meet the pros: final project

As each generation grows older we seem to lose sight of what's important in life. The media has conducted itself to adapt to the times. Every day under reported news goes unnoticed while entertainment news keeps everyone in a frenzy. It so easy to ignore an international crisis when you aren't in that country; yet people aren't even aware of what goes on in the United States! Recently I attended a seminar for the Pulitzer Center, "Meet the Pros", a grant offering students the opportunity to report on international affairs. There I meet Allison Shelley and Melissa Turley, both previous winners of the Pulitzer Center. Shelley reported on women in Nepal and the practice of chuapdi in their culture. Turley reported on closing the gender gap in South Africa by supporting prostitution. And yet, I have never heard about this. Most people have no idea that every day women are being raped and are able to do nothing. Women are quarantined during their menstrual, and again, are able to do nothing. No one knows that events such as these continue to go on, we need to do better; considering that American women themselves lives in a male dominated culture, beyond that of constitutional debate. After all if the problem was completely resolved there would be no glass ceiling. Link to video with clips from "Meet the Pros" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RuyRADNOiA0&feature=em-upload_owner Together we can make a difference, tell a friend to tell a friend. xx

WCC Hosts Pulitzer Center's "Meet the Pros" Event

    The Pulitzer Center is a well known and well established organization dedicated to the advancement and betterment of journalism and journalists. On April 25th 2013 Westchester Community College hosted the Pulitzer Center’s “Meet the Pros” event. In which, students had the opportunity to watch presentations by professional journalists. Students were additionally given the opportunity to interact directly with these speakers via a question and answer period. Specifically, those presenting were Allison Shelley, a well established photo-journalist, and Melissa Turley, the 2012 student fellow from George Washington University. They both spoke at length about journalism, the Pulitzer Center, the various programs they have been involved in and the center offers, and their experiences as well. They also granted deep and personal insight to the students via the question and answer period. After the presentation, students of Professor Luther’s Multimedia Journalism class had the chance to interview the presenters, as well as staff and students involved with and attending the event. This media is chronicled in the small video linked below.

VIDEO HERE

If you are further interested in the event or the Pulitzer Center see the relevant links below.

Pulitzer Center Website - http://pulitzercenter.org/

Allison Shelley - http://pulitzercenter.org/people/allison-shelley

Melissa Turley - http://pulitzercenter.org/people/melissa-turley

A Parallel Experience During the Cuban Missile Crisis

In today’s world, we constantly hear about the prospect of nuclear attacks.  The nuclear programs of North Korea and Iran are always talked about on the news and the potential for war is higher than ever.  While we don’t live in perpetual fear, the possibility of a nuclear bomb being launched at the United States is at the back of our minds. 

Only two nuclear bombs have ever been used.  During World War II, the United States dropped these bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, effectively ending the war.  The damage to the people and the cities themselves was catastrophic. 

While nuclear weapons have not been used since, there have been many tense periods in history in which the threat of a nuclear attack strongly existed.  None of these were scarier than the Cuban Missile Crisis.  For thirteen days in October of 1962, the Soviet Union had nuclear missiles positioned on the island of Cuba, aimed at the United States.  Citizens of the US and Cuba were terrified that a nuclear war might start between the two countries and the Soviet Union, culminating in the death of millions of people.

Living through the Cuban Missile Crisis was stressful enough, but it was even more so for Rita Kalish and Georgina Pallerols Thompson.  Rita went into labor on October 27, 1962, and gave birth to her daughter Janet one day later, the last day of the Crisis.  Georgina gave birth to her daughter Alicia one day later.  Coincidentally, Janet and Alicia met at Hamilton College and remain close friends to this day.  Rita and Georgina met and their daughters’ graduation, and spoke about their similar circumstances 21 years earlier that occurred 1500 miles apart.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVCIX4iwLQQ&feature=youtu.be

This here is a video I created for the MMJ class on Meet the Pros.

During the spring semester at Westchester Community College, there was an event called "Meet the Pros" where to great journalists named Melissa Turley and Allison Shelley were there to explain their experience on what they saw visiting the countries that they did and how it impacted them in thoughtful ways and yet sad. I found it really cool.

http://pulitzercenter.org/blog/Westchester-Community-College-Allison-Shelley-Melissa-Turley-Nepal-Chaupadi-South-Africa-Gender-Equality-Sexuality

http://pulitzercenter.org/people/melissa-turley

http://pulitzercenter.org/people/allison-shelley

Meet The Pros: International Reporting on Women and Children in Crisis

On April 25^th, 2013, Westchester Community College hosted a conference put on by the Pulitzer Center called Meet The Pros. Meet The Pros featured two journalists; Melissa Turley, a former student fellow from George Washington University, and Allison Shelley, a photojournalist. Both women traveled across the globe to report on women and children in situations of crisis.

We here at Westchester Community College appreciate them taking the time to come and present their stories.

Meet the Pros: International Reporting Stories

 On Thursday April 25th, I attended the annual Meet the Pros event at Westchester Community College. And there spoke Melissa Turley and Allison Shelley about women's and children's crisis in other countries. Melissa is a student reporter that went to Africa to cover a story on women's rights and Allison Shelly went to India, and Nepal to cover a story on chaupadi. Which were both very interesting topics.

If you want to learn more: 
http://pulitzercenter.org/blog/Westchester-Community-College-Allison-Shelley-Melissa-Turley-Nepal-Chaupadi-South-Africa-Gender-Equality-Sexuality

After Thought of the Pulitzer Experience

Pulitzer is a program that allows young, enthusiastic students to go out and explore the under reported news around the the world. Some stories have been heard of but luckily in our own Westchester Community College "Meet the Pros" students alike were allowed to take a look at the crisis going on in Haiti, India, Nepal, and Africa.

Allison Shelley and Melissa Turley, have done reports that are informative and instructive as to what people can do to make a difference. Professor Eric Luther of Westchester Community College shared with everyone how important it is to stay informed with international crisis. This event sparked interest in many students, at the very least created a bit of curiosity. Professor Luther was interviews briefly on how people should care. He makes a point hat there are just too many things to care about in this world. Journalists have to do the hardest job and that is to find a connection between their story and the people reading it. 

For individuals that would like to be a journalist, Professor Luther tats "You need to be curious, dependable, and interested." If you feel you possess all those qualities then journalism is the career for you.

Devon thinks she's ready for the challenge. As Devon begins to answer more and more questions of her soon to be journey, she becomes nervous and anxious. Almost as if she had a realization of how much research and preparation is needed in order to have a successful visit to Ireland and take notes. She was humble, grateful, and just a bundle of joy to speak with, especially when it comes to things she is passionate about. As Devon prepares herself to go to Ireland the members of Pulitzer Organization are patiently waiting  to hear, view, and read of her experience. 

Pultizer- http://pulitzercenter.org/

Allison in Nepal- http://pulitzercenter.org/reporting/nepal-chaupadi-women-religion-periods-reproductive-health-allison-shelley-picture-show

Melissa Turley- http://pulitzercenter.org/reporting/south-africa-gender-inequality-womens-rights-sexual-acceptance

The Development of Yonkers

From Broken down buildings to rising crime rates, Yonkers has held an undenible name for itself. History has travelled a midst through the city from museums to trollys and the river itself. Although Yonkers has had its fare share of turmoil, it has truely developed. Construction has taken place, devloping breathtaking sceneries and an enjoyable town for all who live and intend to visit. The nightlife and resturant life has bloomed and has attracted much more positive things. Yonkers isn't perfect but, soon it has become a place to enjoy and grow.

Hilltop Hanover Farm

On April 19th, 2013 three students from Westchester Community College visited Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown Heights, NY. The students learned about things like crop planting, irrigation, and information about greenhouses. We were also informed about the "Center for Green Living and Professional Training." The program has three different courses which are the following.  

Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture & Soil Science This core course is the “nuts and bolts” of our new agricultural program. Students will learn the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture. Topics covered will include: basic principles of organic vegetable production, plant selection and propagation, soil management practices, cultivation strategies, and harvest/post-harvest crop handling. Upon completion, students should be able to construct a plan for their own market garden. CE-GRDN 2024, 4 Tues., June 4-25, 5:30-8:30 pm, Barn F, $300. M Fedison. #5920 Elective Courses:Food JusticeDiscuss historical and current concepts regarding food justice. Food justice is a broad subject which includes the ideals that all people should have the opportunity to purchase affordable and nutritious food, inequalities in food access should be eliminated, food production systems should be transparent, and that government food policy should seek to benefit all people. Topics include changes in the American diet, emergence of food deserts, movements to bring living wages to farm workers, impact of genetically modified organisms, and actions to promote food justice in our own communities. CE-NUTR 2007, 3 Tues., July 2-16, 5:30-8:30 pm, Barn F, $225. M Fedison. #6117Community Service/Farming PracticumAfter completing the core requirements and electives of the certificate program in sustainable vegetable production, students are eligible to begin the community service and farming practicum portion. Please call Mike at Hilltop Hanover (845-803-0472) to register and reserve your spot. CE-GRDN 2045, 9 Sat., June 15-Aug. 10, 8:00-11:00 am. Barn F, FREE.

If your interested or want more information contact Hilltop Hanover Farm at http://www.hilltophanoverfarm.org/

Fresh Vegetables and Classes in Farming

Westchester Community College and Hilltop Hanover Farm have recently collaborated to provide a certificate in sustainable vegetable production.  The program focuses on environmentally sound, community-based small-farm practices.  The classes provided include plant disease management, sustainable crop production, basic farm maintenance, greenhouse design and plant propagation, agricultural business and marketing, and soil science.  These courses would be beneficial to any individual who has interest in growing plants for their own consumption or as a business venture.  Farmers markets have become very popular and give a potential market for people to sell the goods they produce.

The certificate requires forty five hours of core courses, eighteen hours of elective courses, and sixteen hours of community service.  The community service and the classes are held at Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown Heights, New York.  The farm and its bucolic setting are open to the public daily.  They offer children's programs, cooking classes, hiking trails, and volunteer opportunities.

Hilltop Hanover Farm was purchased by Weschester County in 2003 for agricultural preservation, drinking water protection, and the promotion of environmental stewardship.  The farm in total is 187 acres and is managed by cooperative agreement by the Friends of Hilltop Hanover Farm and Environmental Center.  They offer a U-Pick program as well as a farm stand that is open to the the public every Friday and Saturday from 10Am to 4PM.  They also donate the produce to local food pantries and home bound seniors for free.  In 2010 they donated 4 tons of produce to these great programs.

Visit the farm to purchase your fresh produce, go for a hike, or to observe a working agricultural farm.  Check out their website to find out more information or if your interested in the certification program you can register online through Westchester Community College.

Hilltop Hanover Farm      www.hilltophanoverfarm.org

Register Online       www.sunywcc.edu/ce

Launching Life: Pregnancy During the Cuban Missile Crisis

            The Cuban Missile Crisis launched fear that struck the minds of people, both Cuban and American.  Being responsible for bringing new life into the world, during this time, was one of the scariest positions to be in.  Georgina Pallerols found herself in that exact position while living in Cuba in 1962.  Rita Kalish was in the same position, but in the United States.  A dramatic thirteen days led to years of friendship for the children of Georgina and Rita.  Janet Kalish and Alicia Rodriguez met in college, realized that what they had in common was unique, and have been close friends ever since.

enjoy the following link for some more information and facts about the Cuban Missile Crisis

http://www.jfklibrary.org/JFK/JFK-in-History/Cuban-Missile-Crisis.aspx

Meet the Pros Presentation

On April 26th, 2013, Westchester Community College held their annual Meet the Pro's presentation in the Pulitzer Center. Our journalism class was lucky enough to attend the event and learn from some of the best of the best. Featured above are interviews with Meet the Pros presenter Melissa Turley and my professor, Eric Luther. The both of them provide great insight to those interested in following a path in journalism. Additionally, they explain why multimedia journalism is such an effective way of presenting a story.

Meet the Pros: A WCC Journalism Seminar

Meet the Pros: A WCC Journalism Seminar

On Thursday, April 25 2013, I attended an International Reporting on Women and Children in Crisis. The report was lead by both Allison Shelley and Melissa Turley. Allison Shelley is a documentary reporter and multimedia creator and former staff photographer for the Washington Times. Currently, she focuses primarily on maternal health issues. Melissa Turley was the features editor of The GW Hatchet and has reported from South Africa as the 2012 Pulitzer Center Campus Consortium International Reporting Student. The two reporters shared their experiences while visiting third world countries such as India, Haiti, and Africa.

See the following link for more information.

http://pulitzercenter.org/blog/Westchester-Community-College-Allison-Shelley-Melissa-Turley-Nepal-Chaupadi-South-Africa-Gender-Equality-Sexuality

Meet the Pros: You're a Journalist First

Journalism Students at Westchester Community College were invited to an annual Meet the Pros event, where they got a chance to listen to the compelling stories that Allison Shelley and Melissa Turley covered overseas. After Shelley and Turley talked about their experiences, students had lots of questions. They both explained that it was not easy covering these heart-gripping stories, but as journalists, they had to remember that they were doing their jobs. The event had a great turnout, and it was only possible because of the students.

Two Sides: The Cuban Missile Crisis

The Cuban Missile Crisis was a thirteen day confrontation between the United States and Cuba in October of 1962. It is talked about as the moment in which the Cold War came closest to turning into nuclear conflict. This short video proves that it is possible to have the same fears and questions know matter what side you are on. At the end of the day, people have more in common then you think.

Published by: Kasey Heyda

MEET THE PROS

As students enter college many life choices are made. Fortunately there are opportunities that offer an experience that can help jump start a career choice. The Pulitzer Center offers an amazing chance for one student to pick an international topic they would like to report on and execute it.  Many students at the Westchester Community College in Valhalla participated but only one student was chosen. The college provided the students with an assembly that gave them the chance to "Meet the Pros" and ask questions.

The 2 women who volunteered to speak to the students at Westchester Community College talked about their experience and key elements to follow their path. They provided the students with many information, including slideshows from their own personal experience with journalism. There was also plenty of opportunity for students to ask questions of their own as well as interact with each of the speakers.

MEET THE PROS

Anyone who knows anything about Journalism knows about the Pulitzer Center. It is an organization that honors top journalist and also provides funding to people to do stories. Westchester Community College brought some people from the Pulitzer center to campus to talk to us. 2 of the women you will see in the video did stories in various parts of the world paid for by the Pulitzer centers grant money. These women found and discussed stories about issues that many people have never even heard of. The Pulitzer center was key to these women being able to do what they wanted to do.

MEET THE PROS

Shannon - I went ahead and published this because I was having a problem with videos disappearing if they were published off campus. You can easily continue to edit this even though it's published. Just look for either the pencil icon or the "EDIT" link in/around your post.

Thanks - Prof. Luther

MEET THE PROS - here you'll find the information you need to prepare for Thursday's presentations.