2015 Atlantic Journalism Awards Finalists
Attachments
| Slug/Label | Show of Work |
|---|---|
| Date Aired or Published | various dates 2015 |
| Media outlet where first aired or published: | CBC News Nova Scotia |
| Name of Program: | |
| If co-produced, list partner: | |
| Location: | Halifax |
| List awards, grants: | |
| Running time (TV/Radio): | 1:54 / 1:34 / 1:38 |
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Short explanation of the story and how it developed: MARATHON SWIMMER This story was a same-day turnaround focused on one of Canada's top long-distance swimmers. Marilyn Korzekwa was 24 hours away from beginning a three-province swim, from Nova Scotia to PEI to New Brunswick -- the first time it had ever been attempted. Using water-level shots and detailed descriptions, this story offers an immersive glimpse into what it's like to swim alone for hours in the cold ocean. LOBSTER SEASON The first day of lobster season is always an anxious time, especially after an 11-day weather delay. The season opened in the Antigonish region this year on May 12th. This story captures the sights and sounds, starting well before sunrise. PIGEON POISON This story began with a single word in a 43-page document: "Avitrol". After researching this chemical neurotoxin and realizing it was being used to inhumanely kill birds at a Halifax library, CBC News confronted the city. Initially officials stated they would no longer mention Avitrol in its documents. After this story aired, there was public outcry. The next day, Halifax officials announced they would ban all use of Avitrol on city property. (See attached PDF for details.) Every shot from each story was shot by video journalist Brett Ruskin. He also researched, wrote, voiced and edited each of the stories without outside assistance. |
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Resources of the newsroom (money and time) available to complete the story: MARATHON SWIMMER The location for this shoot was more than two hours from the newsroom, and the main subject was only available in the afternoon. All footage and interviews were shot within the span of one hour. With insufficient time to drive back, I set up a mobile edit suite at a gas station picnic table in Port Elgin, NB (see image). I wrote, voiced and edited the story from that location. The final edited piece was then streamed remotely to Halifax. LOBSTER SEASON No special time or financial resources were allotted to this story, however I did travel to Antigonish before daybreak to capture the mood before sunrise. After shooting for a number of hours, I returned to Halifax to edit. A long day, but the visuals captured made it entirely worthwhile. PIGEON POISON There were no additional financial resources committed to this story, however it is a demonstration of the importance of investing time into document research. This story was prompted by one word within a 43-page RFP which was one of a handful of other documents published that day. The time spent thoroughly seeking out stories paid off with this story, prompting real and immediate effects to municipal policies. |
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