weekly

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By Karen Grabowski and Scott Leadingham May
28, 2009
SPJ Communications Department
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START YOUR ENGINES - AND GET GOING TO INDY
Few would contest that now - more than ever - is the time for journalists to convene,
join forces and forge ahead. After all, when the going gets tough, the tough get
going! So with that bit of motivation, get going to the 2009 SPJ Convention &
National Journalism Conference http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHaUeVxbmr-mwnY07doF98ryODYYf7iGpmCcYS8FZSbAY1oEwNmwHs3gNPDjidl2qP96Dhdv3TpMFq82CPpUrWx2EI6qRZk2fb4iLYccwiHgpRUg35A2jt9u
Aug. 27-30 in Indianapolis. Register now http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHYKhBDFx3xMVwJUj0MA6Her-cA8x8QfBhbjN4joYMZA5ea9p3BdID8OBmONjTc99E2G2S8zOJ32K8gRyBcUZHOV3lLeL-BttRBwfQXCJkbfhjZ_INoUH-YZ
so you don't miss all the career, networking and learning opportunities.
From informational programs to dynamic speakers, there is something for everyone.
In fact, no matter where you are in your career - a student just starting out or
a seasoned vet of the newsroom - a six-step program for career success http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHY7EFCzgMjXDsE0oD_8IWz-0RY__XlFR7gDtuYZSZsS6CoF1DTGZJvpIFrX0-FyQZ3Mtl5Yl78AQW5nMFXipVHQ4gh7zBKfvWMt5hyWXpzgZw==
is available, and it includes a complimentary massage. But more than that, the program
offers sessions that focus on enhancing journalists' skills and preparedness for
the future. A dozen practical, career-related professional development sessions
will have you leaving the convention armed and ready for everything in store in
journalism's future.
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NOMINATE YOUR WATCHDOG FOR THE PULLIAM AWARD
The Founding Fathers viewed the basic freedoms guaranteed in the First Amendment
not as a luxury, but as a necessity. Thomas Jefferson once claimed, "A democracy
cannot be both ignorant and free," and we at SPJ and the Sigma Delta Chi Foundation
wholeheartedly agree as defenders and advocates for free speech. James Madison's
immortal words continue to be upheld and defended by ardent watchdogs in and out
of the journalism community. That is why the Foundation funds the Eugene S. Pulliam
First Amendment Award http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHZPAR2GbUwhdvHTT6c1lXecoc9G8J7LhFyxIrBlYd00IfzNWt2gKVORqgw99syh10sXUYYASsPwS24MVudW_yv7T49wOsSLkdyB72RwfcUXDG8n4OjxpYc3]
for efforts of a group or an individual. The award honors those who have fought
to protect and defend the First Amendment and all its components. With a prize of
$10,000, the recognition is truly a prestigious honor and will be presented during
the 2009 SPJ Convention. Transportation and lodging is provided for the winners.
Submit nominations by July 1. See the SPJ Web site http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHZPAR2GbUwhdvHTT6c1lXecoc9G8J7LhFyxIrBlYd00IfzNWt2gKVORqgw99syh10sXUYYASsPwS24MVudW_yv7T49wOsSLkdyB72RwfcUXDG8n4OjxpYc3
for complete details and an application.
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LDF_logo http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHY2vi5nw5HlXBNxCu6XnRIFhgGEOBzDBgk1r_cyNyushXJu0FHj-iLBCefMdiMq9Gzyb9VL1opCEx4yY13DVnoT_FshnV3ycUV-urXRGOmCBQ==

GRAB GOODS BEFORE THE GAVEL FALLS
Don't miss your chance to bid for amazing items, network with hundreds of journalists
and support the Legal Defense Fund http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHY2vi5nw5HlXBNxCu6XnRIFhgGEOBzDBgk1r_cyNyushXJu0FHj-iLBCefMdiMq9Gzyb9VL1opCEx4yY13DVnoT_FshnV3ycUV-urXRGOmCBQ== all
at the same time. During the Opening Night Reception at the Convention, attendees
will be able to bid at both a live and silent auction for journalism and campaign
memorabilia, original artwork, autographed books, tear sheets and more! Proceeds
will help the Legal Defense Fund continue to provide journalists with legal or
direct financial assistance. Donations for the auction must be received by July
31, 2009. Click here http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHZhYsjw3AU3w9EjPPcrCfsvxZ5o3LPbtbefcraYe86vBr76A2PvLLrSlkSEKPJWJ7wPfRyu_GKvzrLX1bmSu-TpQNF30-Cjo_JLvCV5n8TGAAJjn2Mamve4 for
more details on how to donate and how to win. If you have questions, please contact
Awards Coordinator Lauren Rochester by email lrochester@spj.org or by phone
at 317-927-8000 x 210.
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SPJ MEMBERS: YOUR OPINION COUNTS
Current SPJ members are encouraged to offer comments on the members and professionals
nominated for honors such as the Sunshine Award, Ethics in Journalism Award and
Helen Thomas Lifetime Achievement Award. The awards will be presented during the
President's Installation Banquet at the Convention. Log on to SPJ.org to see the
nominees and offer your thoughts. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHZONucq2dSjmMsA8yO8gEZeAhl6by9TcQ3Z8tWvVG_BzgJT14bgXNN-vZia_MpEzks-hx4-sXeHnxGxhSyqXB6Fzk-Xeju_uXh-9Y_deCgEa0VoVRwFbf_ev-dViMZB0G4=
(Note: Requires username and password. For your security, SPJ staff does not have
access to forgotten passwords.)
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Dollar http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHbPN-DZ6xh1_NqqD2N2QenrbKA5HZK2dDo688r6OvptOWSEuuNBfeazFITQC6XdDjDXYjGDh_wrCAvqvAv8myuiWcuvweBtW3g=

INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE
Take the next step in your career with us. SPJ's Job Bank http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHbPN-DZ6xh1_NqqD2N2QenrbKA5HZK2dDo688r6OvptOWSEuuNBfeazFITQC6XdDjDXYjGDh_wrCAvqvAv8myuiWcuvweBtW3g= has
expanded to give its members an even greater benefit. By partnering with an outside
company, Boxwood Technology, all SPJ members can now post résumés and career profiles.
These profiles are accessible to registered employers and recruiters who are seeking
candidates. No matter what your current career stage may be, posting your information
in our secure database can give you an upper hand in this ever-changing career climate.
Click here to get started. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHbPN-DZ6xh1_NqqD2N2QenrbKA5HZK2dDo688r6OvptOWSEuuNBfeazFITQC6XdDjDXYjGDh_wrCAvqvAv8myuiWcuvweBtW3g=
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15 SECONDS OF SPJ FAME
Actually, for three minutes and 58 seconds, SPJ Region 6 Director Gordon Govier
captured his firsthand experience of the SPJ Centennial Celebration on video and
shared it on YouTube. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHYMAJr7oyKPT2GGoNN7OfZAWmGn2pfnnokxqrtLnfJONfaRJL6bI8IakISy890OYn2E--9XKv0k7wplUDKMh7R-XGETq-lYD_1bjP6UXh0REQwdwE8cviJKnmG4g2euxGaP7jJ1yCtj7Q==
A long-time radio guy, Gordon's first video editing experience not only highlights
different events that took place, but also includes an interview with current SPJ
President Dave Aeikens. We at SPJ Headquarters applaud Gordon and hope all members
will try their hand at something new and share with us their SPJ adventures! Don't
hesitate to send us your videos or pictures of SPJ events. kgrabowski@spj.org
Disclaimer: We will be proud, and you may find yourself, as Gordon has, right here
in Leads.
Remember, you can review other video of the April 17 Centennial Celebration, including
Jane Pauley's full keynote, at the SPJ Web site. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHYUigputVM9iuxADMFRnYNxHfvN5056i_C_mrJ_gHLoZ4nLQh1BYbSvXJYHt584mdckxld7YEVzX9zs7IUkxcdzVtHiOUOhWNismcpYQGJsaj5jU65VfT-6
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ON EDITORS AND ULCERS
Your editor may be a friend, confidant, mentor or source of ulcers. But all writers
and reporters know the value of a thoughtful and challenging editor. Too often,
though, editors stay behind the scenes, foregoing recognition for work that is indeed
collaborative. If your editor inspires you and your work, consider nominating him
or her for the 2009 Mimi Award from the Dart Society. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHadcQJNZ4repO5sGDFSgUv8R4w6CGzPKZXh6zjOglzrkuiYYg5ti5BO_DsBx63NCYOk6P5jM-7hGleX18cHIfXamUFetSH3_9T1HtHJsXQqdF_aQ9hKos-l
The award, which carries a $1,000 cash prize, is named for Mimi Burkhardt, an editor
for The Providence Journal who died in 2004. Nominations are due June 1. The award
presentation will take place Aug. 28 at the Dart Society Reunion and Symposium in
Indianapolis, held in conjunction with the SPJ Convention. Get the award criteria
and nomination forms at the Dart Society Web site. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHadcQJNZ4repO5sGDFSgUv8R4w6CGzPKZXh6zjOglzrkuiYYg5ti5BO_DsBx63NCYOk6P5jM-7hGleX18cHIfXamUFetSH3_9T1HtHJsXQqdF_aQ9hKos-l
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PLAYFUL MUSINGS
That newspapers are dying is only a half-truth according to Roanoke Times editor
Carole Tarrant. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHYuFn2T4OtyGQO9vBACvzjDpWKJhuKWNKegGG349yJypNgfyWfNVsne1ErsAH6C-3t0dQr75t0RhE9dDtmJRj8oBXTv911fDDHdtcgqF6D96JMXuzKEAUNNSYVbEyyC_WCVLpEDu6LHECA7EaN7rXoc
It's true that the closing, downsizing or financial struggles of papers in Denver,
Seattle, Minneapolis and Philadelphia, among others, yield a dire outlook for the
state of print journalism. But, says Tarrant, the reasons for paper closings and
troubled outlooks " ... are unique to each market." Mid-size and small market papers,
she argues, are less plagued by the debt loads of larger companies. Leading and
anchoring her column are correlations to "State of Play," the political and journalism
murder mystery starring Russell Crowe. In the end, it's the lessons of the movie
that sum up Tarrant's argument: the fundamentals of journalism, and the need to
keep politicians in check, remain extremely necessary.
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WINNING IS EVERYTHING
Despite what your little league baseball coach told you, winning IS everything,
at least when it comes to the weekly Leads quiz.
Last week's question: When visiting Indianapolis for the SPJ Convention, Aug. 27-30,
you might bump into a plaque commemorating the location of what iconic singer's
last concert? Plus, what was the venue?
It wasn't John Denver, James Brown, Kurt Cobain or Freddie Mercury, the favorite
departed musicians of the SPJ staff. No, it was the King himself, Elvis Presley,
who performed his last concert in Market Square Area on June 26, 1977. It's not
clear whether Matt Repino, a Penn State University student, prefers 70s gospel or
90s grunge. But one thing is certain: He was bored enough to submit an answer. And
that's the most important point.
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THIS WEEK'S QUIZ
Maybe you're bored enough to answer this glaring question: While celebrating the
100th anniversary of SPJ during the Convention, you can also mark the centennial
year of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. But auto racing isn't the only sport that
takes place there. The speedway is also a notable venue for what sport?
Submit your answer to Karen Grabowski. [mailto:kgrabowski@spj.org] One lucky person
will have his or her answer selected at random from among all the correct submissions.
Submissions need not accompany a $10,000 money order, but it certainly can't hurt
your chances.
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SDX Awards_2009 http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHYKiH37WU6jSibNy774PQp-_lVK-iAQ_C-7XwHE5Kgr2iFfTULdhAXUmoOvJJ47MS7fpfHHQuhiHTekpb2bqQMb_RlImnoz0jnnaamCJ7rUvMMZHmyOWDMb
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QUICK LINKS

Pulliam First Amendment Award http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHZPAR2GbUwhdvHTT6c1lXecoc9G8J7LhFyxIrBlYd00IfzNWt2gKVORqgw99syh10sXUYYASsPwS24MVudW_yv7T49wOsSLkdyB72RwfcUXDG8n4OjxpYc3
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tower_journalismtraining http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102594229589&s=6365&e=001TkGsA0AaLHbzImKfqs8vSdIAjZucnBphn8t6Y7xEEhvzuOLz0kysNIf6gADeukuHjb5Da96DW4tKY_1s5sIuXemVder1zIxlD_4zcIwIjJPQpQmEQScCE42tXd69GpH4]
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Thanks for reviewing "SPJ Leads." Send items of 100 words or fewer by 3 p.m. Eastern
time every Monday
to leads@spj.org. [mailto:leads@spj.org] SPJ Leads is looking for items pertaining
to all things SPJ: program ideas, local chapter
and member needs, job leads and chapter accomplishments.

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