I'm Hoping Things Are Falling Into Place...

Well, we're back from spring break and it's time to get serious and buckle-down for the final half of the semester. I'm going to be honest; I'd like to be further along in my research.
Since handing in my first module, I've been trying to find out more about single life and finding love in Baltimore through a very popular search engine, but to little avail. Since meeting with members of the S.V.B.A. earlier this month, I've been cut-off from any new information. I've sent Anne and Jen emails, asking for personal stories and experiences, but have received no replies. The group likes to remain anonymous and values their privacy; I may have been lucky to simply get their last names. Still, I haven't given up hope on them just yet.
As far as pictures go, I simply don't have any (yet). I'm curious as to what kind of pictures I should be attaining, and will talk to Professor Lieb after class about it. Perhaps I can attend an event and take pictures, but I think this may anger or offend the group members. There are pictures on their site of events, but no names are used (I assume to protect their privacy). I was wondering if random pictures would be ok to use on my site. For instance, pictures of Baltimore to set the scene, and possibly pictures of young love and elderly couples to promote the theme of finding love in Baltimore.
I have also left a voice message with Judy from 'Dinner For Ten,' and am awaiting a reply. If I don't hear back tomorrow, I'll call again. I plan to use this group as my second module, so I'll need information as soon as possible. This group may be more willing to talk, as it consists of older and professional men and women.
I also joined the Yahoo group 'Simply Single,' but there doesn't seem to be much of a story there. I'll mention it to Proffessor Lieb and see what he thinks about it; perhaps he can point me in the right direction. I had also put in a request to join the Yahoo group FORSBA ( Fun Outings and Resources for Singles of Baltimore and Annapolis). The group was started by the S.V.B.A. After nearly three weeks, my membership is still awaiting approval from the group leader.
Finally, I researched a bit about 'Parents without Partners.' This group meets every second Wednesday of the month at the White Marsh Library at 7:30. I live right down the street, but would have to leave my Photojournalism class early to make the meeting. I think I can make this work.
That's pretty much it for now. As you can see, I'm making some progress, but wish I was further along right now.

I'm Doing Research!

As a student that knows he is falling behind, I was extremely excited to meet with members of SingleVolunteers this past weekend. Unfortunately, there were only six members present, and the information I acquired will more than likely give me a sub-par grade concerning our first module. But alas, it was a start. I'm not proud that at the mid-point of the semester I have pretty much nothing. I'm not used to failure. I like success, and I plan on making this a successful website, even though the subjects I spoke to value anonymity! I plan on speaking with Professor Lieb as soon as possible! I have some names and numbers now, though, and want to find out more!

This is about two talking apes....

WOW! I can't say I was too surprised after listening to this 14-minute audio presentation, but I can say I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I love animals, and believe that most domesticated animals honestly can communicate with humans. I have an old cat that seems to talk to me, and now that I have a dog, I know that these animals can communicate with their human counterparts. But no animal can do so in the ways a monkey can.

I thought this was an excellent example of how to effectively use audio in a story, though throughout the process I missed the visual elements that knew would add to the story.

The package seemed like a piece that would run on Animal Planet or Discovery, or a late-night special on MPT. I loved the monkeys screeching, and how the narrator explained exactly what the animals were asking for. I have no doubt that these animals really were trying to use their limited capabilities to speak the human language and get what they were asking for.

I do believe that monkeys and apes are extremely smart creatures, and can learn words from humans. It would be silly to dispute the fact that these creatures are almost human, especially after hearing this story.

Overall, I found this to be a great story, and the fact that a link for visuals was included in the package inclines me to believe that this package was nearly flawless in its total design.

"Can You Spot the Threats?" (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032572/)

This interactive piece from MSNBC.com left much to be desired. After 9/11, the country was understandably a bit wary about airport security, and new screening procedures were introduced across the U.S. The package was produced by Alex Johnson and Ashley Wells and designed by Fred Birchman. The music was supplied by Asim Khan while the images were provided by PerkinElmer Detection Systems. The package was narrated by MSNBC's own Natalie Morales.

Upon launching the package, Morales explains how baggage screening is our last line of defense against terrorists on airplanes. She informs us that the machines that can prevent catastrophes are only as good as the human beings that scan bags for any possible threats. We learn that before 9/11, those hired to perform this task were trained for as little as 40 hours before being placed on active duty, and many went months before seeing anything considered suspicious. She informs us that now, even with the government taking over, it still takes a well-trained human eye to discern a possible threat. She asks: is it enough?

The interaction begins when Morales explains we will be given two minutes to screen carry-on bags passing by on a conveyor belt. Most bags are harmless, but a few contain deadly weapons: guns, knives, grenades, and even explosive materials. We're allowed to stop the conveyor belt, zoom in and out, and switch from black-and-white to color (organic material, often explosive, shows up orange). After two minutes we receive a grade based upon our performance, and are warned that the longer we take in screening the bags, the more impatient travelers become (and they'll let you know it!)

The multimedia images consist of three recognizable carry-on bags: a purse, a briefcase and a backpack. These same three images are portrayed one after another continuously until the "game" begins. The rules are clear enough, and are portrayed on-screen by arrows as Morales narrates how the "game" is played.

I found the instructions to be simple enough, especially after trying to play the "Super Volcano" game. To stop the conveyor, press 'STOP.' To start again press 'GO.' The Zoom has plus or minus symbols, and the threats are as simple as clicking on buttons labeled 'EXPLOSIVE,' 'GUN,' or 'KNIFE.' I found the audio to be absolutely horrendous, even if this came out a few years ago (I'm not sure when it did). I find it hard to believe that I own a better quality digital audio recorder than the folks at MSNBC.

The first time I played the "game" I found the repetitive complaints from the passengers to be extremely annoying. I thought the process would be harder than it actually is, so I stopped the conveyor belt often, zooming in and out and switching between color palettes. After my first few tries, I found the process became easier, and soon was able to correctly identify suspicious packages within the time frame given.

Obviously, this package was intended to portray national airline security, and invoke questions as to are we doing enough in the fight against terrorism. As such, I was extremely angered by the annoying passengers complaining (in repetitively bad audio), that things were taking too long. I haven't flown often (only twice, or four times if you include the return trips), but I have never heard anyone belittle or berate the people checking our baggage. Especially after 9/11, I'd think most citizens would welcome the added safety precautions that the airlines have put in place. I don't especially enjoy flying, but I know that I'd gladly sacrifice a few minutes of my time to ensure that the passenger two rows behind me doesn't have a live grenade in their backpack.

Overall, I thought the basic message of this package was a righteous one, but thought it could have been executed better. Playing the "game" of baggage inspector was fun, but there could have been more. The lack of text and pictures certainly was a disappointment, as it seems this package was only about playing a "game" that lacked even decent audio. In addition, even though you were able to play the game over again after each try, it seemed the same so eventually you were able to pass without even really trying.

I liked the idea of showing the public what it's like to screen baggage at an airport, and hope that anyone who used this interactive multimedia gained a better understanding of what it takes to scan for threats at an airport. I'd certainly use the basic idea again, but fine tune it with better audio clips, as well as text that supports the story and even pictures to go along with it.

Not too much has happened this week...

Hey! Good to see you're all back to see what I've been up to since last time...unfortunately, there's not much to tell. I've been pretty sick the last three days but have still managed to make it to work and my internship. Other than that, I've been sleeping! I've only had three beers in the last three days, so you know something is terribly wrong with me! That doesn't excuse me from making at least SOME progress on my project, so here it is.
Last class, after looking at my storyboard, Professor Lieb recommended using more than just the one volunteer site for my story. That amazed me, as I thought my entire project was just on singles volunteering in Baltimore, and I hadn't thought about adding other unique ideas in the area. Luckily, the site has a "Links" link that users can click on to find other services located not only locally but nationally. I decided the local sites would be best for this assignment, and researched them to see what would be most interesting to include in my final project.
There are a bunch of sites that are unique and interesting, so I hope to speak with Professor Lieb and narrow them down a bit. My favorites so far include: American Singles Golf Association (which doesn't seem to exist), Baltimore's Dinner For Ten, Bike & Brunch, Inc. (Jewish only), and two sites that focus on singles sailing the Chesapeake together: Cheasapeake Sailing Association (again, nonexistent) and Singles on Sailboats, Inc., both non-profit organizations. I'm leaning more toward these last two, since they hit so close to home and seem very unique. Well, let me know what you think. I'm feeling a bit better, and hope to find out more on these organizations this week!

OK...I Think I've Got Something Here...

It seems as if I finally have a topic worth writing about! Last class, Professor Lieb and I were talking about my progress (or lack thereof) in finding a suitable topic to research. As I mentioned in my last blog, we were leaning toward volunteer workers, though I didn't know of anything interesting offhand. Professor Lieb pointed me in a unique direction...Single Volunteers, Inc. I had never heard of such a group, but after researching it a bit found it to be a fascinating and quite original idea. We've all seen the commercials for chatlines and dating services, but most are geared toward one-night-stands and mindless sexual encounters. There are legit dating services out there (I'd imagine), but I've never seen anything like this. Singles meet-up and volunteer all over the nation, helping others while at the same time hoping to find that special someone. Maryland has two chapters listed, one in Baltimore/Annapolis and another in the Washington D.C. Metro Area. I think this organization has a lot of promise for a great project. I'd love to include all the various locales that they volunteer at, as well as find out if anyone has joined under false pretenses (i.e. married, engaged, or in a relationship). It would be really cool to show some of the success stories (couples that found each other on the site), as well as show the people that these volunteers have helped. My only problem may be in finding contacts to interview, but I'll speak with Professor Lieb in class tomorrow to see what my options are...keep your fingers crossed!

I'm falling behind...Help!

In our third blog we're supposed to be writing about our project and how we plan to research it. Unfortunately, I may be the only one in the class who has no idea what to do. Digital Publishing was much easier: we submitted an idea/topic and were told to proceed. I've had a lot of different ideas about what I'd like to research, but most are interesting only to me and not to the rest of the population. My top idea was to attend tryouts for the Perry Hall High School Boy's Varsity baseball team, and follow the team throughout the season, interviewing players, parents, and coaches. I also thought about a story on automobile mechanics or body shop workers. My latest ideas included a story on those in Alcoholics Anonymous as well as a feature story on the homeless in Baltimore City and County. Professor Lieb pointed out the privacy issues that come along with these topics, and suggested going to the opposite end of the spectrum and researching those who do volunteer work themselves. I personally don'tknow anyone who volunteers their time to help others, but it seems like a good story. So that's where I'm at...if anyone is reading these blogs and has any ideas or suggestions for me please leave a comment! Thanks!

Ira Glass tells a good story...on storytelling...

For our second blog we were assigned to watch a few videos on YouTube and give our reaction...a very tough assignment! Believe it or not, I'm not familiar with Ira Glass; I've heard the name before but never have really known who he is. I still don't, but now I know a bit more about him and his ideas.
I was pretty impressed after viewing the videos. I commend our professor for picking these clips; I think we all know what he's looking for and expects from us now. I'm still up in the air when it comes to the topic of my project, but after viewing the videos I feel like I can narrow the topics down and try to tell the most compelling and interesting story possible.
In the first clip, I learned that there are two main components to telling a good story: keep the audience interested and have a great ending...nothing's worse than a dull story with a great point or a great story with a crappy ending!
The second clip reassured me that it is HARD to find a great story...it takes time. Unfortunately, time is not on my side right now; three ideas are due in a few hours. Hopefully, something will come to me quickly!
In part three, this problem is answered by the advice of working on a deadline...exactly what we're doing in class! This was my favorite clip; I loved it when Ira made fun of his own writing and on-air reporting. Hilarious! If you click on only one link, this should be the one.
Finally, the fourth clip gives us advice on common problems people experience when trying to create a package. Ironically, my broadcasting teacher taught us that we HAD to learn how to talk in "TV Talk," where Ira says just to talk normally and to be yourself. Perhaps it's a fine line...
Either way, I really enjoyed the videos and thought they can really help me create a good story. I imagine I will come back to them frequently to assess my progress throughout the semester.

New Semester, New Class...Same Blog!

Well, this is it...my final semester at Towson. For those of you checking this blog to read about my Chihuahua (both of you), scroll down. For the remainder of this semester, this blog will switch to a brand-new topic...one that I haven't come-up with as of yet. Until then, I'll be posting interesting homework assignments on this site...enjoy!

Our first assignment was to review an article and its' accompanying multimedia package and tell how the package enhanced the written story. I chose to read a local story from The Sun about a German bakery http://pages.towson.edu/lieb/MCOM407/germanbakery.doc. At first I thought the story would be pretty dull, but after reading it I found it to be quite interesting. The article was well-written and descriptive, but it begged for pictures and sound to complete it. I wanted to see this man playing his accordian. I wanted to see the restaurant, and the various patrons singing and dancing on Thursdays. Although I found reading some of the German words and phrases a bit confusing, there's nothing confusing about the multimedia package. Well, maybe one thing...I thought they could've varied the pictures just a bit more than they did. Although I did request for the opportunity to see Alfred Zeller play his accordian, I didn't need to see it a dozen times. I would've liked a bit more variety. But I did like how the pictures put you into the story...you're there, in the restaurant, listening to the music and seeing the people that you just read about. Insead of just imagining what this scene might look like on a German Thursday, you're there, watching it. Overall, I found the multimedia package Baltimore Sun German Bakery slideshow complemented the newspaper article well.

The Semester is Finally Over!

Well, that's it for school, at least until next year. I'd just like to say that even though I don't consider myself a 'computer person;' I really enjoyed this class. I had a lot of fun making the website, and thought it turned out great! Typically, I don't feel like I accomplished anything special after most classes end, but this class was different. I think it was a great learning experience for me, and really got a kick out of being able to show-off my site! Thanks for reading!

Dear God it's almost the end of the semester!

Well, I guess this is just about it...one blog left after this! I really don't have too much to say; I got an awesome interview with Brian and Lindsey; you can listen to it on my website podcast. I also was able to put together my photo gallery last week; it took a while but I think it turned out well. I still have so much to do, and hope I can get finished on time. Charlie's doing great; he went to the vet for the first time this week...he weighs 3 1/2 pounds already! Kayla only weighs in at 5 1/2 pounds...little brother will be bigger than big sister soon enough! Other than that, I can't wait for the end of the semester...look for my final blog in one week!

Charlie's a Star!

Well...not exactly. But he did star in my video for my broadcasting class. We were assigned to do a feature story, and what's better than a brand new puppy coming home? I really enjoyed filming the story, and it gave me a chance to spend some quality time with the new arrival. Other than that, not much else has changed. I'm planning on interviewing Nicole and her mother tomorrow (Saturday), and then heading to PA Sunday afternoon to get my interview with Brian and Lindsey. Brian's out-of-town this weekend, but hopefully he'll be back by the time we get there, otherwise, I'll only be able to interview Lindsey. I guess we'll see what happens....

Charlie joins the family!

After weeks of waiting, Charlie is a part of the family! Kayla absolutely loves him; they play all the time! I can't wait to show some pictures of them on my website; if I'm technologically capable I might even include some video of the two of them wrestling (for extra credit!). Other than that new piece of information, not much else has happened. We met halfway with Brian and Lindsey, as they were shopping at Harford Mall, so I never was able to get my interview with them. I didn't want to ask them to talk to me in the middle of a parking lot! They're on vacation right now, but I hope to meet with them soon and ask them a few questions about breeding their dogs. That's it for now; stay tuned...the websites are due soon!

We're back! And a new puppy on Sunday!

Well, we picked up Kayla late Sunday night. Lindsey said she was a good girl, and told us that in the morning she'd sit and whine by the playpen until the puppies were let out. She loves them! There were only the 3 males left whe we got to PA; the females were taken the day before. I took a few more pictures, and we took Kayla home. We'll be back Sunday afternoon to pick up "Blue", or as Nicole's mom has named him, "Charlie." He'll be 8-weeks-old and ready for his new home. Nicole's mom has already bought a lot of items for her new baby boy, and can't wait until Sunday when he comes home with us. I'm going to bring my audio recorder, as this may be the last time we'll be in PA for awhile. Like I said before, you'll just have to wait to see all the cute pics until I finish up my website!

Off to North Carolina....without Kayla : (

Well, we'll be leaving Friday afternoon to fly to North Carolina. As I said before, we can't take Kayla and don't want to board her, so she'll be staying with her original parents: Brian and Lindsey. This is only the second time we've been away from her since we got her; we left her with Brian and Lindsey for a weekend last November to celebrate Nicole's 21st birthday in Atlantic City. We'll miss her, and I'm sure she'll miss us, but at least she'll have Brian and Lindsey and her family of Chihuahuas to play with. I'm sure she'll have a blast; she might have more fun than we do! We'll be back late on Sunday, and will head straight to PA to pick her up. Three states in one day should be fun...can't wait for school on Monday!

Nothing new to report....

Well, it's been a pretty uneventful week...we haven't been back to PA to see the pups, and evidently nothing too interesting has been going on. The pups are growing up though, and if we don't see them this weekend we'll definitely be there the week after that. Nicole's grandmother is getting married in North Carolina, and we don't want to board Kayla (she's just a baby). Brian and Lindsey told us they'd be happy to watch her, so she'll have plenty of time to play with her new brothers and sisters. As far as my project is coming along, I just bought an audio recorder so Brian or Lindsey better get ready for an interview! That's about it for this week, and as far as pictures are concerned, I think I'll just be posting them on my website, so you'll have to wait to see the pups!

One month old and active!

We visited with the pups again; this time Nicole's parents came with us to check out the blue puppy, which they've already named 'Charlie.' Lindsey had told us that 'Blue' had lost his color; he's more of a sandy brown now. But he's still cute, and her parents decided they'd buy him after seeing him in person. The rest of the puppies are adorable; there's a black and tan female that could be Kayla's twin sister! If we could afford another one, I'd take her in a heartbeat! Even Kayla loved her; she gently played with all the pups, but seemed to like her the best. It amazes me how well she gets along with these little puppies. My friend Vicky had a litter of bulldogs this past summer, and Kayla wanted nothing to do with them. She seems right at home with this litter, as if she can sense that they're just like her. I hope she gets along with Charlie!

The pups are 8 days old....

Me, Nicole (my girlfriend), and Kayla visited the puppies last weekend. Tey're extremely tiny; they look like hampsters! They don't do much yet, hopefully next visit they'll be walking and have their eyes open! Our friends (Brian and Lindsey) live an hour away in Pennsylvania, so we don't get to visit them as much as we'd like to. They're away this weekend, so the next time we'll be able to see the puppies is Sunday, October 7. They'll be one month old, so we hope to see some personalities beginning to develop in the pups. Nicole's parents might come with us; they're thinking about buying the blue puppy. I don't know much about blue pups, except that they're rare and therefore expensive! I'll be sure to post some pictures of the trip next time....if not on the blog look for them on my upcoming web site!

A Little Background Information.....

Hi! Welcome to my blog. I had a few ideas about what to write about this semester, the top 2 dealing with either the O's or the Ravens. But I decided to do something hopefully somewhat original...take you through the first 3 months of a litter of puppies' lives. My friends Brian and Lindsey Haneschlager bred their Chihuahua, Emma, once before, and my girlfriend and I had the pick of the litter! We took the runt, a female, and named her Kayla. She was born July 27, 2006. She had 2 older brothers and 1 older sister. She's a great dog, and has brought a lot of happiness to our lives. On September 9, 2007, another litter of puppies arrived. This time Emma had 5 puppies, 3 male and 2 female. Over the next few months, I'll be adding pictures and new information on these new puppies, as well as a few pictures of Kayla, her mom and dad, and her oldest brother, Chopper. Stay tuned!