DAVID BIANCULLI

Founder / Editor

ERIC GOULD

Associate Editor

LINDA DONOVAN

Assistant Editor

Contributors

ALEX STRACHAN

MIKE HUGHES

KIM AKASS

MONIQUE NAZARETH

ROGER CATLIN

GARY EDGERTON

TOM BRINKMOELLER

GERALD JORDAN

NOEL HOLSTON

 
 
 
 
 
Once Again, News Outlets' Rush to Be First Has Consequences
July 20, 2012  | By Ed Bark  | 875 comments
 

It never fails. Major lapses in both taste and reporting inevitably follow the mass shootings that are becoming all too common in this country.

Fox News Channel couldn't resist using the above "Movie Theater MASSACRE! logo throughout its Friday coverage of the Aurora, Colo. murders. And ABC News investigative reporter Brian Ross linked the shooter to the Tea Party before later realizing he had the wrong guy.

The tasteless FNC promotion, complete with breathless voice-over, urged viewers to watch the network's prime-time stars — Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity and Greta Van Susteren — for all the latest news on the mass murderer. It served to reduce the shootings, at a midnight screening of The Dark Knight Rises, to a cheap B-movie in their own right.

In contrast, rival CNN teased its prime-time coverage with a "Shooting In Colorado" logo. MSNBC is using the equally unobjectionable "Tragedy In Colorado." So far 12 people are dead and another 59 injured.

ABC News re-fueled the "liberal media conspiracy" tanks with its early reporting that the suspected, incarcerated shooter, 24-year-old James Holmes, may have been a Tea Party supporter. Said Ross: "There is a Jim Holmes of Aurora, Colo. page on the Colorado Tea Party site as well, talking about him joining the Tea Party last year. Now, we don't know if this is the same Jim Holmes, but it is a Jim Holmes of Aurora, Colorado."

The network later apologized on-line for "disseminating that information before it was properly vetted." (The apology was placed in an editor's note at the top of a story headlined, "Aurora Suspect James Holmes' Mother: 'You Have the Right Person'", in which the suspect's San Diego-based mother confirms that the shooter was her son.) And Ross himself said on the air: "An earlier report that I had was incorrect that he was connected with the Tea Party. In fact that's a different Jim Holmes."

In other words, never mind. But the rush to be first, rather than verify such a divisive association, has given Rush Limbaugh something else to foment about. He's already denounced The Dark Knight Rises as a premeditated, anti-Mitt Romney manifesto because its principal villain is named Bane. You know, as in Bain Capital. For the record — not that this will matter to Limbaugh — the creator of the Bane villain, Chuck Dixon, says he's a "lifelong conservative." He also says that Limbaugh's theory is "silly."

The three major cable news networks of course will continue to cover the tragedy and its aftermath all day and into the night. Not to be left out, ABC, CBS and NBC all have prime-time specials planned for Friday. CBS Evening News anchor Scott Pelley and NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams both will be in Aurora for Friday's dinnertime editions while ABC World News anchor Diane Sawyer remains in New York for that network's "special edition."

ABC News also sent TV writers a timeline of its early "breaking news" coverage of the shootings. At 7:07 a.m. (central), for instance, Good Morning America co-anchor George Stephanopoulos reported that James Holmes had been identified as the suspected shooter. The timeline of course managed to not include Ross's significant reporting error.

By the way, ABC's Friday prime-time special is being titled Tragedy in Colorado: The Movie Theater Massacre. But at least there's no exclamation point at the end. Thanks for small favors.

Read more by Ed Bark at 
unclebarky.com



 
 
 
 
 
Leave a Comment: (No HTML, 1000 chars max)
 
 Name (required)
 
 Email (required) (will not be published)
 
KITCH
Type in the verification word shown on the image.
 
 
 Page: 1 of 44  | Go to page: 
875 Comments
 
 
Looking for a thrilling and rewarding gaming experience? Look no further than Diuwin, your go-to destination for online entertainment! Whether you're into sports betting, casino adventures, or other exciting gaming options, Diu Win Game offers a platform that combines cutting-edge technology with immersive experiences. With a seamless diuwin login process and a variety of games to choose from, DiuWin has everything you need to elevate your gaming journey.
Mar 22, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
When planning a trip to Agadir, Morocco, one of the first things you'll want to organize is how to get around. Agadir is a stunning coastal city that offers beautiful beaches, lively souks, and a rich cultural heritage. To make the most of your visit, renting a car is a fantastic option. marhire car agadir provides a seamless car hire experience, whether you're flying into Agadir Airport or exploring the city itself. Let’s dive into why MarHire Car Agadir should be your go-to choice for car rental in Agadir.
Mar 22, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
In this article, we will explore how Conexion Marketing can help you drive results through digital marketing strategies, News updates, and expert blog content. Plus, we’ll show you how to stay informed with the latest trends and tips to improve your online marketing efforts.
Mar 22, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Protect your property with a leading security company in Brisbane & Gold Coast. AusSec offers professional security solutions. Call 07 5532 6644 or click here to explore our services today!
Mar 22, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Looking for reliable sofa cleaning in NYC? Our furniture cleaning in NYC specialists can deep-clean your upholstery, removing dirt and allergens for a healthier home. Explore more about our services. Click here to book an appointment with our professional team. Visit our website for more information!
Mar 22, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
In today’s world of fast-paced entertainment, finding the best IPTV provider is crucial for an optimal streaming experience. If you're seeking high-quality TV shows, live sports events, movies, and more, VisioraTV stands out as the ultimate provider of 2025. Whether you’re looking to iptv kaufen (buy IPTV) or unlock iptv alle sender freischalten (unlock all IPTV channels), VisioraTV has you covered with a premium service that promises to revolutionize your viewing experience.
Mar 20, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Wondering if onilne gambling legal in texas? Visit us at AcePerHead to get the latest information on whether online gambling is illegal in Texas or not. Click here to learn more about Texas gambling laws and the potential legal implications of online betting. Discover more on our website now!
Mar 20, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Youtube Vanced was revolutionary! The ad-free video, background play, and additional customization features made it the ultimate YouTube substitute. Too bad it's no longer officially maintained, but it will always be remembered as one of the greatest mods ever made. Thanks to the devs for all their efforts.
Mar 20, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
The Papa Corazón Quesadilla offers another delicious take on Mexican street food, combining tradition with innovation. This authentic Mexican quesadilla is a savory delight, bursting with melted cheese and savory fillings that will transport you straight to the streets of Mexico. The quesadilla is a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, and at XTRpoweR, they have perfected the art of making the best quesadilla flavors.
Mar 19, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Long Island City is one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in New York City, attracting new residents and businesses alike. Whether you're moving into a modern high-rise or an industrial loft, from Experia Moving offer top-tier services tailored to the unique needs of this growing area. With their expertise in handling moves within the city, Experia Moving ensures that your move to Long Island City is completed smoothly.
Mar 19, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
The eagles super bowl rings are a must-have for any true Eagles supporter. From the iconic green and white color scheme to the breathtaking diamond accents, these rings capture every intricate detail. Whether you're celebrating the Eagles' first Super Bowl win or adding to your memorabilia collection, these rings are an essential addition for any fan.
Mar 18, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
At Epic Driving School, we believe that every student deserves the best learning experience possible. Our professional driving lessons in Dublin aim to teach you everything you need to know to drive safely and confidently for the rest of your life. If you’re looking for a driving instructor in Dublin who can guide you through the learning process with patience and expertise, Epic Driving School is the perfect choice for you.
Mar 17, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Gone are the days when working with an Insurance Agency meant long waits on hold, endless paperwork, and feeling disconnected from your insurance company. Your Virtual Agent offers a modern solution that ensures you get the personal attention and support you need – when you need it most. By working with an independent insurance agency like Your Virtual Agent, you gain access to a dedicated virtual insurance agent who will guide you through the entire process, whether it’s shopping for policies, handling claims, or just getting advice. All of this is done online, providing you with a seamless experience that meets the demands of the digital age.
Mar 17, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Drug-related offenses can carry severe penalties drug charge defense attorney in Boise Idaho, drug trafficking defense attorney in Boise Idaho, including long-term imprisonment and substantial fines. Our drug charge lawyer in Boise Idaho is equipped with the knowledge and experience needed to challenge drug charges effectively. We are committed to protecting your rights and working towards minimizing the impact on your life.
Mar 16, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
While we are known for our innovative automotive technology solutions, Keys Customs also specializes in Stucwerk, the art of applying plaster finishes to various surfaces inside your car. This service is ideal for those looking to add a high-end, luxurious feel to their vehicle’s interior. Whether it’s a custom dashboard finish, door panels, or other interior features, our team is skilled in providing precise and elegant finishes that will make your car stand out.
Mar 16, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
When deciding between a hair transplant UK vs Turkey, factors like graft numbers, procedure costs, and quality of care play vital roles. Both locations offer unique benefits:
 
 
Traditional cable services can be expensive, with hidden fees and long-term contracts. With iptv usa, you get more channels at a lower cost, plus the flexibility to subscribe or cancel anytime.
Mar 16, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Need Ativan fast? Visit us today to buy Ativan online fast shipping. We provide fast, reliable service so you don’t have to worry about delays. Whether you need it for managing anxiety or another health condition, we ensure that your experience is as smooth as possible.
Mar 16, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Discover the truth behind OKEPLAY777 and ditch the black scatter myths. Visit us today for the best online slot experience since 2019. Click here to join and start winning!
Mar 15, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
Eruptive psoriasis refers to a sudden outbreak of numerous small, scaly lesions that can occur in any area of the body. This type of psoriasis may appear in conjunction with an illness or infection, such as a strep throat infection, Image of Psoriasis, which can trigger a flare-up. These lesions often come on quickly and can be very distressing for those who experience them. Inverse Psoriasis
Mar 15, 2025   |  Reply
 
 
 
 Page: 1 of 44  | Go to page: