Monday, July 6, 2009

The Accent Online Relaunch

The Accent Online has a completely different look and format. Check it out by clicking here, and leave a comment letting me know what you think. Please make suggestions for changes.

Make sure you REGISTER on the new site.

Also - Important!

The BAD news-
The new site, as of now, does not automatically put together a list of your work when someone clicks on your byline.

The GOOD news-
Everyone who has ever contributed anything to the Accent is eligible for their own profile on the new site. Just send the following information to accent@austincc.edu, and I'll build your page complete with a list of your work. This is an excellent online portfolio if you put in the time to make it so.

To make a page like this, send me the following information:


Matthew ConnollyPhoto (optional unless you are an editor)


Name:

Matthew Connolly

Staff Position:

Adviser, fall 2008 to present

Contact Information:


I'll search for your work and link to it.






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Monday, June 29, 2009

Main Event Editor Retreat


Accent 2009-2010 editors are invited to the summer retreat at Main Event:

What - Food, Fun, and Planning for the next year
When - July 30, 2009, 9:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where - Main Event









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Monday, June 15, 2009

ACC, a leader in nanotechnology.

Interesting - I had no idea that ACC is so cutting edge in the nanotechnology field.



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Friday, June 12, 2009

ACC Hires New Media Relations Coordinator




AUSTIN, TX— The Austin Community College District (ACC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Alexis Patterson as media relations coordinator. Patterson will be responsible for working with reporters to increase public awareness of ACC’s mission, policies and practices, and programs and services.



Patterson who was the legislative reporter for Austin’s CBS 42 (KEYE) will join ACC Monday, June 15.



“We’re lucky to have someone with Alexis’ experience and expertise as part of the team,” said Brette Lea, Executive Director of ACC Public Information and College Marketing. “We want the community to have a good understanding of all that ACC has to offer, and Alexis will be a perfect fit as we work to increase those communications efforts.”



Patterson earned a Master of Arts in media studies at Texas Christian University. She has worked in TV news since 2002, both behind the scenes as a producer in Dallas and in front of the camera as a reporter in Austin and Beaumont.



“I am ecstatic to continue my career at ACC,” said Patterson. “Serving as ACC’s media relations coordinator enables me to combine my expertise in media and communications with my passion for higher education.”





# # #





Brette Lea

Austin Community College District

Executive Director | Public Information & College Marketing

w: (512)223.7611 | c: (512)709.1141

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Thursday, May 21, 2009

Life4U and Accent Staffs Announced

I am excited to announce that the staff for the 2009-2010 Life4U and the Spring 2009 Accent have been chosen.



Everyone on this list has direct experience and has demonstrated both the skills and the dedication needed to create excellent publications.



In other words, these teams rock!


Spring 2009 Accent Staff

  • Editor-in-Chief - Sarah Neve
  • Assistant Editor - David Rodriguez
  • Campus Editor - Chris Smith
  • Layout Editor - Chris Scott
  • Photo Editor - Hanlly Sam
  • Intern (Design and photo) - Karissa Rodriguez
2009-2010 Life4U Staff

  • Lead Designer - Chris Scott
  • Lead Writer - Sarah Neve
  • Lead Photographer - Alma Hernandez
  • Lead Artist - Karen Kuhn

Life4U Freelancers

  • Trevor Goodchild - Writing and Photos
  • Anny Ibarra - Writing, Illustration
  • Karissa Rodriguez - Design, Writing, Photos
  • Hanlly Sam - Photos
  • Chris Scott - Design
  • Devon Tinknell - Writing






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Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Meeting the Challenge of the 21st Century Art Students

Here's part one of an interesting discussion about preparing for tomorrow's creative jobs. It's made by McCallum high school and features leading Austin creative professionals.



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Thursday, May 7, 2009

Use your work to help you get a job


Do you see the light at the end of the tunnel yet?

As the darkness of the workload brought on by the end of the semester subsides, and you can once again see the light in the future, consider taking the following steps to maximize how much benefit you can receive from all of the hard work you have put into the Accent this year.


Here's how it happens

The editor from a major local publication is surfing around the net for other coverage of some of the stories that her publication has covered (because we all know editors have lots of time to do such things). She happens upon your article or photo on theaccent.org and thinks "wow, this student journalist got better interviews than my staffers did, better photos, and I like the angle he took also."

Impressed, she clicks on your byline. Since you have updated your profile, she finds a nice photo of you, a link to download your resume, a brief (50 word max.) description of your professional qualifications, and links to everything you have published in the Accent.

Impressed again, she views a few more of your pieces and thinks to herself "you know, this guy might be perfect to fill that vacancy that will be opening up next week." She then clicks on your resume link.

Extremely impressed, she reads over the well-crafted resume. She then notices that you have a link to your LinkedIn site on your resume document. She clicks on it.

Now she's sold. After looking through your professional site, she requests to join your LinkedIn network, and then she shoots off an e-mail to the manager in charge of hiring for her magazine. It reads "I need this guy on my staff. Hire him."

You land your dream job.

It could happen.

Here's how to make it happen

1. Update your resume (it must be a word .doc file).
2. Find an appropriate photo of yourself (the final photo will be square 125 pix X 125 pix, I can crop it for you, or you can edit it yourself) .
3. E-mail me your resume, photo, and a brief description of yourself, your goals, and your qualifications.
4. I'll upload everything to the accent site and send you an e-mail when it's done. Check it to make sure it is all correct.

Optional - Create or update a LinkedIn profile, and include the public profile URL in your resume. LinkedIn is a great way to improve your online presence.



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Monday, May 4, 2009

The Best Of Issue Awards - May 4, 2009 issue

Another great issue. I can't wait to see what next year will bring.

Best News Piece-
"Bill could allow handguns in school" by Chris Smith. By going down to the Capitol, listening to and reporting the testimony about the bill, and interviewing someone with a deep personal connection to the story (John Woods), Chris has illustrated the power of true reporting. He could have easily surfed the internet for information, watched some of the testimony over the video feed and made a few phone calls and written a good piece. By going down there, he was able to write a great piece. Chris also did a good job of incorporating the ACC angle with the Bacak quote. This piece is balanced, informative, and (most importantly) complete. The writing is strong. The reporting is exceptional.

Best Feature Piece-
"Sixth Street violence ends with fatal blow" by Teodora Erbes. I consider this a news feature. Although it is about recent events (news), the focus of the story is on the people involved and their story (feature). This is Tea's first attempt at writing a full piece, and she did a great job! The interviews with the family and others involved in this story are amazing. It is well written, informative, and has emotional impact. I am also very impressed with the angle that Teodora chose. While the city and national print and broadcast press have covered this, they have focused mainly on the sperm extraction angle. The Accent is providing an important service to the readers and our community by focusing on on the fact that the killer is still not captures, and by giving the mother a chance to really tell the the the story of who Nikolas was. This story respects the members of our community. This is what a community paper should do.

Best News Photo -
APD on Sixth Street by Kevin Forester. This photo gives the viewer a good sense of place, and the police in the foreground really help to illustrate the increased presence on Sixth. The lighting and composition of this shot were tricky. Kevin did a great job of making it work when he was given this late assignment. 90% of photojournalism is being there. Kevin went there.


Best Feature Photo -
Aikido shot (See slide 3 in the slide show) by Teodora Erbes. This is an excellent example of having the eye to know when and what to shoot and having the technical skills to shoot it well. Capturing the sensei's face and freezing the mid-air fall is no simple task. This is a great moment frozen with a high shutter speed which leads to a great action shot.

Best Illustration-
Editorial Cartoon by Karen Kuhn - Creepy baby! This (as always) well drawn cartoon is exactly the type of easily decoded "in your face" expression of an opinion that has real impact on viewers.

Best Column -
"-30- Column" - In her final column, Jamie hit the mark perfectly. This is a great example of taking a personal experience, analyzing it in order extract lessons, mixing it with humor, facts, and a distinct writer's voice and creating a final product that enjoyable to read, thought provoking, and profoundly human. It also doesn't hurt that she says nice things about me and the paper. -30-


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Accent Newspaper, May 4 issue

Accent May 4, 2009 issue

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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Accent Spring Putt Putt Party



Tired of growing older?
Come play mini-golf with Peter Pan and the Accent.

Celebrate the end of a great semester with your Accent buddies.
Food, drinks, min-golf fun, and prizes provided.





Date:
Monday, May 18, 2009
Time:
12:00pm - 3:00pm
Location:
Peter Pan Mini Golf
Street:
1207 Barton Springs Rd
City/Town:
Austin, TX

Phone:
5122233166
RSVP at


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Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Applications for Accent editor positions being taken now

Be a part of the fall 2009 Accent editorial staff

Join the team that produces the award winning newspaper that is the student voice of Austin Community College District.

Application Deadline: May 15
All positions paid $8.50 / hr

Minimum requirements:
  • Must be enrolled (by registration deadline for fall '09) in at least credit class for the fall 2009 semester.
  • Must have previous experience working for Accent or other student or professional publications. Strong preference is given to students with previous Accent experience.
  • Must be able to keep regular work hours at ACC Rio Grande campus.
  • Must be able to work an average of 15-20 hours per week unless otherwise noted with occasional evening work as required to meet deadlines.

Applications are being taken for the following paid positions:

Editor - assigns stories; provides editorial feedback to students; oversees story meetings; manages story board; follows procedures for day to day operations; keeps regular office hours; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline

Assistant Editor - assists in editing stories; copy edits and fact checks articles; assists the editor in executing day to day newsroom procedures; keeps regular office hours; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline.

Campus Editor - assists in editing stories; copy edits and fact checks articles; assists the editor in executing day to day newsroom procedures; keeps regular office hours; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline.

Photojournalist/Web Editor - edits photos; shoots photos; maintains website; manages asst. photojournalist/web editor; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline.

Assistant Photojournalist/Web Editor (10-15 hours per week) - edits photos; shoots photos; maintains website; assists photojournalist/web editor; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline.

Layout / Production Editor - lays out paper; implements and generates ideas regarding layout and design; creates graphics and advertisements for layout; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline.

Layout / Production Intern (10-15 hours per week)- Assists in paper lay out; implements and generates ideas regarding layout and design; creates graphics and advertisements for layout; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline.

Copy Editor (5 hours per issue)- Copy edits entire publication including stories, headlines, cut-lines, and graphics for correct usage and AP style; meets SPA standards and submits SPA forms by deadline.

To apply, submit the following application to mconnoll@austincc.edu by May 15 for early consideration. Positions that are not filled by the deadline will be posted at a later date.

Resumes and work examples are also accepted, but not required.

Application materials may also be dropped by 1212 Rio Grande, Rm.101.1 or faxed to Matthew Connolly at 512-223-3086

Download ACC Application Here

Direct all questions to Matthew Connolly, mconnoll@austincc.edu, ph. 512-223-3166



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Accent artist's work published in Fort Worth Star-Telegram

The April 21, 2009 issue of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram printed the editorial cartoon that Karen Kuhn, staff artist for the Accent, drew for the TIPA contest on April 9, 2009.
The Star-Telegram chose Kuhn's cartoon from the top three TIPA cartoons . These were sent to the newspaper. Kuhn's cartoon placed second in the TIPA competition.
Also printed is part of Tarrant County College student Frances Matteck's editorial from the same TIPA competition.

Karen Kuhn's cartoon in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram

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Monday, April 20, 2009

Design Competition Deadline June 1

The Best of Collegiate Design competition is coming up. Start thinking about what we should submit.

http://www.collegemedia.org/BOCD17

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An ethical dilemma

For your consideration - A few months back, the opinions editor of Central Connecticut State University's student newspaper, The Recorder was fired because the staff found that her involvement with activist organizations violated their code of ethics that says that reporters can not be involved with organizations that are politically active.

Read this, and then ask yourself - should we allow students who are involved in certain clubs and organizations to report for us?


JAMES H. SMITH: Students should adhere to professional ethics

Saturday, April 18, 2009 9:45 PM EDT

By JAMES H. SMITH
Executive Editor

By all accounts, Marissa Blaszko, the fired opinion editor of Central Connecticut State University's student newspaper, The Recorder, is an astute, sharp, inquisitive young woman, a sophomore with a thirst to learn and a desire to write.

It is too bad her activism got in the way of her newspaper position. Newspapers, on campuses and off, need dedicated, smart editors. But The Recorder editorial board was right in dismissing Ms. Blaszko because activism and journalism do not mix.

The Recorder's Code of Ethics mirrors the professional codes: "Editors ... shall not participate in any form of student, local or national government and should be free of any ties to any political organization, campus-based or otherwise."

It's quite clear that Ms. Blaszko's membership in the Youth for Socialist Action club violates the paper's rules.

In professional journalism, the ethics codes apply not to just editors, but to all journalists, reporters and photographers included. The American Society of Newspaper Editors first promulgated its ethics code in a 1922 "Statement of Principles." It states in part:

"The primary purpose of gathering and distributing news and opinion is to serve the general welfare by informing the people and enabling them to make judgments on the issues of the time. Newspapermen and women who abuse the power of their professional role for selfish motives or unworthy purposes are faithless to that public trust. The American press was made free not just to inform or just to serve as a forum for debate but also to bring an independent scrutiny to bear on the forces of power in the society . . .

"Journalists must avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety as well as any conflict of interest or the appearance of conflict . . . Every effort must be made to assure that the news is accurate and free from bias and in context, and that all sides are presented fairly."

So, journalists must give up some of the benefits of citizenship. You can't join a protest against the Iraq war, for example, and then have any credibility in presenting a balanced account in your coverage of that war.

Should the standards be the same for students? Well, take engineering students, or medical students, or law students - should they follow the precepts of their prospective career while they are studying it, or should they be allowed to break those precepts because they are only students? I think not. Could a law student, in mock court, break the confidential relationship between attorney and client because he is still only a student? No.

Ms. Blaszko holds the newspaper is a club and not necessarily a training ground for journalists.

Maybe there is room for compromise at Central Connecticut State University for The Recorder and Ms. Blaszko. Since its code covers only editors, she could be a reporter, but then questions would arise on her ability to be fair on some subjects. So how about giving her a column? With a column, clearly labeled as her opinion and not the newspaper's, she could continue to contribute to the marketplace of ideas that is a university community and there would be no violation of the student newspaper's ethical code.

In the professional world of journalism, columnists, by definition, write from their own point of view. The professional codes still apply on community activism and joining advocacy groups even for opinion writers and editors, but here and now at CCSU it would be permissible to give this alert and active student the forum she seeks.

And if some on campus don't like her socialist views, then Recorder editors could find a contrary voice to harness into words in the newspaper.

James H. Smith is executive editor of The Herald and The Bristol Press. Reach him at 860-225-4601 ext. 304; or at jsmith@newbritainherald.com or jsmith@bristolpress.com.



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Thursday, April 16, 2009

College Writers Wanted for Student-Run Web Publisher

From TIPA List Serve

Paid Freelance Writing Opportunity
Indelible Marks Inc. is a student-run web publisher of several sites about college life written by
students and recent graduates.

Our lead site is www.StudentStuff.com which offers all the “stuff” students need to know to get
the most out of college. There's information relevant to every phase of the college experience,
from applying and Getting In to acceptance and Getting Oriented, from study skills and advice
on Getting Through to graduating and Getting On. And there's material to help with finances,
careers, health and social life.

Indelible Marks Inc. also publishes www.StudentsInEurope.com which offers information and
deals for students who want to study abroad or travel in Europe.

The company will soon launch two additional sites: a multi-media site, StudentStuff.TV, and
GlobalShift.org, a site to help promote Student Activism with blogs and features on everything
from volunteering in the inner-city to working with orphans in Africa, from saving the planet to
promoting peace.

We want to motivate, inspire and entertain students with well-written, fast-moving articles about your college life experiences. This is a great opportunity for aspiring college journalists.
Most articles will be 500 to 1,000 words. Compensation typically ranges from $30 to $50 per
article. Assignments will pay more and will be awarded to writers as they prove their abilities
with us. We will also consider articles already published in college papers.

To apply, send a resume and 3 or 4 writing samples to Susannah Sizemore, Project Director at
sjsizemore@gmail.com.

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Monday, April 13, 2009

Can Design Save the Newspaper?



What do you think? Can better design save the newspaper industry?

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Summer Job Opportunities - Life4U production staff

Are you looking for a meaningful summer job that will lead to a professional product to add to your portfolio?

Student Life publications has it.

Life4U, the award winning student magazine, is currently hiring the production staff for the 2009-2010 edition.

All positions are paid at $8.50 / hr. Hours are flexible. Deadlines are not flexible. Apply by May 8, 2009

If you have experience with publication design, writing, art, or photography and would like to join the team, we are taking applications now.

We are currently looking for several paid interns. The final product will be professionally printed in a full color magazine format and distributed to ACC students beginning this fall. It will also be submitted for judging in various contests. In addition to the hourly salary, food as well as other incentives will be provided while working.

Get your work out there. Gain professional experience. Grow your portfolio. Get paid.

General Qualifications:
All applicants must be a current ACC student either taking at least one credit summer '09 session class or completing a spring '09 credit class and planning to take at least one fall credit '09 class.

All applicants must complete a standard ACC application for employment. It is available from the link below:
http://www3.austincc.edu/it/eforms/forms_int/HURE.073.pdf

All applications are due by May 8, 2009.
Interviews will be scheduled with qualified applicants May 11-14, 2009.

Send completed applications to:

Matt Connolly
mconnoll@austincc.edu

Applications may also be dropped of in person to RGC Rm. 101.1
If you have any questions, call 223.3166 or e-mail the above addresses.

Applicants should be prepared with a resume and portfolio at the time of the interview in order to demonstrate the following:
____________________________________
Job Title - Lead Design Intern
Qualifications - Must have a working knowledge if not mastery of the Macintosh operating system, InDesign, Photoshop, and Microsoft Office applications. Must have understanding of professional design principles including effective spread layout, typography, effective use of photos and art, and modern design trends. Must be detail oriented and willing to do what it takes to meet strict production schedules.

Description- Will report to newspaper specialist and lead a team of photographers, writers, artists, and designers to expand upon and implement a pre-selected design concept for the Life4U magazine. Will coordinate all aspects of procuring and editing high quality photos, artwork, and written pieces for the magazine. Will be primarily responsible for laying out magazine with the help of other staff members. Will edit all content for style, consistency, and conformity to printing requirements.
____________________________________
Job Title - Lead Photography Intern
Qualifications - Must have a working knowledge if not mastery of Macintosh operating system, Photoshop, InDesign, and Microsoft Office applications. Must have understanding of professional photography composition and lighting. Must be able to work primarily with available light. Must know how to digitally edit photos for publication including cropping and CMYK color correction. It is preferred that photography intern has personal digital SLR equipment, but some equipment will be available for use. Must be detail oriented, and willing to do what it takes to meet strict production schedules.

Description- Will report to lead design intern and coordinate other photographers working on Life4U project. Is primarily responsible for working with design team to shoot, assign, and edit digital photos for Life4U layout. Will also assist in planning magazine. Must be detail oriented and willing to do what it takes to meet strict production schedules.

____________________________________
Job Title - Lead Writing Intern
Qualifications - Must have excellent writing, usage, and editing skills. Must be familiar with Associated Press journalistic style writing. It is preferred that lead writing intern has publication or advertising copy writing experience in either a professional or class setting.

Description - Will report to lead design intern and coordinate other writers working on Life4U project. Is primarily responsible for working with design team to write feature style and informational content for Life4U magazine. Must research and interview where necessary. Must copy edit other team member's work for style and correctness.
____________________________________
Job Title - Production Intern

Qualifications - Must have experience writing, shooting photographs, or designing publications.

Description - Will report to lead interns and assist in all aspects of production and administrative tasks as necessary.

____________________________________
Job Title – Lead Artist

Qualifications – Must have excellent commercial art skills in one or more medium. Must have a working knowledge if not mastery of Macintosh operating system, Photoshop, InDesign, and Microsoft Office applications. Must be detail oriented and willing to do what it takes to meet strict production schedules.

Description- Will report to lead design intern and coordinate other team members working on Life4U project. Is primarily responsible for illustrating the magazine as needed and preparing art for print. Will also assist in planning magazine. Must be detail oriented and willing to do what it takes to meet strict production schedules.

____________________________________
Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in gaining experience, but can't commit the time to be a staff member, we will also be looking for volunteer writers and photographers. Contact Matthew Connolly if interested.


More information and a complete production schedule is available by clicking here.

General Schedule:
May 26 - First staff planning meeting
June 22 - Content due (Writing, photography and art)
July 17 - Final files sent to printer








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Mayoral Debate at Austin’s City Hall

Unfortunately, the timing on this is bad for the May 4 issue, but you may want to attend anyway.

Friday, May 1, 2009, 6-8 pm

Moderated by KXAN’s Senior City Hall Reporter, Matt Flener

Hosted by The ACC Center for Public Policy and Political Studies, www.austincc.edu/cppps

Want to know how the Mayoral Candidates, if elected, will make positive changes in Austin’s economic, educational, and environmental landscape?

Then come to City Hall on May 1st with questions in hand. All five applicants for office — David Buttross, Josiah James Ingalls, Lee Leffingwell, Brewster McCracken, and Carole Keeton Strayhorn — will be there to answer ACC’s questions.

Don’t miss out; this FREE EVENT is the only one produced for the benefit of the ACC community, and may be the last debate before the May 9th elections. Seats are limited and parking is free, so get there early.

Questions?
Contact
Carla L. Jackson at cjackso3@austincc.edu or 512-223-7049.


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Attend a free mixer with editors of Texas newspapers

This is a great opportunity!

Students of Texas journalism programs are invited to attend a mixer with Texas newspaper editors.

Friday, April 24 4-6:30 pm
AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center
1900 University Avenue, Austin, Texas 78705, 512-404-1900

Come with your portfolio and resume and/or copies of your work for a free one-on-one critique by editors from some of the largest papers in Texas.

Students are also welcome to attend sessions on April 25 and 26, free of charge.

If you are interested in attending, let me know.

- Matt
mconnoll@austincc.edu
512-223-3166



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Accent, the student voice of Austin Community College, and Life4U magazine awarded state, national honors

The Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) awarded the Accent numerous awards at their annual convention on April 11, 2009. In addition, theaccent.org, the online version of the student newspaper was named as a finalist for a national Online Pacemaker award by the Associated Collegiate Press (ACP) on March 18, 2009.

TIPA Convention Awards

Adviser Matthew Connolly, and Student Life Communications Coordinator Lori Blewett led a group of 16 Austin Community College students to the TIPA state convention in Dallas from April 9-11. These students competed in on-site competitions and mailed-in competitions against over 600 college students from schools all over the state. Accent staff members earned the following:

Best of Show Competition:
(Newspapers grouped into divisions according to how often they publish.)

Third Place in Division - Accent Newspaper, April 6 Issue

On-site Contests:
(No division - students at convention compete against all other students regardless of four year or two year status or size of school.)

Public Relations Release Writing - First Place - Anne Boyd
Spanish News Writing - Second Place - Anny Ibarra
Editorial Cartoon - Second Place - Karen Kuhn
Feature Writing - Third Place - Devon Tinknell

Mail-in Contests:
(Publications grouped into divisions according to size of school and how often they publish.)

Editorial - First Place - Sarah Neve
Opinion / Editorial Page Design - First Place - Jana Lelek
General Magazine Story Package - Second Place - Karen Kuhn and Sarah Neve
Editorial Cartoon - Third Place - Karen Kuhn
General Magazine Overall Design - Third Place - Life4U Magazine
General Magazine Overall Excellence - Third Place - Life4U Magazine
Sports Feature Photo - Third Place - Hanly Sam
Critical Review - Honorable mention - Lindsay Preston
News Photo - Honorable Mention - Alma Hernandez
Newspaper Illustration - Honorable Mention - Anny Ibarra
Opinion / Editorial Page Design - Honorable mention - Jana Lelek
Page One Design - Honorable mention - Jana Lelek
Single Subject Presentation - Honorable mention - Accent Staff
Sports Action Photo - Honorable mention - Hanly Sam

More information about TIPA can be found at the following web site or by contacting Matthew Connolly.
http://www.texasipa.org/

ACP
On March 18, 2009, the Associated Collegiate Press announced that theaccent.org has been selected from 223 entries as one of 42 finalists in the 2009 Online Pacemaker competition. Since 1927, the Pacemaker has been the highest honor available to ACP members. A complete list of finalists is available here:
http://studentpress.org/acp/winners/opm09.html


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Monday, April 6, 2009

Time to get paid - End of semester portfolio conferences

Important
  • You MUST have a 10-15 minute portfolio conference on April 27-29 to be eligible for a payment.
  • All paperwork must be complete.
  • You will be paid for material scheduled to run in the May 4 issue if you meet the April 23 deadline.
Details:

If you have had your work published in the print or web site between Feb.2 and May 4, you are eligible to receive a cash incentive payment for your work on The Accent newspaper.

Keep working and contributing. You will be paid for everything you contribute through the May 4 issue.

To claim your payment, you must do the following:

1. Make two clip files / working portfolios of your work. You must mount every contribution (Story, photo, art etc.) on a separate sheet of 8.5" x 11" white paper. One of these will be turned in during the portfolio conference. The other portfolio is for you to keep.
START THIS NOW, and UPDATE IT OVER THE NEXT TWO ISSUES. If you need more copies, grab some off of the stands, or stop by RGC 101.1.

2. Fill out the tally sheet BEFORE your conference.

3. Attend a portfolio conference between April 27-29. We will make sure all of your paperwork is complete, and I'll give you feedback on your work. I am scheduling appointments now.

4. Collect your check with our gratitude.

Reminder, here's the pay structure. Some of you are already racking up the bonuses. Keep on working!

– Two pieces published -$20.00
– Three pieces published - $30.00
– Four pieces published - $48.00 (20% bonus)
– Five pieces published - $60.00 (20% bonus)
– Six pieces published - $90.00 (50% bonus)
– Over six pieces - $10.00 / piece (plus bonus)
– Plus - $5.00 / piece raise per semester after the first
semester.(The raise is retroactive provided you can show me work
from previous semesters at the portfolio conference)

Notes -
Photography payments are limited to three payments per assignment.
Pieces published only online count as one piece for payment purposes.
Pieces published both online and in print only count as a single piece.
Bloggers receive payment at the rate of one per day of coverage, not one per post.


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Friday, March 27, 2009

New Paid Marketing Position for ACC Student

Great new student opportunity--could include paid trip to San Francisco!

Do you know of a great ACC marketing/communications/advertising/PR student who can work 18 hrs/wk starting May 31 until about Aug. 21? (With option to continue through fall and spring semester)

Please have students submit the following by April 13:
Complete ACC HR application

Materials sent to:
Lori Blewett
Communications Coordinator
Office of Student Life
Austin Community College
1212 Rio Grande Rm 101.1
Austin, TX 78701

Pay: $8.50/hr
Schedule: 18 hrs/wk over the summer at RGC (May 31 to about Aug 21)

If there is a qualified candidate from initial applicant pool, the student will also receive a paid trip (flight, lodging, registration) to San Francisco for a marketing conference May 31-June 3.



REPORTS TO:
Student Life Communications Coordinator
JOB PURPOSE:
To plan and implement marketing strategies for Office of Student Life department and programs.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND TASKS:
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
1. Assists in researching and developing marketing goals and objectives consistent with the Department.
2. Contributes to formulation of marketing strategy and Department marketing policies.
3. Assists in the design of new communications plans and programs; assists in developing advertising campaigns creating concept, slogan, and message; assists with copy and graphic design for print web, and other media outlets.


REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
Knowledge of:
Marketing media used by ACC students.
Maintaining records and procedures.
Marketing and advertising principles.
Skill in:
Maintaining an established work schedule.
Effectively using interpersonal and communications skills, including tact and diplomacy.
Effectively using organizational and planning skills with attention to detail and follow through.
Maintaining Confidentiality of work related information and materials.
Computer Skills:
Demonstrated proficiency using standard office software applications, graphics, and photo applications.
Physical Requirements:
Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment.
Subject to standing, walking, sitting, bending, reaching, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.
Occasional lifting of objects up to 10 pounds.


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Thursday, March 26, 2009

Twitter a go-go X 3

  1. Hilarious Twitter Spoof - The twouble with twitter cartoon. Avoid the Fail Whale!
  2. Twitter tips for college students - You should be following your profs.
  3. Celebrity Twitters - Hillary Clinton and Patrick Wilson of Weezer on the same list.

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More Google Power

Check out these Google Search Results

"Stimulus Package Texas" - Accent Ranked #1

"SXSW Movie Blog" -Accent Blogs Ranked #2, #5, #6

"SXSW Music Blog"
- Accent Blogs Ranked #5, #6, #9

"Examined Life Documentary" - Accent Ranked # 4

"Flu Season Play" - Accent Ranked #6





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Canon Rebel with HD video

Check out this new Rebel with HD video.

-Full Review -



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Thursday, March 12, 2009

Use a Flip during SXSW

Want to add video to your SXSW blogs?
Thanks to puredigital, there are two brand new Flip Ultra's available. Check it out.








puredigital rocks!

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Wednesday, March 11, 2009

A message from Jamie

I would like increased coverage on the following departments here at ACC for the Accent:
- Physics, Astronomy
- Culinary Arts
- Radio, Film, Television
- Child Development
- Music
We haven’t been writing much on these departments. I would like to know if any staff writer is perhaps majoring in any of these and has interest in writing on upcoming events that will be occurring.
I know Spring Break will be coming up soon but feel free to email me with suggestions on possible story ideas - editor3@austincc.edu

Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you.
-Jamie Carpenter
Campus Editor


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ACP is looking for freelance writer to write about freelancing

The Associated Collegiate Press is seeking a freelance writer or team of contributors to develop a guide to freelance work aimed at college students with experience working in student media and who wish to pursue careers in journalism. The successful candidate will have experience in freelancing with preferred experience as a staff reporter for an established news or special-interest publication or Web site. Experience in an academic setting as faculty or advising college media is also helpful, as is experience with multiple delivery platforms.

About the project:
One component of ACP's mission is to foster careers in journalism. Given the current economic climate and the outlook for jobs in print journalism, ACP will attempt to meet changing needs among its members through a "how to" guide for freelance work. Final format will be a multiple-page guidebook distributed as a PDF file. Additional online components such as videos, slide shows or illustrations are also possible. This job is a work for hire, and ACP plans to publish this work for its members. Compensation is negotiable based on scope and complexity of project.

Timeline:
Writer selected by early April with project completed by early June.

Direct inquiries to:
Logan H. Aimone, Executive Director
Associated Collegiate Press
2221 University Ave. SE, Suite 121
Minneapolis, MN 55414
logan@studentpress.org / (612) 625-7359

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Monday, March 2, 2009

Journalism Job Postings from TPA

From the Texas Press Association Job Bank:

3/2/09 Today Newspapers, an award winning group of 5 weekly community
newspapers covering southern Dallas county is looking for editors,
part-time photographers and outside sales staff, possible part-time
Managing Editor position too. If you are experienced in one of these
areas please email your resume along with any clippings/editorial and
salary requirements to: capkapdap@yahoo.com. No phone calls please.


3/2/09 Growing community-minded small weekly near San Antonio with an
aggressive attitude towards news is looking for a Managing Editor to
run the newsroom, paginate and direct one full-time reporter and
stringers and also cover a beat. Looking for a journalist with
strong news writing and page design experience. We are a fun group to
work with and our office is 20 minutes from the Riverwalk. Hours and
time off policy is generous and you get a paid week off at Christmas.
The owners are award-winning journalists and page designers and are
ready and willing to help train a good reporter to become a good
editor or help a good editor get better. We also have good office
parties. Salary ranges from $26K to $30K. Sorry, no health insurance.
Email your resume to reagon@leadernews.net or fax to (830) 709-0067.
If all else fails, call Reagon at (830) 709-3515.

3/02/09 The Breckenridge American in
tradition-rich Breckenridge, Texas, is seeking a
hard working, ambitious full-time sports editor.
The successful applicant will be highly motivated
and a skillful writer who can capture the game
story beyond the final score. Experience
preferred. Breckenridge, a progressive city of
6,000, is ideally situated in recreation country
two hours west of the Dallas-Fort Worth
Metroplex. It offers a rural lifestyle in a
deeply rooted community. The Breckenridge
American, published twice weekly, offers a
competitive salary, a quality benefits package
and an opportunity for creative work at a
community-minded newspaper. If you are looking
for advancement, you owe it to yourself to take a
close look at Breckenridge. Submit résumé and
clips to Rob Durham, Assistant Editor,
Breckenridge American, P.O. Box 871,
Breckenridge, TX 76424, phone (254) 559-5412, fax
(254) 559-3491, or via e-mail to
newsdesk@breckenridgeamerican.com.

3/2/09 Sports reporter -- The Athens Daily
Review, an award-winning six-day-a-week
publication in East Texas, seeks an energetic
candidate to cover sports. We cover nine high
schools and Trinity Valley Community College,
home of the five-time national champion Lady
Cardinal basketball team. Some photography is
required, as well as occasional use of a video
camera. Pagination (QuarkXpress) is a must. If
you're up to the job, send resume and clips to
Editor Jayson Larson at editor@athensreview.com.
You can also submit information to 201 South
Prairieville, Athens, Texas, 75751.



3/2/09 GA reporter -- The Athens Daily Review, an
award-winning six-day-a-week publication in East
Texas, is seeking a general assignments reporter.
This position will include a little bit of
everything - strong reporting and writing skills,
photography and even a little video. Pagination
(QuarkXpress) is a must. Come be a part of a
progressive staff looking to the future of
communication! Send resume and clips to Editor
Jayson Larson at editor@athensreview.com. You can
also submit information to 201 South
Prairieville, Athens, Texas, 75751.


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