Online magazine seeks freelance writers

RH Reality Check–a daily online publication focused on evidence-based news, analysis, commentary, and investigative reporting on reproductive and sexual health and justice–is seeking freelance stringers currently based in the states of Arizona, Louisiana, and New Mexico, to cover issues of reproductive and sexual justice, rights, and politics in those states for an initial three-month period.

The publication’s interests range from specific health care delivery and access issues for women, GLBT, and marginalized populations (reproductive health care including contraception, abortion, maternity care, infant and child survival; Medicare, Title X, Obamacare) to economic and social justice issues, including immigration, economic justice (living wages, labor rights, and access to childcare.

Requirements:

–Knowledge of politics, reproductive rights issues, and state legislative workings.
–Demonstrated excellence in reporting and writing.
–Ability to find good stories and work on tight deadlines to produce a high quality article.
–Ability to write cleanly, concisely, and quickly.

Compensation: They offer a competitive monthly retainer for a three-month commitment, with the possibility of extending. Retainer is calculated based on expected output of roughly three to five news pieces per month.

To apply:  Email applystringers@rhrealitycheck.org with a short description of your journalistic background and three links to previous work.

Journalism Jumpstart Workshop Series

The face of journalism is evolving faster than in any other time in history – are you prepared? Join Phoenix SPJ and the Rocky Mountain chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) in a series of six workshops designed to reinvent you and your career direction.

The workshops are free to SPJ and NATAS members, $10 to people who RSVP in advance and $15 at the door (cash only). Or you can purchase all six for $50 (or if you join either group in person at any one of the workshops you can get in all remaining workshops for free). Light desserts and beverages will also be provided courtesy of Media Watch AZ.

Workshop #4: Work from Home: Making a Living in the Freelance World

  • Date: Wednesday, October 20, 2010
  • Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
  • Location: Phoenix Fire Headquarters, 150 S. 12th St. in Phoenix
  • Details: Determine whether full-time freelance is the move for you and receive tips on how to start your own freelance business. The panelists will also offer crucial information about how to keep your business thriving and your editors happy.
  • Panelists: Elizabeth Exline, freelance writer with experience in public relations, custom publishing, management, marketing and online writing in addition to traditional print media; Marlene Montanez, freelance writer and blogger as well as freelance editor of West Valley Health & Living Magazine; and Kathleen Armentrout, editorial director of Gannett Magazine Group, which includes Your Health and Moms Like Me, as well as experienced custom and special interest publication pro.

Workshop #5: Tips and Training for Web and Broadcast Reporting

  • Date: Wednesday, November 3, 2010
  • Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
  • Location: Metro Studios, 9831 S. 51st St., Suite D-133, in Phoenix
  • Details: This seminar will provide live instruction to journalists on how to present to the camera for both web and broadcast reporting. Topic points to include the difference between live, recorded and web vs broadcast reporting. Kevin will provided instruction on package formats, file sizes that work best for web uploading and distribution.
  • Panelists: Kathy Kerschner spent 15 years in the media trenches asking the tough questions—now she’s teaching you how to answer them. In her workshops and seminars, Kathy likes to have fun, but she’s serious about helping you become a better communicator. Cary Pfeffer is founder and principal of ClearComm Consulting and 30-year broadcaster, reporter and newscaster. Kevin Jacobsen is the senior videographer and editor with Metro Studios and has 12 years experience.

Workshop #6: New Ethics for the New World of Media

  • Date: Tuesday, November 16, 2010
  • Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
  • Location: Metro Studios, 9831 S. 51st St., Suite D-133, in Phoenix
  • Details: Can we still apply professional ethical principles to the constant posting of news and information online? Is it sufficient to simply say, “Post it now; if it’s wrong, we’ll just update it”? News is moving faster and getting edited less than ever. Since credibility is the journalist’s only real selling point, learn how to be ethical, accurate and credible in this digital age.
  • Panelists: Two adjunct professors of journalism ethics at the Arizona State University Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Richard Ruelas, feature writer for the Arizona Republic and former news columnist and Mark Scarp, formerly of the East Valley Tribune and currently membership coordinator for the Society of American Business Editors and Writers.

To RSVP for one or more seminar, please contact Alison Bailin Batz at abailin@hmapr.com. Seats are limited!

Journalism Jumpstart Workshop Series Sponsored by Media Watch AZ

Journalism Jumpstart Workshop Series Sponsored by Media Watch AZ

Freelance Court Reporter Needed

Media lawyer and former reporter Robert Rivas is looking for an experienced courts reporter for ongoing freelance work, starting February 23.  The job probably entails only about one workday per month.  Duties include copying a case file at the court clerk’s office, attending hearings, and writing detailed reports of hearings. In addition, the reporter would also write stories for the Final Exit Network newsletter and website. If you have court reporting experience, are aggressive and know your rights when it comes to public access to court records and hearings, email your resume to RobRivas@aol.com.