9.19.17

REPORTING TOUGH STORIES, THE FAKE NEWS CHALLENGE, NEWS GATHERING IN THE DIGITAL ERA.

Visited KWWL news channel 7. Entered into newly remodeled building through new east entrance. We each had to sign-in for security reasons. The news room is now on the second floor. It was formerly located on the first floor and had no windows. The first thing we witnessed was a post-show meeting. The new crew discussed a few bumps that happened in the preceding live show. A set of lights had not been changing properly. There were a few coding errors and a spelling error on screen.

News director Shane Moreland held an opening discussing with us about reporting on the scene. We talked about legal issues.

“You gotta be the first, and you gotta be right.”

First and accurate both critical. Reporters must make sure they are talking to the right people. Always confirm information before reporting.

A police investigation means a report is newsworthy. A code of ethics is to minimize pain.

“Newsrooms are a place of great debate.” “If it causes pubic spectacle, you have to report it.”

KWWL has around 35 employees.

“I don’t do a lot. I’m just responsible for a lot.” Shane recruits and hires staff, provides critic and guidance.

“I don’t want to talk to public spokespeople, I want to talk to people who aren’t being paid.”

“How does this affect real people.”

Shane is probably threatened two times a week to be sued.

When in public, anyone can be video taped without consent.

Anelia – “When you send reporters out, what do you tell them?

Shane – “You are not above the law. You obey every law. Call the manager if you have an issue.”

Our tour next featured spending time in the control room during a live news cast. Then, we spent time in the news studio during the live news cast. The reporters were excited to have us visiting. It was a neat experience.