Rubbernecking at the D&C

photo: Jamie Germano

A closer look at this D&C article provides and odd timeline and little info given the nature of the photograph.

The timeline, as it reads, was updated at 12:57 PM, however, reading it now at nearly five o'clock the content seems to read as though Mr. Flanigan is clairvoyant. I've noticed in the past the times shown in the updates remains static even when the content of the story is changed throughout the day.

No big deal? Maybe just the manner the server documents the initial posting. But you must consider that as the story changes and develops throughout the day it appears as though they nailed it on the first release.

"Quick, get that shot of the cop with the assualt weapon on the front page ASAP!"

A few months back I followed a story during the day regarding a "stabbing" at East High. The first incarnation stated, and I'm paraphrasing from memory, "Victim transported to Strong with life threatening stab wounds to the face." Or something over the top like that. By the end of the day the story stated the victim was released with superficial scratches on the arm. All while displaying that original posting time.

Kind of like postmarking a letter and mailing it later in the week. Deceiving to say the least.

Perhaps Mr. Tobin's words in a recent EdBlog should be posted in the newsroom.(antiquated term)

"Let's go with the facts with this story, not the leap-to-conclusion approach. The facts are tough enough."