Feb 8, 2021
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It’s Not Me, It’s Totally You
The world doesn’t want to be saved, at least not the part of the world known as Phoenix, anyway. I’ve come to this conclusion through the research data and experience I’ve collected over the years. Just because I want something doesn’t mean everyone else does.
Since my epiphany I haven’t evolved. These’s no space for evolution in a downward spiral such as this one. I’ve merely adapted. I haven’t given up. I still believe in humanity with all its power and glory but I’ve also come to terms with reality. It’s a double edge sword. It’s a cruel world out there and I am no superhero.
Have you ever been in a 6 ft X 6 ft room where officers pull out their guns with the intention of protecting you from a man who threatens to stab you to death with a needle?
I have. It’s scary as shit. When I say scary as shit I mean I felt more intimidated by the firearms. 6 ft X 6 ft leaves no room for error.
Chapter 1 Blog Post In Chapter 1 of “Mobile and Social Media Journalism: A Practical Guide,” social media is introduced as an ever present and ever growing news aggregate, reporting tool, and platform. Hallie Jackson, news reporter for NBC, was one of the most well known broadcast journalists to begin using social media to bring her reporting to audiences. Jackson uses social media as a more direct form of communication, reaching her audiences even with behind the scenes footage of the reporting process. Using social media and basically cellular phones for some or all of the reporting process, Jackson makes her reporting feel like more of a conversation with her audience by bringing them into the story. Conversational Journalism is a term the chapter also uses to describe the future of journalism and journalistic communication models. Younger generations are increasingly using social media platforms to gain their knowledge about the world and consume news. They are turned off by the black and white nature of traditional print reporting. Data has shown that news presented in first person formats, or digestible talkative tones are more popular with current demographics of people because it allows open doors for more of a dialogue. Also, a benefit of mobile devices that are increasingly in the hands of everybody is the instantaneous nature of how news is spread and reported on. Several examples are given in the chapter but the miracle river landing of an airplane captured by a citizen journalist exemplifies the speed at which information can travel in the modern era. The author states how the photographs taken by Janis Krums were used broadly in initial reports because staff or wire news photographers were too far away to get there first. Twitter or (X) as it is now known became a hub for this king of instantaneous newsgathering and sharing. Now, however, that age of technology has shifted again with the downfall of Twitter, which likely isn’t included in this text book because of how new that shift is. While social media and journalism have had a happy marriage for audiences, factual and journalistic integrity issues have always been present. The author warns journalists of the pitfalls associated with this concern. For example, since information is spread so quickly, it is up to the journalist to do their due diligence in fact-checking the information before it is shared. This might take more time, but it will prevent the over abundance of Fake News and misinformation, which can also widely spread on these media platforms.
Jason Ammerman | Local Poet
"Poetry is a pure art-form" and "language is the basis of communication for human beings," said Jason Ammerman in an email interview.
Ammerman was born, raised, and continues to live in Indianapolis. This nearly 49-year-old poet is inspired by the language and communication humans have with one another, which is what lead him to poetry at age 16.
Ammerman recalls his Junior year of high school, "Up until this point in my life, I was prey to the popular opinion of poetry when it comes to teenage boys."
This was 1989 where most titles of "role model" were given to hair metal musicians and professional athletes.
"If I were lucky enough to discover Kerouac at that point in our lives, I am sure my whole life would have been changed for the better, earlier," Ammerman wrote.
Mrs Berebitsky would be the one to open Ammerman's eyes to poetry. Thinking of the first poems he read often leaves him with a smile - one specifically called Thanatopsis by William Cullen Bryant.
"I look back on this poem and often chuckle to myself realizing that this poem opened my eyes to the darker side of things (save my Iron Maiden obsession at that point in my life)," Ammerman recalled.
The class further shaped Ammerman when he was given the assignment of writing a poem - one of which would be a big chunk of his grade.
"I chose environmentalism," Ammerman confessed. "Complete transparency: I sat next to a girl who I had a subtle crush on. I chose environmentalism because I wanted to impress her."
Ammerman confesses more, "I do not think I have ever admitted that."
According to Ammerman, his teacher liked it and mentioned to him that he should start writing more. At first, he was apprehensive because he, like many other teen boys, didn't want to be teased about liking poetry. Thinking back to high school still, Ammerman disclosed that he didn't show his work to anyone for a while, but when he did, no one teased him and he embraced poetry even more.
As many other artists and poets, Ammerman has a favorite. According to him, his is Etheridge Knight, who passed away in 1991.
"As a new poet, I would listen to the conversations of older poets who frequented the readings. I went to two readings because I was still under twenty-one and there were some great readings that he hosted at bars when he was alive."
According to Ammerman, he at first had no idea that Knight was as accomplished as a poet. Ammerman simply knew his name from conversations. A few years went by and he sat down to read Knight's work, knowing he lived in Indy.
While the work of Knight is good, it's the story that fascinates Ammerman the most.
"At the time, I was getting deep into the late '60s / early '70s Black Arts movement," Ammerman said. "I read a lot of Sonia Sanchez and Dudley Randall. But I noticed Etheridge's name would be mentioned in the same conversations as these fantastic poets."
Ammerman goes on to explain more about Knight's history: "Etheridge had served time in an Indiana prison. He moved to Indy upon his release. It was during his stint in prison where he began writing poetry."
Little did Ammerman know, the first poems of Knight's he would read, would find a place in his heart where they still exist today. However, his most favorite of Knight's work is 'Feeling Fucked / Up.'
This poem is about losing love and is a poem where he gives up all his beliefs and politics, proclaiming that he would trade it all to have his love back so his soul can sing. "There is nothing purer than that kind of sacrifice," typed Ammerman.
When it comes to poets in general, Ammerman believes all poets are underrated, successful or otherwise.
"I do not believe that poetry gets fair treatment in this present world," Ammerman replied. "The arts are considered commodity now more than anything. Yet, artists seem to not be able to make a living. That is the real problem with our culture."
Ammerman continued to explain how art has changed - "Exposure is not a payment."
While this may be true, exposure is a great way to get started in the poetry scene. From coffeehouse readings, to just sharing with friends. You can find support systems and encouragement with the people you surround yourself with.
In response to getting into the scene by finding coffeehouse readings, Ammerman explained "It is grassroots and you will find others like you who are cutting their teeth on the stage presence side of it. It's not just about expression. it's about performance as well."
What if you're not comfortable sharing your art just yet?
"Fear is always a part of it. The stage is where the poet is most vulnerable," said Ammerman.
According to the local poet, his first readings were anxiety fraught. His hands would tremble to where he could barely read what was on the page. And he still gets nervous.
"My suggestion is to meditate before a reading, take that anxiety and channel it into energy," Ammerman encouraged.
In the email response, Ammerman suggested to speak to the host immediately if it's your first time reading. According to him, the host can be your biggest support when you're on stage.
"And always remember, whether the audience loves, hates or is indifferent about the poem; the poet has done their job if the audience walks away thinking about it," he continued.
Looking to get into writing? Ammerman says to always challenge yourself to learn more. That no one is ever an expert.
"I was that poet at one time," he said. "It's all bullshit. The false sense of security of friends and family telling you how great you are. You start believing it and lose the urge to be better. We can all be better. But never stop."
Ammerman suggests reading books about poetry such as "Writing the Life Poetic" by Sage Cohen.
Other books you might pick up, are those by Ammerman himself. He has three. The first was self-published in 2006 and is titled "All Grown Up." The second is titled "Microphone or Bust!" while the third is a collection titled "Battle Scarred." The third is the one he's most proud of. You can find them all on Amazon.
Not into reading as much as listening? In 2018 Ammerman released "Revival" on album through Perfect Mix Records.
After loosing what Ammerman felt was everything, he found himself in the studio recording "Revival."
"'Revival' did wonders for me getting back into what I wanted to do. it led to a new reading to host in Irvington. I made new friends..."
Ammerman is still in Indianapolis. he currently doesn't host or organize much anymore, but does offer consulting.
"I am just thankful for such a long, joyous (and sometimes arduous) career," typed Ammerman. "I am just extremely lucky. That's all. Just lucky."
Want to see Jason perform?
Here's a video from a show at the Melody in Indianapolis.
Ep. 620 When I Was Someone Else | Stéphane Allix
journalism
I EXPECT NO LESS FROM GLENN KESSLER: WaPo Fact Checker Glenn Kessler Morphs Into WHO Apologist in Ridiculous Fact Check on Trump. The WHO is in China’s pocket, and so is the Washington Post.
Chris Cuomo CNN journalist and brother of NY gov, tests positive for coronavirus
Governor Cuomo spoke about his brother's positive test result at New York state's daily briefing on Tuesday. "This virus is the great equalizer," he said. "My brother, Chris, is positive for coronavirus. Found out this morning."The governor called Chris "my best friend"
#YEBies in #Jouralism: @stolen_moments #WeAreYEBies #Philly #HowardU (at Washington Post)