Journalism as it has been practiced over the past few decades is evolving into a field that employs multiple technological venues in order to reach its audience. Contrary to what people may believe journalism is not dying or being replaced by other media forms.
The need for news and a desire to understand what is happening in the world is a basic instinct. News had traveled for the longest time by newspaper, when paper boys used to cry “Read all about it” on street corners. The radio enhanced news dissemination by also being paired with music and today there is a radio show dedicated to many individual subjects. The television drew in viewers as newscasters presented news in condensed form and added video to enhance a situation. Television did draw away some readers of newspapers, but they have generally still been read by a wide variety of people. It is hard to imagine a world completely void of newspapers, because reading the news online and reading a paper are two different experiences. Many people enjoy reading a paper on their commute to work and probably will do so for a long time to come.
With the invention of the internet and the availability of all information in “one place” many argue that newspapers are dying and that we will shift entirely to online forms of news dissemination. Along with newspapers publishing their content online, video can be added to every story; more photos can be posted to depict the entire situation and news is a 24 hour business that never sleeps. Another aspect of the internet is that it is world wide, which means that countries are paying more attention to each other and people can read about news in any country of the world.
Some of the problems that journalists face are cuts in staff, more work but no raises and a struggle to provide quality work. A journalist is expected to be able to work a camera, shoot video, do sound production, film production, maintain a blog and file multiple stories as well. With one person doing the job of multiple people, the quality of news is taking a hit. Having to complete all of these tasks at the same deadline may mean the reporter does not have the time to do as in depth a research into one story as he/ she would wish to do. He/ she may settle with just a couple sources instead of multiple and with deadline pressure may not get the complete story which may result in a published correction in a later edition or post.
In order for newspaper companies to survive they need to train their journalists, especially traditionally print journalists, to use new emerging media to their advantage. New technology can enhance a story, allowing for every aspect to be shown. A video interview may show great quotes that did not make it into the print version. However, the inability to use these technologies correctly could greatly hurt the quality of a story.
New technology has also led to an interaction between those who produce the news and those who consume it. Readers can comment on stories, email the reporter directly and even start their own (video) blog on any topic of choice. It is not uncommon for citizens to record events on their camera phones or with video cameras and then post these on youtube or any other web site. Some stories were even broken by bloggers, for instance the landing of an airplane on the Hudson River.
Some voiced the fear that bloggers would replace journalists in some ways, but what must be considered is that journalists provide the basis for all news that is produced on the internet. Without traditional journalists, who are trained and put in the leg work to contact sources and research an issue, many stories would not be known in the world. All content that is produced online, concerning news, is based on the work done by a reporter and photographer. Newspapers provide a platform for journalists to do their work properly. A normal person would never be able to set up an interview with a mayor, actress or the president. With each piece that is published, a journalist expands his/her repertoire and builds a reputation. It is this reputation that allows the journalist to do their job properly.
The current shift in journalism will not be detrimental to the institution in any way; rather it will weed out those who are truly dedicated to reporting quality pieces from those who are solely interested in monetary gain. Only those who are trustworthy and produce quality work will survive. In the age of the internet people are inundated with information, some of it useless, and they need a venue that will offer them comprehensive coverage of an issue. Such a venue needs well-trained and capable reporters to put in the legwork and make the content great.
Another part of this shift is figuring out how to finance the business of news as revenue from advertisements are declining. Online advertisement revenue is not impossible to generate, but people are scared of the unknown and have not quite figured out how to generate the same profit as with print advertisements.
The future of journalism is not as dreary as most depict it. Witnessing the transition from old to new can be a difficult one as people tend to cling to what they know and lack the ability to see the greatness that new technologies can bring. One thing that draws people to journalism is the opportunity to experience and discover new things and share findings with the world. The way news is gathered, recorded and reported is just as interesting as the news itself and the new technologies available should be explored just as any story would be. With an open mind to expanding ways of reporting, journalists can take their craft to new levels and be more creative and innovative with their reporting styles while continuing to provide good stories for the masses.
Sources:
http://www.poynter.org/content/content_view.asp?id=142379
http://www.thefutureofjournalism.org.au/
http://www.pbs.org/mediashift/2007/06/10-reasons-theres-a-bright-future-for-journalism179.html
http://www.innovationjournalism.org/archive/INJO-3-4/Alkio.pdf
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Not For Everyone
Imagine a U.S. where cheap airfare, provided by smaller carriers, could co-exist with major carriers just like they do in Europe.
One example is RyanAir, which provides low-cost flights between airports located near (but sometimes out of the way of) major European cities. Most flights are between one and three hours long.
Could it be possible to continuously provide affordable airfare in the U.S.?
At first, seeing the article about JetAmerica made me excited for a new possibility of travel that would not hurt my already stretched wallet. However, once I went through the motions of booking a flight the total came out to $169.20 and that was before the checked baggage fee was added on. While the price is still under $200, it still seems that it could be better. Why are only select seats $9 and not the whole flight? I could understand offering that price as a promotion or if you book a certain time in advance, but why should one person pay more for a seat on the same flight than another person (and I don’t imagine they offer first class)?
Depending on how far away these airports are from major cities, additional money and time will also need to be spent on public transportation. Unfortunately, I do not see this as a viable travel method for students or people who do not want to spend the extra hassle on additional public transportation. In the article I based my story on it seems as if the main target audience is business travelers.
So unless you have specific business in the cities JetAmerica services or want to go the extra mile to reach your final destination, then I do not see this airline providing the service that most travelers need and consistent affordable travel will still remain a dream.
One example is RyanAir, which provides low-cost flights between airports located near (but sometimes out of the way of) major European cities. Most flights are between one and three hours long.
Could it be possible to continuously provide affordable airfare in the U.S.?
At first, seeing the article about JetAmerica made me excited for a new possibility of travel that would not hurt my already stretched wallet. However, once I went through the motions of booking a flight the total came out to $169.20 and that was before the checked baggage fee was added on. While the price is still under $200, it still seems that it could be better. Why are only select seats $9 and not the whole flight? I could understand offering that price as a promotion or if you book a certain time in advance, but why should one person pay more for a seat on the same flight than another person (and I don’t imagine they offer first class)?
Depending on how far away these airports are from major cities, additional money and time will also need to be spent on public transportation. Unfortunately, I do not see this as a viable travel method for students or people who do not want to spend the extra hassle on additional public transportation. In the article I based my story on it seems as if the main target audience is business travelers.
So unless you have specific business in the cities JetAmerica services or want to go the extra mile to reach your final destination, then I do not see this airline providing the service that most travelers need and consistent affordable travel will still remain a dream.
Jetting Cheap?
by Nicolle Morales Kern
JetAmerica Airlines is a new company that plans on providing affordable travel to and from mid-sized cities that larger airlines may have neglected.
Starting July 13, the Clearwater, Fla.-based company will be offering flights to and from Newark, NJ; Toledo, Ohio; South Bend, Ind.; Melbourne, Fla.; Newark, N.J.; Minneapolis and Lansing, Mich. With prices starting at $9 for select seats and ranging to $199. Passengers will also have to pay for checking a bag ($15-$20 per bag) as well as in flight snacks or entertainment. To fly with bicycles, pets, sports equipment or surf board costs an additional $50 for each item.
A flight booked from their website from Orlando Melbourne to Newark between July 14 and July 16 came out to a total of $169.20.
Small and midsize airports have seen a decline in flights due to spikes in jet fuel prices that have also hurt major airlines as well. Skybus Inc., an Ohio-based airline known for its $10 airfares went bankrupt largely due to fuel prices and had to lay off 450 employees.
Jet America’s vision of affordable travel is largely possible because of grants to airports from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program that have been given out since 2002 in order to restore service and lower airfares.
The Lansing, South Bend, Melbourne and Toledo airports are subsidizing JetAmerica with $1.4 million in grants in its first year, along with about $867,000 in waived airport fees and $1.1 million in marketing and advertising assistance. Newark and Minneapolis, which serve at least 20 million passengers a year, are not offering assistance to Jet America.
“These subsidies will help insulate the new carrier from spikes in jet fuel prices,” said John Weikle, chief executive of JetAmerica.
The company is leasing one Boeing 737-800, which can fly to four cities in one day. After a month, Weikle plans on adding an additional Boeing and having four all together by next July.
Main Source:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/New-lowcost-airline-targets-apf-15348934.html;_ylt=AtNT8IfVTniKjW58bgb5aZOCfNdF?.v=5
JetAmerica Airlines is a new company that plans on providing affordable travel to and from mid-sized cities that larger airlines may have neglected.
Starting July 13, the Clearwater, Fla.-based company will be offering flights to and from Newark, NJ; Toledo, Ohio; South Bend, Ind.; Melbourne, Fla.; Newark, N.J.; Minneapolis and Lansing, Mich. With prices starting at $9 for select seats and ranging to $199. Passengers will also have to pay for checking a bag ($15-$20 per bag) as well as in flight snacks or entertainment. To fly with bicycles, pets, sports equipment or surf board costs an additional $50 for each item.
A flight booked from their website from Orlando Melbourne to Newark between July 14 and July 16 came out to a total of $169.20.
Small and midsize airports have seen a decline in flights due to spikes in jet fuel prices that have also hurt major airlines as well. Skybus Inc., an Ohio-based airline known for its $10 airfares went bankrupt largely due to fuel prices and had to lay off 450 employees.
Jet America’s vision of affordable travel is largely possible because of grants to airports from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program that have been given out since 2002 in order to restore service and lower airfares.
The Lansing, South Bend, Melbourne and Toledo airports are subsidizing JetAmerica with $1.4 million in grants in its first year, along with about $867,000 in waived airport fees and $1.1 million in marketing and advertising assistance. Newark and Minneapolis, which serve at least 20 million passengers a year, are not offering assistance to Jet America.
“These subsidies will help insulate the new carrier from spikes in jet fuel prices,” said John Weikle, chief executive of JetAmerica.
The company is leasing one Boeing 737-800, which can fly to four cities in one day. After a month, Weikle plans on adding an additional Boeing and having four all together by next July.
Main Source:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/New-lowcost-airline-targets-apf-15348934.html;_ylt=AtNT8IfVTniKjW58bgb5aZOCfNdF?.v=5
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Open Your Eyes and Mind
“Any nation that does not honor its heroes will not long endure.” These are the words of President Abraham Lincoln.
When did we stop caring about our fellow Americans? Why are we so blind to things that do not “directly” affect our lives?
To think that the work of the military has not or does not affect our lives directly is a big misconception. The military is an integral part of our society and it always has been. You may not always agree with the reason that we were/ are in the wars we are, but the soldiers fighting these wars are just doing what their country expects of them. Countless soldiers have lost their lives fighting to ensure liberty and freedom, two concepts we as a country pride ourselves in.
The month of May, as stated on the Memorial Day Foundation web site, is supposed to be dedicated to commemorating the men and women who have lost their lives in all American wars in the fight for freedom and liberty. The last Monday in May is a national holiday. However, as mentioned in my article there has been no coverage of this day or any display of observance in Philadelphia.
Admittedly, I find it hard to comprehend why this day is seen as just another day off, a reason to have BBQs, go to the beach or just be lazy. Memorial Day is not just another adopted holiday, it is a part of our history and to overlook the dedication of the men and women in service is to disrespect everyone that has come before them. Students and staff I talked to mentioned that many Drexel students do not pay attention to Memorial Day (or possibly even know its meaning) because they do not have anyone significant in their lives who is in the Armed Forces. But is that really a good excuse, just because you do not know anyone in the military you do not pay respect? To me this is a sign of ignorance and a waning sense of patriotism.
The regular citizen can not begin to imagine what service members go through on a daily basis, but I encourage you to expand your horizons, learn the meaning of Memorial Day and show gratitude to past, present and future service members.
When did we stop caring about our fellow Americans? Why are we so blind to things that do not “directly” affect our lives?
To think that the work of the military has not or does not affect our lives directly is a big misconception. The military is an integral part of our society and it always has been. You may not always agree with the reason that we were/ are in the wars we are, but the soldiers fighting these wars are just doing what their country expects of them. Countless soldiers have lost their lives fighting to ensure liberty and freedom, two concepts we as a country pride ourselves in.
The month of May, as stated on the Memorial Day Foundation web site, is supposed to be dedicated to commemorating the men and women who have lost their lives in all American wars in the fight for freedom and liberty. The last Monday in May is a national holiday. However, as mentioned in my article there has been no coverage of this day or any display of observance in Philadelphia.
Admittedly, I find it hard to comprehend why this day is seen as just another day off, a reason to have BBQs, go to the beach or just be lazy. Memorial Day is not just another adopted holiday, it is a part of our history and to overlook the dedication of the men and women in service is to disrespect everyone that has come before them. Students and staff I talked to mentioned that many Drexel students do not pay attention to Memorial Day (or possibly even know its meaning) because they do not have anyone significant in their lives who is in the Armed Forces. But is that really a good excuse, just because you do not know anyone in the military you do not pay respect? To me this is a sign of ignorance and a waning sense of patriotism.
The regular citizen can not begin to imagine what service members go through on a daily basis, but I encourage you to expand your horizons, learn the meaning of Memorial Day and show gratitude to past, present and future service members.
Where Will the Memories Go? (Story2)
Story and Photos by Nicolle Morales Kern
No flags are flying to indicate something special, the media is only talking about the first weekend of summer, and all of the stores are offering sales. On Drexel’s campus excitement is in the air, because students and staff alike are looking forward to the long weekend.
To an outsider, this could be just any other weekend, but it is not.
Monday is May 25, also known as Memorial Day, and the reason that the entire United States gets to enjoy an extended weekend. Memorial Day dates back to May 5, 1868 in Washington, D.C., when Major General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) – an organization of union veterans – established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. He declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. By the end of the 19th century, ceremonies were being held on May 30 nation-wide. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observances at their facilities.
However, it was not until after World War I that the day was expanded to honor soldiers who have died in all American Wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress.
A staple of Memorial Day is the poppy flower, which serves as a perpetual tribute to those who have given their lives for the U.S.’s freedom. Veterans service organizations throughout the country distribute poppies in exchange for a donation that is used to help veterans, widows, widowers and orphans.
According to the Memorial Day Foundation’s web site, since the late 1950’s the 1,200 soldiers of the U.S. 3rd Infantry Brigade place small American flags at each of the 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on the Thursday before Memorial Day. They then patrol the cemetery 24 hours a day during the Memorial Day weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing.
The foundation also mentions the government’s efforts to raise awareness of Memorial Day’s true meaning through the “National Moment of Remembrance” which asks that all Americans pause for a moment of silence in remembrance and respect.
How is it possible that a national holiday that commemorates fallen soldiers has turned into just another holiday dedicated to BBQs, shopping and beaches? It seems that Drexel, just like Philadelphia, is not paying respect to the reason for a day off from everyday life. Randomly interviewed students and staff seemed to associate Memorial Day with everything but its true meaning.
Ashley Twitty, a sophomore studying Biomedical Engineering associates Memorial Day with cookouts, no school and parties.
“I think maybe because in college there are no [mandatory] history lessons and no one teaches you about it. People should take the time to learn the importance of the day,” Twitty said.
Walter Parrish, Coordinator for Leadership and Community Development in the Office of Campus Activities (OCA) also thinks of BBQs, and family and friends when he thinks of Memorial Day.
“One of the main reasons people do not observe it is because they do not have a significant person in their lives who has contributed to the Armed Services. It is just another day off,” Parrish says of people’s lack of interest in the day.
Parrish explains that everyone has dimensions that reflect what they value most in life. At the center are the core dimensions followed by the second dimensions and lastly the peripheral dimensions. It would seem that Memorial Day is on the outskirts of most of Drexel’s and Philadelphia’s dimensions.
“If we understood each other better, we could have more participation in holidays,” Parrish says.
Tyler Kovitch, a freshman studying Engineering plans on spending time with his family and have a cookout.
“I think about America in general and what it has accomplished as a country,” Kovitch says of his association with the holiday proving that not everyone is ignorant of the meaning of the holiday.
“Not a lot of people associate the day with wars. A lot of young people don’t know the meaning or observe it unless a family member is in the forces,” says Nancy Lan, a junior studying Public Relations. “Another factor is that the media does not present its true meaning.”
The Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Front and Spruce Streets.
Drexel students do have a connection the Army as Drexel is home to the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program located at 3205 Lancaster Avenue (in front of which fraternities and sororities paint the sidewalk).
Major Spencer O. Ashford, Professor of Military Science in the ROTC program and soon-to-be Lieutenant Colonel, is under the impression that only a minority of the general Drexel population understands what Memorial Day is about.
“Honestly, they just see it as another day off,” Ashford says.
The ROTC program does not have anything special planned for the day, but Ashford says that if they did, the color guard would most likely march in a parade. When they do present the colors in a parade three cadets carry the flags while two others carry rifles.
“It is a day to reflect on those who have gone before you and paved the way,” he says of the day’s meaning.
Personally, he will call his dad, who is a veteran and a few of his friends and spend time with family.
For the future Ashford, who has worked at Drexel ROTC since August 2008 and has been in the Army for 17 years, would be interested in holding events that would educate the general student body on Military history and holidays. Another thing he would like to personally do is get together a bunch of cadets and do a thunder run on motorcycles to the memorial wall in Washington, D.C.
Ashford thinks it is tough to make people do anything they do not want to, but says that respect should still be paid.
“The smallest thing you can do is if you see someone who is [noticeably] a veteran, stop and say ‘Thank you for your service’,” Ashford says of how people can observe the day.
Related Links:
http://www.memorialdayfoundation.org/info.asp?id=3485
http://www1.va.gov/opa/speceven/memday/history.asp#hist
No flags are flying to indicate something special, the media is only talking about the first weekend of summer, and all of the stores are offering sales. On Drexel’s campus excitement is in the air, because students and staff alike are looking forward to the long weekend.
To an outsider, this could be just any other weekend, but it is not.
Monday is May 25, also known as Memorial Day, and the reason that the entire United States gets to enjoy an extended weekend. Memorial Day dates back to May 5, 1868 in Washington, D.C., when Major General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) – an organization of union veterans – established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. He declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. By the end of the 19th century, ceremonies were being held on May 30 nation-wide. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observances at their facilities.
However, it was not until after World War I that the day was expanded to honor soldiers who have died in all American Wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress.
A staple of Memorial Day is the poppy flower, which serves as a perpetual tribute to those who have given their lives for the U.S.’s freedom. Veterans service organizations throughout the country distribute poppies in exchange for a donation that is used to help veterans, widows, widowers and orphans.
According to the Memorial Day Foundation’s web site, since the late 1950’s the 1,200 soldiers of the U.S. 3rd Infantry Brigade place small American flags at each of the 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on the Thursday before Memorial Day. They then patrol the cemetery 24 hours a day during the Memorial Day weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing.
The foundation also mentions the government’s efforts to raise awareness of Memorial Day’s true meaning through the “National Moment of Remembrance” which asks that all Americans pause for a moment of silence in remembrance and respect.
Major Ashford comments on how he observes Memorial Day
How is it possible that a national holiday that commemorates fallen soldiers has turned into just another holiday dedicated to BBQs, shopping and beaches? It seems that Drexel, just like Philadelphia, is not paying respect to the reason for a day off from everyday life. Randomly interviewed students and staff seemed to associate Memorial Day with everything but its true meaning.
Ashley Twitty, a sophomore studying Biomedical Engineering associates Memorial Day with cookouts, no school and parties.
“I think maybe because in college there are no [mandatory] history lessons and no one teaches you about it. People should take the time to learn the importance of the day,” Twitty said.
Walter Parrish, Coordinator for Leadership and Community Development in the Office of Campus Activities (OCA) also thinks of BBQs, and family and friends when he thinks of Memorial Day.
“One of the main reasons people do not observe it is because they do not have a significant person in their lives who has contributed to the Armed Services. It is just another day off,” Parrish says of people’s lack of interest in the day.
Parrish explains that everyone has dimensions that reflect what they value most in life. At the center are the core dimensions followed by the second dimensions and lastly the peripheral dimensions. It would seem that Memorial Day is on the outskirts of most of Drexel’s and Philadelphia’s dimensions.
“If we understood each other better, we could have more participation in holidays,” Parrish says.
Tyler Kovitch, a freshman studying Engineering plans on spending time with his family and have a cookout.
“I think about America in general and what it has accomplished as a country,” Kovitch says of his association with the holiday proving that not everyone is ignorant of the meaning of the holiday.
“Not a lot of people associate the day with wars. A lot of young people don’t know the meaning or observe it unless a family member is in the forces,” says Nancy Lan, a junior studying Public Relations. “Another factor is that the media does not present its true meaning.”
The Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Front and Spruce Streets.Drexel students do have a connection the Army as Drexel is home to the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program located at 3205 Lancaster Avenue (in front of which fraternities and sororities paint the sidewalk).
Major Spencer O. Ashford, Professor of Military Science in the ROTC program and soon-to-be Lieutenant Colonel, is under the impression that only a minority of the general Drexel population understands what Memorial Day is about.
“Honestly, they just see it as another day off,” Ashford says.
The ROTC program does not have anything special planned for the day, but Ashford says that if they did, the color guard would most likely march in a parade. When they do present the colors in a parade three cadets carry the flags while two others carry rifles.
“It is a day to reflect on those who have gone before you and paved the way,” he says of the day’s meaning.
Personally, he will call his dad, who is a veteran and a few of his friends and spend time with family.
For the future Ashford, who has worked at Drexel ROTC since August 2008 and has been in the Army for 17 years, would be interested in holding events that would educate the general student body on Military history and holidays. Another thing he would like to personally do is get together a bunch of cadets and do a thunder run on motorcycles to the memorial wall in Washington, D.C.
Ashford thinks it is tough to make people do anything they do not want to, but says that respect should still be paid.
“The smallest thing you can do is if you see someone who is [noticeably] a veteran, stop and say ‘Thank you for your service’,” Ashford says of how people can observe the day.
Related Links:
http://www.memorialdayfoundation.org/info.asp?id=3485
http://www1.va.gov/opa/speceven/memday/history.asp#hist
Friday, May 15, 2009
With Love, Philadelphia
The City of Brotherly is awakening to fight the signs of recession and entice visitors from the Tri-State area and around the world into its loving arms.
Summer is fast approaching and the question on people’s minds is where to go to escape daily life and have some much needed fun. Travel is rarely cheap and during times of hardship people look for local affordable attractions
But what is it that attracts visitors to an area?
One aspect that is important in travel is how potential visitors are lured into the magic of a city and if the city is able to market its assets correctly. In an effort to speak to travelers who are no longer looking for luxury vacations in far away places, the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC) has combined Philly’s sights, humor and love to grab the attention of travelers.
The new and innovative campaign speaks directly to potential visitors through a series of letters addressed to a specific audience and are signed With Love, Philadelphia XOXO™.
“We’ve sort of given Philadelphia a personality and what better way to express everything Philadelphia has to offer than through letters,” Eric Cortes, GPTMC’s Communications Coordinator, says.
Starting May 18 and through September, letters from Philly (of which there are 54 in total) will be found on billboards, transit stations, street banners throughout the Tri-State area, as well as in national magazines and online. Love will also be sent through the airwaves and television, for those who miss the written versions. The ads have also been translated into Spanish, German, Italian and French to send love throughout the world.
The letters address Philadelphia’s historical and cultural sights, nightlife, gay life shopping areas, and family oriented activities among others.
“The letters act as an invitation and center on a specific Philadelphia experience,” Cortes says.
Related Links:
www.gophila.com/withlovecampaign
http://press.gophila.com/presskits/with-love-philadelphia-xoxo
Summer is fast approaching and the question on people’s minds is where to go to escape daily life and have some much needed fun. Travel is rarely cheap and during times of hardship people look for local affordable attractions
But what is it that attracts visitors to an area?
One aspect that is important in travel is how potential visitors are lured into the magic of a city and if the city is able to market its assets correctly. In an effort to speak to travelers who are no longer looking for luxury vacations in far away places, the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC) has combined Philly’s sights, humor and love to grab the attention of travelers.
The new and innovative campaign speaks directly to potential visitors through a series of letters addressed to a specific audience and are signed With Love, Philadelphia XOXO™.
“We’ve sort of given Philadelphia a personality and what better way to express everything Philadelphia has to offer than through letters,” Eric Cortes, GPTMC’s Communications Coordinator, says.
Starting May 18 and through September, letters from Philly (of which there are 54 in total) will be found on billboards, transit stations, street banners throughout the Tri-State area, as well as in national magazines and online. Love will also be sent through the airwaves and television, for those who miss the written versions. The ads have also been translated into Spanish, German, Italian and French to send love throughout the world.
The letters address Philadelphia’s historical and cultural sights, nightlife, gay life shopping areas, and family oriented activities among others.
“The letters act as an invitation and center on a specific Philadelphia experience,” Cortes says.
Related Links:
www.gophila.com/withlovecampaign
http://press.gophila.com/presskits/with-love-philadelphia-xoxo
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Coronas and Lime
Coronas, margaritas, sombreros…oh my!
This past Tuesday, May 5, the advertisements for Cinco de Mayo parties could be found in newspapers, online and on the radio. Some celebrations don’t even kick off until this weekend. As with St. Patrick’s Day, the U.S. has quickly adopted Cinco de Mayo as an unofficial holiday and many revel in the drink specials that bars offer in honor of the day.
Without a doubt, the ever-growing diversification of the U.S. opens up new worlds and cultures. Cinco de Mayo should pique people’s interest in the meaning of the celebration and the significance it has for Mexicans. Defeating a foreign army that has invaded your country for the sole purpose of making your country theirs is a source of pride and a show of resilience of the people. Even though the Mexicans lost the war to the French, the Battle at Puebla in 1862 is a demonstration of resilience.
To reduce this important day to another excuse for drinking is ignorant and rude. There is nothing wrong with celebrating Cinco de Mayo, but at least make the effort to find out why and pay tribute to the victory of a people. Even go out of your way and find out what dishes and drinks are served on this day.
This past Tuesday, May 5, the advertisements for Cinco de Mayo parties could be found in newspapers, online and on the radio. Some celebrations don’t even kick off until this weekend. As with St. Patrick’s Day, the U.S. has quickly adopted Cinco de Mayo as an unofficial holiday and many revel in the drink specials that bars offer in honor of the day.
Without a doubt, the ever-growing diversification of the U.S. opens up new worlds and cultures. Cinco de Mayo should pique people’s interest in the meaning of the celebration and the significance it has for Mexicans. Defeating a foreign army that has invaded your country for the sole purpose of making your country theirs is a source of pride and a show of resilience of the people. Even though the Mexicans lost the war to the French, the Battle at Puebla in 1862 is a demonstration of resilience.
To reduce this important day to another excuse for drinking is ignorant and rude. There is nothing wrong with celebrating Cinco de Mayo, but at least make the effort to find out why and pay tribute to the victory of a people. Even go out of your way and find out what dishes and drinks are served on this day.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
If Pigs Could Fly
If pigs could fly, they would probably catch the swine flu too.
But guess what, I have the solution. I know what the cause of the “swine” flu is…a little boy licked the nose of a pig and the pandemonium started.
A person I know cited this as the reason for Influenza A (H1N1). Who knows maybe it’s true, but it seems more that this piece of gossip is the result of speculation on something we know very little about. When we are faced with a “life-threatening” situation and are bombarded with update son the situation on a continuous basis, but are not given all of the facts then we grasp at anything that places the blame somewhere. This need to understand immediately every aspect of every situation has led to the creation of media hype that gives us the impression that we are learning something new.
On the contrary, all this does is cause hysteria among the masses. It would not be the first time that we have stood before a world-wide “pandemic”. Remember SARS, the Avian Flu and Mad Cow Disease? All three were hailed in the media as one of the worst cases of anything to attack society, but as time shows we are still alive.
Does this mean that the newest flu strain isn’t dangerous? No. But it does mean that we shouldn’t concentrate solely on this topic. Taking common sense measures can help in your protection: wash your hands after eating, after using the bathroom (something quite a few people still don’t do), after blowing your nose etc.
Amidst all of this commotion we cannot forget that there are still other pressing issues in the world. Remember the drug-related violence and kidnappings occurring in Mexico a few weeks ago? Stories such as the H1N1 virus may take over the news, but it doesn’t mean everything else disappears.
But guess what, I have the solution. I know what the cause of the “swine” flu is…a little boy licked the nose of a pig and the pandemonium started.
A person I know cited this as the reason for Influenza A (H1N1). Who knows maybe it’s true, but it seems more that this piece of gossip is the result of speculation on something we know very little about. When we are faced with a “life-threatening” situation and are bombarded with update son the situation on a continuous basis, but are not given all of the facts then we grasp at anything that places the blame somewhere. This need to understand immediately every aspect of every situation has led to the creation of media hype that gives us the impression that we are learning something new.
On the contrary, all this does is cause hysteria among the masses. It would not be the first time that we have stood before a world-wide “pandemic”. Remember SARS, the Avian Flu and Mad Cow Disease? All three were hailed in the media as one of the worst cases of anything to attack society, but as time shows we are still alive.
Does this mean that the newest flu strain isn’t dangerous? No. But it does mean that we shouldn’t concentrate solely on this topic. Taking common sense measures can help in your protection: wash your hands after eating, after using the bathroom (something quite a few people still don’t do), after blowing your nose etc.
Amidst all of this commotion we cannot forget that there are still other pressing issues in the world. Remember the drug-related violence and kidnappings occurring in Mexico a few weeks ago? Stories such as the H1N1 virus may take over the news, but it doesn’t mean everything else disappears.
Health and Tourism
by Nicolle Morales Kern
Influenza A (H1N1) is seemingly taking the world by storm and damaging an already faltering economy in those countries that rely on travel for revenue.
Mexico, where the outbreaks were documented first and 159 people have supposedly died of the flu, has taken a hard hit to its tourism industry. Many countries are recommending that citizens do not travel to countries or cities that have reported cases of the flu. Mexico has already shut down schools and residents only leave their houses wearing masks.
Dr. Julio Aramberri, professor of Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Food Science says that if Mexico is not able to get the flu under control that it could result in a big disaster.
“It is difficult to quantify what an epidemic would mean for the travel industry, the SARS outbreak in 2003 had serious effects on the tourism industry, especially in the places where it stroke harder,” Aramberri says.
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council’s website, travel industry jobs in Singapore, Hong Kong, Vietnam and China took a sever hit from the SARS outbreak.
Hong Kong reported its first case of the H1N1 virus on Friday brought into the country by a traveler from Mexico. In an effort to control the possible spread of the virus, authorities quarantined the hotel the traveler stayed at.
“Tourism should recover once this flu is under control, but until that is proven people will prefer to wait and see,” Aramberri says of Mexico’s tourism industry recovering.
Related Links:
http://www.wttc.org/eng/Tourism_News/Press_Releases/Press_Releases_2003/Impact_of_SARS/index.php
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/02/health/02flu.html?ref=world
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_05_01/en/index.html
Influenza A (H1N1) is seemingly taking the world by storm and damaging an already faltering economy in those countries that rely on travel for revenue.
Mexico, where the outbreaks were documented first and 159 people have supposedly died of the flu, has taken a hard hit to its tourism industry. Many countries are recommending that citizens do not travel to countries or cities that have reported cases of the flu. Mexico has already shut down schools and residents only leave their houses wearing masks.
Dr. Julio Aramberri, professor of Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Food Science says that if Mexico is not able to get the flu under control that it could result in a big disaster.
“It is difficult to quantify what an epidemic would mean for the travel industry, the SARS outbreak in 2003 had serious effects on the tourism industry, especially in the places where it stroke harder,” Aramberri says.
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council’s website, travel industry jobs in Singapore, Hong Kong, Vietnam and China took a sever hit from the SARS outbreak.
Hong Kong reported its first case of the H1N1 virus on Friday brought into the country by a traveler from Mexico. In an effort to control the possible spread of the virus, authorities quarantined the hotel the traveler stayed at.
“Tourism should recover once this flu is under control, but until that is proven people will prefer to wait and see,” Aramberri says of Mexico’s tourism industry recovering.
Related Links:
http://www.wttc.org/eng/Tourism_News/Press_Releases/Press_Releases_2003/Impact_of_SARS/index.php
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/02/health/02flu.html?ref=world
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_05_01/en/index.html
Friday, May 1, 2009
Planting Life in West Philly
by Nicolle Morales Kern
Earth Week 2009 engaged the Drexel community in ways to incorporate green ways into everyday life.
April 25 was no different when the Community Alumni Network of Drexel University (CAN DU) partnered with University City Green (UC Green) to plant trees in the West Philadelphia neighborhood. Malcolm X Park on 52nd and Pine Streets was the host of about 336 alumni and undergraduate volunteers from Drexel and the local community who came to beautify the park.
Photo:Drexel Alumni Sheila Dhand and Katrina Daniels finish planting a tree.
Drexel students from organizations such as the Sierra Club, Delta Zeta sorority and University 101 class met in the Quad at 8 a.m. for registration and breakfast before taking buses to the park. Trees were planted until noon, when a buffet lunch of pizza and tacos was provided for all volunteers. Following lunch, Malcolm X Park was cleaned up as well.
Tucker Faherty, a freshman studying civil engineering, participated in order to receive CCE credit for University 101, but it was not his first time getting dirty to help the environment.
“I do landscaping over the summer at Hershey Park that includes planting, mulching, and watering,” Faherty said.
Sue Pringle, executive director for UC Green, said that CAN DU approached the organization to plan the event.
“We work a lot with Drexel students who make a point of coming out to tree plantings to have fun and fulfill community service hours,” said Pringle.
Altogether, 102 trees were planted throughout the park and the streets of West Philly. As a part of the TreeVitalize program, homeowners can apply to have a tree planted in front of their house. After the type of tree is determined, private contractors are sent out to cut the ground.
Pringle said that throughout the whole week, 1100 trees had been planted and for the following weekend another 100 were scheduled to be given new homes.
“I think this weekend was a great success. It’s wonderful for the community,” Pringle said of the Earth Day Project.
*While this article doesn't concern travel, it was a part of a class asignment
Earth Week 2009 engaged the Drexel community in ways to incorporate green ways into everyday life.April 25 was no different when the Community Alumni Network of Drexel University (CAN DU) partnered with University City Green (UC Green) to plant trees in the West Philadelphia neighborhood. Malcolm X Park on 52nd and Pine Streets was the host of about 336 alumni and undergraduate volunteers from Drexel and the local community who came to beautify the park.
Photo:Drexel Alumni Sheila Dhand and Katrina Daniels finish planting a tree.
Drexel students from organizations such as the Sierra Club, Delta Zeta sorority and University 101 class met in the Quad at 8 a.m. for registration and breakfast before taking buses to the park. Trees were planted until noon, when a buffet lunch of pizza and tacos was provided for all volunteers. Following lunch, Malcolm X Park was cleaned up as well.
Tucker Faherty, a freshman studying civil engineering, participated in order to receive CCE credit for University 101, but it was not his first time getting dirty to help the environment.
“I do landscaping over the summer at Hershey Park that includes planting, mulching, and watering,” Faherty said.
Sue Pringle, executive director for UC Green, said that CAN DU approached the organization to plan the event.
“We work a lot with Drexel students who make a point of coming out to tree plantings to have fun and fulfill community service hours,” said Pringle.
Altogether, 102 trees were planted throughout the park and the streets of West Philly. As a part of the TreeVitalize program, homeowners can apply to have a tree planted in front of their house. After the type of tree is determined, private contractors are sent out to cut the ground.
Pringle said that throughout the whole week, 1100 trees had been planted and for the following weekend another 100 were scheduled to be given new homes.
“I think this weekend was a great success. It’s wonderful for the community,” Pringle said of the Earth Day Project.
*While this article doesn't concern travel, it was a part of a class asignment
Saturday, April 18, 2009
What Travel Should Be
The whole point of traveling is to see the world, learn about new cultures, cities and countries and meet new people. How can this goal be achieved when you don’t know anyone in your destination and you rely solely on a guide book?
Granted a guide book can give you insights into the history of a place and certain aspects about traditions and customs, but it doesn’t beat a tour given by a local. Locals are able to show you places that guide books don’t feature; those places that are still untouched by the commercialism of tourism. It is in discovering or being shown “secret” locations that you can truly experience the country for what it is while gaining an insider’s perspective.
Travel today is relatively easy and affordable which means creating a unique experience can be that much harder to do. It seems, however, that there are people in the world who dedicate themselves to making travel a unique experience for everyone. A new way of travel in the form of couch surfing, gives people the opportunity to form a connection to their places of destination by letting members stay on each other’s couches. It is indeed an indication of how interconnected the world really is and how important it is to take part in that connection.
I must admit that I am intrigued by the idea of traveling with free lodging while meeting people from all walks of life and plan on trying it out for myself soon.
Granted a guide book can give you insights into the history of a place and certain aspects about traditions and customs, but it doesn’t beat a tour given by a local. Locals are able to show you places that guide books don’t feature; those places that are still untouched by the commercialism of tourism. It is in discovering or being shown “secret” locations that you can truly experience the country for what it is while gaining an insider’s perspective.
Travel today is relatively easy and affordable which means creating a unique experience can be that much harder to do. It seems, however, that there are people in the world who dedicate themselves to making travel a unique experience for everyone. A new way of travel in the form of couch surfing, gives people the opportunity to form a connection to their places of destination by letting members stay on each other’s couches. It is indeed an indication of how interconnected the world really is and how important it is to take part in that connection.
I must admit that I am intrigued by the idea of traveling with free lodging while meeting people from all walks of life and plan on trying it out for myself soon.
Surfing the World
One man’s dream of enjoyable travel, has led to a new way of seeing the world.
by Nicolle Morales Kern
A great deal on airfare landed Casey Fenton in Iceland for a long weekend. The only problem was that he had no place to stay. As a solution to rotting in a hotel all weekend and playing Mr. Tourist, Fenton sent out an email to 1,500 students at the University of Iceland asking if he could crash on one of their couches. Within 24 hours he had about 100 people offering their couches to him. What resulted was a weekend of great stories, great fun, and new friends.
“That’s how I want to travel…every time,” Fenton says on his profile.
The idea for the CouchSurfing Project was born.
On January 1, 2003 Fenton launched the first site in beta with the help of Sebastien Giao Le Tuan, Daniel M. Hoffer, and Leonardo Bassani da Silveira. After some difficulties, Version 2.0 was re-built and re-organized through the Montreal Collective in 2006.
CouchSurfing is now a global community with over one million members from over 231 countries who crash on each others couches when they travel. The declared mission statement is to “internationally network people and places, create educational exchanges, raise collective consciousness, spread tolerance, and facilitate cultural understanding”.
A map of current users.
To become a member of CouchSurfing.com, a profile with as much information and pictures must be created. Each member goes through a verification process that checks a person’s address and credit card number. Another form of security is given through vouching and references. The only way someone can offer their couch for surfing is to have another member vouch for them. The more positive references and friends a member has, then the more trustworthy they are deemed to be.
Eyal Rojstaczer, a senior in Mechanical Engineering at Drexel University, has been a member of CouchSuring.com for about one and a half years. A friend of his introduced him to the website and since then he has never stayed at a hotel or youth hostel in his travels to Washington, D.C., San Diego, Ecuador and Mexico.
“I know when I plan a trip, I know people everywhere and I could go to many countries without spending a dime on lodging,” Rojstaczer says of the service.
As does the website, Rojstaczer stresses that it is not just about being able to stay somewhere for free.
“You get to meet new people, see things from a local’s point of view and travel for a longer period of time with the money you save,” he says.
Since September 2008, Rojstaczer has offered his couch to members and has hosted over 90 people. The most surfers in his house at one time was a group of 10 travelers and a woman traveling by herself. They slept on futons, a pull-out bed, couches and air mattresses. Rojstaczer currently lives with four other roommates, three of whom are also registered on the site. Due to the amount of people they have hosted and know, Rojstaczer says they are listed in the top 10 couches in Philly.
“It’s fun to help out travelers, make friends from around the world, hang out with them and show them around Philly when I have the time,” he says of offering his couches.
For more info:
www.couchsurfing.com
Friday, April 10, 2009
Diversion From Life
Does it ever seem to you that life gets in the way of life?
There are certain obligations that we all need to fulfill on a daily basis. As a student those obligations are for the most part class, homework, and work. While it cannot be denied that these obligations are enjoyable and fulfill a certain need in life, I can’t escape the feeling that sometimes they consume too much time. A routine sets in and before you know it life has become these obligations off-set by parties or just doing nothing on the weekends and daily travel is from your dorm/apartment/house to class and back.
Experiencing something new and unrelated to school, work or partying can be a welcomed diversion and distraction from the norm, while fulfilling a need that has gone unmet.
Such a fulfillment could be a hobby put off to the side due to lack of time, a trip to the museum, or just a picnic in the park with friends.
Last weekend, my diversion from the norm came in the form of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Time to reconnect with a friend and enjoy the weather was mine for the taking as we enjoyed the Japanese culture.
Making the time to enjoy a hobby or anything else of interest gives you the chance to relax, and experience new sights, sounds, smells, and tastes. You might meet new people or reconnect with others. It is a very important part of life as it gives you the chance to renew your energy and passion for those things done on a daily basis. So, go out and explore what Philadelphia and near-by cities have to offer and enjoy life.
-Nicolle Morales Kern
For Everything Philly check out:
http://www.gophila.com/C/Things_to_Do/211.html
www.phillyfunguide.com
There are certain obligations that we all need to fulfill on a daily basis. As a student those obligations are for the most part class, homework, and work. While it cannot be denied that these obligations are enjoyable and fulfill a certain need in life, I can’t escape the feeling that sometimes they consume too much time. A routine sets in and before you know it life has become these obligations off-set by parties or just doing nothing on the weekends and daily travel is from your dorm/apartment/house to class and back.
Experiencing something new and unrelated to school, work or partying can be a welcomed diversion and distraction from the norm, while fulfilling a need that has gone unmet.
Such a fulfillment could be a hobby put off to the side due to lack of time, a trip to the museum, or just a picnic in the park with friends.
Last weekend, my diversion from the norm came in the form of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Time to reconnect with a friend and enjoy the weather was mine for the taking as we enjoyed the Japanese culture.
Making the time to enjoy a hobby or anything else of interest gives you the chance to relax, and experience new sights, sounds, smells, and tastes. You might meet new people or reconnect with others. It is a very important part of life as it gives you the chance to renew your energy and passion for those things done on a daily basis. So, go out and explore what Philadelphia and near-by cities have to offer and enjoy life.
-Nicolle Morales Kern
For Everything Philly check out:
http://www.gophila.com/C/Things_to_Do/211.html
www.phillyfunguide.com
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Japan at your doorstep
An annual celebration of spring proves that you do not have to travel the world to experience a new culture.
by Nicolle Morales Kern
The sun shone and warmed visitors as they walked along the cherry groves in front of the Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park. Transported into a world of Japanese culture, 40,000 visitors from the Philadelphia area joined the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia (JASGP) in the celebration of Sakura Matsuri, the annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival on April 5.
“Now in its 12th year, the Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of the change of seasons, the blooming flowers and Japanese culture, society and education,” Sam Malissa, Assistant Director of JASGP said in a phone interview.
Malissa, who has strong ties to the Japanese culture, has worked at JASGP for the past three years and said the meaning of the festival is two-fold: historical and philosophical.
Historically, the Japanese government donated 1,600 flowering trees, including cherry trees, to Philadelphia in honor of America’s 150th anniversary of Independence. The cherry is the national flower of Japan and also a symbol of friendship that the country extends to others.
JASGP, established in 1994, decided to continue with the tradition of giving and maintaining cherry trees in Philadelphia in 1998. A 10 year goal to plant 1,000 trees was set and met by 2007. Most of the trees can be found in Fairmount Park, but there are smaller groves throughout the city as well.
“Philosophically, the beautiful cherry trees only bloom for about two weeks in the year,” Malissa said. “You have to stop and smell the flowers as they will be gone by the end of next week.”
On Forester Stage, the Swarthmore Taiko Drummers captured the spirit and enlivened the soul. Dancers from the University of the Arts introduced spectators to the stylized drama of Kabuki dancing for the first time this year.
“Both groups have been trained by Isaburoh Hanayagi, Professor of Performing Arts at Tamagawa University in Tokyo,” Malissa said.
Hanayagi has spent the past year as Cornell Distinguished Visiting Professor of Swarthmore College. During his time in the United States Hanayagi has been training local groups in the art of Kabuki dancing and Taiko drumming. Hanayagi’s students from Japan have been coming to Philly for the past six years to perform at the festival.
As the fest came to an end, visitors walked around the pond, enjoyed sushi and the band Otokage from Tokyo rocked into the evening.
“It was great to see so many people interested in the culture, enjoying the performers and the cherry blossoms,” Malissa said of the turnout at the festival.
Related Links:
http://www.jasgp.org/
http://jasgp.org/cherryblossomfestival/
http://www.usgo.org/resources/whatisgo.html
by Nicolle Morales Kern
The sun shone and warmed visitors as they walked along the cherry groves in front of the Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park. Transported into a world of Japanese culture, 40,000 visitors from the Philadelphia area joined the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia (JASGP) in the celebration of Sakura Matsuri, the annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival on April 5.
“Now in its 12th year, the Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of the change of seasons, the blooming flowers and Japanese culture, society and education,” Sam Malissa, Assistant Director of JASGP said in a phone interview.
Malissa, who has strong ties to the Japanese culture, has worked at JASGP for the past three years and said the meaning of the festival is two-fold: historical and philosophical.
Historically, the Japanese government donated 1,600 flowering trees, including cherry trees, to Philadelphia in honor of America’s 150th anniversary of Independence. The cherry is the national flower of Japan and also a symbol of friendship that the country extends to others.
JASGP, established in 1994, decided to continue with the tradition of giving and maintaining cherry trees in Philadelphia in 1998. A 10 year goal to plant 1,000 trees was set and met by 2007. Most of the trees can be found in Fairmount Park, but there are smaller groves throughout the city as well.
“Philosophically, the beautiful cherry trees only bloom for about two weeks in the year,” Malissa said. “You have to stop and smell the flowers as they will be gone by the end of next week.”
Over the past 12 years the festival has evolved from a two event celebration to a month-long festival, from the beginning of March to April, that includes over 48 events such as Japanese Food Tasting, Sake Fest, Taiko Drumming workshops and many others. The Philadelphia Cherry Blossom Festival is now the second largest after Washington D.C.’s. Culminating in the Sakura Matsuri, adults and children alike enjoyed activities such as face painting, origami, calligraphy, kite making, robot sumo wrestling, and the game of Go while taking in the beauty of Japan’s national tree.
On Forester Stage, the Swarthmore Taiko Drummers captured the spirit and enlivened the soul. Dancers from the University of the Arts introduced spectators to the stylized drama of Kabuki dancing for the first time this year.
“Both groups have been trained by Isaburoh Hanayagi, Professor of Performing Arts at Tamagawa University in Tokyo,” Malissa said.
Hanayagi has spent the past year as Cornell Distinguished Visiting Professor of Swarthmore College. During his time in the United States Hanayagi has been training local groups in the art of Kabuki dancing and Taiko drumming. Hanayagi’s students from Japan have been coming to Philly for the past six years to perform at the festival.
As the fest came to an end, visitors walked around the pond, enjoyed sushi and the band Otokage from Tokyo rocked into the evening.
“It was great to see so many people interested in the culture, enjoying the performers and the cherry blossoms,” Malissa said of the turnout at the festival.
Related Links:
http://www.jasgp.org/
http://jasgp.org/cherryblossomfestival/
http://www.usgo.org/resources/whatisgo.html
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