julie Curran, Mary Curran and Patrick Curran of Montpelier; and brothers, S. Robert Curran, Jr., of West Islip, N.Y. and Mark Curran of New York City, N.Y. He was predeceased by his parents. Calling hours will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, at the Guare and Sons Funeral Home. A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011, at St. Augustine's Church in Montpelier. Those wishing to express condolences may do so online at www.guareandsons.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road-Berlin, Barre, VT 05641 or to St. Augustine's Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Sunday afternoon, I was talking with a prominent attorney who has represented several high-profile, unpopular causes. He praised John as a "fair" reporter, meaning of course "fair and balanced" in the true sense. Speaking as someone who has worked both as a reporter and with my former colleagues in a "flack" capacity, this is a goal to which all aspire and some achieve better than others. Based on my dealings with John as a communications professional for various not-for-profits, I agree wholeheartedly with my lawyer friend. I gladly pay John one of the highest compliments that can be paid to any reporter: "If he/she had a bias, I never knew what it was."
At his press conference Tuesday, September 20, Gov. Peter Shumlin praised Curran as "an extraordinary journalist and friend." On behalf of those who knew him he expressed "extraordinary grief and loss" and said that our hearts go out to his wife Trisha, and children Julie, Mary and Patrick. "Our love and prayers are with Trish and his family at this tough time," he said.
Before the press conference began, one of his peers noted - without referring to John in particular - that the life of the newspaper reporter is not always conducive to healthly lifestyle choices. There are long hours, lots of pressure and endless deadlines, lots of travel, too much fast food, and an over-reliance on caffeine and an underreliance on sleep (AKA "the poor man's medicine"). It would be well for all news professionals "of a certain age" to self-evaluate and not put off that annual checkup.
JOHN FRANCIS CURRAN MONTPELIER - John Francis Curran, 54, of Colonial Drive in Montpelier, died unexpectedly on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, in Central Vermont Medical Center. He was born on Sept. 16, 1957, the son of S. Robert and Mary (Sullivan) Curran in New York City, N.Y. On Aug. 19, 1989, he married Patricia Flynn in Southbridge, Mass. He worked as a Journalist for the Montpelier Bureau of the Associated Press. Survivors include his wife, Patricia "Tricia" Curran of Montpelier; children, Julie Curran, Mary Curran and Patrick Curran of Montpelier; and brothers, S. Robert Curran, Jr., of West Islip, N.Y. and Mark Curran of New York City, N.Y. He was predeceased by his parents. Calling hours will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, at the Guare and Sons Funeral Home. A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011, at St. Augustine's Church in Montpelier. Those wishing to express condolences may do so online at www.guareandsons.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road-Berlin, Barre, VT 05641 or to St. Augustine's Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Free Press cans Monday business section, debuts "innovate" Thursday; Lt. Governor sells advertising
It's Twofer Monday at vermontpressconnections. First, the Burlington Free Press ran a Page One, Above the Fold, Right Hand Column story today on the demise of Business Monday and the creation of a new Thursday business section, "innovate". (See story from BFP website below.) Good to see that the Free Press has acknowledge vermontpressconnections as a trendsetter by assigning a lowercase, one-word name to its newest project. (Just kidding, everyone.)
Second, at long last the advertising salesmen are getting recognition! Lt. Gov. Phil Scott, who even looks a little like Mike Rowe of the Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs", announced today that tomorrow morning he will be selling advertising for the Addison Eagle as part of his Vermont Everyday Jobs program. As a former foot soldier in these particular trenches, here's what I want to know - what's his commission, and does he get to sell the plum accounts or is the paper giving him the grouchy old misers that no-one else wants?
Second, at long last the advertising salesmen are getting recognition! Lt. Gov. Phil Scott, who even looks a little like Mike Rowe of the Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs", announced today that tomorrow morning he will be selling advertising for the Addison Eagle as part of his Vermont Everyday Jobs program. As a former foot soldier in these particular trenches, here's what I want to know - what's his commission, and does he get to sell the plum accounts or is the paper giving him the grouchy old misers that no-one else wants?
* * * * * *
Free Press launches "innovate" Thursday
For the first time in memory, the Monday edition of the Burlington Free Press is without a Business Monday section.
That section has been a Free Press staple, one valued by readers for its coverage of local companies. I’m pleased to announce today that in the spirit of reinvention and delivering excellent products, the Free Press is recreating its approach to business coverage.
The new section will be moving to Thursdays as part of our effort to enhance daily content with passion sections as we’ve done with our Green Mountain, ARTSbtv and Savorvore sections.
The new section will be known as innovate and launches this Thursday.
You can expect to see deep coverage and bold presentation as we focus on creativity in the work place, Vermont style. While we’ll continue to carry some of the existing favorite features of Business Monday, you will also find topical stories that get at our love of finding out “how to.” With that, we’ll feature profiles of Vermont businesses, and essays by local business people on topics that touch on the theme of innovation.
Look to your new innovate section every Thursday for an unfiltered voice from those who make their living doing business in Vermont.
- Jim Fogler is President and Publisher of the Burlington Free Press.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
At the Rutland Herald, the Medium is the Massage
Every editor and reporter knows what it means to massage a story. At the Rutland Herald, though, they take the M-word literally. See the August 11 post from Darren Marcy at the daily's Vermont Today website:
Massage time
Today is a big day. A huge day. It's massage day at the Rutland Herald.
The company generously provides 20-minute massages for employees once a month.
It may not sound like much, but I look forward to my 20 minutes of horizontal heaven for 29 1/2 days every month.
Today's magic fingers time is 1:40 p.m.
So, if you hear a huge sigh at about 1:42 p.m. today in downtown Rutland, you'll know what is going on.
Massage time
Today is a big day. A huge day. It's massage day at the Rutland Herald.
The company generously provides 20-minute massages for employees once a month.
It may not sound like much, but I look forward to my 20 minutes of horizontal heaven for 29 1/2 days every month.
Today's magic fingers time is 1:40 p.m.
So, if you hear a huge sigh at about 1:42 p.m. today in downtown Rutland, you'll know what is going on.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Is Fair Online Search In Sight?
The controversy continues as search engine fairness, or the possible lack of it by Google, becomes an issue in the online search realm. The FTC has begun an investigation of Google and their recent practices and the US Senate is now following suit.
As Google’s goal of providing consumers with a “free” service turns into a $30 billion organization, many are left questioning Google’s intentions, as “Google can use its control over search to take all of their customers away regardless of how well these other companies do their own jobs,” says Eric Clemons, Professor at The Wharton School.
To read more about why there is reason for investigating Google, click here: http://www.fairsearch.org/search-manipulation/wharton-professor-clemons-google-certainly-worthy-of-investigation
This September, The Senate Committee on the Judiciary’s Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights (incl. Sen. Patrick Leahy) will hold a hearing on Wednesday, September 21st entitled “The Power of Google: Serving Consumers or Threatening Competition?”
To read more and learn about the details, click here: http://www.fairsearch.org/uncategorized/senate-antitrust-subcommittee-announces-sept-21-hearing-the-power-of-google-serving-consumers-or-threatening-competition
I look forward to learning the outcome of this hearing.
It is interesting that there are three major Vermont public figures at least tangentially involved: AG William Sorrell, Sen. Patrick Leahy, and former gubernatorial candidate and Google executive Matt Dunne. Also, who wins and who loses may seriously affect many web-based Vermont businesses and media, as increasingly search capability is part of their business strategy.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
COMING & GOING - Governor's Press Secretary off to law school; another second generation addition to statehouse press corps
Yesterday, vermontpressconnections met Eli Sherman, the son of Bob Sherman, former Vermont journalist and currently a partner with KSE Partners, a Montpelier lobbying firm. An intern reporter for Vermont Digger, he was covering Gov. Peter Shumlin's press conference. They may have been there, but we didn't see any reporters from WCAX - if so that may explain why there's an ad in the paper for a general assignment reporter at the South Burlington TV station.
This morning, we received a note from former WCAX reporter and current gubernatorial press secretary Bianca Slota:
Dear colleagues, friends, members of the media, and more:
As many of you already know, I am leaving my position in the Governor’s Office to start a new adventure in law school. Tomorrow – Friday July 29th – will be my final day at work.
Sue Allen will handle all press-related matters from here on out. You can reach her at susan.allen@state.vt.us And Ari Wengroff will be taking over my social media and web responsibilities. You can reach her at ariel.wengroff@state.vt.us You can reach them both by phone at 802-828-3333.
While it has been brief, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in this position. Being on the “inside” gives you a whole new perspective on things and I have learned so much. Plus, I get to work with amazing people every day.
I will be in Vermont through the weekend but will pack up my things early next week and head to Connecticut. I don’t know if I’ll return to Vermont to live and work but I will certainly come back to play! If you wish to keep in touch my personal email is biancaslota@gmail.com
So long for now,
Bianca
Monday, July 18, 2011
Digger scores six-figure grant from Knight Foundation for investigative reporter
Vermontpressconnections has been busy, but we haven't gone away! The following release from Vermont Digger got our attention -
MIDDLEBURY, VT – The Vermont Community Foundation recently received a three-year, $104,000 grant to build the capacity of public policy journalism in Vermont. The Foundation will partner with VTDigger.org, a nonprofit news website that provides in-depth coverage of statewide issues affecting Vermonters. The funding will allow VTDigger.org to hire a full-time investigative reporter to cover health care and energy issues in Vermont. It will also allow Founder and Editor in Chief Anne Galloway the chance to extend her energies beyond reporting.
“VTDigger.org has grown from a very low budget, all-volunteer operation to a funded news organization with paid staffers in just two years,” says Galloway. “This generous grant will enable us to deepen our coverage of key issues that affect the daily lives of Vermonters and make it possible for us to focus on building the long-term sustainability of VTDigger.org.”
The grant was awarded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as a part of its Knight Community Information Challenge. The challenge is a five-year, $24 million initiative that helps community and place-based foundations support news and information projects that inform and engage residents. The Vermont Community Foundation is one of only 19 foundations throughout the country that was selected to receive a grant this round, and will match Knight’s grant dollar-for-dollar with contributions from their funds and larger supporting organizations.
“Strong democracy depends on strong journalism and informed debate,” said President & CEO of the Vermont Community Foundation Stuart Comstock-Gay. “Vermont stands out as a state with very high levels of citizen engagement, but we still need good information. We’re thrilled that the Knight Foundation has identified our proposal as worthy of funding.”
VTDigger.org first launched in 2009 when a group of concerned citizens and journalists, led by Galloway, came together to create a platform for fact-driven reporting and open debate on key issues impacting Vermonters. Now with 50,000 readers a month, VTDigger.org publishes daily stories on Vermont politics and public policy matters and serves as a critical resource for lawmakers and community leaders tracking down information on key issues.
When asked what sets VTDigger.org apart from other news sources, Galloway says: “Our total focus is on politics and public policy and we tend to write frequently and relentlessly about a given topic. Traditional papers tend to cover the end game of lawmaking, not the process.”
Galloway cites their extensive coverage around health care, broadband infrastructure, and campaign finance reform as particular points of pride for the nascent organization. This summer, VTDigger.org also launched Tipster – a virtual, public newsroom with the functionality of a social networking site like Facebook.
Designed to facilitate interaction among readers and journalists, Tipster users can suggest questions and post tips and source materials for reporters. “Official sources tend to drive the information in the news,” says Galloway. “Tipster is about bringing a more grassroots voice to the surface.”
In November 2010, VTDigger.org combined operations with The Vermont Journalism Trust (VJT), an organization dedicated to the funding of investigative reporting that provides scrutiny to under-covered issues and helps Vermonters make civic policy decisions based on informational integrity. “VTDigger.org is the ideal platform on which to build out Vermont Journalism Trust’s commitment to expanding quality journalism in all media,” said VJT Founding Director Doug Clifton at the time of the merger.
“The Vermont Community Foundation and others like it are part of a growing number of community and place-based foundations working to ensure residents have the information they need to make important decisions about their communities,” said Trabian Shorters, Knight Foundation’s vice president for engaging communities. “Ultimately, our democracy will only thrive if we have informed and engaged communities.”
The Vermont Community Foundation
(802) 388-3355, ext. 295
cilstrup@vermontcf.org
Anne Galloway
VTDigger.org
(802) 441-1016
agalloway@vtdigger.org
Marc Fest
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
(305) 908-2677
fest@knightfoundation.org
MIDDLEBURY, VT – The Vermont Community Foundation recently received a three-year, $104,000 grant to build the capacity of public policy journalism in Vermont. The Foundation will partner with VTDigger.org, a nonprofit news website that provides in-depth coverage of statewide issues affecting Vermonters. The funding will allow VTDigger.org to hire a full-time investigative reporter to cover health care and energy issues in Vermont. It will also allow Founder and Editor in Chief Anne Galloway the chance to extend her energies beyond reporting.
“VTDigger.org has grown from a very low budget, all-volunteer operation to a funded news organization with paid staffers in just two years,” says Galloway. “This generous grant will enable us to deepen our coverage of key issues that affect the daily lives of Vermonters and make it possible for us to focus on building the long-term sustainability of VTDigger.org.”
The grant was awarded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as a part of its Knight Community Information Challenge. The challenge is a five-year, $24 million initiative that helps community and place-based foundations support news and information projects that inform and engage residents. The Vermont Community Foundation is one of only 19 foundations throughout the country that was selected to receive a grant this round, and will match Knight’s grant dollar-for-dollar with contributions from their funds and larger supporting organizations.
“Strong democracy depends on strong journalism and informed debate,” said President & CEO of the Vermont Community Foundation Stuart Comstock-Gay. “Vermont stands out as a state with very high levels of citizen engagement, but we still need good information. We’re thrilled that the Knight Foundation has identified our proposal as worthy of funding.”
VTDigger.org first launched in 2009 when a group of concerned citizens and journalists, led by Galloway, came together to create a platform for fact-driven reporting and open debate on key issues impacting Vermonters. Now with 50,000 readers a month, VTDigger.org publishes daily stories on Vermont politics and public policy matters and serves as a critical resource for lawmakers and community leaders tracking down information on key issues.
When asked what sets VTDigger.org apart from other news sources, Galloway says: “Our total focus is on politics and public policy and we tend to write frequently and relentlessly about a given topic. Traditional papers tend to cover the end game of lawmaking, not the process.”
Galloway cites their extensive coverage around health care, broadband infrastructure, and campaign finance reform as particular points of pride for the nascent organization. This summer, VTDigger.org also launched Tipster – a virtual, public newsroom with the functionality of a social networking site like Facebook.
Designed to facilitate interaction among readers and journalists, Tipster users can suggest questions and post tips and source materials for reporters. “Official sources tend to drive the information in the news,” says Galloway. “Tipster is about bringing a more grassroots voice to the surface.”
In November 2010, VTDigger.org combined operations with The Vermont Journalism Trust (VJT), an organization dedicated to the funding of investigative reporting that provides scrutiny to under-covered issues and helps Vermonters make civic policy decisions based on informational integrity. “VTDigger.org is the ideal platform on which to build out Vermont Journalism Trust’s commitment to expanding quality journalism in all media,” said VJT Founding Director Doug Clifton at the time of the merger.
“The Vermont Community Foundation and others like it are part of a growing number of community and place-based foundations working to ensure residents have the information they need to make important decisions about their communities,” said Trabian Shorters, Knight Foundation’s vice president for engaging communities. “Ultimately, our democracy will only thrive if we have informed and engaged communities.”
About The Vermont Community Foundation
The Vermont Community Foundation was founded in 1986 with a mission to grow philanthropy in the state and ensure that donors and nonprofits have the resources they need to be effective. Since then, almost 600 individuals, families, businesses, organizations, and private foundations have established funds with us. Our family of funds award more than $10 million a year in grants. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.vermontcf.org or call 802-388-3355.About VTDigger.org
VTDigger.org is a statewide news website dedicated to coverage of Vermont politics, consumer affairs, business and public policy. Created in 2009, VTDigger.org publishes original news reporting, video, audio and photos, in addition to raw information in the form of press releases and government documents whenever possible. New content is published six days a week, Monday through Saturday.About The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities, and foster the arts. We believe that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. For more information, visit www.knightfoundation.org.Contact:
Christopher Kaufman IlstrupThe Vermont Community Foundation
(802) 388-3355, ext. 295
cilstrup@vermontcf.org
Anne Galloway
VTDigger.org
(802) 441-1016
agalloway@vtdigger.org
Marc Fest
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
(305) 908-2677
fest@knightfoundation.org
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Google search algorithm controversy has Vermont players, ramifications
I am vaguely aware that an algorithm is an important part of trigonometry, the high school course I dropped a week into the semester, thus ending my unimpressive career as a math scholar. And I am just tech-savvy enough to know that search engines use algorithms to answer “googles.”
Yesterday I listened to a discussion led by FairSearch.org, an organization of small-to-middling internet based companies committed to, well, fair searches on the internet. It seems there is a controversy stirring about search engine fairness or the possible lack of it by Google, the big boy on the block. Somewhat to my surprise there are three major Vermont public figures involved, or at least connected. Who wins and who loses may seriously affect many web-based Vermont businesses and media.
Fairsearch is concerned about Google’s new search algorithm. In short, this algorithm responds to your search with an answer that is very likely to send you immediately to a website owned by a Google partner, very possibly another internet giant. For example: let’s say you are goofing off at your Manhattan office desk and ask your computer search engine to find “Bed and Breakfast in Cambridge, Vermont.” Does the search engine rush to tell you about a B&B opened recently on Main Street by a friend of mine? Maybe, but it is more likely to send you to a big national or international website that just happens to be a Google partner. The algorithm is making you work harder to find the Little Guy’s website. You can still “get there from here.” It just takes longer.
According to Fairsearch, this is all about big corporate power and control. On the face it, this is bad business for small Vermont businesses – the same folks who buy community newspaper advertising. As their marketing partners, Vermont newspaper publishers want to encourage policies that highlight them. In the old-fashioned newspaper terms that I understand, Google has given a few select advertisers a constant, preferred position on the Front Page. By comparison, smaller internet-dependent businesses are relegated to the gutter. On the left hand side. On page 10.
According to Fairsearch, a committee chaired by Sen. Patrick Leahy is investigating the situation. Attorney General William Sorrell will chair a panel discussion of this (and other) issues in Chicago next week. At the very least, these meetings should yield information. So, too, might some reportorial Q & A with Matte Dunne, a former Windsor County state senator and candidate for governor who works as a marketing executive for Google. During his campaign, he talked about being on the cutting edge of internet communications. His perspective might be helpful and interesting.
The Wall Street Journal has a story on this; if you have access, “Sites Rotool for Google Effect” is at:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703806304576236983790385202.html. Or, you can reach Vermont's Fairsearch team at 802-223-9160.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Vermont Digger to debut interactive feature June 8
Vermont Digger has a new interactive feature called Tipster, set to begin June 8. The following notice was received today from Editor Anne Galloway:
Tipster is designed to give you an opportunity to communicate directly with reporters and place news information in an open, virtual newsroom where reporters, readers and other PR professionals congregate online.
As a spokesperson, you can post press releases, statements, advisories, tidbits and media placements under a special call-out to readers called PR posts. You can also post events listings.
Like Facebook, on Tipster you can friend members (or not).
You can post events listings, and upload images, links and PDFs as needed.
Nonmembers can view the forum, groups, postings and events, but cannot access complete postings or participate in forums. Profiles of members are inaccessible to nonmembers.
Through the group forums, you can start topics, hold open discussions -- or take a conversation offline in a private message.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
WCAX wins New England Emmy
the following was received Tuesday, May 17 from WCAX News Director Anson Tebbetts -
WCAX-TV News Wins Boston New England Emmy
This weekend, WCAX-TV News was awarded a New England Emmy for its series “Mission Afghanistan.” Reporter and Evening News Anchor Darren Perron and photographer Lance MacKenzie accepted the award at the 34th annual Emmy Awards Ceremony on Saturday in Boston.
Last summer, Perron and MacKenzie followed members of the Vermont National Guard in Afghanistan, showcasing the mission of the Green Mountain Boys. The deployment to Afghanistan of more than 1500 soldiers was the largest mission for the Vermont National Guard since World War II. “This deployment had an enormous impact on Vermont; it was a sacrifice for our soldiers and for their families,” said Perron.
Mackenzie called it “an honor to receive the award,” saying he was “proud to be Vermonter.”
“WCAX-TV News will continue telling the stories of the soldiers and their families” said News Director Anson Tebbetts. “While the mission may be finished in Afghanistan, there are many stories to tell about these veterans and their families as they transition back into the workplace and home, “said Tebbetts.
The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences is the premier and most recognized non-profit group dedicated to the advancement of excellence in television.
WCAX-TV is the CBS affiliate in Burlington, VT and is owned and operated by Mt. Mansfield Television, Inc.
Last summer, Perron and MacKenzie followed members of the Vermont National Guard in Afghanistan, showcasing the mission of the Green Mountain Boys. The deployment to Afghanistan of more than 1500 soldiers was the largest mission for the Vermont National Guard since World War II. “This deployment had an enormous impact on Vermont; it was a sacrifice for our soldiers and for their families,” said Perron.
Mackenzie called it “an honor to receive the award,” saying he was “proud to be Vermonter.”
“WCAX-TV News will continue telling the stories of the soldiers and their families” said News Director Anson Tebbetts. “While the mission may be finished in Afghanistan, there are many stories to tell about these veterans and their families as they transition back into the workplace and home, “said Tebbetts.
The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences is the premier and most recognized non-profit group dedicated to the advancement of excellence in television.
WCAX-TV is the CBS affiliate in Burlington, VT and is owned and operated by Mt. Mansfield Television, Inc.
Monday, May 16, 2011
True North Reports' TV debut
True North Reports not only has a website and a statehouse press bureau - it's in television now, on Burlington's Channel 17. The following notice was announced earlier this week:
For those of you who missed our first appearance on Burlington CCTV's Channel 17 Live @ 5:25, you can (soon) view it online HERE. Or, it will re-air on Channel 17 at the following times:
Friday May 20, 1:00 PM
Friday May 27, 1:00 PM
Friday June 3, 1:00 PM
Friday May 27, 1:00 PM
Friday June 3, 1:00 PM
Monday, May 2, 2011
Vermont Digger named to Columbia J Review E-News Database
The following post by Vermont Digger editor Anne Galloway was printed under "Editor's Notebook" of the revamped news website:
VTDigger.org was added to the Columbia Journalism Review’s News Frontier Database last week. The searchable database was launched earlier this year with 50 short profiles of digital news outlets across the country. CJR’s objective is to develop the “most comprehensive” resource of its kind.
The list gives readers a sense of the scope and the character of the new media ecosystem evolving across the United States. It includes famous national news websites like Politico and The Huffington Post, and well-established regional online publications, such as MinnPost and voiceofsandiego.org.
What do all of these sites have in common, according to the CJR authors? “Ambitious journalism (and philanthropy, and capitalism).”
VTDigger.org fit CJR’s four criteria: We are devoted to original reporting and content; we have one or more (in fact two) full-time employees; we are a standalone online news operation (we’re not an arm of a “legacy” media outfit); and we are pursuing funding through advertising, grants and donations.
We are humbled and honored to be included in CJR’s database.
VTD has made several other notable lists recently.
We are grateful to Seven Days Newspaper for putting VTD second from the top of the “Just Say Know” Sunshine Week lineup on March 16. This is one of our proudest accomplishments. Last fall, Charles Lewis, the executive editor of the Investigative Reporting Workshop and a former producer for 60 Minutes, included VTD in a list of websites he highlighted as part of the growing national online media ecosystem. The roster includes 60 news websites in more than two dozen states. We are delighted to be counted among the pioneers.
VTDigger.org was added to the Columbia Journalism Review’s News Frontier Database last week. The searchable database was launched earlier this year with 50 short profiles of digital news outlets across the country. CJR’s objective is to develop the “most comprehensive” resource of its kind.
The list gives readers a sense of the scope and the character of the new media ecosystem evolving across the United States. It includes famous national news websites like Politico and The Huffington Post, and well-established regional online publications, such as MinnPost and voiceofsandiego.org.
What do all of these sites have in common, according to the CJR authors? “Ambitious journalism (and philanthropy, and capitalism).”
VTDigger.org fit CJR’s four criteria: We are devoted to original reporting and content; we have one or more (in fact two) full-time employees; we are a standalone online news operation (we’re not an arm of a “legacy” media outfit); and we are pursuing funding through advertising, grants and donations.
We are humbled and honored to be included in CJR’s database.
VTD has made several other notable lists recently.
We are grateful to Seven Days Newspaper for putting VTD second from the top of the “Just Say Know” Sunshine Week lineup on March 16. This is one of our proudest accomplishments. Last fall, Charles Lewis, the executive editor of the Investigative Reporting Workshop and a former producer for 60 Minutes, included VTD in a list of websites he highlighted as part of the growing national online media ecosystem. The roster includes 60 news websites in more than two dozen states. We are delighted to be counted among the pioneers.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Conservative College Students Enter the Talk Radio Arena
by Robert Maynard
Our nation’s colleges and universities have long been seen as one of the country’s bastions of liberalism. In addition, nowhere is liberalism any stronger than it is here in Vermont. These two facts would make a Vermont college an unlikely breeding ground for conservative talk radio programs. Nether the less, a couple of students from Saint Michael’s College have taken on the role of a conservative David to Vermont liberalism’s Goliath:
Our nation’s colleges and universities have long been seen as one of the country’s bastions of liberalism. In addition, nowhere is liberalism any stronger than it is here in Vermont. These two facts would make a Vermont college an unlikely breeding ground for conservative talk radio programs. Nether the less, a couple of students from Saint Michael’s College have taken on the role of a conservative David to Vermont liberalism’s Goliath:
The Vermont Avenger Show is the newest addition to the Green Mountain State’s world of conservative talk radio. “The Vermont Avenger” is Dan J. Bower alongside Mike O’Neill.
This is how they describe the purpose of their endeavor:The duo seek to provide a conservative perspective on American politics, culture, faith and any other topic that they see fit.
As conservatives they value the ideas in the Pledge of Allegiance, “Liberty and Justice for ALL.” Anyone is fair game on the Vermont Avenger! As most would expect, the campus and nation wide left will be under attack, but they won’t hesitate to call out those who make a mockery of the conservative movement on the far right.
The Vermont Avenger Show is dedicated to exposing the left wing culture of corruption in Vermont and America and to taking down the far right fringe.
The Constitution is our guide, God is our Light. Liberty or Death.
So, who are these conservative Davids?Dan J. Bower is a conservative activist and sophomore student at St. Michael’s College. He is a Tea Party conservative and a true believer in the Constitution. He is a Political Science major and occasional columnist. He is the former host of Fail & Live Long, which also aired on WWPV. He is the president of the SMC Conservatives.
Mike O’Neill is a conservative and religious freedom activist and sophomore at St. Michael’s College. He is a mainstream American conservative and fellow believer in the Constitution. He is a political science and religious studies major. He is the co-president of the SMC Conservatives.
Here are some specifics about their show:The Vermont Avenger Show airs on WWPV 88.7 The Mike FM on Fridays at 10 PM through 2 AM. Streaming online is also available.
Email: vermontavengershow@gmail.com
Website: http://www.wwpv.org
Thursday, April 7, 2011
GQ profiles WCAX
When I checked out the April 11 copy of GQ at Barnes & Noble, I thought, "Cosmo for men." Endless pages of ads showing impossibly handsome young men doing cool things wearing cooler clothes. Feature stories on uber-males Derek Jeter, Charlie Sheen, and Keagan Harsha.
For real. Well - the story wasn't all about WCAX reporter Keagan Harsha, but he has a prominent role in the toney man mag's profile of Vermont's biggest TV news station. Last spring GQ sent a woman named Raha Naddaf to learn what it's like to be a smalltown TV news reporter. Enroute to doing the voice-over for the Ice Out at Joe's Pond - which she cluelessly describes as the most trivial, out-of-the-way, who-cares kind of story - she stops in at the South Burlington office, which she describes as having "pumpkin-colored carpet," yellowing walls, and no-nonsense furniture unchanged since 1976. Harsha she describes as "square jawed, firm handshake, booming voice" but a Real Person who has nightmares about going live and not knowing what to say.
Naddaf meets Darren Perron ("whose name rhymes) and Anson Tebbetts, whose personal relationship with about half of Danville stuns her. She has never considered the possibility that a reporter might actually live amongst the viewers.
I won't give away the shocking ending, except to say that it makes WCAX look pretty good. The early reviews from former and current CAX'ers are pretty good. Speaking at a freezing outdoor press conference in Middlesex Wednesday, former reporter and Gov. Peter Shumlin's press secretary Bianca Slota said she liked it ("although they didn't write much about me") and Kristin Carlson said she and other staff got a good laugh out of Raddaf's descriptions of some of the station staff. Everyone seemed to appreciate Raddaf's conclusion: this TV news stuff is harder than it looks.
For real. Well - the story wasn't all about WCAX reporter Keagan Harsha, but he has a prominent role in the toney man mag's profile of Vermont's biggest TV news station. Last spring GQ sent a woman named Raha Naddaf to learn what it's like to be a smalltown TV news reporter. Enroute to doing the voice-over for the Ice Out at Joe's Pond - which she cluelessly describes as the most trivial, out-of-the-way, who-cares kind of story - she stops in at the South Burlington office, which she describes as having "pumpkin-colored carpet," yellowing walls, and no-nonsense furniture unchanged since 1976. Harsha she describes as "square jawed, firm handshake, booming voice" but a Real Person who has nightmares about going live and not knowing what to say.
Naddaf meets Darren Perron ("whose name rhymes) and Anson Tebbetts, whose personal relationship with about half of Danville stuns her. She has never considered the possibility that a reporter might actually live amongst the viewers.
I won't give away the shocking ending, except to say that it makes WCAX look pretty good. The early reviews from former and current CAX'ers are pretty good. Speaking at a freezing outdoor press conference in Middlesex Wednesday, former reporter and Gov. Peter Shumlin's press secretary Bianca Slota said she liked it ("although they didn't write much about me") and Kristin Carlson said she and other staff got a good laugh out of Raddaf's descriptions of some of the station staff. Everyone seemed to appreciate Raddaf's conclusion: this TV news stuff is harder than it looks.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
ABC 22, Fox 44 add staff, 5 am, 11 pm news shows
Fox 44 & ABC 22 continue local news expansion
Will produce 6 hours of local news daily
Beginning Monday, March 28, ABC 22 will add 90-minutes of local news to its programming line-up.
Viewers in the Burlington/Plattsburgh market will then be able to get local news starting an hour earlier at 5 am on ABC 22. The newscast will be anchored by Jackie Morlock, who recently joined the news team, and meteorologist Kerrin Jeromin.
In addition, ABC 22 will program an 11 pm news Monday through Sunday. The newscast will be anchored weeknights by Greg Navarro, meteorologist Nick Johnston and sportscaster Kristian Read. Lauren Maloney will continue anchoring ABC 22 News at 7 pm.
In December 2007, Fox 44 launched a 10 pm newscast to become the third local television outlet providing coverage to viewers in the market. In March 2008, a 7 pm newscast debuted on ABC 22. Since then, the 10 pm news has been expanded to one-hour. In the summer of 2008, morning news was added to both channels.
Once the change takes place Fox 44 & ABC 22 will have expanded to six hours of local news daily in just 3 ½ years.
Fox 44 is owned by Smith Media, LLC and manages ABC 22.
- source: Vic Vetters, for ABC 22
Friday, March 11, 2011
Press secretary for Gov. Peter Shumlin describes new video, social media initiatives
At the request of vermontpressconnections, Bianca Slota submitted the following explanation of how, as press secretary for Governor Peter Shumlin, she is using social media and video. As a former WCAX reporter, we new she knew video; but she's obviously up on Twitter, etc. too.
* * * * * * *
In the increasingly diverse and fast-paced world of online communication one thing is certain: you either learn how to use it or you get left behind. Here in the Office of Governor Peter Shumlin we are embracing this new media world and using it to make sure no one gets left behind.
While my official title is Press Secretary, I see myself as more of a social media director. Or maybe new media director. I help Governor Shumlin maintain a presence on Twitter (@VTGovernor), Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vermont-Governor/155136287867671), YouTube (www.youtube.com/VTGovernor), and in the blogosphere on the governor’s official web site: www.governor.vermont.gov.
One of our communications priorities coming into office was using video to keep the Governor in contact with Vermonters and vice versa. I am quite proud of what we have done. The most exciting development is our Ask the Governor feature on the governor’s official web site. We invite people to submit their questions to Governor Shumlin through a standard web form. About once a week we go through the questions and select a few that the governor can answer through a brief video response. Submissions range from questions about our single-payer healthcare reform effort, to questions about tax policy, and sometimes questions about personal experiences with a particular department of government. Our selection process is pretty simple – we try to pick out questions that can be easily answered in a few minutes and that might be of interest to the state as a whole, or to a particular group of people. The governor generally answers two or three questions at once, and I edit together the clip before posting it to YouTube and to our site.
I think Ask the Governor is a fantastic way for Vermonters to be in touch with their Chief Executive. While we do not have time to respond to all the questions through video, every question does get answered by the Governor’s Information and Referral Office.
In addition to the Ask the Governor section, we have a video page that includes all the footage from Governor Shumlin’s weekly press conferences. Sometimes we post a video with the governor’s thoughts on a particular subject, like this one that we taped the day after a fundraiser for Pete’s Greens: http://governor.vermont.gov/video-petes-greens-fundraiser. In the near future you will also be able to watch videos about some of the governor’s priorities or a video about what some of our agencies and departments are up to.
We also have a great online photo gallery filled with hundreds of pictures. You can check out the places Governor Shumlin has visited, the people he has met, and see what the great companies and people in this state are up to. Who knows, you might even see yourself or someone you know in one of photos.
What all of this boils down to is access. Vermont has always been a place where ordinary citizens can reach their elected officials with ease. As online communication becomes a bigger part of the way you communicate with the world, we want to make sure it is a bigger and easier part of the way you communicate with us and how we communicate with you.
-Bianca Slota
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
How DOES a reporter address an acting governor?
On the March 7 WCAX evening news, Lt. Gov. Phil Scott was interviewed live about the March Blizzard by WCAX evening anchor Darren Parron. LG Scott was acting governor while Gov. Peter Shumlin was on vacation, and Parren wanted to know how the State had responded to the day's record blizzard. After announcing he would interview acting governor and lieutenant governor Phil Scott, Parren addressed him directly as "Mr. Scott."
Now, Lieutenant Gov. Scott, a racecar driver and professional contractor, is certainly handier with tools than the average pol, but he's no Montgomery Scott, chief engineer of the Starship Enterprise and the only other Public Figure (real or fictitious) I know of with the honorific of "Mr. Scott." What, exactly, SHOULD a reporter call a lieutenant governor who is acting governor?
According to the Washington School of Protocol website, here is the proper form: "Don’t directly address an Acting Governor as "Governor (name)". The rule is "address by rank, identify by office" -- so address as "Senator (name)" and identify as the Acting Governor.
So according WSP, Parren should have addressed Acting Governor Scott as Lieutenant Governor Scott. And now back to the real world - if the search engines have to do much of this, they'll blow apart.
Now, Lieutenant Gov. Scott, a racecar driver and professional contractor, is certainly handier with tools than the average pol, but he's no Montgomery Scott, chief engineer of the Starship Enterprise and the only other Public Figure (real or fictitious) I know of with the honorific of "Mr. Scott." What, exactly, SHOULD a reporter call a lieutenant governor who is acting governor?
According to the Washington School of Protocol website, here is the proper form: "Don’t directly address an Acting Governor as "Governor (name)". The rule is "address by rank, identify by office" -- so address as "Senator (name)" and identify as the Acting Governor.
So according WSP, Parren should have addressed Acting Governor Scott as Lieutenant Governor Scott. And now back to the real world - if the search engines have to do much of this, they'll blow apart.
Monday, March 7, 2011
NESN Red Sox announcer got his start in St. Michael's College journalism program
My son Joe has expressed an interest in attending St. Michael's College next year. Not surprisingly we receive lots of recruiting material from the liberal arts school in Colchester. So far the most interesting piece has come from New England Sports Network (NESN) Red Sox pregame and postgame host Tom Caron, though.
According to the one-page flyer, TC is a 1986 SMC grad. He majored in journalism, did his first sports play-by-play, interned for WPTZ, and edited the campus newspaper, The Defender. He reports that "I spent hours in class and after class discussion media ethics (when I wasn't debating the value of the Designated Hitter)....for me, choosing Saint Michael's proved to be a home run." He promises to discuss his days at SMC during upcoming shows this summer.
TC isn't the only bigtime baseball announcer with Vermont roots. Tom Cheek, the longtime voice of the Toronto Blue Jays, was the sports director for WJOY in the early 1970's. He was preceded by Bob Lobel, a longtime fixture in the Boston TV market. And finally, the late, great Ken Coleman, the longtime voice of the Red Sox, got his start at a Rutland radio station. Someone once asked him for advice on getting started. He hearkened back to his Rutland days and said, "be willing to do anything and everything. Sweep the floors, everything." That's good advice for anyone trying to break into the media.
According to the one-page flyer, TC is a 1986 SMC grad. He majored in journalism, did his first sports play-by-play, interned for WPTZ, and edited the campus newspaper, The Defender. He reports that "I spent hours in class and after class discussion media ethics (when I wasn't debating the value of the Designated Hitter)....for me, choosing Saint Michael's proved to be a home run." He promises to discuss his days at SMC during upcoming shows this summer.
TC isn't the only bigtime baseball announcer with Vermont roots. Tom Cheek, the longtime voice of the Toronto Blue Jays, was the sports director for WJOY in the early 1970's. He was preceded by Bob Lobel, a longtime fixture in the Boston TV market. And finally, the late, great Ken Coleman, the longtime voice of the Red Sox, got his start at a Rutland radio station. Someone once asked him for advice on getting started. He hearkened back to his Rutland days and said, "be willing to do anything and everything. Sweep the floors, everything." That's good advice for anyone trying to break into the media.
Essex Reporter co-founder wins South Carolina Press Association awards
Essex Reporter co-founder Tim Callahan won four 2010 South Carolina Press Assocation awards, including two first place honors.
Callahan started his third community newspaper, The Murrells Inlet Messenger, last year and earned instant recognition from his peers, capturing first place among associate/individual members in the best editorial/opinion category for a column on his younger brother's funeral.
He swept the best feature writing category, winning first second and third place.
As a general assignment reporter for the Coastal Observer, Callahan won SCPA awards in 2006 and 2007 for beat reporting - courts and education - and sports and news writing. He spent 2008 and 2009 finishing a novel and freelancing 121 articles for a local paper.
Callahan also attended Denver Seminary and earned a master's degree in journalism from Regent University in 2001. He was a Washington, D.C., correspondent for Christianity Today from 2002-2004. In the 90's, he earned statewide press awards in Pennsylvania, where he met his wife of 13 years, Debbie. They live in Pawleys Island, S.C., and are active members of Grace Church Waccamaw, where they are starting a Celebrate Recovery ministry.
"Without the Lord and recovery, I would have been dead 25 years ago," Callahan said.
"I am a Vermonter at heart," Callahan said. "I read Vermont Press Connections without fail. I have known Guy Page for 30 years and he is a good friend and fellow publisher, who learned a trick or two from Kit Wright and myself after we started the Essex Reporter [in 1981, after Suburban List folded]. In turn, Kit and I were taught the basics by The Other Paper. "Guy stayed with the Cochester and North Avenue papers a lot longer than I did with the papers I founded," Callahan said. "I am now learning from him. And I am glad he is doing Vermont Press Connections and keeping me informed. It's needed. The Vermont Press Association has to be the only one in the country without a web site."
Callahan started his third community newspaper, The Murrells Inlet Messenger, last year and earned instant recognition from his peers, capturing first place among associate/individual members in the best editorial/opinion category for a column on his younger brother's funeral.
He swept the best feature writing category, winning first second and third place.
As a general assignment reporter for the Coastal Observer, Callahan won SCPA awards in 2006 and 2007 for beat reporting - courts and education - and sports and news writing. He spent 2008 and 2009 finishing a novel and freelancing 121 articles for a local paper.
Callahan also attended Denver Seminary and earned a master's degree in journalism from Regent University in 2001. He was a Washington, D.C., correspondent for Christianity Today from 2002-2004. In the 90's, he earned statewide press awards in Pennsylvania, where he met his wife of 13 years, Debbie. They live in Pawleys Island, S.C., and are active members of Grace Church Waccamaw, where they are starting a Celebrate Recovery ministry.
"Without the Lord and recovery, I would have been dead 25 years ago," Callahan said.
"I am a Vermonter at heart," Callahan said. "I read Vermont Press Connections without fail. I have known Guy Page for 30 years and he is a good friend and fellow publisher, who learned a trick or two from Kit Wright and myself after we started the Essex Reporter [in 1981, after Suburban List folded]. In turn, Kit and I were taught the basics by The Other Paper. "Guy stayed with the Cochester and North Avenue papers a lot longer than I did with the papers I founded," Callahan said. "I am now learning from him. And I am glad he is doing Vermont Press Connections and keeping me informed. It's needed. The Vermont Press Association has to be the only one in the country without a web site."
Sunday, March 6, 2011
vermontpressconnections is back; Digger gets new digs
Dear vermontpressconnections readers:
After taking a month off due to the passing of my wife, I am "back in the game" of reporting on developments in the Vermont media. Many thanks for the many kind expressions of support.
As always, I welcome your story ideas.
Below, I have printed verbatim Vermont Digger's report on its next stage of development. Anne Galloway is really trying to make a go of this seerious, e-news-only operation. In another posting, Digger is welcoming help acquiring a new video camera to improve its audio and visual capturing of, say, press conferences in which state officials wonder out loud whether certain daily newspaper reporters are working on behalf of large, controversial corporations.......
.....And it's interesting to see that Bill Porter, longtime editor at the Times-Argus and father of former Vermont Press Bureau chief and current CLF policy/communications director Louis Porter, is lending his expertise.
Guy Page
Editor & Publisher
vermontpressconnections
Editor’s notebook: 501C3 in hand; VTD gets new digs; Redesign on the way
As of Tuesday, VTDigger's new home is located just above the Langdon Street Café. Photo by Josh Larkin.
On Monday, the Vermont Journalism Trust (VTD’s umbrella organization) received notice that the Internal Revenue Service had granted the Trust’s request for 501(c)(3) status under the Internal Revenue Code, which means donations to our effort are eligible for a tax deduction under the Trust.
Until now, VTD had operated under the 501(c)(3) of the Online Journalism Project based in New Haven, Conn. We owe a debt of gratitude to Paul Bass, the executive director of OJP. Without his belief in the VTD project, we couldn’t have embarked on this journalistic venture.
With its 501C3 in hand, the Vermont Journalism Trust hopes to generate $188,000 in revenues this year to support three full-time VTD employees and a large stable of freelance reporters. We’ve met half of our fund-raising goal so far, and on Feb. 1, the Trust hired two full-time paid staffers, myself, and Josh Larkin, director of design and technology.
News production is a team effort. An individual writer gets a byline and can seem like a star on the home page for a little while, but there is a great deal more work that goes into what you see on the screen – and much of it isn’t related to the editorial side of the operation. Every newsroom depends on a business office to generate the necessary revenues to pay for those bylines.
Unlike larger operations, we don’t have administrative assistants, advertising sales reps, grant writers, marketing personnel or development officers. We rely on our most dedicated volunteers, the members of the Trust, to help us with these duties.
In just four months, the Trust has transformed VTD into a viable news organization. Henry Chauncey has created the structure for our day-to-day operations. Bill Schubart has led the fund-raising charge and secured the financial footing necessary for VTD to professionalize its operations. Fran Stoddard, Doug Clifton and Steve Terry have worked hard to find funding. Don Kreis spent many hours perfecting the Trust’s bylaws and successful 501(c)(3) application. Cyndy Bittinger and Allen Gilbert have brought their invaluable insights to policy discussions. Nick Monsarrat is the editor’s editor – he shapes my less-than-perfect copy and offers much-needed advice. Con Hogan and Bill Porter have been stalwart supporters who were among the first VTD boosters. Lastly, a special thanks to Kate Robinson who understood the VTD vision long before it became a reality.
I also want to give a shout out to Peter Dannenberg, an avid reader, who faithfully lets us know about errant apostrophes, dashes and commas, misspellings, incorrect factoids and the like. Peter never misses a typo, and I’m sure I’ll hear from him shortly — regarding this post.
We sure wouldn’t have gotten very far without the financial backing we have received from readers and supporting organizations. So far, about 100 readers have generously supported us. We have also received grants from the Vermont Community Foundation, the High Meadows Fund, the Permanent Fund, the Harris and Frances Block Foundation, the Haymarket People’s Fund and J-Lab (Knight Foundation). In addition, businesses and nonprofits have generously sponsored advertising on the VTD website. We have received ad sponsorships from Cabot Creamery, Champlain College, the University of Vermont, CCTV, the Committee on Temporary Shelter, the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Vermont, the Vermont-ACLU, Energize Vermont and Capitol Connections.
We are grateful to the individuals and organizations that have made VTD possible.
We still have an audacious fund-raising goal to meet of $90,000 this year in order to realize the full reporting potential of VTD through 2011, so any help you can give us would be much appreciated.
If you would like to make a contribution, send a check made out to the Vermont Journalism Trust to Henry Chauncey, Treasurer, 42 Hawthorn Dr., Shelburne VT 05482. We also offer Paypal for your convenience, though the company takes a 3 percent cut from donations, so checks are preferable.
If you would like an advertising kit and a rate sheet, contact me at vtdigger@gmail.com or 802-441-1016.
Digger’s new digs
On Tuesday, VTD opened its first office space in Montpelier, located above the Langdon Street Café. Up to now, I’ve been logging in long days at the Statehouse, then writing into the wee hours. Josh, too, has been burning the midnight oil posting dig-deeper boxes, photos, video and stories.The new office space will enable us to steal away to post more timely reports during the daylight hours (and get some much needed nighttime rest). Josh and I enjoy spending time in the Statehouse with our many sources, but we are delighted to have a place to retreat to when we need to process photos and video and write stories. That said we won’t be far away. If you need to be in touch with tips, comments or complaints, call my cell at 595-9159. Or, give Josh a ring at 595-1966.
Redesign in the offing
This week, Josh put the finishing touches on the VTD redesign. The layout includes changes to the navigation, more space for stories and advertising, a spot for video on the front page, a news aggregation section and an improved system for bringing comments to the front page. In short, it’s still flavored with elements of VTD’s old-fashioned styling, but the meat of the matter, the news presentation, is more up front and center. Our hope is that the new format will improve usability and make it easier for folks to keep up with our reporting and locate archived stories, series and source material. Josh is working through a new mobile interface for this iteration of VTD as well, allowing you iPhone, Blackberry and Droid users a more comfortable digging environment. I wish I could show it to you now because it’s really boss, but we’re not quite ready yet. We plan to launch the new VTD in a couple of weeks.~Anne Galloway
Editor, VTDigger.org
Friday, February 25, 2011
Threats of violence: a media double standard?
Rob Roper of True North Reports says other members of the Vermont media are practicing a double standard on the subject of public figures who threaten violence.
Your thoughts and comments are welcome.....
Your thoughts and comments are welcome.....
Saturday, February 12, 2011
North Avenue News circulation now covers almost all of Burlington
Editor's note: In a time of decreased circulation for both paid and free newspapers due to the high cost of printing, declining advertising etc., it is encouraging to read of a paper with a steadily growing circulation. The submission below was printed on the front page of the Feb. 4 issue of the North Avenue News.
My wife Diane and I started the North Avenue News in 1992 (I think) after "That Paper" had ceased publication after many years of dedicated efforts by publishers such as Jean and Joe Popecki and Howard Stearns. My advertisers wanted access to readers in "South Colchester," and the family-oriented neighborhoods on the New North End received with gladness the new monthly TMC publication. A couple of years and two adoptions later, Diane and I realized that hmmm, one full time employee doing two newspapers, should be the other way around," we sold the North Avenue News to Anne Clark.
Several publishers later the paper landed with Cliff and Ellen Cooper. Cliff is a former Levi Strauss marketing exec who exudes community spirit and cheerfulness, Ellen a calm and capable "details" person. From Day One they clearly had "A Plan for the NAN." Congratulations to the Coopers for their decade-plus of publication, and to the City of Burlington, which finally has a true community newspaper for the entire city. I used to muse about making this happen with other media entrepreneurs (remember, Shay?). Now it finally has.
Several publishers later the paper landed with Cliff and Ellen Cooper. Cliff is a former Levi Strauss marketing exec who exudes community spirit and cheerfulness, Ellen a calm and capable "details" person. From Day One they clearly had "A Plan for the NAN." Congratulations to the Coopers for their decade-plus of publication, and to the City of Burlington, which finally has a true community newspaper for the entire city. I used to muse about making this happen with other media entrepreneurs (remember, Shay?). Now it finally has.
Forty years ago, "That Paper" began in the City of Burlington. We know this because we just found one of the paperboys that made house to house deliveries way back then.
We, the Cooper Family, began our association with this monthly paper in June of 2000, printing the first issue of 12 pages, in July. The circulation at that time was 4,600 in just the New North End of this beautiful City (Wards 4 & 7). The first year we added the area down to the Boathouse, then we were asked to send this "goodnewspaper" into Ward 5 by Bill Keogh - City Councilor. The natural progression into Ward 6 soon followed as well as areas around Wards 2 & 3.
Back in 2009, we added all of Ward 1. The circulation was at 12,900 mailed into Burlington homes, like yours, and we drop 600 into area businesses - total of 13,500.
We are now mailing into most every home in this beautiful City! About 15,500 of them by direct U.S. Postal Mail for the Feb. 4 issue. We could not have done this without the support of our advertisers & writers.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Former Freeps reporter named editor of Williston Observer, Charlotte Citizen
Williston Publishing and Promotions has hired Steven Frank as editor for the Williston Observer and The Charlotte Citizen. Frank worked for Life Publications in West Hartford, Conn. as a senior reporter and was its sports editor for six years. He also worked for the Burlington Free Press as a reporter and copy editor.
Frank succeeds Greg Duggan. The Observer is the longstanding weekly community newspaper for Williston and also has circulation in surrounding towns. It was published for many years as the Williston Whistle, the name given to it by founding publisher Ruth Painter. Paul and Marianne Apfelbaum are the current publishers.
Frank succeeds Greg Duggan. The Observer is the longstanding weekly community newspaper for Williston and also has circulation in surrounding towns. It was published for many years as the Williston Whistle, the name given to it by founding publisher Ruth Painter. Paul and Marianne Apfelbaum are the current publishers.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Spaulding High, SMC "J" program grad is new editor at Milton Independent
vermontpressconnections asked Courtney Lamdin, the new editor at the Milton Independent, to describe the changes at Milton's longtime community newspaper. She is one of many graduates from media-related programs at schools like St. Michaels, Johnson State, and Lyndon State who are now working in the Vermont media. We received this notice from her today:
After working at The Milton Independent as the town’s only reporter for a little over a year, I was promoted to the post of editor after my editor, Lynn Delaney, retired after nearly 18 years at the paper. Lynn started the Independent with funding from Emerson Lynn, publisher and editor of the St. Albans Messenger, which is still the paper’s owner.
After working at The Milton Independent as the town’s only reporter for a little over a year, I was promoted to the post of editor after my editor, Lynn Delaney, retired after nearly 18 years at the paper. Lynn started the Independent with funding from Emerson Lynn, publisher and editor of the St. Albans Messenger, which is still the paper’s owner.
Although I’m still writing Milton news, my new position means I make editorial decisions about coverage and assign stories to our new reporter and page designer, Jackie Cain. She’ll mostly be covering the neighboring town of Georgia, where we just increased our circulation to every mailing address.
A little about my background: I grew up in Barre, graduating from Spaulding High School in 2005 as salutatorian of my class. I moved on to St. Michael’s College and graduated summa cum laude with top honors in my bachelor’s program, Journalism and Mass Communications. I was online and then executive editor of my college paper, The Defender. I also minored in gender studies and marketing.
As editor of The Independent, I don’t plan to make any drastic changes to our coverage. Lynn’s mantra was always, “We don’t have to get it first; we have to get it right.” That’s exactly what I want to stick to. Milton residents have appreciated our honest, reliable coverage of news that doesn’t get picked up by the bigger dailies. As a weekly, we have time to digest and analyze the news, and that’s something I’ll continue.
One change that I mentioned earlier is our expansion into Georgia. Because I want to ensure that Georgia’s story is told, just like Milton’s is, I hope to add a Georgia section, complete with town and school directories, meeting schedules and other pertinent information. With Jackie now on board, I have the ability to assign her stories that I never had the time to cover on my own. I’ve already seen our crime and police coverage expand since she’s been at our paper.
I’m very happy to be at The Milton Independent and have found the community is welcoming to its local newspaper. Being editor of a publication was always my “dream job,” and I’m thankful that at 23 years old, I’ve been given the chance to attain that goal. I guess the only direction to go from here is forward.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Rob Roper's Common Sense Radio to fill True North time slot on WDEV
Rob Roper, editor of True North Reports and former host of True North Radio, will be back on WDEV in his 11 am time slot beginning Monday, Jan. 31.
In a report to readers in the Jan. 26 issue of True North Reports, Roper said the show, Common Sense Radio, will be sponsored by the Ethan Allen Institute. The Ethan Allen Institute is a conservative educational public affairs organization operated by John McClaughrey, former Caledonia County senator and aide to Pres. Ronald Reagan. Roper, of Stowe, is a former executive director of the Vermont Republican Party and Freedomworks.
In a response to an inquiry today, Roper said he and reporter Angela Chagnon will continue to issue True North Reports. "We will have our cake and eat it too," he said.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Thatcher Moats named to Vermont Press Bureau
vermontpressconnections has learned (see notice below) that Thatcher Moats, the City of Montpelier beat reporter for the Barre-Montpelier Times Argus, has been hired to fill one of the two open slots at the Vermont Press Bureau, which covers state government for the Rutland Herald and Times Argus.
Mr. Moats is the son of Pulitzer Prize winner and Rutland Herald editorial page editor David Moats, according to his 2008 wedding announcement in the New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/30/fashion/weddings/30duerr.html?_r=1
Press Bureau staff change
As many of you know, we've been looking for reporters for our Press Bureau, after naming Pete Hirschfeld the new chief in December.
We have hired Thatcher Moats, currently the Montpelier reporter for the Barre-Montpelier Times Argus, to be a Vermont Press Bureau reporter. Thatcher has been with the Times Argus since the summer of 2008, when he replaced Pete as the cops and courts and general assignment reporter for the Times Argus. He moved to the Montpelier position last spring, replacing Sue Allen.
He will be moving into his new duties this coming week, while keeping an eye on Montpelier (the city government, not the state) until we can get him replaced. And, the third position will be filled soon...
-Rob Mitchell
Monday, January 24, 2011
Seven Days newspaper family hires three new employees
Thanks to JB McKinley, editor of the News & Citizen, for passing along this press release of three new hires in the Seven Days family of publications.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- January 21, 2011
Contact: Paula Routly
(802) 864-5684 or paula@sevendaysvt.com
Burlington-based Da Capo Publishing Announces Three New Hires
Seven Days brings on a graphic designer and a food writer; Kids VT gets an associate editor
Corin Hirsch, a graduate of the University of Arizona’s School of Journalism, has joined Seven Days’ editorial team as a food writer. Hirsch was most recently a food columnist at the Eagle Times in Claremont, N.H. While living there, she taught journalism at Lebanon College. New York native Hirsch also worked as a fact checker for The Nation magazine. She holds a master’s of fine arts degree, and spent several years working in art direction.
Brooke Bousquet, a Middletown Springs native, has joined the Seven Days production department as a graphic designer. Bousquet, a graduate of Castleton State College, was most recently a designer at the St. Albans Messenger. Bousquet also worked as a designer at the Valley Voice in Middlebury and The World in Barre.
Kate Laddison, a Georgia, Vt., native, has joined Kids VT as the associate editor. Laddison most recently managed a team of technical writers and regulatory specialists at a local medical software company, but she brings years of journalism experience to this position. Laddison left Vermont to attend Emerson College in Boston and returned to work as a reporter and editor for both the St. Albans Messenger and the County Courier in Enosburg Falls. She’s looking forward to returning to journalism. Laddison and her husband live in St. Albans with their 3-year-old son.
Seven Days is Vermont’s largest independent newsweekly and an award-winning source of news, opinion, art and music reviews, job listings, personals and classifieds. The paper is distributed free every Wednesday at more than 1000 locations in northern and central Vermont, and Plattsburgh, N.Y. Its website, sevendaysvt.com <http://sevendaysvt.com> , includes web-only content, such as weekly episodes of the popular video series, “Stuck in Vermont.”
Seven Days also publishes 7 Nights: The Seven Days Guide to Vermont Restaurants and Bars, What’s Good: The Off-Campus Burlington Guide, and three e-newsletters: “NOW: Notes on the Weekend,” “Bite Club” and “Daily 7." Seven Days hosts an annual Vermont Restaurant Week each spring, and helps organize the Vermont Tech Jam job fair and tech expo each fall. The company was founded in 1995 by Pamela Polston and Paula Routly.
Kids VT publishes a free monthly magazine and an annual Resource Guide, both of which reach parents via newsstands, schools and doctors’ offices. It also hosts an annual Camp and School Fair each February. Da Capo Publishing, dba Seven Days, is updating the design with the February issue. It will carry new, local, kid-friendly content — including feature stories of interest to parents and caregivers. Find it online at kidsvt.com <http://kidsvt.com> .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- January 21, 2011
Contact: Paula Routly
(802) 864-5684 or paula@sevendaysvt.com
Burlington-based Da Capo Publishing Announces Three New Hires
Seven Days brings on a graphic designer and a food writer; Kids VT gets an associate editor
Corin Hirsch, a graduate of the University of Arizona’s School of Journalism, has joined Seven Days’ editorial team as a food writer. Hirsch was most recently a food columnist at the Eagle Times in Claremont, N.H. While living there, she taught journalism at Lebanon College. New York native Hirsch also worked as a fact checker for The Nation magazine. She holds a master’s of fine arts degree, and spent several years working in art direction.
Brooke Bousquet, a Middletown Springs native, has joined the Seven Days production department as a graphic designer. Bousquet, a graduate of Castleton State College, was most recently a designer at the St. Albans Messenger. Bousquet also worked as a designer at the Valley Voice in Middlebury and The World in Barre.
Kate Laddison, a Georgia, Vt., native, has joined Kids VT as the associate editor. Laddison most recently managed a team of technical writers and regulatory specialists at a local medical software company, but she brings years of journalism experience to this position. Laddison left Vermont to attend Emerson College in Boston and returned to work as a reporter and editor for both the St. Albans Messenger and the County Courier in Enosburg Falls. She’s looking forward to returning to journalism. Laddison and her husband live in St. Albans with their 3-year-old son.
Seven Days is Vermont’s largest independent newsweekly and an award-winning source of news, opinion, art and music reviews, job listings, personals and classifieds. The paper is distributed free every Wednesday at more than 1000 locations in northern and central Vermont, and Plattsburgh, N.Y. Its website, sevendaysvt.com <http://sevendaysvt.com> , includes web-only content, such as weekly episodes of the popular video series, “Stuck in Vermont.”
Seven Days also publishes 7 Nights: The Seven Days Guide to Vermont Restaurants and Bars, What’s Good: The Off-Campus Burlington Guide, and three e-newsletters: “NOW: Notes on the Weekend,” “Bite Club” and “Daily 7." Seven Days hosts an annual Vermont Restaurant Week each spring, and helps organize the Vermont Tech Jam job fair and tech expo each fall. The company was founded in 1995 by Pamela Polston and Paula Routly.
Kids VT publishes a free monthly magazine and an annual Resource Guide, both of which reach parents via newsstands, schools and doctors’ offices. It also hosts an annual Camp and School Fair each February. Da Capo Publishing, dba Seven Days, is updating the design with the February issue. It will carry new, local, kid-friendly content — including feature stories of interest to parents and caregivers. Find it online at kidsvt.com <http://kidsvt.com> .
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Herald of Randolph asks: are anonymous comments on media websites OK?
The Herald of Randolph, the award-winning weekly newspaper for Orange County, devoted an editorial to a question being asked in many newsrooms in Vermont and across the country: should media websites allow anonymous reader comments?
Herald Editor/Publisher M. Dickey Drysdale reprinted an editorial from a Maine newspaper that is "food for thought" for editors of online news publications. The Maine paper recognizes the issue's pros and cons, then takes a strong "no" stance. To read the editorial, go to:
http://www.ourherald.com/news/2010-01-13/Columns/col02.html
As editor/publisher of the Colchester Chronicle, about 12 years ago I began allowing anonymous reader comments in print, with the published understanding that I could edit with broad discretion. Shortly afterward the Colchester Police detained and handcuffed the Town Manager, whom they suspected of swiping some soft drinks stacked in a hallway in the Town Office. They had probable cause: on the morning after the police had dusted the drinks with invisible, heat-reactive dust, the TM showed up for work with purple hands. I am not making this up. The ridiculous affair dubbed "Sodagate" was received with much ridicule and hilarity. Now that the Statute of Limitations on newspaper comment anonymity has expired, I can reveal to the world that the funniest comment came from a Fort Ethan Allen resident and radio personality better known these days as one of Colchester's representatives to the Vermont Legislature: Rep. James Condon.
I never let the anonymous comments get too uncivil. Perhaps for that reason, the anonymous comments column died a slow death. I doubt the same can be said for the "To Sign or Not to Sign" debate, as the popularity of online news increases.
Your thoughts are welcome in the "comments" section.
Herald Editor/Publisher M. Dickey Drysdale reprinted an editorial from a Maine newspaper that is "food for thought" for editors of online news publications. The Maine paper recognizes the issue's pros and cons, then takes a strong "no" stance. To read the editorial, go to:
http://www.ourherald.com/news/2010-01-13/Columns/col02.html
As editor/publisher of the Colchester Chronicle, about 12 years ago I began allowing anonymous reader comments in print, with the published understanding that I could edit with broad discretion. Shortly afterward the Colchester Police detained and handcuffed the Town Manager, whom they suspected of swiping some soft drinks stacked in a hallway in the Town Office. They had probable cause: on the morning after the police had dusted the drinks with invisible, heat-reactive dust, the TM showed up for work with purple hands. I am not making this up. The ridiculous affair dubbed "Sodagate" was received with much ridicule and hilarity. Now that the Statute of Limitations on newspaper comment anonymity has expired, I can reveal to the world that the funniest comment came from a Fort Ethan Allen resident and radio personality better known these days as one of Colchester's representatives to the Vermont Legislature: Rep. James Condon.
I never let the anonymous comments get too uncivil. Perhaps for that reason, the anonymous comments column died a slow death. I doubt the same can be said for the "To Sign or Not to Sign" debate, as the popularity of online news increases.
Your thoughts are welcome in the "comments" section.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
New face at WPTZ news desk: Emmy winner, world traveler, racehorse owner
You may have seen George Mallet as the new face on the WPTZ evening and late night news. vermontpressconnections asked the station for a bio, which we received and pass along to our readers:
George Mallet started his journalism career in print rather than on television. His first job after graduating from The University of Delaware was as a news clerk with The Associated Press in New York City. Although he has made his career on television since the early eighties, he continues to write pieces for such publications as The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Delaware Today Magazine.
George’s first on-air reporting job was for KUAM-TV in Agana Guam. He didn’t stay in that U.S territory long and soon returned to the mainland where he began reporting for WITN in Washington, North Carolina. After departing coastal Carolina, George spent ten years reporting for WTVD, the ABC-owned station in Raleigh-Durham. From Raleigh, he moved to Fox Philadelphia where he reported and anchored for ten years. Most recently, he has worked as an anchor and reporter for WTMJ in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The winner of multiple Emmy and AP awards for spot news coverage, George has had the opportunity to cover major stories throughout his career. While working for WTVD, he was sent to the Soviet Union to cover the Moscow Music Peace Festival featuring Bon Jovi, Motley Crue, Ozzie Osbourne and a handful of heavy rock acts. He also covered the 1996 Olympic Park bombing, the crash of TWA 800 and every hurricane to hit the fragile coast of North Carolina between 1987 and 1997. During his time in Philadelphia, George was sent to Rome to cover the canonization of Saint Katherine Drexel and to Florida to cover the 1998 return of John Glenn to space. Between 2004 and 2007, George chronicled an unparalleled streak of great Philadelphia racehorses participating in the Triple Crown races including Smarty Jones, Afleet Alex, Barbaro and Hard Spun. Those assignments garnered George two Emmy nominations and sparked an obsession with horses that continues today.
When he isn’t working, George enjoys riding the young thoroughbred racehorse he rescued from the track. That horse, Brahma Fear, is the grandson of the great Secretariat and finished in the money in 17 races on tracks from Philadelphia to Virginia. An avid kayaker, George lives near Lake Champlain with his Norwegian Elk Hound, Charlie.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Vermont Press Bureau seeks two new reporters, including investigator
That unfamiliar face in the press corps at Gov. Peter Shumlin's Jan. 14 statehouse press conference is not exactly new to the newspaper business - and neither is his family. Rob Mitchell is an executive in the family business, the Rutland Herald/Times Argus newspaper group. He was covering for Vermont Press Bureau Chief and sole reporter Peter Hirschfeld, who was in Grafton on assignment. The Herald/TA is still trying to fill both posts created late last year by the resignations of two veteran reporters. Louis Porter and Dan Barlow joined the Vermont Conservation Law Foundation and Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility respectively.
Mitchell, who oversees the VPB, said a hiring that was imminent last week fell through. For at least one position he wants a hard-nosed reporter with strong investigative skills.
Mitchell, who oversees the VPB, said a hiring that was imminent last week fell through. For at least one position he wants a hard-nosed reporter with strong investigative skills.
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