Riverdale Runs Short

A local newspaper for a town called Riverdale falls short in its article titled "Trick -or- Treat at Riverdale." Although this article does give information about the event of the yearly Halloween parade and trick-or-treat event at the local shopping center, the structure and quality of writing falls short from being professional. One major improvement that this article could use is a catchy quote or two to add a sense of interest about the event. The final paragraph is rather disappointing in its attempt to wrap everything up and end on a good note. Instead, the last sentences seem to make the impression that there is more to be said and that it is not complete. The use of visual images from the event are helpful and assist with evidence of the facts being stated. Overall, it is acceptable for a small, local newspaper story but as a whole it is not extraordinary.

To view the article: http://abcnewspapers.com/2012/10/31/trick-or-treat-at-riverdale/

Uncovering the Unfortunate Truth

Reading up on all of the current political happenings as the election draws near has really opened my eyes to certain issues that have been unseen before. The recession has been such a major problem in the U.S. for quite some time now. This downfall has spread its negativity to a variety of people, affecting so many in numerous ways. I stumbled upon this article about hunger and how children are major victims, especially since the economic turn. The reporter does a story on a single family and interviews the children and mother, asking questions about how they deal with life everyday in the constant struggle to find nourishment. Emotional impact is most definitely the stylistic route taken by the writer, which is a good decision based on the sensitivity of the subject. The content of this story is shocking and sad, yet informative of how people have been having to deal with such difficult situations. 

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504103_162-5066474.html?tag=contentBody;cbsCarousel

Sports Writing Makes the Goal

White enjoying the sights New York City has to offer.
 He won this trip in an essay contest in 2010.

What is the perfect career for an N.C. State student with a passion for sports and writing? Chris White knows.

Planning to graduate in May of 2014, White is a junior majoring in sports management with a minor in journalism. He hopes to land an internship with either the Durham Bulls or the Hurricanes to assist in his aspiring career of becoming a sports writer.

“I am originally from Durham so it would be a great opportunity to be able to work with a local team,” White said last week.

Not only is White preparing for his career by taking writing and sports management classes, but he also has a blog titled “Reflections,” which is updated frequently.  He writes about a variety of topics including music, movies, politics, and of course, sports.

“My blog is great practice for what I want to do in the future and I get to have fun while doing it,” he said.

Throughout the months of summer when school is out of session, White puts his passion to practice by working at his local Baptist church as a camp counselor. He has been a counselor at the Grey Stone Baptist Church Summer Camp for five years after he spent time volunteering in the program and being a camper as a child. White is able to play different sports with the kids and interact through many fun activities.

“I love being able to work with kids," White said. "It gives me a chance to broaden my experiences in the world of sports." “Basketball is a camp favorite that never gets old.”

As the school year continues, White stays hard at work on the path to finishing his degree. He is keeping an open mind for future careers after graduation, but sports writing is his number one choice.

“I have always kept the options of coaching, sports medicine, or even being an agent in the back of my head,” he said. “As long as my job has something to do with sports, I’ll be happy.”