Does anyone have any stories concerning misquoting or errors in reporting that makes a newspaper article incorrect or the subject of reporting seem very bizarre. My wife is periodically involved with culural organizations and dreads newspaper reporter's questions. Although she has perfect English speach (by Canadian standards), direct quotes, as reported, often make her look like a high school dropout. Can she provide a prepared text? That wouldn't be ethical. In a moment of delerium, I was once running for political office. In an expression of support for the party leader I used a negative in my phrasing, which somehow turned into a lack of support. It was predestined that I lose the nomination but I was not pleased with the reporting. I find that there are a few very good reporters and a lot who have advanced to the level of their incompetence.
Yes, I have a lot of experience with the press, and a lot of experience trying to dig my way out of the trouble caused by misquotes. I am not talking small misquotes. I am talking ones where I seriously questioned if it was me who was there and not someone else. I am convinced most journalists already know what their story is and how they want to present it before they come to you, and thus are just looking for you to say something close enough to reaffirm their take.
it seems to be intentional I am running for office in a small county. The local paper is republican, I'm a democrat. I wrote a letter to the editor supporting "mentoring" programs. Every place I used mentoring, it was replaced by "mentioning". Sort of change the whole meaning. Made either me or the paper look like a goof. All the best!
How true! Several years ago when the president and congress disagreed over the budget, the government was unfunded, causing, among other things, that federal parks and monuments be closed. A friend of mine was vacationing and went to a federal monument (I don't remember which) that was closed. He was approached by a TV news crew who spent a few minutes explaining to him that his family couldn't visit the monument because of the big, bad Republicans. The reporter then turned on the camera and asked something along the lines of "Aren't you angry that because of the Republicans your family can't visit the monument?" He responded "No. I'm glad that they're being fiscally responsible and not visiting the monument is a small price to pay for that." The reporter turned off the camera and again explained to him how the Republicans were ruining his family's vacation. When the reporter thought he would get the answer he was looking for, the camera was turned back on and the question was asked again. My friend stuck to his guns. After another round of this charade, the reporter gave up and went to wait for a tourist that would be willing to support his point of view. My conclusion? There are many journalists who seek to shape the news rather than report it. mayer
yet another reason to watch fox news Dan Blather and Co are so far to the left it isnt even funny Read Bias by Bernard Goldberg
Says who? I've had a little experience with being quoted/misquoted. I see nothing wrong with providing reporters with a text of a speech or with a handout that summarizes main points and provides key statistics, evidence, contact info for further information. It's a little more assurance that your message will be accurately reported.
too late to change parties I'm afraid the petitions are in. It is a little late to change parties. However, I would accept a republican draft. LoL All the best!
