allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog

[allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog]

Shit Journalists Say

[allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog]

Catch ya on da flip side!

Now I’m not going to lie, these 8am starts were hard. Like really hard. And on a Wednesday too? And the tutorial was in the middle of a jam-packed Thursday? Easy to say this semester was difficult at the least. But this does not mean I didn’t enjoy every minute of it.

http://www.bforbel.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/bridesmaids.jpg

I must admit, the transition from Year 12 to University was an interesting one. I went from having a hardcore work ethic who was super organized and would ALWAYS do well in my subjects to a poor uni student who doesn’t have any money or a car but still loves the frequent Macca’s trip on a late night after we realized the college food was not cooked – at all. University is a completely different life to the one I once loved. I have to wake myself up, attempt to attend breakfast before the dinning hall closes and become an independent woman who has to face the fact that I wont be 18 until September.

But back to the reason for this post. I had always wanted to do Journalism and become a writer for some of the best fashion magazines. Hey I would even have a crack at political journalism! But I did have my reservations. The fact that the only course offered was Multimedia Journalism worried me a bit. I was unsure of the path this would lead me down, however, reassured myself that this is what a wanted to do and with constant changing technology, this would be my helping hand. And so far it has been. The JN1001 class has taught me a lot. It has given me a chance to open my eyes a little and see that there are so many things I am unaware of. I do love a little bit of a Packer and Murdoch biography read, however, that is not going to get me to pass this class.

Every subject discussed in class was interesting. Not all appealed to me, but are all essential to my learning. I remember the night before the War and Disaster lecture; I was doing the prescribed reading and was so excited! I love discussing war and especially in a writing context. It was things like this that gave me the push to attend class and actually enjoy it.

http://img.uthinkido.com.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/journalism-student-e77edaa3d7cec08ed75b33dadccea4.jpg

The freezing library, the mass amount of people in jumpers during summer and the smell of Juliette’s coffee are all familiar to me following this class. Also the hunger I felt when everyone went and got a pastry during the break whilst I reminisce about missing breakfast because I hit the snooze button too many times is something I will always associate with this class.

Overall, I have enjoyed many aspects of this class. The blogs included. I love the idea of writing about anything I want. Like, come on – I wrote a Ashton Kutcher post and people took it seriously. This is all fine journalism at its best. ‘Every morning you have two choices: Continue to sleep with your dreams, or wake up and chase them,’ and that is exactly what I am doing.

Thanks for a great first semester!

-A.

[allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog]

Investigative Journalism

Investigative journalism is not for your typical journalist. They must be hard-hitting and determined to reveal the truth. They must also understand that there is consequences, however, believe that what they are doing is right. This type of journalism is definitely not a ‘another day, another dollar’ job. It requires a strength and persistence that many do not have. An investigation can take months and then all must be confirmed by reliable sources and then the article can be produced. All of this work can be put into a piece and the possibility that it not be print is still like any other article. It must be produced at the right time for a media agenda to be set.

http://www.syahidpeace.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Investigative-journalism.png

For an investigative journalism piece to be created, it is essential that a public interest is present. This essentially means that the community will be disadvantaged by not having knowledge of the information or they will benefit from knowing it. This is why reporters MUST have a clear sense of what their mission is in creating this piece and whom they serve, whether it be for public interest sake or to improve the country among many other possibilities. There must, however, be a clear stance in the journalistic piece as to whether it is ‘public interest’ or ‘national interest’. This is will ultimately shape the story and the demographic it is aimed at.

It must be certain that the story generates some form of widespread uproar or the like for this to garner worldwide attention. That is why terms such as ‘Revealed!’ or ‘Exclusive’ provide a large readership. It is this kind of promoting that secures readers to be interested in the piece. As this type of reporting targets the rich, powerful and famous, it must be right. That is why it is regarded as a process, not an event. Accuracy must always be a major factor in the overall production of the story. Nothing can be fabricated nor reworded to make the people in question seem shadier. That is a main issue that is found in most journalistic articles – false information.

The Watergate Scandal. Retrieved from http://tvimpactsonamerica.weebly.com/uploads/1/9/1/2/19127299/254189398_orig.jpg?293

It is, however, in the interest of the journalist to keep some form of dignity intact. The idea that major headlines will be produced is the reason behind reporting on these topics. The question does arise though ‘at what cost?’ At what cost will you go to so that this story can be published? When is the line crossed? These kinds of pieces can contribute to the entire downfall of a reputation. If the story is on the front page but depicts wrong information, a retraction will only ever be printed on the back. That is just the way it works. The thought that this can tear apart a country or family is quite nerve-racking. Everything can come crashing down.

An investigative journalism piece must be literal and true beyond all consideration. This is where the rich fall down or the country comes to a halt. So if this has such an affect on people, why is it so common? It makes for good news and sells papers. The idea that the piece revolves around public interest is questionable. If the mass media has a biff with someone, they should be sure to watch their backs.

-A.

M'Balla-Ndi, Marie. (2014) Investigative Journalism. https://learnjcu.jcu.edu.au/bbcswebdav/pid-1542319-dt-content-rid-1450447_1/courses/14-JN1001-TSV-INT-SP1/JN1001%20week%2010%20lecture%20sp1%202014.pdf

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Political Economy

Political economy is information that is carefully selected and shaped by those who own and control the mass media. Media provides the general public with a multitude of news stories, but it is the way these stories are presented that shapes readers perspectives. It is said that there are two sides to every story and that is an exact description of how political economy affects people’s views on any subject represented in the media.

With the recent unveiling of the Federal budget as devised by Treasurer Joe Hockey and fellow Liberal Misters, there has been a great uproar on the way it is affecting the average joe. With political economy, the mass media was able to promote the budget or the opposite. It was, however, the Government funded station ABC Broadcasting, which ‘clearly’ explained what all the terms meant and what the consequences of the cutbacks would be. It is obvious that this news outlet would produce some bias opinions, however, with the cutbacks also affecting them, it is no surprise that their coverage was extensive but not exactly ‘for’ the current governments choices.

Treasurer, Joe Hockey. Retrieved from http://www.news.com.au/finance/economy/australian-federal-budget-2014-treasurer-joe-hockeys-cash-grab-to-be-funded-by-public-spending-cuts/story-fn84fgcm-1226916150532

Rather, the opinions of the panel that were covering the event, which the viewers valued most. They were, in some respect, in the same boat as everyone else. These panelists, however, are told by the media corporations to represent a particular stance on the debate. That is how information is providing to the public. Therefore, decisions on what is being covered and in what viewpoint are solely based on the market of advertisers. It is the private individuals that decide what information is provided to the general public based on what earns them the most money.

In comparison, the dominant mass-media outlets are large firms, which are run for profit, and government funded outlets display very different views on topics. The big firms must cater to the financial interest of their owners who are often controlling investors. That is why advertising plays such a big part in the success of a commercial outlet. That is why the news media is required to cater to the political prejudices and economic desires of their advertisers. So it is quite obvious if the Murdoch’s favour one political party over another. It is clearly seen in the way they represent the party in both television programs and the amount of airtime they give their advertisements.

Retrieved from http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_T961o3r1ib8/S3m1ujiq6wI/AAAAAAAAGh4/EZS0YYA1hm8/s400/corporate_media.jpg

When referring to political economy within the media, it is obvious that it occurs much more frequently than viewers are aware of. This is what shapes the opinions and ideas society holds on any subject presented to them. However, this form of agenda setting can be detrimental to the outlet. They are free to choose but they are not free from the consequences of their choice.

-A. 

[allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog]

Let's Get Ethical

When writing a piece, which contains multiple ethical issues, a journalist must pose the question, ‘is this right?’ So many interpretations can be made. Some say ‘go for it!’ others are a little more hesitant. This predicament is quiet frequent for many people as to when they have to decide if it is their place to tell this story or even if it is acceptable for the public to have knowledge of the situation in question. This all revolves around the ethical issues of writing a story in a journalistic style.

  It was reported by several witnesses that a black BMW was seen speeding through the streets whilst spraying bullets at civilians and other targets in the beachside community of Isla Vista, where many college students live, on Friday night (23 May 2013, local time).

The gunman's BMW. Retrieved from http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-25/elliot-rodger-confirmed-as-gunman-in-california-shootings/5476256

It was confirmed that the 22-year-old Elliot Rodger was the only suspect by Sheriff Bill Brown.

Rodger – the son of The Hunger Games second unit director Peter Rodger – was a student at Santa Barbara City College and lived in the area he shot down.

Social media played a role in the build up to the shooting where Rodger uploaded a video to Youtube where he repeatedly complained of loneliness and rejection from women and outlined his plan to have a “day of retribution” in a 140-page manifesto, My Twisted World – The Story of Elliot Rodger.

“I will take great pleasure in slaughtering all of you, you will finally see that I am the truthful superior one – the true alpha male,” he said.

Rodger killed three people in his apartment, suffering from apparent stab wounds, said Police. He then headed to the Alpha Phi sorority at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), where he fatally shot two women.

“Shortly afterwards witnesses reported seeing three young women who were standing outside in the vicinity shot by the suspect from across the street.

“Two of those victims were fatally wounded and one, thankfully, is still alive.”

Two victims. Retrieved from https://hollywoodlife.com/2014/05/24/santa-barbara-shooter-two-sorority-sisters-victims-dead-katie-cooper-veronica-weiss/

The two University victims that were killed were 22-year-old Katie Cooper and 19-year-old Veronica Weiss.

Sheriff Brown said Rodger was armed with three legally purchased handguns and 41 loaded magazines.

Another fatality, UCSB student Christopher Michael-Martinez, 20, was shot at a nearby delicatessen.

Michael-Martinez father. Retrieved from http://edition.cnn.com/2014/05/24/us/elliot-rodger-video-transcript/

Rodger then got into his car and simultaneously shot at a number of pedestrians whilst driving. He hit two cyclists police said.

In total there were, “seven fatalities – six innocent victims and one suspect,’ Sheriff Drown said.

“An additional 13 people were injured. Eight of those individuals sustained gunshot wounds.”

Rodger, who was previously diagnosed as a highly functional Asperger’s syndrome child, was “very, very apparent [to be] … severely mentally disturbed.” Sheriff Brown also said “[the shootings are] obviously he work of a madman.”

In relation to the victims, Stephen Kaminski, the director of trauma services at the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, said four of those injured had been treated and released from hospital.

“Seven injured victims were transported to our trauma centre at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital where they remain in our care,” he said.

Two patients are said to be in good condition, three in fair and two are still in a serious condition.

Rodger, the gunman, was found dead inside his crashed car of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, Sheriff Brown said. 

Wright, Patrick. (2014). Santa Barbara shooting: Elliot Rodger, son of Hollywood director, confirmed as gunman. Retrieved from http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-25/elliot-rodger-confirmed-as-gunman-in-california-shootings/5476256

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Groove was groovy

The music festival of the year has been and gone. Well that is the North’s one and only legendary music festival. Like every other year, Groovin’ the Moo showcases girls dressed in clothes too tight and too revealing with flowers adorning their heads while the boys find the tightest shorts and loosest muscle singlet to show off their ‘massive biceps’ while congregating at Townsville’s very own Murray Sporting Complex to hear the live music or better yet socialise. Please all note: Vans and Converses are the footwear of choice and if you must bring a bag, make it a small one. This annual event sees thousands pass through the portable gates to see their favourite acts play to massive crowds and ‘I take my job way too seriously’ security guards.

http://www.dailymercury.com.au/news/groovin-was-movin-well-townsville-groovin-the-moo/1859924/

Like every year, the headlining acts are the last to perform so as you non-festivalgoers can assume, the crowds were getting hectic. Feet were sore, bodies dehydrated, all day partiers tired and the air was getting cooler. Of course the weekend of May 4 saw the coldest 48 hours the season had seen. Winter was well and truly upon us, even if it was mid-Autumn. But no, this will never stop a true fan of The Naked and Famous, The Jezabels or The Presets. Okay, I lied, it stopped a few. Nonetheless, the crowd was in full force. People were either rocking it out in the mosh pit or chilling out under the stars still able to nod their head along to the music. That is the amazing ability of young people. If there is a will, there is a way – even if you are dazed and confused. 

Now to the ever increasingly astonishing fashion choices on both the male and female part. What is not to love about festival fashion? As Mean Girls Kadey Heron once said, ‘Halloween is the one day a year when a girl can dress up like a total slut and no other girls can say anything else about it.’ (Mean Girls, 2004) That is the same case for music festivals. This can only mean one thing! So it goes without saying, the clothes are an acquired taste. Short shorts, halter-tops, playsuits, mini skirts. We see them all. And what about the makeup? The go to option these days seems to be minimal but with the occasional stick-on diamanté similar to an Indian Bindi or the ever favourite floral face paint. Now on to the boys. They spend months participating in leg day to get the perfect calves or working on those already ‘massive’ biceps but spend most of the day tensing them for every photo opportunity. Please bask in the brilliance of festival fashion. Ever changing, but all the same.

http://www.funny-memes.org/2014/02/why-did-lisa-dump-me-is-it-because-of.html

So the main reason for attending a music festival is to listen to the beloved bands live, right? Well in my case that is the truth. From my personal experience of live music (hardly any if you were wondering) it is hard to come by a good live act. What tops the list would be Naked and Famous. Starting their set with the brilliant chart-topper hit, Punching In A Dream only got the party started. It went from strength to strength from the interactive musical renditions to the amazing head banging of the lead guitarist – he was gorgeous by the way. The 50 minute long set was to die for, which I later found out whilst attempting to escape the front row of the mosh pit. But before all this excitement occurred, the most indiest of all rockers, Vance Joy graced the same stage mere hours beforehand. The afternoon set saw a single man, center stage with a guitar and later ukulele and his accompanying band fading off into the background. It was magical. No matter if you knew the words of his new songs or not, the crowd was still pumping. All anticipation was held steady until the song we had all been waiting for was played. Good ole Riptide – a fan favourite. So we can firmly establish the music was fantastic.

http://amhnetwork.com/groovin-the-moo-announce-2014-tour-dates/

But, what will next year hold? Hopefully more of the same stuff. The festival atmosphere vibe is something every inner wild child craves. The crowds were already big enough, so no improvement needed there. Two things were, however, evidently lacking from festival organisers. Firstly, more Portaloos are a must. The lines were shocking and so was the inside. Secondly, the lineup was lacking something. Don’t get me wrong, brilliant acts were included, however, it was weak compared to the previous years with the likes of The Black Keys, Vampire Weekend, Gotye, The Wombats, Matt Corby and The Kooks. Although there were some areas lacking, the festival was an overall success.

Rock on.

-A. 

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Gala

Like every year, the leaders in the worlds fashion stakes come together to celebrate the brilliance of the honouree in the most impeccable style. 2014 was no different. Celebrating 'America's first Couturier', Charles James, saw the most prestigious beings of the fashion industry dress in 'White Tie' in honour of the designer. Think Anna Wintour in Chanel whilst she chats to Sarah Jessica Parker wearing Oscar De La Renta. The glorious Stella McCartney pack of models and celebrities consisting of Cara Delevingne and Rihanna in monochrome sets or the ever stylish Kate Bosworth and Reese Witherspoon in floor length gowns. 

http://www.chaos-mag.com/need-know-whitetie-diamonds-met-gala/

This is the beauty of the Met Gala. All the rich and famous come together to bask in the excitement in the combination of fashion and art. Joined together, they cannot be beaten. The inaugural event took place in 1971 as a fundraising gala for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute and an opening celebration for the annual fashion exhibit it displays. This event is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive social events in New York and one of the biggest fundraising nights for the city. The 2014 Ball raised a record $12 million with individual tickets costing $25,000 for any attendee outside of the official guest list. The affair is attended by personalities from the arts, fashion, high-society, film and music and is considered to be the fashion industry's premier annual red carpet event. The chair of the event since 1995 is Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour who oversees both the benefit committee and the guest list.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/entertainment/met-gala-stars-of-hollywood-fashion-converge-at-white-tie-event-1.1808048

The main event of any high society gala is the race to be the most glorious and flawless attendee on the red carpet. The clothes, makeup, shoes, hair and accessories all play a contributing part in the overall success of the look and that just the for the men. Designers spend all year creating original and extravagant pieces for the A-list to strut around. This year, social media played a major part in the international discussion that was the best dressed list. Fashion insiders, bloggers and just your regular joe off the street all had something to say. Did Lupita Nyong'o get it right or was her Gatsby inspired emerald dress an all round mess? And what about the likes of Kate Upton in her Frida Kahlo meets 'Little Bo Peep' ensemble? In fact Gala co-chairs, Anna Wintour and Sarah Jessica Parker, weighed in on the nights worst dressed to theme. The women stopped by 'Late Night with Seth Meyers' to discuss the lack of adherence to the dress code. Consummate gentleman Tom Ford was a godsend to some men who had no idea what the theme meant. From Tom "I Obviously Didn't Look at the Invitation" Brady to Jake "Brooklyn White Tie" Gyllenhaal, you can imagine that the women spared no feelings.

It was an obvious honour to the late Charles James to be held in the same regard as past Met themes and honourees. From Balenciaga to the Age of Napoleon or Chanel to Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years. It is astounding the number of high end fashion houses, eras or fashionistas that have been inducted into this exclusive club that is an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum. 

http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/05/whatjayzsaidtosolange-jay-z-solange-fight-takes-twitter/

But like any star-studded event, it did not go without scandal. The battle between Jay-Z and Solange Knowles in the elevator en route home from a Met Gala after-party was of epic proportions. The in-law bust-up was one not to be missed so, like any 'respectable' hotel employee, the video was sold for $250,000 to tabloid TMZ. Solange has now been declared Jay-Z's 100th problem. Although we don't know what prompted the brawl, we do know that the person who leaked the video has been fired. So that was that. 

The gathering rivals the West Coast's Vanity Fair Oscar Party, which is said to have more "star power" but less fashion panache. But it is safe to say that even though there are no winners and losers of actual awards (Note: fashion stakes are not real awards), May 5th 2014 had it all. Men who had no idea what was going on, women with marvellously hideous or gorgeous clothes and that one scandal which always has everyone talking. That's a wrap-up. 

-A.

Michelle Persad. (2014). Worst Dressed Met Gala 2014: All The Stars That Failed On Fashion's Biggest Night. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/05/05/worst-dressed-met-gala-2014-photo_n_5241867.html

Alyssa Vingan. (2014) Anna Wintour and Sarah Jessica Parker rank the Met Gala men's white tie looks. http://fashionista.com/2014/05/sarah-jessica-parker-anna-wintour-seth-meyers#awesm=~oECfqtKKsLlllf

McDonald, Soraya. (2014). Hotel fires guard who leaked video of Solange attacking Jay-Z. http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2014/05/15/hotel-fires-guard-who-leaked-video-of-solange-attacking-jay-z/

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Sarah Jessica Parker and Anna Wintour Interview - Late Night with Seth Meyers (by Late Night with Seth Meyers)

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Divergent

2014 has seen a great boost in the star profile of young actress, Shailene Woodley. The 2014 film, Divergent has several central ideas. Selflessness, bravery, honesty, intelligence and peacefulness, which all happen to be the characteristics of the factions involved in the film. They all merge into one. By doing this, a specific reaction has been elicited from the audience. The idea is that the traits cannot exist without each other. This is where the idea of Divergent comes in. They display all traits with the possibility of one specifically standing out. A Divergent can be brave without starting fights because they feel the need. Society works in a specific way and this film is attempting to show what the world would be like if a person could only have one specific trait. It shows what good a person can do by combining their characteristics. You can’t have good without a little bad. This allows it to all level out.

The 2014 American film Divergent is no exception to Woodley’s talent. Directed by Neil Burger, the film follows a science fiction action genre led by a star stutted cast. In addition to Woodley, the film stars the hunky Theo James, Kate Winslet, Ansel Elgort and Zoe Kravitz. In futuristic Chicago, a world is divided into factions based on virtures. Tris Prior (Woodley) learns she is Divergent and won’t fit in with any faction as she has characteristics of many groups. When she discovers a plot to destroy Divergents, Tris and the mysterious Dauntless member Four (James) must find out what makes Divergents dangerous before it’s too late.

Woodley and James as Tris and Four respectively. http://www.hypable.com/2013/06/25/divergent-movie-10-high-res-photos-feature-tris-four-and-trains/ 

Thankfully, the film stays mainly true to the storyline in the novel by Veronica Roth. Throughout the film, many characters are further developed. This specifically relates to the role of Tris and Four with the inclusion of their romantic relationship. Tris sees Woodley embrace the character to show the depth and underlying mysteries about Tris to convey a believable character. This is successfully achieved through the attitude displayed when Tris is challenged by initiates and leaders of Dauntless to shoot people even though it was unexpected that she would accept. That is the kind of acting that ensures a film can be successful. Futher, James portrays Four exactly as intended by the author. Although some scenes are excluded, such as Fours drunken flirt fest with Tris, the film depicts a powerful yet lonely young man who, as it is later revealed, is running from his past. That is the connection he shares with Tris – they are both Abnegation born, Dauntless transfers and secret Divergents. 

The soundtrack of the film was brilliantly composed with the inclusion of many big name and up-and-coming artists. It is evident that the tracks were perfectly selected for each scene, which ultimately ensured the mood intended was right in front of the audience. We felt freedom, intimidation, fear and awe as the music accompanying the scenes moved the audience to stay in tune with the action on screen. In conjunction with this, the Chicago scenery in a post-apocolyptic world was spot on. The connection of the Dauntless compound to the rest of the city with the use of the lake showed that the Dauntless is still apart of the city, although keeps their distance from the regular hustle and bustle of the city.

Elgort and Woodley as siblings Caleb and Tris Prior respectively. http://www.japalangblog.com/2014/04/10/divergent-movie-trailer-starring-shailene-woodley/ 

In regards to the fashion of each faction, a perfect scene is set to the movie. The construction shows the personalities of each faction perfectly. The use of jaggared shoulderpads on the Dauntless jackets displays the roughness of their personalities. As soon as Tris put on the Dauntless allocated clothes, she immediately became a badass. The hippy look of Amity with bright orange also perfectly complented the ideas of the faction formed in heads while reading the novel. Abnegation, however, seemed somewhat sloppy with their dress. It was initially envisioned a neat, but nothing special precence. The simplification of fashion was too extreme.

Ultimately, the film saw a great adaption of Roth’s novel where it acurately depicted the themes of the story. Divergent is about the fact that people aren’t split up into different groups, like the city in the books. Rather, people have lots of different traits with some being more predominant than others. Although there were several scenes which were cut from the film, the general gist of the personalities and events which occurred were captured. The film was altogether entertaining and is thoroughly recommended to go and see, even if soley for the eye candy that is Theo James without his shirt on – or Theo James in general.

Rating: 8/10

-A.

IMDb. (2014). Divergent. Retrieved from http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1840309/ 

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The spirit lives on

The idea of ANZAC spirit is a hounorary tribute to those who have served us. Worked together to protect their beautiful homeland and the people in it. It brings a kind of heartwarming feel to the bodies of those they fought to protect. Risking their lives to save others, even if the dangerour in not imminent. That is the ANZAC spirit. Always there for eachother through thick and thick.

With the impending 100 year anniversary of the day the ANZACs landed on the shores of Turkey to battle on the Gallipoli Penisular has raised many questions about the times the Australian diggers suffered through. Working to change the circumstances for others to better a society is a marvelous thing. During the time of these historic wars saw a dramatic increase in participants. No matter if you were young or old, it was considred an honor to serve your country alongside other men just like you. The ones who share the larrikin spirit and who ‘always look on the bright side of life’.

http://www.news.com.au/national/rise-of-the-aussie-digger-from-anzac-legends-to-modern-warriors/story-fncynjr2-1226627387502

Even women, who were considered the homemakers, priticpated in all war efforts to ensre that the best outcome would occur. They served as nurses, office ladies and workers of the land all the while looking after families and banding together to show a united front. These are the women of our country. This work ethic has cemented the positive, trustworthy and hardworking ideologies which surround this great country.

Not only did the ANZACs serve their country during the World War I and II but there are also the other forgotten Wars. The ones where the soliders weren’t praised, even if they were forced into a difficult situation. The Vietnam War caused multiple uprisings against protestors. The idea of Compulary Acquisition caused many controversies. These men were either lucky and their birthday wasn’t picked or the opposite and were forced to travel to an unknown country in turmoil and attempt to assist in the war effort. Protecting the country’s people to ensure that their own is not attacked. Many citizens of Australia and other involved countries loathed the soliders. No praise was recived and rather booed and outcasted as supporters of conflict.

http://www.israeltrade.org.au/the-anzac-trail-from-the-beeri-badlands-to-beer-sheva/

Men and women still struggle with the idea that they did all they could and were treated with such disgrace. In fact, it is an outrage to treat people this way. They deserve so much more. The verteans now live with underlying shame as they were forced into a situation that no one could really take proper hold of. The soliders can not be blamed for a lack of political charge. These action or rather inactions by public figures who run various countries have caused war, uprising and feuds. The devastation from a two person fight is inexplainable.

So next ANZAC or Rememberance day, take a moment to remember those lost and those who fought. Praise the brave and forgive the weak. Everytime you sign Advance Australia Fair, remember that if it wasn’t for these people, this freedom would not exist. Allow for forgivness and continue to thank people for their random acts of kindness. It’s all about the Australian spirit. The ANZAC spirit.

-A.  

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'True Blue' Through and Through

The proud moments we associate with being Australian have become apart of our national identity. In the grand scheme of things, national identity is the ‘depiction of a country as a whole, encompassing its culture, traditions, language, and politics’ (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/national+identity). The way we are recognised is defined through the ideologies and the discourses associated with the country. To be a ‘true blue’ Aussie you need to crave the feeling of the sand between your toes and the sunburn on your nose. You can squirm in your seat as you watch your friend eat a spoonful of Vegemite and wait for a scrunched up face to appear and you are able to accept the fact that Home & Away and Neighbours produced some of the best actors from this fine country. As well as some of the worst.

http://www.awm.gov.au/exhibitions/dawn/plan/eightmonths/

As Australia develops as a country we also become more diverse therefore there are more stereotypes and cultures which are associated with the country. There are several stereotypes which we associate with being an Australian. Paul Hogan gave a new meaning to the phrase, ‘put another shrimp on the barbie.’ He is everyone’s favourite ‘ocker’ on The Paul Hogan Show who is always there to lend a helping hand, especially to the Shelias. The diggers who show Anzac pride and the veterans who march in the parade every 25th of April with their grandchildren next to them proudly displaying the medals handed down from generations as they walk in their local parade. Their most well known traits consist of do what is needed to be done and do it with a brave face. Their heroism portrays Australians as fighters. This developed the ideologies that the young people who are sent off to war are able to fight for their country just as they did in the coming of age Australian book series, Tomorrow, When the War Began. These representations have formed the basis of Australian identity and that its modern relevance still remains as each time it is challenged, the traits which make our national identity come off stronger such as the hard-working, brave and heroic people and the generous, friendly and optimistic people and some who display all these traits and more.

With the modern controversies surrounding our nation, what happens to the character we have proudly made of ourselves? Do the social, political and cultural issues which surround this great country threaten to destabilise the traditional representations we have always held dear? The small issues that our nation faces seem to override the great stories of mateship and the unbelievable kindness which is displayed across the nation in these modern times.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/blog-with-buzz-why-billy-slater-is-now-an-all-time-rugby-league-great/story-e6frexv9-1226089362691

It has become evident that when Australians do it tough we stick together. We back our country and forgive those who need forgiving. From sports stars to torn apart families, we understand the meaning of mateship and display the ANZAC spirit all day, everyday. None of these current events have changed the traditional representations of the national identity of Australia in the modern world. My stance has been made quite clear today and the importance of being a ‘true blue’ Aussie is still relevant in today’s society. By any means, I would not like to live in an Australia where we do not display these traditional and well known representations. Would you?

-A.

[allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog]

Ashton Kutcher appreciation post

So as many of you may already be aware, Ashton Kutcher is an amazing human being. No matter what the tabloids say, he is a genuine soul with a heart of gold. Well, that is at least what I think. The star is an activist against child prostitution and human trafficking and currently continuing his stance. He established an international human rights organisation in 2009 called the DNA Foundation, later known as Thorn, addresses the sexual exploitation of children and the spread of child pornography globally.

Kutcher is also active in the disability foundations as a result of his fraternal twin brother’s diagnosis with cerebral palsy at a young age. Michael Kutcher was also the recipient of a heart transplant at a young age. Ashton displayed his good qualities throughout his life by constantly attempting to cure his brother of disease. He considered giving his brother his heart to rid him of his troubles. Kutcher also enrolled at the University of Iowa in August 1996 to major in biochemical engineering with the desire to discover a cure for his bother’s heart ailment. These good deeds enhance Kutcher’s selfless lifestyle with no intention of looking like a ‘hero’. He does it for the good of other people.

Now back to the matter at hand. Remember Kutcher accepting his Teen Choice Award for the top honour, the Ultimate Choice award, and the brilliant speech that accompanied it? Of course you do, but here’s a copy to fresh all your glorious minds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNXwKGZHmDc - PLEASE WATCH ME - i'm amazing!

Retrieved from https://spydersden.wordpress.com/2013/08/page/2/ 

This inspirational speech saw many a teenage child stand up and do something about their life. Make it better. Kutcher’s three-step road to success brightens so many futures.

1. Opportunity

“I believe that opportunity looks a lot like hard work,” (Kutcher, Ashton 2013). Kutcher talks about his first job and the jobs that continued to come after that. He says that never has he had a job that he was better than. He was just always lucky to have a job and that would be the stepping-stone to his next job. Never would Kutcher be confident enough or cocky enough to quite his job before he had another one. It’s all about knowing your place in life and never taking that for granted.

2. Being sexy

“The sexiest thing in the entire world is being really smart. And being thoughtful. And being generous. Everything else is crap, I promise you,” (Kutcher, Ashton 2013). You know what? He’s completely right. Be generous, think of others before you act and be intelligent. Never let anyone take advantage of you but always be willing to help others. Don’t believe the stuff people try to sell you to make you feel less. Follow your heart.

3. Living life

“So build a life. Don’t live one, build one,” (Kutcher, Ashton 2013). Steve Jobs once said, “when you grow up you tend to get told that the world is the way it is and you’re life is just to live life inside the world… everything around you that you call life was made up by people that were no smarter than you. And you can change it, you can influence it,” (Jobs, Steve). This just shows how any human is just as good as the others. Everyone has limitation, but it is how you overcome those limitations that make you a success.

 This is the beauty of the magical Ashton Kutcher. He’s so insightful and yet still able to begin his acceptance speech with ‘what’s up? ... let’s be brutally honest – this is the old guy award.’ So I beg you, practice what he preaches. It’s worth it in the end.

-A.

  Singh Gee. (2013) Celebrity Goes Good. Retrieved from http://archive.causes.msn.com/human_trafficking/

America’s Intelligence Wire. (2006). Interview With Ashton Kutcher – Part 2. Retrieved from http://www.questia.com

Brannigan. (2011). Surprise! Ashton Kutcher Has a Twin Brother. Retrieved from https://tv.yahoo.com/blogs/yahoo-tv/surprise-ashton-kutcher-twin-brother-190421177.html

Goodreads Inc. (2014). Steve Jobs Quotes. Retrieved from https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/653020-when-you-grow-up-you-tend-to-get-told-that

Ashton Kutcher. (2013) FULL TRANSCRIPT: Chris Ashton Kutcher’s Teen Choice Award Acceptance Speech August 2013. Retrieved from   http://asderathos.tumblr.com/post/58622744386/full-transcript-chris-ashton-kutchers-teen-choice

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A JPEG is worth 1024 words

Every journalist has that one moment of hesitation when deciding on photographs to accompany an article. Will it be able to tell the story of the issues at hand or will it fail terribly? The decision process is hard and can consume time more than a University student procrastinating from an impending assignment. It’s always interesting to look at a photo and see the talents of the photographer, raw of Photoshop or alteration. The framing, focus, angle & point of view, exposure, timing and the ability to capture ‘the moment’ all factor into the success of a photograph. No editing need here! It’s all about the photographers perception and ability to capture a perfect photograph. Or is it?

Toothpaste for dinner (2009) A JPEG is worth approximately 1000 words. Retrieved from http://www.toothpastefordinner.com/index.php?date=102909 

Backtracking a photograph to its original image can reveal surprising results. A little lighting here and cropping there is all well and good, however, an increasing amount of photos see alterations to the models themselves. The ideology that fashion models must be skinny and flawless has gotten out of hand and rules the success of a publication or the model/celebrity’s popularity. ‘Their just like us!’ or ‘wow, they got fat,’ are two common remarks to non-retouched images. ‘Is that cellulite on Kim-K’s leg?’ What a horror. Truefully the ideals of body image all started with the introduction of Photoshop as an essential skill of photojournalism.

It was revealed in December 2013 that Jennifer Lawrence’s 2011 Flare magazine cover was photoshopped so the star would appear thinner by slimming her hips, waist and face. The Oscar-winner’s collarbones were also accentuated and neck lengthened to establish a less-curvy silhouette. This revelation saw a contradiction to Lawrence’s interview of the same issue where she said: “I’d rather look a little chubby on camera and look like a person in real life, than to look great onscreen and look like a scarecrow in real life,” (Lawrence, 2011). This came as a shock to the public, however, it was never revealed whether Lawrence is aware of the airbrushing. It is assumed that the body embracive star still holds her body-happy values. Lawrence is still to this day being quoted on her values for young girls such as when she said, “girls see enough of this body that we can’t imitate, that we’ll never be able to obtain, these unrealistic expectations, and this is gonna be their hero, and we have control over that,” (Lawrence, 2013).

Retrieved from http://data3.whicdn.com/images/11995361/large.png 

I’m not saying all magazines promote bad body image to young girls. Just look at the good Girlfriend magazine is doing. Continuous ‘reality checks’ accompany photographs throughout the monthly teen mag. ‘This image has not been retouched’, ‘this image was supplied to us retouched’, ‘these models woke up at 4am to get the perfect lighting in 9°C weather’ are all common reassurances. This kind of positive acceptance of the way we look is what is imperative in everyday photojournalism. The more this movement is promoted, the more awareness will be raised. It is said that a picture is worth a 100 words but also a young girl’s self-esteem. “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” (Gandhi, 1913).

Cementing positive body image ideologies in not only within the younger generations, but everyone will decrease the chance of eating disorders and unnecessary cosmetic surgeries to alter an already perfect appearance. Don’t cave to the media and publics opinions on body image. When capturing a picture, remember that it’s worth 100 words. Make them good ones.

-A.

Thistlethwaite. (2013) Skinny scandal: ‘Real girl’ role-model Jennifer Lawrence photoshopped to look THINNER on Flare magazine cover. Retrieved from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2525188/Jennifer-Lawrence-photoshopped-look-THINNER-Flare-magazine-cover.html#ixzz2ylRO1J8G

[allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog]

JN1001 photojournalism 

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Blade runner breaks down in court

A South African courtroom saw world-famous Para Olympian, Oscar Pistorius; break down when questioned during his testimony over his alleged murder of girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. 

Chief prosecutor Gerrie Nel has insisted that there was motive in relation to the murder of Steenkamp while questioning Pistorius. The death is described as intentional by the prosecution during his cross-examination where Nel said “she was standing behind the toilet door talking to you when you shot her.’

Pistorius shot down the claims during the courtroom exchange saying “that’s not true,” whilst nearing the end of the runner’s first week testimony. Nel further said that the “only reasonable explanation” for the murder is that a fight between the model and Pistorius had occurred on the night of the shooting resulting in the shooting.

In Pistorius’ initial statement it was said that Steenkamp was shot after being mistaken for a nighttime intruder through a toilet door to his bathroom. The prosecution had accused the defendant of fabricating evidence and continuously overplaying his intense fear of crime to justify shooting Steenkamp.

It was insisted during the third day of Nel’s cross-examination that the 27-year-old had been selective in recalling the events of that fateful Valentines Day night in February 2013.

It was seen in the courtroom that the defendant became increasingly agitated when questioned over the apparent discrepancies in his accounts. During one exchange about the placement of objects in Pistorius bedroom he said, “I’m not looking for an excuse, if I don’t remember it I don’t remember it!”

Whilst sobbing on the stand, Pistorius further said, “this is the night I lost the person I most cared about, I don’t know how people don’t understand that.”

Pistorius has been accused of being detrimental to his case and continuously altering his story. Nel said, “I’m not convinced about your answer now, I think you’re trying to cover up for lies,” referring to the changes to the athlete’s story.

Oscar Pistorius. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-03-13/pistorius-trial-day-4/5318052 

According to the athlete, it is said that he fired through his locked bathroom door assuming that Steenkamp was an intruder whilst fearing that he would be a victim of crime. 

Nel continued to attack the double amputee pleading for a public apology to the Steenkamps on Monday. It was then stated by Pistorius that he had requested a meeting with the family in person but never stated why. The request was confirmed in court by June Steenkamp’s, the victim’s mother, lawyer.

This week, June Steenkamp had been quoted saying athlete had gone from, “hero to devil,” following the murder of her daughter.

Nel has insisted during the cross-examination that Pistorius’ “version … is a lie.”

In the following weeks to come it is expected that Defence lawyer Barry Roux will call up to 17 witness for the remainder of the case. The trial has been extended from its original tree week run to mid-May, however, has the possibility to continue longer.

-A

Davies, L. (April 12, 2014). Oscar Pistorius murder trial: prosecution continues to hammer athlete’s version of events. Retrieved from http://www.smh.com.au/world/oscar-pistorius-murder-trial-prosecution-continues-to-hammer-athletes-version-of-events-20140412-zqttb.html

[allisonbyrnesjn1001-blog]

A Princess is taken too early

Once upon a time in a land far, far away a beautiful princess was born into Pop/Rock music royalty. The Princess was named Peaches. Her mother, the Queen of music journalism paved her own career away from her husband, King Bob Geldof, my interviewing the newest up and coming musicians in the majestic land of hip Britain. While Princess Peaches father was away, the kids would play. Partying, modelling and most importantly building her socialite status were more important than spending time with her ‘old man’.

This is where it all started to go wrong – When Peaches turned 7, King Bob and Queen Paula divorced and the family was torn apart. That same year Queen Paula gave birth to Princess Tiger Lily with the Duke of Perth, Michael Hutchence. Then following Duke Michael’s death, Queen Paula succumb to the same demons and took her own life when Peaches was 11. As a child, the Princess was never able to come to terms with her mother’s sudden death. She was continuously numb. She never grieved when it happened, nor at the funeral. She bottled it all up until her 16th year.

After suffering through tragedy after tragedy and finally overcoming them to become a successful columnist for famed fashion magazines during her teen years in hip London, she found love. Sir Maxwell Drummey of Chester French wed Princess Peaches Geldof in a quickie ceremony in a Las Vegas drive-thru chapel, renowned for drunken mistakes, on the 5th of August 2009. Little did the newly weds know, they decided to amicably separate due to irreconcilable differences.

Unsurprisingly, the harsh Sir Max announced later in their wedded year that the marriage was all a publicity stunt. What a horrid tragedy. The entire kingdom had waited with anticipation to see Princess Peaches happily ever after but it seems that Sir Maxwell was just another toad.

All was fine in the land of England as a royal family in order means a country in order. Keep calm and carry on. Then suddenly in December 2011 it was announced to the general public that Princess Peaches had found her prince charming in Sir Thomas Cohen and a royal wedding will soon ensue. The planning must begin! King Bob called upon the royal planer and this rocker friends to commence preparations. This would be the wedding of the century.

In an elegant ceremony, her doting father gave Princess Peaches Geldof away to Sir Thomas Cohen in the same church as her parents had married 26 years prior to the spectacular event in country Davington. The event was very understated and private, however, being a royal family, the event would have to be captured by the royal photographer and was later published in Hello magazine. The bride was majestic with flowers in her hair and long sleeved lace with her sisters by her side serving as bridesmaids accompanied by several other friends. There were 7 maids assisting the bride on one of the most important days of her life. Their eldest and only son walked down the aisle as ring bearer whilst tears came pouring from His Royal Highness, King Bob’s, eyes as he so wished her mother could be in attendance on this so joyous occasion. 

With one baby already born, Peaches and Thomas felt it right to give one-year-old Astala Dylan Willow Geldof-Cohen a sibling and that they did. As Peaches had a knack for unusual names, the world was introduced to Phaedra Bloom Forever Cohen in 2012. The beautiful family was happily living their lives in Kent, England whilst visiting family and attending events to show off the beautiful princes.

 All was right in the world. Princess Peaches had a family of her own and was happy as can be. But an awful tragedy was sure to soon ensue. The evil wicked witch appeared on the morning of Monday, 7th of April 2014, and Princess Peaches was taken from her loving family at the tender age of 25. What happened? Why was she taken so early? What are her children going to do? So many questions and no answers. History was repeating itself, but in what respect? Did the same demons catch up with her as they did her mother 14 years ago? Or was her body a ticking time bomb? The beautiful princess is no longer with us and her country is in mourning. King Bob and his three daughters, Princess Trixibelle, Princess Pixie and Princess Tiger Lily, are all devastated as can be expected.

 It has been declared a national day of mourning for the people of England. A caring, beautiful princess has been lost and a mother will never be able to see her children grow up. All anyone can hope for now is that her little princes get a happily ever after whilst she’s watching over them.

 The End.

-A.

Michael Idato. (2014). Peaches Geldof dies at age 25. Retrieved from http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/celebrity/peaches-geldof-dies-at-age-25-20140408-369je.html

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Media Agenda Setting

To report on a story, it is typical of a news outlet to rank it in order of importance. If the business is trying to promote or push a certain topic the most logical explanation is that they have incorporated an agenda setting into the news. Continuously in day-to-day news it is evident that a particular topic is in the leading news and the hottest topic of the day can continue with coverage. Therefore the media push for its importance to ensure that it becomes a long running news event ultimately selling more papers and keeping the television viewership high.

Prof. Frank Brettschneider, University Höhenheim, Germany

Typically of the media, there has been an agenda setting ‘family’ developed to specifically pinpoint the ways to set an agenda in the news. These include media gatekeeping, media advocacy, agenda cutting, agenda surfing or the ‘bandwagon’ effect, the diffusion of news and the portrayal of an issue. It is clear that this ‘family’ is utilised to ensure that a particular criteria is met when publishing a story. If the journalist creates a positive outlook towards the story and advocates for the topic in a way that makes the readers/viewers agree with them, this is media advocacy. Also as stories are ranked by importance, the less important topics can be cut from the agenda to make way for more information to develop on one of the higher-ranking stories. The media sets the agenda everyday and the good people of the world find interest in it to be able to spark conversation about current events.

The idea of setting an agenda for day-to-day news is an important tool in ensuring that specific stories are seen and publicized. For example, if there is a current legislation change in the child justice system, it is assumed that the news outlet will also report on various child court cases. In most cases, the articles will be biased where they will report with the view that the editor or journalist hold as to whether they want the legislation passed or not. This is often seen in the media where a leading news story will be accompanied by multiple smaller stories that relate to the topic to further enforce the ideologies held by the journalist. A news story on Oscar Pistorius will most likely be accompanied by sexual abuse/murder cases and possibly further examples of the corrupt South African justice system.

Ex-Prosecutor in O.J. Simpson Trial Claims Defence Tampered With Gloves (Gaynor, G 2012)

Additionally, the ‘bandwagon’ effect is utilised into the media to decide which stories are more popular at the time of print/publish. This is also known as agenda surfing. To create an article, the journalist will have to decide whether the story is important enough to take a large section of space with writing or images. If so, the story will be high on the agenda for that day or week. The news is also portrayed in a particular way, whether negative or positive, to ensure that the public agrees with the ideas held by the journalist. For example, OJ Simpson was portrayed as a killer in the 1995 trial of the murder of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and waiter, Ronald Lyle Goldman. This was, however, the ideas held before there was a verdict given which in fact saw Simpson not guilty. The portrayal of Simpson through the media during this time was majorly negative.

So why was he ‘not guilty’? Although the media like to think that their opinion influences the ‘big’ things, it obviously does not. He may have been guilty but as the verdict was not, it is seen that the popularity of a negative opinion on the case holds no grounds when dealing with the justice system. A law may change from public demand with the help of a media agenda, however as evidence suggests, cannot sway the opinion of a jury in a criminal case.

-A