Convergence Journalism: Defined as print, broadcast and online news staffs forging partnerships in which journalists often work and distribute content across several news platforms.
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12-30-2008 LOCAL MEDIA FOLKS EMBRACING CONVERGENCE IN JOURNALISM When the theory of convergence was first tossed around in journalistic circles more than a decade ago, many journalists scoffed at the idea. Other media outlets were considered competitors. They were the opposition. Print journalists considered themselves the real gods of journalism and felt TV and radio folks were more like "entertainers" than serious journalists like them. Rarely, if ever, would a print journalist have anything to do with TV or radio. That has all changed over the years. As media companies merge and continue to look to cut costs, those journalists who have embraced convergence are the survivors--and stars--- in today's media environment. Here are a few local journalists who have done an excellent job in the convergence arena: DAVE HELLING---A long-time reporter/anchor at KCTV5 and other local TV stations, he took his talents to the Kansas City Star in 2005. He has proven to not only be an excellent writer, but he also does video pieces for the Star's Web site and can easily go on a radio or TV talk show to discuss issues of the day. AARON BARNHART---The Star's long-time TV critic, he was one of the first to have his own Web site (TVBARN) that will celebrate its 10th anniversary in February 2009. He does more radio interviews during the week than many full-time radio talkers. JOYCE SMITH---The Kansas City Star's "CityScape" columnist and reporter was one of the first at the Star to go out and shoot her own photos for her column. It used to be taboo for a journalist to also take his/her own photos, but she is talented enough in both areas to pull it off. KRIS KETZ---He's been at KMBC for 25 years as a reporter and anchor, but he also can host a radio show effortlessly like he is doing this week on KCMO-710 AM. He also is not afraid to write his own stories. JASON WHITLOCK---The Star sports columnist can pretty much handle any media outlet and has gained national exposure through his on-line columns, TV interviews and radio hosting. MIKE SHANIN---He currently co-hosts an afternoon talk show on KMBZ-980 with Scott Parks, but the veteran radio guy can easily transition into a role as TV talk show host effortlessly and has hosted a show on KCPT for years. STEVE KRASKE---A veteran political reporter/columnist at the Star, Kraske has hosted his own radio talk show on KCUR for several years. He is as comfortable behind a microphone as he is cranking out a story.
12-30-2008
"I have another term for "convergence expert"; it's "media whore." Especially for a guy like Barnhart. Yea, he's interesting to listen to, but there's not a show he won't do. Helling, on the other hand, may appear on news shows, but he is a newsman."
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