News Writing Samples

News Writing Independant Study MCOM Jacqueline Fitzgerald

A collection of news articles written

by Fitzgerald during her academic career.

Some of the works have been published online and others have been placed in local state magazines.

This short portfolio displays Fitzgerald’s ability to research, interview and write articles.

Spring Semester 2011

Table of Contents Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Concept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 National Guard Articles . . . . . . . . . 5 North Dakota Flood . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Ag-Bio Communications . . . . . . . . 13 Blog Entries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Introduction My life experiences in the South Dakota Army National Guard have placed me on an unique academic level. I went to Fort Meade, Maryland to attend the Defense Information School for my Advanced Individual Training for the guard.

I have collected some copies of the articles I have written over the past few years as an Army journalist. Although most of my official training with the military was based on video broadcast writting I have done a lot of print work as well.

Over the summer in 2008 I travled to Suriname, South America for guard orders. While there me and one other Soldier were the only two in charge of public affiars work. We wrote stories, performed interviews, and took pictures. Many of our stories were published on national websites.

Along with my guard work I also included some of my other works including ppress releases I wrote while working for the Ag-Bio Communication Department at SDSU. This portfolio is a short example of the type of writing I am capable of creating. It showcases some of my articles that have been published online for national websites as well as other articles that have been accepted for my blog site.

In addition to the writing examples I also worked on an online guard course that focuses on print journalist witing techniques. The course went over some of the principles and techniques of the industry.

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Concept Up-Right Pyrimid This style of writing is used for feature stories, fluff pieces and long articles. The writer slowly introduces information in the story and uses the details to draw in the reader. The up-right pyrimid style makes it intreging to read but it is tough to edit since the important information is thrown in throughout the story. Not ideal for news writing form.

Inverted Pyrimid The news writing style follows the inverted pyrimid model. In this set up the important facts are all given up front to the reader so he/she knows what’s going on. As the article continues more details are introduced to explain what happened but less vital information falls at the end of the story. This makes it easy for editors to cut the story so it fits into spaces in publications. The inverted pyrimid style is used for news writing.

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National Guard Articles South Dakota National Guard

Public Affairs Office 2823 West Main St. Rapid City, S.D. 57702

Phone 605-737-6721 E-mail PAO@sd.ngb.army.mil July 7, 2008 PAO 07-07-08

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Opening ceremony conducted for Beyond the Horizon 2008

By Sgt. Theanne Tangen and Pfc. Jacqueline Fitzgerald 129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment South Dakota Army National Guard

ZANDERIJ, Suriname – Officials from the United States and Suriname gathered for the opening ceremony for the Beyond the Horizon 2008 exercise Monday, June 30, at the Jan Starke Opleiding-en Ontspannings Centrum near Zanderij.

Beyond the Horizon encompasses construction projects, medical, dental, and veterinary services offered to thousands of Surinamers at no cost in various districts. The humanitarian operation will take place between June and September 2008 in partnership between the Suriname and U.S. governments.

U.S. Ambassador Lisa Bobbie Schreiber Hughes said she was excited to see thousands of Surinamers, from Paramaribo to Brokopondo, getting cooperative health care.

In the districts of Nickerie, Coronie, Commewijne and Marowijne, free basic medical care and free basic dental treatment will be offered to the local community, while in Para and Brokopondo the emphasis will be on dental care, she added.

The Beyond the Horizon 2008 exercise is completely financed by the U.S. and is a result of the friendly relations between the two countries. The exercise also takes place in conjunction with the National Guard State Partnership Program between Suriname and the state of South Dakota, which began in 2006. South Dakota Army National Guardsmen from the 153rd Engineer Battalion and the 155th Engineer Company will conduct renovation projects at three school locations and three medical clinics in support of the exercise.

“The mission is all about working together on this cooperative project,” said Ambassador Hughes. “We do not want to do things for you (Suriname), but with you.”

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South Dakota National Guard Public Affairs Office 2823 West Main St. Rapid City, S.D. 57702 Phone 605-737-6721 E-mail PAO@sd.ngb.army.mil July 21, 2008 PAO 07-21-08

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

South Dakota leadership visit Suriname Story by Pfc. Jacqueline Fitzgerald 129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment South Dakota Army National Guard

PARAMARIBO, Suriname – Leaders from the South Dakota National Guard and S.D. State Department spent three days visiting Suriname officials from July 14-17, to help familiarize themselves with the country’s military operations, tourism industry and to visit SDNG service members conducting engineering projects.

Maj. Gen. Steven R. Doohen, adjutant general, Brig. Gen. Keith W. Corbett, assistant adjutant general, and other leadership from the South Dakota National Guard, along with Richard Brenda, S.D. secretary of the Department of Tourism and State Development met with Lisa Bobbie Schreiber Hughes, U.S./Suriname ambassador, and Clifford Marica, Suriname minister of defense, to discuss way to improve the interactions between Suriname and S.D. “The embassy is working with Suriname to line up more direct flights to the U.S. Maybe some of the things we do in the state partnership can help affect that goal,” said Doohen.

The State Partnership Program’s purpose is to increase military, government, and civilian interactions between the U.S. and foreign partner nations. This was the first time most of the officials had been to Suriname since it was established in August 2006. 2008 is the first year the SDNG has had the opportunity to be actively supporting engineering projects in Suriname. The projects included improvements and renovation of three medical clinics and three schools all located in or near the capitol city of Paramaribo.

“The trip gave us an opportunity to reestablish relationships with the people of Suriname as well as see our great South Dakota Soldiers doing humanitarian work here,” said Corbett.

Employers gain experience and understanding on Bosslift FORT HOOD, TEXAS – It was more than just another day in the office for twenty-four South Dakota employers.

Instead of starting the day off with a cup of coffee followed with a normal routine, these individuals gathered at the South Dakota Air National Guard’s Joe Foss Field in Sioux Falls where they prepared for an opportunity to see their employees who also work for Uncle Sam. These employers participated in an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Bosslift May 19-20, taking them from Sioux Falls to Fort Hood, Texas.

“The ESGR Bosslift transports employers from their work place to military training sites where they observe the type and quality of training their employees receive,” said Capt. Lona Christensen, ESGR executive director.

Before boarding a KC-135 Stratotanker military aircraft, Christensen briefed the employers on ESGR, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and the advantages of hiring National Guard and Reserve members.

“The Bosslift is one of the best things we do at ESGR,” said Don Kelpin, ESGR state chairman. “It’s a winwin situation for the Guardsmen, the employers and ESGR. We recruit volunteers and receive positive feedback through this event.”

Kelpin added the employers gain a greater appreciation for what the Citizen-Soldier does, and servicemembers are reassured knowing their employers are supporting them.

The group members all have employees in the South Dakota Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 147th Field Artillery, at Fort Hood, Texas, who are currently preparing for mobilization.

The employers traveled to Texas to gain a better understanding of what their employees do when they are fulfilling their military obligations. They saw where the Soldiers live, eat and train, and had the opportunity to participate in some of the training.

Employers also observed the leadership skills Citizen-Soldiers gain from their military training to be used during deployments that will be carried over to their civilian jobs upon their return.

“Going down to see what they do makes it real,” said Gary Schelske of Farmers Union Insurance in Menno.

“You get that picture of reality, and you understand exactly what these guys are doing while they’re away.”

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 147th Field Artillery, gave the group short classes on military vehicles, improvised explosive devices and weapons. Employers continued their military experience by firing on a military weapon simulator system. The system displays an electronic combat scenario similar to video games.

Employers dined on meals ready-to-eat (MREs) with their Soldiers, and wore full “battle rattle,” consisting of body armor, field packs and helmet.

“It was like a walk down memory lane for me,” said Tom Schmitt, the Brown County sheriff.

Schmitt deployed with the 740th Transportation Company during Operation Desert Storm. He currently employs Spc. Nate Smith, a member of Battery A, 1st Battalion, 147th Field Artillery, at the Brown County Sherriff’s Department in Aberdeen.

“Everything is completely different when you are on the other side of things,” said Schmitt. “I’m very proud of Nate.”

Not all of the employers had military experience in their backgrounds. This was the first exposure to the National Guard Leimomi Russell, manager at the Quality Inn in Mitchell, has experienced.

Russell said seeing her employee, Spc. Melinda Lauck, in the training environment really reflected her growing list of skills.

“Seeing her here, it’s like she’s a totally different person. Everything she does here is to help her survive,” said Russell. “The training is so different from her desk job at the hotel.”

Employers also signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve as a public proclamation of their support for their employees’ military service. Part of the statement reads: “In the highest American tradition, the patriotic men and women of the Guard and Reserve serve voluntarily in an honorable and vital profession. They train to respond to their community and their county in time of need.

They deserve the support of every segment of our society.”

“These employers are recognized as part of the Guard family,” said 1st Sgt. Terry Ching of Battery A, 1st Battalion, 147th Field Artillery. “To me that’s important for the community and the Soldiers to see.”

On the return flight, employers experienced a refueling mission and had the opportunity to watch the KC135 boom operator “pass gas” to a South Dakota Air National Guard F-16 Fighting Falcon multi-role fighter aircraft. By the time they landed, all of the employers had a new appreciation for the National Guard and its mission.

“These employers will become ambassadors in their communities,” said Maj. Gen. Steven R. Doohen, adjutant general for the South Dakota National Guard. “They will be able to speak on behalf of the National Guard and tell others what their neighbors are doing, and give insight people don’t always get to see on the news. We just want to tell [employers] how much we appreciate their sacrifices and dedication.”

North Dakota Flood

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(continued)

Ag-Bio Communications AGBIO COMMUNICATIONS UNIT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY Contact: Marjorie Zastrow, 605-626-7120

Extension worker suggests moisture meters to help prevent health issues caused by mold BROOKINGS, S.D. – As spring approaches many homes will again be dealing with high moisture issues, particularly those with basements. Moisture issues may be the result of seepage, or in some cases flooding, if there is a heavy snowfall and fast melt, or an amount of rain in a brief period of time.

South Dakota State University Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Marjorie Zastrow said it is important to regulate moisture percentage to reduce the growth of mold. Exposure to mold may cause health problems including cold-like symptoms, watery eyes, sore throat, wheezing and dizziness and trigger asthma attacks or irritate allergies. People of all ages can be affected by mold but young children, the elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to adverse environments contaminated with mold. Additionally, sensitivity to mold may become more apparent over repeated exposure.

A high humidity level is often noticed with the damp musty odor; the relative humidity can be measured by commercial gauges. Mold spores are inherent in the environment; given that with adequate moisture, that above 60%; as well as temperatures between 77-86’F mold growth is almost assured although mold can grow between the temperatures of 35-95’F. A dehumidifier is the most effective and efficient means to control humidity, and subsequently control mold growth. The size of the space and physical arrangement of area will affect if more than one dehumidifier is needed.

If you are building, remolding or renovating a basement the relative moisture content of the structure should be measured to assure that you are not providing a harbor for mildew to grow. Both wood and concrete are very porous and can have the apparent dryness, but in fact may contain a significant amount of moisture. Renovation too soon in areas with significant moisture can result in health issues for residents as result of mold growth.

Renovation to areas with a high moisture content may not only harbor mold, but also cause additional problems including poor adhesion of the materials replaced (blistering of finishes); materials may continue to move as they finish drying resulting in cosmetic cracking to plaster and paintwork; lifting and bubbling of vinyl floor coverings, etc.

Two models of moisture meters are available for loan from South Dakota State University though contact with your local extension service. The meters will be loaned out on a 24 hour basis with a deposit required.

The GE Mini Protimeter is used to test moisture content of wood, drywall and plaster; while the Tramex meter can be used for wood, plaster and drywall as well as block, brick and roofing. The Tramex, with its deep signal penetration it can detect elevated moisture levels through floor covering such as ceramic tile, drywall, carpet and such; it can be used to indicate the moisture content of cement, though not give a precise reading.

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Moisture content may vary from one location to another, so readings should be taken at several locations. The moisture content of wood before renovation is recommended should be 12 - 16% before drywall, paneling or other coverings is placed on the wood. The meters can provide a range of moisture in sheetrock; but, if the dehumidification process has begun, a more accurate moisture reading should be taken behind the sheetrock as the face of it may appear dry, while moisture is harbored behind.

The Tramex meter available for loan can be used to give an estimate of the moisture content of cement; a hygrometer must be used for a precise measure of moisture content of cement. To get an idea of the moisture content of cement and determine if flooring can be put down, several sources recommended a simple home test by taping down a 2 x 2 foot sheet of polyethylene plastic in an area not in direct sunlight, and laying a heavy blanket over the top for a period of a day or two. If condensation forms on the underside of the polyethylene the floor is too damp for laying vinyl or carpet with rubber underlay or backing. If the floor is too damp, remove the plastic and continue the dehumidification process. After the floor has allowed to dry, repeat this test; when the surface under the plastic is dry for a period of 2 - 3 days you may consider renovation at that time.

Further information on dealing with mold and other flood related information is available at your county Extension office or you may access the SDSU web site at: http://sdces.sdstate.edu/flood/.

References: “Restoring A House After Flood Damage”, Branz Bulletin, Number 455, ISSN 1170-8395, December 2004; “Molds In Your Home”, North Dakota State University, AE-1179; and Steve Pohl, SDSU Structures & Environment Extension Specialist.

South Dakota State University, South Dakota Counties and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating -- South Dakota State University as an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (Male/Female) and offers all benefits, services, education and employment opportunities without regard for ancestry, age, race, citizenship, color, creed, religion, gender, disability, national origin, sexual preference or Vietnam Era veteran Status.

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HOLM COLUMN BOTTOM Dr. Rick Holm wrote this editorial for “On Call®,” a weekly program about health on South Dakota Public Broadcasting-Television that is produced by the South Dakota Cooperative Extension Service. “On Call” airs Thursdays on South Dakota Public Broadcasting-Television at 7 p.m. Central, 6 p.m. Mountain.

Blog Entries http://www.examiner.com

College rodeo wraps up

April 25, 2011

Being college athletes is an honor to an elete few but the group that competes in the rodeo arena live an unique experience.

Through altering weather conditions and full course loads at school these college athletes take on a lot to compete at school. But according to Ron Skovly the head coach at South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD its a challenge the students take on and over come.

“They go to class all day, then practice in the arena, run out to do chores before dark, then head back to do homework,” said Skovly.

Teams from the Great Plains region are wrapping up their normal season and gearing up for the College National Finals Rodeo this summer.

While the season comes to a close two South Dakota schools are towards the top of the list. Both SDSU and Black Hills State University are seated in the top of the list. (See the chart to the right.)

Even though many teams are too far behind to catch up to thea leaders for this years national rodeo, young men and women still continue to ride. Passion drives them forward to prepare for what comes nexxt.

“Even though the season is over its important to always look forward to next year,” said Brandee Wardell, sophomore member of the SDSU Rodeo Team.

The CNFR is set for Casper, WY, starting on June 11th and runs through the 18th. Only the top two teams from each region compete at the national level.

“Our men’s team have a solid standing for moving to Casper,” said Skovly. “We also have a handful of individuals who should move forward in competition.”

Last year the SDSU Jackrabbit women’s team proved their worth on the national level. This year their coach believes the lower seating in the region will inspire the women to work harder in the future.

Rodeo in South Dakota is not a school sanctioned sport, meaning the school does not fund the team. Travel and lodging comes from the student athletes and through fundraisers.

The last chance points come in Dickinson, ND April 29th and 30th. Teams will be traveling up north for their final chances at points for their schools and themselves.

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SDSU celebrates National Ag Day

March 15, 2011

The campus at South Dakota State University was buzzing today with students sporting teal shirts and sharing random agriculture facts. Students in the Agriculture and Biological Sciences Department were out in full force promoting the ag industry and informing other students about the many positive features. T-shirts were ordered for all of the Ag. Bio. students and left overs were handed out to any students willing to support the cause.

Throughout the day ag advocates were explaining details about food production, fuel development and entertainment that all comes from farms and ranches. Some students traveled to a Brookings’ middle school to show kids how all parts of pizza come together from different areas of agriculture.

Others were involved with club booths set up across campus to spark interest for people in other college departments. The agronomy club, horticulture club, horse club and dairy club (to name just a few) were giving out ag samples. These samples ranged from cheese sticks and beef jerky to soybean chap-stick.

The day came to a close with a free Pork BBQ for the first 500 people. The meal drew in crowds to the west side of campus in the Animal Science Arena. Students had the opportunity to get together and eat while discussing the industry that provides us all with so much.

Demand rises cattle prices

March 31, 2011

The market for cattle prices have seen an increase over the past few weeks. It is a great time to be a producer looking to sell. Feeder steers were up to 900 lbs and sold at 4.00-6.00 higher than last week while feeder heifers climbed to 800 lbs and sold at 3.00-5.00 higher.

Hub City Livestock Auction at Aberdeen, S.D. had receipts of over 7,000 head on Wednesday, March 30th. Brownfield Ag News for America posted an article stating, “the sale had an excellent quality and a very active market.” Nebraska was also estimated to trade nearly 40,000 head at mostly $200.00 dressed. These prices were $10 - $15 higher than the previous week.

U.S. cattle futures spiked record highs as feed prices drop down from average numbers. Corn prices have declined sharply since early March and are just now leveling back out to match numbers from January. The sharp drop in corn early this spring helped ranchers out by lowering prices for livestock feed.

According to CattleNetwork.com, due to the natural disasters in Japan, the country’s imports of U.S. beef is up 286%. The events in Japan have become a bright spot for live cattle futures trade.

Other overseas affairs that are influencing the market include political unrest in North Africa and rude oil variations in the Middle East. Now, the devastating earthquake and tsunami put an increase into the growth in global demands.

South Dakota ranchers will be able to benefit from the friendly markets across the state during livestock sales. If you’re a producer looking for sales or are wanting to check on sales to boost your herd’s standings find an auction near you. One place to look into could be Midwestern Cattle Marketing, LLC online.

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