Friday, May 29, 2009

North Penn High teacher arraigned in teen-sex case

By Kathy Boccella
Inquirer Staff Writer

Summary
This article is about Heather L. Zeo, a Math teacher, singer/ songwriter, and Mennonite Christian, who is in trouble for her conduct with students. She has been charged with having sex with a 17-year-old student and sending sexually explicit internet and phone messages to two students at North Penn High School in Lansdale where she is a teacher. The 37-year-old woman is a mother of three and was arraigned May 21 in the Lansdale District court, where she was charged with endangering the welfare of a child. She posted $25,000 bail and was scheduled for a hearing June 3.

Analysis
This situation has an effect on a lot of people. Heather L. Zeo life is affected because she will lose time with her children because she'll probably go to jail, she will lose her teaching license, and be known in the community as a rapist. The 17-year-old boy is affected because he most likely will feel like it’s his fault that she’s in jail. . This is a situation that could have been avoided in so many different ways and makes people think twice about the people around them.

By Tyerra G.

Montco teacher charged in sex case

Christine Alley
Philadelphia Daily News
Friday May 22, 2009

Thirty-seven year old Heather Lynn Zeo, a math teacher at North Penn High School in Lansdale, Is charged for having sex with a 17 year old student, leaving sexually explicit messages on the internet and making phone calls with another student. The teacher sent a Facebook request to the student, who accepted it, and they would at night talk about the things that they would do to each other when they meet up. Zeo began letting the students into her class alone and start “kissing and petting” them. Rumors around the school were that she was having inappropriate relationships with the students. She was sent to jail and now has paid 10 percent of her bail.

This article affects readers who may worry about sending their children to school because there are so many cases of teachers sexually abusing students. Before there were a few stories around the country but now there are several happening in our area. Adults need to watch over their children when they put them into the hands of another adult because you never know what is going to happen or what they are going to do with them.

By Robin C.

State still has to approve sales tax hike, or there'll be cuts

Brian X. McCrone
Metro Philadelphia Newspaper

Summary: City Hall has approved a 2009 -2010 city budget which will cause businesses to be damaged by a sales tax increase for the next five years. State Rep. John Perzel said “Mayor Michael Nutter or Council, show no effort to downsize city spending despite the economic downtown.” Some major businesses are lying off 40 percent of workers. Perzel also said “So far, it doesn’t look like the city is doing anything to help itself." If Nutter doesn’t have state approval then big cuts to city government would become a reality. The city also needs approval to put off funding the city workers' pension for two years. A state Representative also had concerns about sales tax to increase, but couldn’t support it. Councilman Wilson Goode Jr. said. "Those who are looking to save money are already looking at the current sales tax and at shopping outside the city." He doesn’t expect the new boost to affect anything significantly.

Analysis: This article is newsworthy because it alerts the readers know about what’s going on and what to expect with the local sales tax . This also can help people start saving their money. However, the story wasn’t written clearly. It could have added more detail and been more organized. The information was presented in a confusing way, which made it difficult to follow.

By Ashley P.

Jackpot! Nuggets finally beat Lakers in playoffs

Friday, May 22, 2009
Associated Press
MSNBC News

Summary:
The Denver Nuggets have finally overcome their 24-year drought against the Lakers in the playoffs during Thursday night's game 2of their series. The Nuggets coach, George Karl, believes it will be a long series, and believes that his team is a much smarter, and mentally tougher team. Both leaders of each team (Carmelo Anthony and Kobe Bryant) scored an abundance of points for their team. But still the Nuggets leave with the big “W” at the Lakers' turf. But now in game 3, we go to Denver, and Kobe says, “we are not the best road team in the NBA for no reason”.

Analysis:
This article was interesting because of its importance to basketball. The NBA Playoffs is like getting ready for the Super Bowl; it gets intense and brutal and amazing. NBA athletes play their hardest in the Playoffs. The best part about this article is the ongoing rivalry that seems to take place among the teams. It seems that this win against the Lakers shows a significant defiance, almost like saying “we will not go down without a fight”, and that’s what makes it so appealing as an article.

By Omar L.

Teacher charged in sexual liaison with teen

Kathy Boccello
Thru, May 21, 2009
www.philly.com

Heather Zeo, 37, has been charged with having sex with a 17 year-old student and sending sexually explicit internet and phone messages to another 17 year old student. Heather worked as a teacher at North Penn High School since 2001 and is the mother of three children. Police said the 11th and 12th grade teacher used Facebook to contact the students. One of the students said that after he got a friend request from the teacher they kissed and touched during her prep period in her classroom six or seven times. The two had sex in her minivan and during school. Police said that Zeo contacted another student on Facebook and told him that she would have sex with him if they were alone. She then invited him to her classroom, but he never went. The boy told authorities they had five or six sexually explicit conversations. The school district told police and she was suspended.

I think that Zeo should be charged because she contacted boys and invited them to have sex in her classroom. The reporters writing was very clear. The key information that was left out was thatBoccello didn’t get a comment from Zeo. The reporter remained unbiased in her writing and didn’t talk about how she felt about Zeo sleeping with 17 year old boys. However the article could have been improved by getting a statement from some of the teachers at North Penn High School.

By Ariel S.

Friday, May 1, 2009

In downturn, babies cut from family plan

Thursday, April 23, 2009
Reuters
Metro Newspaper

Now that the ecomomy is bad, the number of abortions and vasectomies has risen as families start to realize that they are not ready for children. Before, in 2005, the U.S. abortion rate was at its lowest since 1974, and now in has increased by 50%. The most common reasons are that people are being laid off from work and then realize that they are not going to be able to support the child properly. And it is not just low class women, it is also middle, and even working-class families.

Reaction:
This article interested me because it shows just one of the bad outcomes from the crisis of the economy. I think the president and Congress should read this article, so that they can realize that something needs to be done about the economy, and that they need to hurry. I would love to read a follow-up story on the rate of abortions and vasectomies going down.

By Omar L.

Food recall epidemic

April 23, 2009
Metro By: Heidi Patalano
http://metro.philly.us

Summary: One month after salmonella was found in peanut butter, the hazardous bacterium was found in pistachios. Mark Mansour, a partner in the food and drug practice group at Bryan Cave LLP, said “the recent rash of outbreaks is a result of a system that has become overwhelmed”. Because the global food economy and more foods are going through the system, and this imposes a greater liability on the number of countries foods are imported from. The FDA and Congress are looking at measures that will tighten inspection regulations, increase the number of inspectors and visit foreign plants to inspect.

Analysis: This article is newsworthy because its informing a lot of people who eat pistachios and may not have known about the bacteria found in them. The article was well written but could have included information from people and also more information about it. This story informed a lot of readers and pistachio lovers.

By Ashley P.

Mom-to-be hit by car while fleeing bear is OK

IVAN MORENO
The Associated Press
Apr. 25, 2009

In Denver Colorado, Ashley Swendson, a 26 year-old pregnant woman, was running from a bear and was struck by a slow moving car on April 23. She said that the bear was following her curiously, not with the intention of attacking her. She said that as she ran, she thought, "If it was going to hurt me, it already would have." Police said they're looking for the driver of the car that hit Swendsen. The driver stopped and spoke to her but left before police arrived. The Colorado Division of Wildlife said the chase happened in an area where bears are common. Division spokesman Michael Seraphin said the brown-colored North American black bear was tranquilized and later euthanized after Swendsen identified it. She said that she was sad to hear that the bear was euthanized. Swendsen, who is about five months pregnant, said she doesn't know the sex of her baby but will give it the middle name "Bear" whether it's a boy or a girl.
The article was very nice. It provided the main details of the event and it was well written. The reporter also decided to add in little sentimental details that didn’t really matter, but they were sweet and I liked that. For an event that did not take place within the proximity of Philidelphia, it had good details. I still wish to know why the bear was euthanized when he didn’t harm any one. There could possibly be a follow-up article on the the driver who hit and ran.

By Mandissa T.

Five Phila. officers fired, three over slurs

Posted on Fri, Apr. 24, 2009
By Robert Moran
Inquirer Staff Writer


The article was about five police officers who were recently have been fired for using racial comments. Also an officer by the name of William Thrasher was said to have said some really harsh comments which referred to African Americans in the 22nd Police District as "animals". It was too bad for Mr. Thrasher that a student who attends Temple University was riding January 30 with him on patrol for a school assignment when he made the comments. Shannon McDonalds, a senior journalism major, wrote about the patrol in her article for the campus paper.

If people were to react toward the article, they would perhaps respond in a negative manner. An officer who is racist is a scary person, their job is to protect and serve not to like in particular one race and bully another. The artilce gave a lot of information, including people’s comments on McDonalds' article wrote on the the temple website.

By Bryant C.

‘Craigslist Killer’ case spins in cyberspace

April 24, 2009
METRO
http://www.metro.us/
Philip Markoff , who's known as the “Craigslist killer” is a thrilling case that’s from the internet. Markoff supposedly attacked a woman he found on an advertisement for erotic services. Markoff has supports from Boston Med. School saying on Facebook that he is innocent until proven guilty . It goes out to the public who believes he’s a killer. His attorney says that his client will plead not guilty. He is charged with murdering Julissa Brisman, 26, an aspiring model. She’s from New York, and offers massages on Craigslist. He’s also charged with robbing and kidnapping other women who also advertised on the website. Rhode Island police are also charging him with the attempted robbery there as well. Authorities put Markoff, 23, on suicide watch after finding shoelace marks around his neck.
My analysis on the article is that this is very newsworthy. This is a very important notice for all web lovers. This is a heads up for everyone who’s a Craigslist fan; you have to be careful with your ads and all the buyers. Situations like these are extremely risky for a lot of people. In this matter, it can even lead to murder. This goes out to everyone who is addicted to sites like this, you should be aware of these causes. You shouldn’t put yourself at risk.



By Jessica M.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Five Phila Officers fired, three over slurs

Robert Moran
Fri. April 24, 2009
www.philly.com

On April 23, five police officers were fired for misconduct and accused of saying racial slurs. William Thrasher 24, called African Americans in his 22nd district animals. Thrasher has been working on the force for two years. A Temple student who was riding in Thrasher’s car for a school project heard and recorded Thrasher saying racial slurs. Officers Donald Swan and Anthony Ferriola were also dismissed on allegations that they used racial epithets on the job. The remarks that were made were toward students while they were responding to a fight at Audenried High School in South Philadelphia. The other two officers John Safarowicz and Sgt. Paul Seeger were terminated for alleged conduct in separate off-duty incidents. The union will it would file grievances on behalf of the officers and then review the internal investigations that were conducted for each of them, said John McNesby, president of Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5. McNesby also said that the police union did not condone the behavior but questioned whether discipline short of firing was more appropriate.
I think that the officers got what they deserved because they are suppose to set a certain standard for the area. They not only embarrassed themselves and their families, but the police district. The reporters writing was very clear. She talked about what happened to all five of the officers and what they did. The key information that was left out was a statement from the victims. The reporter's opinions were not included; she didn’t talk about what her feelings were toward the five policemen. It could have been improved by getting a statement from the five officers.

By Ariel S.

Friday, April 24, 2009

Boom! Madden suddenly retires from broadcasting; Collinsworth takes over

NFL News
AP

After decades of NFL broadcasting, 73 year old commentator, John Madden suddenly retired April 16. To most fans and fellow commentators, he is called “the absolute best sports broadcaster who ever lived." Madden remarked that his health was not a factor for retiring, but that it was his five grandchildren now realizing that he is gone that made him want to. Former NFL player Cris Collinsworth will now replace Madden on NBC’s Sunday Night Football and ABC’s Monday Night Football.
This article is important because John Madden is a national football icon and he will be greatly missed by fans and fellow broadcasters for his energetic voice during football games. A follow up of this article could be Collinsworth not being able to fill in Madden’s spot.

By Shahid B.

Plan for extra school day cramps phila.

By Marcia Gelbart and Kristen A. Graham
Posted Fri. 17, 2009
www.philly.com

Arlene Ackerman, superintendent of Philadelphia schools, is keeping kids in school two days longer due to bad weather conditions this past winter. One of her make up days is May 19, primary election day. More than 200 schools are polling places and voters would be walking through school doors during classes. City officials say that their main concern is the safety of the students. Bob Lee, an election administrator at the Philadelphia Board of Elections says, “It could have a substantial impact on us, especially at this late date.” Nearly a third of the city’s 1,678 voting divisions cast their ballots in a city school. Ackerman said that she and the staff have been fighting with the decision of closing the schools. By law, Pennsylvania students must attend school 180 days; with the two added days, Philadelphia students will attend school for 181. District spokesman Fernando Gallard said the extra day was necessary for "academic reasons." In a letter Wednesday to Ackerman, Zack Stalberg, president of the Committee of Seventy, an election-watchdog group, also expressed concern stating that from the public standpoint, schools tend to be good places for voting machines to be located and it’s certainly somewhat easier if school isn't in session that day."
I think schools should be closed because come May 19 when people have to vote there will be no places available for voters to cast their votes. I don’t think Arlene Ackerman really thought about her plans before she stated them. The article was very insightful and it had comments from both sides of the story, and you didn’t hear the author’s voice in the article. The authors’ writing was clearly written. The key information that was left out was she didn’t get a comment from any student on how they felt about two more days of school. Overall it was a great story.

By Ariel S.

Woman dies in Upper Darby Fire

By Clem Murray
Inquirer Staff
Fri, Apr. 17, 2009

The morning of Apr.17 around 1:45 a.m. a 26 year old woman died in a house fire. She was said to have been trapped in the basement of her Upper Darby row house. Authorities say that two firefighters almost lost their lives due to an explosion with the possibility of an even greater tragedy. Authorities also say that there were two alarms alerting, and it took the fire fighters about one hour and 30 minutes to calm the fire down.

It is sad for a tragedy to occur in anyone’s family; authorities said that the young lady’s family had recently moved in three weeks prior to the fire. The article doesn’t really tell how the fire occurred, it only explains that there was one. The article didn’t give too much info, as in the young lady’s name; perhaps the family wanted to keep the story on a more personal level. If the article would have explained how the fire occurred, people could be more aware of what can cause a fire.

By Bryant C.

Friday, April 17, 2009

2 million jobs lost so far in '09

By Chris Isidore,
CNNMoney.com senior writer

Last Updated: April 3, 2009

Summary

This article ("2 million jobs lost so far in ’09") is about the trials that the recession has put American companies through. Employers are trimming their payroll by $663,000 within the last month. Since the beginning of 2008 Americans have lost 5.1 million jobs since the recession. The percentage of lost jobs has skyrocketed since the start of the recession. This article is telling people that the number of layoffs may continue to rise throughout the year, although the highest number of layoffs was in January, at 741,000 jobs.

Analysis

This article informs the public about how the layoff and unemployment rates contribute to the economy's downfall. With this article Americans can actually see how the economy affects other people and companies. More articles like this need to be put out more often to let Americans know what is happening, what is going to happen, and when to prepare for it to happen.

By Tyerra G.

Mom pleads guilty to running sex biz with daughter

Julie Shaw

Fri, Apr. 3, 2009

Traci Young, 39, made up a mother-daughter team offering erotic services in a Craigslist ad last year. Young pleaded guilty April 2 to charges of promoting prostitution and conspiracy. She is expected to be sentenced May 14 by Judge Michael Erdos to three to 23 months in county prison, followed by three years' probation. Young and her daughter, Tami Smith, 22, together put themselves on the Internet as a sexy mother- daughter team. Police Officer Donald Paxton, working undercover as a "john," made an appointment with Young for the afternoon of Oct. 2. Paxton was told he would get a half hour of "full service" sex with both the mom and daughter. Paxton testified at a preliminary hearing in December that Smith told him that he would “‘start with mom and finish with me [the daughter].” The officer then asked if Young had condoms, and since she didn't, Young and her boyfriend, Riley, went to a store to get some, said Assistant District Attorney Michael Bonner. After they returned, the mother and daughter began to undress, and then Paxton called backup officers into the house.

I think the mother and daughter should go to jail because they were selling their bodies for money. The writer did a great job on the story. She gave quotes and had sources from the scene. It would have been great to have a statement from the boyfriend and the mom and daughter on why they started the business they did. The reporter's opinion was not included; she didn’t indicate how she felt about the crime. It could have been improved by getting a better statement from Traci Young and her daughter Tami Smith.

By Ariel S.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Facebook, YouTube increase productivity

Reuters/ AP
April 2, 2009
http://Philly.metro.us/
If you're caught browsing through Facebook at work, it will sure make you a better employee. An Australian study showed that surfing the internet for fun can make you a more productive worker. The University of Melbourne study says that if you surf the web for personal reasons you are 9% more productive than others who don’t. Researcher Brent Coker, says that “workplace Internet leisure browsing” or WILB, helps sharpen an employee's mind to concentrate. Taking a short break and using the web can help you concentrate more on your work because it will increase productivity. People normally spend millions of dollars blocking certain websites when it can actually help you throughout the day.
The article was clearly written. My opinion on this article was only written on a one sided point of view. It just states that twittering is a good thing etc. It doesn’t talk about any consequences that may happen when you browse the internet such as harassment. So the article should include some opinions to hear from both sides of the story.

By Jessica M.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Too Many Cars, and they’re not on the road

Brady Dennis

Friday 3, 2009

MSNBC News


Imports of cars from foreign shores and exports continue to pile up in America. They consist of Mercedes, Kias, Fords, Chryslers, Subarus, and Hyundais. There are so many, that they are now stored at Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport. The key reason is that Americans were buying more than they could afford. Customers would feel good about their future and buy a car, and then aftera few years, the loan would be more than the car. So now, there are millions of unowned cars taking up space because people were making big purchases they couldn't afford.


This article can have an impact on those who are looking for a car, and maybe make them second guess their choice. Cars are a main source of transportation these days, and to have an abundant amount of cars in a place that they don’t need to belong is a big issue. I would like to read a follow-up story that would tell me what happens to all those cars at Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport.

By Omar L.

Facebook, YouTube increase productivity

April 3, 2009

Metro

April 2 2009

http://philly.metro.us

Summary: According to an Australian study, browsing on Facebook or caught Twittering will make you a better employee. Author Brent Coker,a department of management and marketing executive, said “workplace internet leisure browsing helped to sharpened workers' concentration." Coker thinks if you have a short break, like having a quick surf on the internet, it will help the mind rest, and lead to a higher net concentration, and an increased productivity. The study only looked at people who browsed in moderation; however Coker said “those who behave with Internet addiction tendencies will have a lower productivity than those without.”


Analysis: I think the article is newsworthy because it informs people how others work who take breaks and surf the internet. I think the article was written from the view of the author. The article is just stating the positives on the story and it’s not reflecting nor did a study on the people who don’t surf the net while at work. The article doesn’t have any opinions or comments from people who actually surf the while at work and from those who don’t.

By Ashley P.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Man tosses gas bomb in fight, sets own cars ablaze

The Associated Press

In Biltho, Florida, Authorities said a man threw a Molotov cocktail at his neighbor's trailer, but the wind shifted and set fire to two cars, a pickup and a travel trailer in the man's own yard. The Florida Highway Patrol reported that the 51-year-old man got into a fight with his neighbor on Tuesday night and threw the makeshift gasoline bomb. Authorities believe alcohol was involved. The man faces multiple charges, including arson. He was being held at the Orange County Jail.
The article was well written. There wasn’t much to say about the topic because there was little information provided by authorities. However, the author wrote a good article based on what he or she had. And usually when it’s Philly news, and the event takes place somewhere not within proximity, the author provides few details.

By Mandissa T.

SEPTA approves new all- day pass

Metro/ SDL
Friday, 27th, 2009
http://Philly.metro.us/

It has been said that a new day pass will allow unlimited rides on the subway, bus, trolley and regional rail. On Thursday, the SEPTA board approved the day pass, which will allow riders to ride limitless all day long. The pass will cost $10 for individuals and $25 for families of up to five people. It is expected to start around May 1.
In addition, the board also approved a six- month partnership with the Center City District that will allow riders to use the day pass to take the Phlash Trolley to the Philadelphia Zoo and the Please Touch Museum.
My analysis is that this is newsworthy because people need to know this. Since millions of riders take the SEPTA transportation this will benefit them, so that they will know when the plan comes. It will also help riders save their money instead of wasting two dollars for every ride, especially if they take SEPTA on a normal occasion.

By Jessica M.

Costly cutting of school

Josh Cornfield
Metro Newspaper
March 27, 2009

City Council passed a measure on Thursday that will fine parents for their child cutting or skipping school. The fine is $25, and any law enforcement officer will have the power to write citations. School is not optional, and the city wants the students and parents to know that they do care for them. According to the mayor’s chief education officer, Lori Schorr, there are about 7,500 kids who are absent every day. So as a solution, the City has planned to hit the parents of the students in their pockets. They hope that this way parents will urge and push their child to go to school.

I really liked this article because of the way that it relates to people around me, along with myself. I know that kids cut school for no reason, and sometimes I do the same. But I realize that school is very important to my life, but some kids don’t realize that. This article will really get the attention of the parents who know their kids kids cut school, and hopefully it will encourage them to go to school.

By Omar L.

Like mother, like daughter

March 27, 2009
Metro
Chris Jordan
http://Philly.metro.us

Summary: Simone Kelly is the daughter of the legendary jazz singer, civil rights activist, and one time Philadelphia resident Nina Simone. She does eight shows a week on Broadway, but her goal is to do eight a year. “I’m like my mother in a lot of ways” said Simone. She starred in “Rent” and “Aida” on Broadway. Simone said, "You have to get on stage every day. When my mother died [in 2003] I only took a week off.” She's now on a short tour that brings her to Philadelphia with a small group. She will perform some of her own work and her mom’s. “I hope everyone appreciate me as I come out with my own message and my own interpretations,” said Simone Kelly.

Analysis: This article is newsworthy to the readers who love music. It’s a good article because it shows how Simone is like or compares to her mother Nina Simone. It also informs readers who didn’t know about her at all. Questions that could rise from this story can be about where to find her performing or probably more of her back ground. As a result to this article people may look her up on the internet and might enjoy her music.

By Ashley P.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Schools grapple with alarming idea

Instructor's note: submitted Feb 13

Mensah M. Dean

Philadelphia Daily News

February 11, 2009

Philadelphia Public schools have been the main target for thieves because no one seems to turn on the alarm system to protect their schools. From September until now it been reported that the thieves have stolen $115, 000 worth of equipment, and authorities have has said that the number may unfortunately be higher. Overbrook High was a target and the robber got away with $26,000 worth of computer and other equipment. The Daily News discovered that even after the fact they did not turn on their 38 security cameras. Now there are 402 full time officers and 32 more will join the force by September says a school district spokesman. And since then Overbrook High changed its security procedures.

This article will affect readers because their children or someone they know school might be the next target or has been the target already if not. This article is letting public schools that they have to watch out and take good responsibility of their equipment, and also make sure they have good working reliable security around the school.

By Robin C.

Chris Brown roasted over assault charge

Instructor's note: submitted Feb 13

AP

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

http://Philly.metro.us/

Chris Brown, a top rated R&B singer has been charged with an assault. It was on the night that he was supposed to perform at the Grammys. Rather than that, he was at a police station in Los Angeles being charged for an assault on a woman. The woman was being identified as Rihanna a top selling pop artist, who is also his “so-called”girlfriend. He was booked for a suspicion threat after he had an argument with her. This argument took place in the neighborhood of Los Angeles, according to the police.

My analysis on this article is that this should be followed up. There needs to be a follow- up because it didn’t contain enough information for the readers to know or understand. They should do a story on how the argument started, to get a sense on what was going on and why Brown was charged. They should also do another story on what happened to the couple afterwards, and whether they are they still together or not?

By Jessica M.

Live Nation, Ticketmaster to be concert monopoly?

Instructor's note: submitted Feb 13

Associated Press

Metro Newspaper

Wednesday, February 11, 2009


Concert promoter Live Nation and Ticketmaster Entertainment have proposed to join forces to become Live Nation Entertainment. This deal will allow Ticketmaster shareholders to receive 1.384 shares of Live Nation stock for each share of Ticketmaster they hold. This deal will help them save about $40 million annually, with the company’s estimated value of about $2.5 billion.

However, due to the fact that both companies have a huge ego, their deal could be delayed by an antitrust review. Both companies play dominant roles in the entertainment business, and competition could lead to an industry monopoly.


This article was rather interesting, due to the fact that it talked about something new and interesting. The article gave good information about what was going on between the two companies, and what could happen if the companies decided to merge as one or compete as two. I liked how the article started off explaining what was going on and then made everything more clearly as you read. The only follow-up story I could really think of is if the companies join together or not.

By Omar L.

Unbaptized babies may be buried in mass plots

Instructor's note: submitted Feb 13

February 13, 2009

AP

February 11, 2009

http://philly.metro.us/

The Catholic Church teaches that the ritual of baptism is essential for a soul to enter heaven, and should take place as close to birth as possible. Catholic churches teach this because newborns and infants who died before their baptism were not buried on consecrated or holy ground. Catholics have long believed that children who die without being baptized are with original sin and excluded from heaven. However, the church has no formal doctrine of this. Reverend John McManus, a priest at Belfast said “We’re coming out of what we only regard as a mistaken theology of a hundred years ago.”


My analysis of this article was it did provide enough information but it could have provided more. As a response to this article, Catholic people may get their babies baptized at birth. This article can be explored from the view of a parent this happened to. A follow- up story to this article could about if this is still happening and has the number of baptizes increased for babies.

By Ashley P.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Giants GM not counting on return of Burress

Feb.13, 2009
By TOM CANAVAN, AP Sports Writer
Yahoo Sports

Sports agent Drew Rosenhaus has been contacting several NFL teams through e-mails to let them know that one of his three clients, NY Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress, wants to be traded. The other two NFL players who demand to be traded are Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Bolden & Cincinnati Bengals WR Chad Johnson.

The Giants GM Jerry Reese refused to comment on Burress’ request for a trade, neither did Arizona’s GM comment on Bolden’s. The Giants, who signed Burress a five year $35 million dollar contract, is giving Burress an opportunity to return. Burress, who is suspended, faces felony charges for the nightclub shooting last season in which he shot himself in the leg.

The importance of this article is that three highly favored NFL wide receivers demand to be traded from their contracted NFL franchises, mainly New York WR Plaxico Burress. A follow up of this article could be where Burress will be traded or if he even gets traded at all. Questions that could be asked from this story could be why these players want to be traded, and what teams would want these players.

By Shahid B.

Friday, February 20, 2009

Gun horseplay leads to death of cop’s son

Solomon D. Leach

Metro Newspaper

February 3, 2009

Christopher Donaghy, who was hosting a Super Bowl party on the 3200 block of Bleigh Avenue in his basement, was shot by Ronald Parncutt. Although it assumed to be an accident, Donaghy is the second son of an officer killed in the last month. The gun was the property of an off duty police officer who was attending the party. He laid his loaded 9mm Glock on the table; then Parncutt joked around with the gun and shot Donaghy (related story here). People now question whether the off duty officer should be punished. Based on neighbors,Ronald seemed like a nice guy and not someone who would kill.

This article is very important in my opinion. You know the world is getting bad when those who protect us start to become victims.

There could be a follow-up story to this if another police officer was to be killed or murdered. Another follow-up story could be the aftermath of this incident. For example, what happened to the off-duty police officer.

By Omar L.

She’s no Ashlee: Nobody cares that Hudson faked it

Metro

Tuesday, February 3, 2009


It has been said that Jennifer Hudson has lip- synched the National Anthem at the Super Bowl. But folks have responded “who cares?”. For example, ElyShirley in Us Weekly said, “It was still her voice, she recorded it.” She has gone through a lot since the deaths of her family members. This was Hudson’s first performance since her mother, brother, and nephew were killed in October. Many of them are giving a “pass” out for sympathy for her tragedy. American Idol music director Ricky Minor apparently told Hudson and Faith Hill, who also used a recording, to use the recordings they had submitted to the NFL a week earlier. He had said that’s the right way to do it and there are too many variables to go live. Some were unhappy because it was the national anthem that they agreed on lip synching. Hudson will be performing at the Grammy Awards where she will be nominated in four categories.

My analysis on this article that is was newsworthy It was newsworthy because it was important because it was about Jennifer Hudson, who just suffered a bad tragedy and came out to the Super Bowl and lip- synched the National Anthem. This article was mostly opinion over fact, because it contained many of others opinions due to no facts that were more important than what others thought.

By Jessica M.

Rendell Plans to Lower Costs for College

Genevieve Marshall, AP
The Morning Call
Feb. 3, 2009

Pa Governor Ed Rendell wants to set aside $128 million dollars to boost state grants for freshmen who this fall will enter one of the 14 universities in the state system and Pa’s 14 community colleges. However, for students whose family incomes are lower than $30,000, the total cost for college would be $1,000 a year, and students whose family incomes are lower than $100,000 a year can be eligible to pay up to $7,600. However, students who plan to attend Penn State, Pitt, Temple and Lincoln will not be eligible.

The state hopes this proposal would “counteract potential flight of students” from Pa.

The importance of this article is it informs incoming Pa college freshman that there will be more assistance in paying for school. This article would affect the community because it shows that it is a way to go to college without worrying about the cost. Other questions that could be asked are why freshmen from Temple, Penn State, Pitt & Lincoln can’t be eligible for the grants? This article is worthy of a follow-up because other articles from this could be if the plan actually worked or not.

By Shahid B.

Friday, February 6, 2009

Man with 14 priors shot in leg by Philly Police

Robert Moran

Philadelphia Daily News

January 30, 3009


A 28 year old man by the name of Charles Bryant was shot in the leg in West Philly on January 29. Bryant, who was in the passenger seat of a white Pontiac, was pulled over at 56th and Girard Avenue. Sources say that Bryant got out the car and ran down an alley of the 600 block of Stiles Street and pulled out .45 caliber semiautomatic. Bryant was shot once by an unidentified officer and was taken to the hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Charles Bryant has 14 prior


I think this article was written well because it had many details. The author had quotes from sources and told everything that happened. But I also think the author could have added what other priors the suspect had.


By Marquise N.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Economical recipes from Philabundance

Germantown Courier

Jan. 27. 2008


An organization in Philadelphia is proposing a new recipe website for people who want to start the New Year saving money on food in these tough economic times. The name of the organization is the Philabundance. They want to give working families recipes for healthy food for under just $10. Their website is www.philabundance.org where you can find their food categories such as salads, soups, entrees, sides deserts and new interesting recipes. They state that not only is the food good, but it’s cheap and stays in the family budget.

I feel that this article was written averagely. It has facts and quotes but after reading it, it doesn’t seem very appealing. The writer should have made it more interesting from the start. The only thing that grabbed my attention was the third and last paragraph because those bring out the main goal of the Philabundance organization.


By Jordan K.

‘Shameful,’ Obama says of big Wall St. bonuses

Christopher Wills

The Philadelphia Inquirer

January 30, 2009


President Barack Obama said last week that he is ashamed at Wall Street companies that paid bonuses to employees last year. Employees from the New York financial world garnered an estimate of $18.4 billion in bonuse in 2008. Obama calls it irresponsible and shameful to be giving bonuses when the financial sector is falling apart. Calling the bonuses ridiculous, Obama said he is scheduled to meet with Wall Street leaders. The House has just passed a stimulus plan, the Senate is considering its own version, and Congress passed a plan last year; and all these plans are costing money. So in order to help financially, Obama has to fix things like lavish spending and create new plans to regulate Wall Street. Obama is working with Vice President Joe Biden to get the system “kick-started” and the credit system flowing.

I picked this article because of its importance. Now that Barack Obama is president, he has to prove to us how he is going to be better. This article talks of some of the things he is addressing to better our economy which is big to the United States. This article is really to get the people to favor what Obama is doing. It appeals to the reader in a favorable way, to show us what Obama can do to help. I do think it is newsworthy because everyone who lives in the United States should know what the President is doing.


By Omar L.

Unemployment recipients reach all-time U.S. record

By Christopher S. Rugaber

Daily News

January 29, 2009


Week by week the economy gets worse and a lot of people are now unemployed since the 1960s. Numerous of people are jobless with more layoffs to come. Everything is dropping homes, jobs, and manufactured goods. Homes are at their lowest rate since the 1960s. Manufactured goods has been at its worst since 2001, the goods has dramatically dropped. According to the Labor Department, 4.78 million Americans claimed unemployment insurance for the week ending Jan. 17. This is an increase of 159,000 the week before, which was higher than their expectations.

More jobs are being cut such at companies such as Ford Motor Co., Eastman Kodak Co., Starbucks Corp., Target Co., Home Depot Inc.; this is more than a thousand jobs being cut. President Barack Obama's economic package has been approved by the house which is on the way to the senates which would provide $500 million to upgrade the unemployment system.

My analysis is that this article will surely affect this community and others as well. Since this has been the longest recession since the 1960s analysts said that the economy is at its worst. Companies are closing down which will lead to layoffs and jobless folks. This means that people should be on the lookout for layoffs.


By Jessica M.




Food, Heat, Shelter a Struggle After Storm

January 30, 2009

http://www.aol.com

A winter storm on Jan 29th at Murray University Theater, and residents were so scared that they hid under aisles, under chairs and even had curled up on the stage. To ease things some people began to watch movies,some were making sure there was plenty of water and food. Although there was a crazy crowd, brothers,Jim McClung, 42, and Dale Earnest,38, kept things under control at the shelter at Murray University in the Southwestern part of Kentucky.

This article was very important because it shows what happens when a major storm hits, and how people react. . That storm that happened there could hit anywhere, even in Philadelphia. We just don't know, and that is why it's good to inform people about what can happen.


By Danielle C.

More guns off the street

Solomon D. Leach

Metro

January 30, 2009

Ron Williams and Ron Williams Jr., were caught last week with two stolen guns, $300.00 in drugs, bullet proof vests, 10 trained pit bulls, and other paraphernalia at 432 N. Simpson St. 30 year old Misti Pubillones allegedly purchased two handguns and a shotgun for her convicted felon boyfriend and one of the guns was used in a robbery.Assistant District Attorney Pat Link says that every time you get guns and drugs out of the street it is a huge step. Since 2006, there have been 266 arrests and 488 guns taken off the street .


This article affects readers by informing them that the authorities are doing the best that they can to stop the violence and keep guns and drugs out the street. They are letting people know what is going on in the world today with all unwanted events occurring. They made an attempt to arrest 266 people and have taken away 488 guns so they are steps closer to keeping violence away.

By Robin C.

Another Office Killed In the Line of Duty.

By Larry King
Philadelphia Inquirer

Officer Chris Jones, a 10-year veteran of the Middletown Township Police Department, died January 29, 2009 afternoon after a routine traffic stop. Jones was assigned to speeding complaints along 1-95 near Oxford Valley Mall. Around 10:40 am Officer Jones pulled over and cited a driver who was speeding, when another car came behind and Jones' patrol car leaving him pinned under it. Officers nearby came and pulled and lifted the cruiser Jones was rushed to a nearby hospital and pronounced dead at 12:30 pm. Middletown Police Chief Frank McKenna who plans on retiring today after 51 years says” this is my worst day at the job” and “this was like losing a son”. Officer Chris Jones leaves behind a wife and 3 children. This was the first on duty death in the history of the department.

By Cherie B.

Rice's owl mascot ejected -- yes, ejected -- by referee

Jan.29.09

The Dagger, a Y! Sports Blog

Thursday, January 29, 2009

President's House gets $3.5M grant: Project honoring leaders,slaves set for 2010

By STEPHANIE FARR
Thursday, January 22, 2009

President Barack Obama has granted Governor Ed Rendell's request for $3.5 million towards completing the President's House on Independence Mall in Philadelphia. This is where the nation's first leaders kept slaves. This project is to preserve where our nations first president stayed. This project is also to honor the nine slaves that former President George Washington kept at his home. The commemorative installation is expectedto be complete in the year of 2010. The governor says that there has already been $7.1 million raised for the $8.4 million project. The money that Rendell has requested from DRPA committee Jan. 22 will close the gap and provide the endowment of about $2 million for upkeep.

I don’t believe that the President should have granted that money to the governor because that type of project is something that your state is suppose to raise their selves. Even though this project is something that America should see happen our country is already in enough dept. Our country can not afford to spend this type of money when our country is in this type of recession. That money needs to be going to school funding.

By Tyerra G.

Three cheers for first lady's style

Kenya Hunt

Metro

January 21, 2009

Michelle Obama has already been called “fashion’s one woman bailout”. Michelle is taking chances in what she is wearing. During the Whistle Stop train tour in D.C she wore a Maria Cornejo suit. On inauguration day Michelle wore a dress by Isabel Toledo, an esoteric designer. This is an unexpected inaugural choice and sends a definite message. The dress she wore for the inaugural ball designed by Jason Wu, was a white floral detailed dress. Constance White, eBay’s style director said “Michelle is adventurous and taking chances, we’re used to seeing women in Oscar de la Renta because they’re very safe names and safe choices”.

As a result of or in response to this article, women who look up to Michelle Obama or want to be like her may be inspired to dress like her. As a result of this article people might try to go out and find these designers that she is wearing or even the exact outfit. In response people might want to read the articles that are saying what she is wearing and how great she looks in them.


By Ashley P.


Ore. AG to investigate mayor's affair with teen

WILLIAM McCALL
The Associated Press
Posted on Wed, Jan. 21, 2009


Sam Adams, mayor of Portland Oregon, one of the largest cities with an openly gay mayor, has admitted to lying about his affair with a teenaged boy. Adams claims that the boy was 18 years old (Oregon's legal age of consent) at the time of the affair. Attorney General John Kroger said in a statement Wednesday that he would look into the recently revealed "matters pertaining to Portland Mayor Sam Adams." Adams took office this month. Kroger is investigating the case.

This was a fairly short article. The topic was very interesting. So I would have preferred if there was more background information on the “who”. It would have benefited the reporter if he got some quotes from the mayor or even the people of the town. There were plenty of missing pieces. The author could have went a lot further with this story.

By Mandissa T.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

No More Angry Eyebrows

Heidi Patalano

Metro

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

http://Philly.metro.us/

Fashion experts have noticed a minor change in first lady Michelle Obama's facial expressions. Since Barack Obama was elected president, the shape of her eyebrows has changed. During the campaign some people noticed that she had "angry" eyebrows. Recent photos have shown that her eyebrows are not what they have looked on the inauguration day. On the inauguration day her eyebrows lookedsofter than before. Christiane Gendrey, a salon stylist said it wasn’t just because they were too arched but that they were too arched and too thin before. Also, her make-up also contoured those high arches by letting them grow out and reshape.

Some people as a result of this article may go out and want to actually take a look at their eyebrows. If their eyebrows are too arched, they may think they have angry eyebrows. So this may impact some folks. People may take this as advice on how to look with arched and thin eyebrows and they may take this into consideration. This article is worthy of a follow-up in the future to check up on Mrs. Obama's facial expression, on how she will look in the future when President Obama is running our country.

By Jessica M.

Monday, January 26, 2009

FDA approves human embryonic stem cell study

By Miriam Falco
CNN

January 23, 2009

The government on Friday has officially cleared federal regulations to begin the first stem cell research trials on humans. This gives researches the right to test stem-cells on spinal injury patients. The first tests are expected to begin this summer, said Dr. Thomas Okarma, the president and CEO of the Geron Corporation. The patients will be those with the most sever spinal cord injuries, called complete spinal cord injuries. "A complete spinal cord injury has no hope of recovery below the injury," Okarma told CNN. "This is significant because it's the first clinical trial of a human embryonic-based product."


The Government has approved the testing of stem cells on critically wounded spinal patients, who have no chance of normal recovery. The first operations on these patients will begin the summer of 09. I believe stem cell research is what’s needed in order to cure some of the most deadly diseases. Opposition comes from the people that have strong religious, and pro-life ties, though this is my own opinion really why would humans be able to figure these things out if we weren’t meant to.

By Montez DJ

Council puts up ideas to save city money

Metro/SDL

Metro Newspaper

January 23, 2009

http.://philly.metro.us

The City Council has proposed two ideas to increase the city’s revenue. Councilman Frank DiCicco proposed a bill to eliminate discounts on sewage and water rates for nonprofit organizations, and Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez proposed to keep current city wage taxes. They hope to increase the city’s money by at least $10 million. These are the first proposals since Mayor Michael Nutter announced that the city had a $1.05 billion gap (similar article found here).

This article is very important because of the fact that it talks about how we can save our economy. The author wrote the article clearly to appeal to us. I think the major impact of the article is on the people. This article speaks of ways to increase the city’s money, and if people see it as a benefit then they will support it.


By Omar L.

Obama’s first work day spent on myriad issues

Philadelphia Metro
AP
Thursday, January 22, 2009

On Barack Obama's first day at the White House, also known as the “Presidential Mansion” he said “what an opportunity we have to change this country” he issued new ethics rule for the administration on his first day. He held a reception for his 200 guests to visit who were chosen in an internet lottery. First Lady Michelle and Barack settled in their new house after dancing at the Balls that they have attended past midnight. Former president George Bush left Obama a good luck note behind for him to see in the morning.

This article would affect viewers and listeners because people would want to know how their new president is doing so far and how was his first day at work at the White House. The people want to know if he made any early plans and made any early decisions, also how the family is doing and their feelings about the position and house that have now. This event is a History in the Making for the U.S and people are happy for this change that has came after all of the previous years that have past.

By Robin C.

Man charged with sexually assaulting young girl



By Dan Cuellar, ABC News

Jan. 21, 2009


63 year-old Donald Wright of Cinnaminson, NJ has been charged with sexually assaulting an 8 year old girl over a period of two years. The girl was under care of Mr. Wright’s wife, who runs a babysitting service out of her New Jersey home. According to authoritiesthe assaults took place when Wright took her places and drove around town in his pickup truck. He has been charged with three accounts of sexual assault, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child and aggravated sexual assault. The neighbors who’ve known the Wrights for up to 10 years claim they would have never thought of anything like it. Another neighbor says she has two little boys and is nervous about the safety of her children and would like to know what’s going on. Mr.Wright was released on a $150,000 cash bail and is to have no contact with minors unless supervised.

My initial analysis is the article is not at its best but is a good story because people should be aware of what’s going on in the neighborhood around them. I would have liked a little more information on whether or not the wife knew about any of the stuff her husband was doing .Will she be punished? I don’t think he should have been released on bail and maybe did a little jail time. As a result of this article, parents may not take their children to home-run babysitting services because people can’t be trusted.


By Cherie B.

Playing Madden just might make you a smarter NFL fan

By MJD, Y! Sports Blog

Jan. 21, 2009


Many people believe that people who play Madden have a better knowledge of football than people who don’t, and a study has proved that it is correct. A Jan. 21 report of a study done at the University of Oregon shows that football fans who play EA Sports Madden NFL know more about the rules, such as general knowledge and business. They tested 15,000 NFL fans (some who play Madden & some who don’t) with 36 questions in five different football categories. The results showed that fans who play Madden answered an average of 22 out of 36 questions correct, and the fans who didn’t play the video game answered only 14 correctly.


As a result of this article, NFL fans might play more Madden to boost their football IQ. The importance of this article is that video games aren’t just fun, you can actually learn something from it. Other ideas that could come from this story are what would people learn from other video games such as GTA IV or Saints Row? For example, would they learn “street smarts” or how to car jack? The follow up for this article could be what do people learn from other video games.


By Shahid B