James’s analysis and insight was often peppered with highly critical assessments and cultural references. His columns had bite-- and impact. While some bloggers have been able to approach James’s scholarship, most have evolved closer to a model that resembles Hockey Night In Canada meets TMZ. But the failures of some bloggers need not condemn the entire process. The question is where will it go next in its rivalry with MSM.
Naming Faves: A few of our hockey faves? Puck Daddy, Kuklas Korner, the Orland Kurtenblog, Rangers Goal Line Report... and that’s in no particular order.
Whose Side Are You On: Speaking of reporting ethics - Working as a gonzo journalist for TV Azteca, Ines Sainz entered the New York Jets last week dressing room wearing... umm, provocative clothing. Really provocative-- at least, if you’re one of the Jets’ frat boys who made it very clear how they felt about Sainz. So clear that Sainz accused the Jets of sexual harassment.
Washington’s Clinton Portis articulated the Porky’s attitude on a radio show Tuesday: “You know, somebody got to spark her interest, or she's gonna want somebody. I don't know what kind of woman won't, if you get to go and look at 53 men's packages. And you're just sitting here, saying 'Oh, none of this is attractive to me.' I know you're doing a job, but at the same time, the same way I'm gonna cut my eye if I see somebody worth talking to, I'm sure they do the same thing.”
Right. (Portis has subsequently withdrawn his ruminations.) The howling wolf routine from athletes is inexcusable. But it begs the question of what constitutes professional behaviour or appropriate dress when media invade dressing rooms. Sainz’ working attire and modus operandi often suggest a warm-up act on The Gong Show more than a TV reporter. (Cabby on The Score treads the same fine line.)
Can a reporter who puts herself ahead of the story still ask for the protection of reporting standards? Without excusing the Jets’ anvil chorus, can Sainz still expect the benefit of the doubt when her Charo act falls flat? Usual Suspects sees Sainz more as a standup comedian than a journalist. As such, she should expect that when her act falls flat, she’ll be heckled and mocked. Straddling the line between comedy and journalism, Sainz faced a rude, unruly audience in the Jets that didn’t give her act a passing grade.
The Jets behaviour was juvenile and unworthy of pro athletes. But if Sainz wishes the protection of journalistic standards she needs to act more like a journalist than a warm-up act on America’s Got Talent.
