by Pamela Horton
Al Jazeera is a satellite channel news medium most commonly known by Americans for airing tapes by Osama bin Laden. The series of tapes were of Laden sending messages via Al Jazeera satellite channel refusing to have any involvement with the September 2011 attacks on the twin towers in New York City, then in later messages admits to his plans for destruction. These messages started between the years of 2001 to 2011.
Al Jazeera is the closest medium in the Middle East that resembles the Western culture of journalism. Other media fall victim to government authority broadcasting and owned. Al Jazeera was funded by the Qatar government for five years, and then was to pay the money back to Qatar to remain an independent media not run by Arab governments.
Prince Khalifa (who overthrew his father as ruler) became ruler of Qatar. His entire family, Al Thani, is known for arguing and stealing the throne. It is no shock that Prince Khalifa took over while his father was on vacation. Unlike his father, Prince Khalifa, was a democratic leader. He wanted to change the entire way Arab lived. In doing so, he gave $150 million to start Al Jazeera. This would be an Arab medium, for the Arabs, and by the Arabs with a Western twist.
The idea of the Western culture for Al Jazeera was to remain objective and unbiased. It included talk shows about private Arab culture and brought it to the light. Women’s rights were addressed, having freedom of speech and the press, and uncovered corruptiveness within the Middle Eastern countries.
Colin Powell, former Secretary of State for the United States, becomes angry with Al Jazeera. Al Jazeera said, “Attempts by the U.S. government to exert control over media have been broad. In early October, Secretary of State Colin Powell voiced his concerns about the Al Jazeera television station during a meeting with Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa Thani, the emir of Qatar. Powell reportedly told Thani to "rein in" Al Jazeera, which operates out of Qatar and relies on the government for significant funding (Washington Post, 10/9/01). Though the channel is considered by many to be the most independent TV news outlet in the Arab world, Powell and other U.S. officials were reportedly upset by the channel re-airing old interviews with bin Laden and the inclusion of guests that are too critical of the United States on its programs. (In attempting to muzzle Al Jazeera, Powell was mirroring the complaints of Arab nationalists who contend that the channel too often airs the views of Israelis and Western officials.)
When the “Secretary of State Colin Powell complained to Sheikh Hamad about Al-Jazeera’s "inflammatory" reporting. The following month U.S. bombs completely destroyed the agency's Kabul offices. The Israeli media have condemned Al-Jazeera for inciting Palestinian violence, while some Palestinians are enraged that Al-Jazeera interviewed representatives of the Likud government. Even the Arab League at one point called for a boycott of "the TV station that invites Israelis" to be interviewed”. (Kelly)
Later Colin Powell would admit to falsely accusing the Saudi government of harnessing nuclear weapons. Then resign his position of Secretary of State. This incident would leave Al Jazeera to report on the United States wanting to control the Middle Eastern media coverage.
Along with the bin Laden tapes airing, Al Jazeera released footage of civilians being killed and maimed in Afghanistan by the Taliban. Then, National Security Advisor, Condoleezza Rice, told American news networks ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, and Fox news to remove any foul language from the taped before being aired. The networks agreed.
Detailed case description and media coverage
The struggle to keep an audience for Western and non-Western media remains a conflicting issue between the two media mainly because the two media have totally different beliefs/cultures. Western media know that censorship is a must to keep their audiences’ attention and non-Western belief is a non-fiction route to the news with no censorship. The issue is there is not a global set of principles that all journalists favor or practice by causing censored and non-censored forms of media to cloud the audiences with different points of view.
Increasing modern technology, it is becoming easier for cultures to collide and their particular audiences reached. The United States have come up with preventive measures to protect its audience from non-Western media. One measure involves the transmission through blue tooth.
Iranian dissidents have used to transmit data outside authorities’ control. Developers are looking to create a system that allows users to mark data so that when other trusted individuals come into range their mobile devices automatically get the transfer. (Terzieff)
Al Jazeera wants to remain free of censorship. They said in order to report accurate, objective, and truthful news they need to speak up. The way they did this was showing scenes of suffering Afghan civilians experienced when the United States military invaded their country. The U.S. said this was in retaliation of the terrorists issues. Al Jazeera did not stop there. They continued to provide footage of Western held hostage by Iraq until the Al Jazeera left.
Despite graphic images or due to these images Al Jazeera becomes the most sought channel for news during the war. People all over the world tuned in for footage of the war.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
PRO provides a professional profile
By Pamela Horton
Do you have life insurance? Most of us do not or wait until the last minute to get it. But did you know that “life insurance” to a PR professional is called credibility. Yep, that’s right. Being credible can make you or break you in this business. So get to the “professional” status by getting involved early on with the public relations organization. It will give people time to recognize YOU individually and shape your credibility.
The Public Relations Organization was started in 2002 by Dr. Augustine Ihator. He is a current professor of public relations at Jacksonville State University and a prestigious member of the national PRSA. The organization is run completely by students wanting to develop professional career opportunities. Students gain hands-on experience interacting with student and local media outlets. PRO is one of the most active student organizations on campus!
Since October 1, 2002 PRO has done many exciting things! Every semester PRO will travel to a company to meet the PR staff and learn the strategies they use and receive network opportunities. That particular company will also give a tour of their facility and how it works. It’s enjoyable, fun, and engages PRO in all aspects of the business! Networks made so far include: Honda, Aztec communication, Mizell hospital, RMC, and Delta connection, just to name a few!
In the spring PRO assist during Communication week. They prepare the fliers, posters, and refreshments for the key note speakers. The last day is the Award Luncheon; programs are passed out, along with tickets to win prizes!
An annual Alumni Brunch/Luncheon is held during homecoming week during the fall semester. PRO will put together theme ideas for the float to compete in the parade that week. Last year PRO won $300!
Peer mentoring is an added bonus to this organization. All majors around campus come together as a team with the same goal in mind. PRO members support each other, making for long lasting relationships that are never forgotten.
PRO builds a reputation of leadership and experience, knowledge and trust. You will have gained credibility for your profession!
Do you have life insurance? Most of us do not or wait until the last minute to get it. But did you know that “life insurance” to a PR professional is called credibility. Yep, that’s right. Being credible can make you or break you in this business. So get to the “professional” status by getting involved early on with the public relations organization. It will give people time to recognize YOU individually and shape your credibility.
The Public Relations Organization was started in 2002 by Dr. Augustine Ihator. He is a current professor of public relations at Jacksonville State University and a prestigious member of the national PRSA. The organization is run completely by students wanting to develop professional career opportunities. Students gain hands-on experience interacting with student and local media outlets. PRO is one of the most active student organizations on campus!
Since October 1, 2002 PRO has done many exciting things! Every semester PRO will travel to a company to meet the PR staff and learn the strategies they use and receive network opportunities. That particular company will also give a tour of their facility and how it works. It’s enjoyable, fun, and engages PRO in all aspects of the business! Networks made so far include: Honda, Aztec communication, Mizell hospital, RMC, and Delta connection, just to name a few!
In the spring PRO assist during Communication week. They prepare the fliers, posters, and refreshments for the key note speakers. The last day is the Award Luncheon; programs are passed out, along with tickets to win prizes!
An annual Alumni Brunch/Luncheon is held during homecoming week during the fall semester. PRO will put together theme ideas for the float to compete in the parade that week. Last year PRO won $300!
Peer mentoring is an added bonus to this organization. All majors around campus come together as a team with the same goal in mind. PRO members support each other, making for long lasting relationships that are never forgotten.
PRO builds a reputation of leadership and experience, knowledge and trust. You will have gained credibility for your profession!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Sexual assault is a growing problem in the United States By: Kevin Brant
Sexual assault is a growing problem in the United States. This is especially true among college campuses. According to the Rape Abuse Incest National Network (RAINN) website, a person is sexually assaulted every two minutes. Forth-four percent of victims are under the age of 18 and 80 percent of victims are under the age of 30. Out of all the sexual assaults that occur 2/3 of them are usually committed by someone the victim knows.
To raise awareness, Jacksonville State University Counseling Services along with Peer Educators, The W.I.S.E. Group and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority of JSU held an event called “Take Back the Night.” This event was held on April 12 on the quad of JSU. More than 150 people came to listen to monologues, music and personal stories about the effects of sexual assault.
Jonathan Coates from Birmingham was one who delivered a monologue called “Gotta Be a Man.”
“I think a lot of people are unaware about how big of an issue sexual assault really is,” Coates said. “I want to use myself as an instrument to spread the news to the masses.”
The music group J-LLYFE was among the entertainment at the event. The group sang songs talking about empowerment. Other monologues included a performance called “My Short Skirt” by Katharine Berquist from Carrollton, Ga., and Jade Wagner from Decatur who performed one called “Covers.”
As the evening continued some startling statistics were shared. One in six women, one in 33 men, one in six people under the age of 18 are victims of sexual assault. As soon as these statistics were shared to motivate the crowd, a chant was led by various people which said “Women unite, take back the night.”
The L.E.A.D. group then performed a drama skit called: “There’s a Fine Line Between Love and Rape.” This skit was then followed by trivia questions called miss or fact. Info was given regarding sexual assault and the crowd was asked whether it was miss or fact.
Courtney Davis sang a song called “My Life is in Your Hands.” This was followed a musical performance by Abby Park.
Sexual harassment information comes from different levels including law enforcement. Investigator Sgt. Carl Preunninger from the Jacksonville State University Police Department shared some tips on sexual assault and prevention.
To close the night out, a candle light vigil was done in honor of those who have been sexually assaulted.
There are ways to lower one’s risk to being a victim of sexual assault -- surroundings. This is especially true at night when most of this activity takes place. Make sure you walk with confidence. If you are confident you are less likely to be attacked in this way. If you are under the influence of alcohol, make sure to know your limits. Trust your instincts. If your gut is telling you that something is wrong, most of the time it is right.
Julie Nix, director of counseling and disability support services at JSU, was the main organizer for the event.
For more information about sexual assault you can visit online at www.rainn.org, www.takebackthenight.com or you can call JSU Counseling services at (256) 782-5475.
Read more:Jacksonville News - Sexual assault is a growing problem in the United States
To raise awareness, Jacksonville State University Counseling Services along with Peer Educators, The W.I.S.E. Group and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority of JSU held an event called “Take Back the Night.” This event was held on April 12 on the quad of JSU. More than 150 people came to listen to monologues, music and personal stories about the effects of sexual assault.
Jonathan Coates from Birmingham was one who delivered a monologue called “Gotta Be a Man.”
“I think a lot of people are unaware about how big of an issue sexual assault really is,” Coates said. “I want to use myself as an instrument to spread the news to the masses.”
The music group J-LLYFE was among the entertainment at the event. The group sang songs talking about empowerment. Other monologues included a performance called “My Short Skirt” by Katharine Berquist from Carrollton, Ga., and Jade Wagner from Decatur who performed one called “Covers.”
As the evening continued some startling statistics were shared. One in six women, one in 33 men, one in six people under the age of 18 are victims of sexual assault. As soon as these statistics were shared to motivate the crowd, a chant was led by various people which said “Women unite, take back the night.”
The L.E.A.D. group then performed a drama skit called: “There’s a Fine Line Between Love and Rape.” This skit was then followed by trivia questions called miss or fact. Info was given regarding sexual assault and the crowd was asked whether it was miss or fact.
Courtney Davis sang a song called “My Life is in Your Hands.” This was followed a musical performance by Abby Park.
Sexual harassment information comes from different levels including law enforcement. Investigator Sgt. Carl Preunninger from the Jacksonville State University Police Department shared some tips on sexual assault and prevention.
To close the night out, a candle light vigil was done in honor of those who have been sexually assaulted.
There are ways to lower one’s risk to being a victim of sexual assault -- surroundings. This is especially true at night when most of this activity takes place. Make sure you walk with confidence. If you are confident you are less likely to be attacked in this way. If you are under the influence of alcohol, make sure to know your limits. Trust your instincts. If your gut is telling you that something is wrong, most of the time it is right.
Julie Nix, director of counseling and disability support services at JSU, was the main organizer for the event.
For more information about sexual assault you can visit online at www.rainn.org, www.takebackthenight.com or you can call JSU Counseling services at (256) 782-5475.
Read more:Jacksonville News - Sexual assault is a growing problem in the United States
Friday, April 13, 2012
JSU baseball and Softball have first pitch luncheon
By Kevin Brant
Success on the athletic field can come about in several ways. One way is through excelling in the classroom. Another way is by winning games. Success also comes by making it to a conference championship or further in the post season. This vision was just one of several things talked about at the first pitch luncheon held on Feb. 7 at the stadium club of Burgess-Snow Field at JSU.
At this luncheon, head baseball coach JSU spoke about his expectations for the upcoming baseball season. Also speaking at this event was JSU softball coach Janna McGinnis.
JSU President Dr. William A Meehan opened the event by recognizing County Commissioner Rudy Abbott who attended at this event. “Rudy thank you for what you do for baseball,” Meehan said. “Thank you for the most unselfish act I have ever witnessed here in my years of being with JSU. I have never known anyone who has ever given up their naming rights in order to honor someone else.”
Warren Koegel, the Athletic Director for JSU then stepped up to the microphone to say a few words. “I played football but I am more of a baseball person,” Koegel said. “This year is going to be an exciting year for baseball and softball and I love both sports very much.”
Janna McGinnis the head coach of the JSU softball team spoke on the successes of her team in the past and shared a secret that makes her program successful. “Good assistant coaches make your program successful,” McGinnis said.
Her team is not just successful on the field but also in the classroom. The team average grade point average was 3.3 in the fall semester. McGinnis will depend on the leadership of six seniors who are on the team to help lead them to wins.
McGinnis then shared her goals for this season. “We have simple goals this year,” McGinnis said. “We want to win the OVC Championship then win regionals and then the super-regionals and get to the college world series.”
The JSU softball team is picked to win the OVC Championship this year. This is the fourth consecutive year this team has picked to win the OVC championship in the preseason.
Next up to the microphone was Jim Case the head baseball coach for JSU. He started by speaking about JSU players but made an announcement regarding former JSU baseball player Todd Cunningham. “Todd Cunningham got invited to participate in spring training for the Atlanta Braves,” Case said. “This is one step closer for Cunningham to make it to the big leagues.”
Case then shared his thoughts for the upcoming season. “We hope to play for another championship,” Case said. “JSU Baseball should be about winning championships.”
Case then shared two principles that he instated for his team this school year in order to be successful. “Two principles we have as a team this year are as follows: one is to study hard and go to class. The other one is to practice hard and play hard,” Case said.
Because of these principles, there has been success in the classroom for the baseball team. “In the fall semester we as a team had a 3.13 GPA in the fall semester,” Case said. “Out of 33 on our roster, seven of them had a 4.0 GPA.”
The JSU baseball team is picked to win second in the OVC conference this year in preseason rankings. After both coaches spoke, a short video was played highlighting things from both the baseball and softball teams.
Success on the athletic field can come about in several ways. One way is through excelling in the classroom. Another way is by winning games. Success also comes by making it to a conference championship or further in the post season. This vision was just one of several things talked about at the first pitch luncheon held on Feb. 7 at the stadium club of Burgess-Snow Field at JSU.
At this luncheon, head baseball coach JSU spoke about his expectations for the upcoming baseball season. Also speaking at this event was JSU softball coach Janna McGinnis.
JSU President Dr. William A Meehan opened the event by recognizing County Commissioner Rudy Abbott who attended at this event. “Rudy thank you for what you do for baseball,” Meehan said. “Thank you for the most unselfish act I have ever witnessed here in my years of being with JSU. I have never known anyone who has ever given up their naming rights in order to honor someone else.”
Warren Koegel, the Athletic Director for JSU then stepped up to the microphone to say a few words. “I played football but I am more of a baseball person,” Koegel said. “This year is going to be an exciting year for baseball and softball and I love both sports very much.”
Janna McGinnis the head coach of the JSU softball team spoke on the successes of her team in the past and shared a secret that makes her program successful. “Good assistant coaches make your program successful,” McGinnis said.
Her team is not just successful on the field but also in the classroom. The team average grade point average was 3.3 in the fall semester. McGinnis will depend on the leadership of six seniors who are on the team to help lead them to wins.
McGinnis then shared her goals for this season. “We have simple goals this year,” McGinnis said. “We want to win the OVC Championship then win regionals and then the super-regionals and get to the college world series.”
The JSU softball team is picked to win the OVC Championship this year. This is the fourth consecutive year this team has picked to win the OVC championship in the preseason.
Next up to the microphone was Jim Case the head baseball coach for JSU. He started by speaking about JSU players but made an announcement regarding former JSU baseball player Todd Cunningham. “Todd Cunningham got invited to participate in spring training for the Atlanta Braves,” Case said. “This is one step closer for Cunningham to make it to the big leagues.”
Case then shared his thoughts for the upcoming season. “We hope to play for another championship,” Case said. “JSU Baseball should be about winning championships.”
Case then shared two principles that he instated for his team this school year in order to be successful. “Two principles we have as a team this year are as follows: one is to study hard and go to class. The other one is to practice hard and play hard,” Case said.
Because of these principles, there has been success in the classroom for the baseball team. “In the fall semester we as a team had a 3.13 GPA in the fall semester,” Case said. “Out of 33 on our roster, seven of them had a 4.0 GPA.”
The JSU baseball team is picked to win second in the OVC conference this year in preseason rankings. After both coaches spoke, a short video was played highlighting things from both the baseball and softball teams.
Jacksonville State Basketball teams have tip- off luncheon
By Kevin Brant
On Nov. 9 2011, More than 75 people took part in a tip off luncheon for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams at JSU. This event took place at the stadium club of Burgess- Snow Field on the JSU campus. This event is an annual event that is a way for fans to get to know both coaches, to get to know some of the players and for the coaches to share their expectations for the upcoming season.
Opening comments were delivered by J SU Athletic Director Warren D. Koegel. “I can’t wait to see all of you players perform on the basketball court,” Koegel said. He also mentioned several important things that need to happen this season. “It’s very important for us in our men’s and women’s basketball programs to do things the right way, to play with intensity, to play with dignity, to play with integrity and to play with class,” Koegel said. “When you do that, good things will happen.
After Koegel spoke, the women’s Basketball coach Annette Watts spoke about her team. She introduced her assistant coaches and several of her players. Each player encouraged the fans in attendance to come out and show their support at their home games. Watts spoke on a story she has told her players on what to do when things get tough in a game. “When you see us struggling on the court and I am shaking and stepping up, I am not having a seizure,” Watts said. “I will need your help as fans to show shake it off and step up.”
After Watts spoke, The men’s basketball coach James Green stepped up to the microphone to speak about his team. He spoke about his expectations for the men’s basketball team and introduced his assistant coaches. Green also introduced several of his players. “We have the ability to score a lot of points in a game,” Green said. Green even encouraged the fans in attendance at this event. “ Fans, become a real fan of us defending,” Green said. Green also spoke on the defense end of basketball. “If we want to win games, we need to get better on the defensive side of things.” Green said.
After green finished speaking Green opened the floor up for questions from fans. Green is the head coach for the JSU men’s basketball team. He is assisted by Tom Schuberth, Reggie Sharp and Ben Hicks. Annette Watts is the JSU head women’s basketball coach. Watts is assisted by Dee Bell, Yvette Sparks and Shaneka Bates.
On Nov. 9 2011, More than 75 people took part in a tip off luncheon for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams at JSU. This event took place at the stadium club of Burgess- Snow Field on the JSU campus. This event is an annual event that is a way for fans to get to know both coaches, to get to know some of the players and for the coaches to share their expectations for the upcoming season.
Opening comments were delivered by J SU Athletic Director Warren D. Koegel. “I can’t wait to see all of you players perform on the basketball court,” Koegel said. He also mentioned several important things that need to happen this season. “It’s very important for us in our men’s and women’s basketball programs to do things the right way, to play with intensity, to play with dignity, to play with integrity and to play with class,” Koegel said. “When you do that, good things will happen.
After Koegel spoke, the women’s Basketball coach Annette Watts spoke about her team. She introduced her assistant coaches and several of her players. Each player encouraged the fans in attendance to come out and show their support at their home games. Watts spoke on a story she has told her players on what to do when things get tough in a game. “When you see us struggling on the court and I am shaking and stepping up, I am not having a seizure,” Watts said. “I will need your help as fans to show shake it off and step up.”
After Watts spoke, The men’s basketball coach James Green stepped up to the microphone to speak about his team. He spoke about his expectations for the men’s basketball team and introduced his assistant coaches. Green also introduced several of his players. “We have the ability to score a lot of points in a game,” Green said. Green even encouraged the fans in attendance at this event. “ Fans, become a real fan of us defending,” Green said. Green also spoke on the defense end of basketball. “If we want to win games, we need to get better on the defensive side of things.” Green said.
After green finished speaking Green opened the floor up for questions from fans. Green is the head coach for the JSU men’s basketball team. He is assisted by Tom Schuberth, Reggie Sharp and Ben Hicks. Annette Watts is the JSU head women’s basketball coach. Watts is assisted by Dee Bell, Yvette Sparks and Shaneka Bates.
JSU Wind Ensemble has concert By: Kevin Brant
Music sounds good when you have a variety of different types of put together in a concert form. This music may include songs that make people want to get off your feet while other songs may resemble that of a haunted house or sounds of war. This kind of performance took place on Feb. 21 at Mason hall on the campus of JSU. More than 200 people gathered there to hear a concert by the JSU Wind Ensemble.
The concert started with a song called “Overture in Five Flat” which was written by Julie Giroux. This song from start to finish was exactly five minutes long. After this energetic piece, the music that followed was softer and reminded one of naptime or getting ready to go to sleep. This song performed next was “The Seal Lullaby.” Eric Whitacre wrote this piece. Eric McClendon played on piano with this piece.
The next piece the wind ensemble performed is titled “Ghost Train.” This musical selection was a medley of three songs. In that medley were “Ghost Train”, “At The Station” and “The Motive Revolution.” The music at first resembled what you would hear at a haunted house or Horror flick. The music was intense since it sounded like an actual train approaching, passing by and finally slowing to a stop. The tempo then changed to a much calmer one before changing to what sounded like soldiers going to war. Dr. Andy Nevala was the featured pianist for this piece.
After this, the wind Ensemble played a song called Autumn Soliloquy written by James Barnes. Dr. Jeremy Benson, professor of Flute at JSU was the soloist for the piece. The performance ended with a song written by David R. Holsinger called “Abram’s Pursuit.”
Clint Gillespie, Director of the JSU Wind Ensemble was pleased with the performance.” I thought they did well,” Gillespie said. “It was a tough program and they put a lot of hard work into it.
Dr. Jeremy Benson, Professor of flute at JSU was a soloist tonight. He expressed his enjoyment of the performance. “I had a great time playing with the wind ensemble,” Benson said. “It’s always great to interact with the students.”
The concert started with a song called “Overture in Five Flat” which was written by Julie Giroux. This song from start to finish was exactly five minutes long. After this energetic piece, the music that followed was softer and reminded one of naptime or getting ready to go to sleep. This song performed next was “The Seal Lullaby.” Eric Whitacre wrote this piece. Eric McClendon played on piano with this piece.
The next piece the wind ensemble performed is titled “Ghost Train.” This musical selection was a medley of three songs. In that medley were “Ghost Train”, “At The Station” and “The Motive Revolution.” The music at first resembled what you would hear at a haunted house or Horror flick. The music was intense since it sounded like an actual train approaching, passing by and finally slowing to a stop. The tempo then changed to a much calmer one before changing to what sounded like soldiers going to war. Dr. Andy Nevala was the featured pianist for this piece.
After this, the wind Ensemble played a song called Autumn Soliloquy written by James Barnes. Dr. Jeremy Benson, professor of Flute at JSU was the soloist for the piece. The performance ended with a song written by David R. Holsinger called “Abram’s Pursuit.”
Clint Gillespie, Director of the JSU Wind Ensemble was pleased with the performance.” I thought they did well,” Gillespie said. “It was a tough program and they put a lot of hard work into it.
Dr. Jeremy Benson, Professor of flute at JSU was a soloist tonight. He expressed his enjoyment of the performance. “I had a great time playing with the wind ensemble,” Benson said. “It’s always great to interact with the students.”
Monday, April 2, 2012
Tylenol Crisis
The History and Background of the Organization
By Pamela Horton
Johnson & Johnson Inc. was founded in 1886 by three brothers, James, Edward, and Robert Johnson. Its main headquarters reside in New Brunswick, New Jersey. They wanted to find ways to make antiseptic surgery easier through scientific research. In 1888 they did just that! A book was published giving directions on how to keep a sterile environment and is the standard we use today.
The main goal and credo of Johnson & Johnson Inc. (even used today) is the customer comes before the product. A safer, cleaner environment for their consumers takes precedence over a defective product. This was long before anyone ever heard the term “corporate social responsibility.” Our Credo is more than just a moral compass. We believe it’s a recipe for business success (Johnson & Johnson 2012).
Starting in the late 1800s into the early 1900s consumer products were introduced such as women’s sanitary napkins, dental floss, maternity kits for easier childbirth, and the first first-aid kits made available. JNJ would sell hard to physicians, nurses, hospitals, employees, the community, and consumers. The company expands to overseas and begins to thrive with 37 percent of market shares. They now own many name brand healthcare products: Band-Aid, children’s no more tears bathing products, Acuvue contact lenses, Listerine, and many more.
In 1951, the safety and efficacy of acetaminophen was described at a scientific symposium in New York City sponsored by the Institute for the Study of Analgesic and Sedative Drugs. According to the research reported at this symposium, acetaminophen was found to be as effective as aspirin for pain relief and fever reduction, but without the side effects of aspirin such as stomach irritation, gastrointestinal bleeding, and impairment of the blood to clot normally ((http://www.nancywest.net/pdfs/McNeilConsumerHealthcareCompany.pdf).
Convinced of the safety and efficacy of the drug, McNeil began its own extensive research on acetaminophen which confirmed the findings reported at the symposium. McNeil's first use of APAP was as a component of the combination product, ALGOSON, an elixir which contained sodium butabarbital and acetaminophen. It was marketed in 1953 as a prescription analgesic (http://www.nancywest.net/pdfs/McNeilConsumerHealthcareCompany.pdf). In 1955 Children’s Tylenol was introduced with a prescription only.
In 1959 Johnson & Johnson receive McNeil Laboratories. McNeil Laboratories was one of the largest drug stores in Philadelphia serving all consumers along with all the physicians in that area. Family owned and operated, Henry and Bob McNeil would finally become the president and chairman of the company after their father’s death, Robert Lincoln McNeil. The constantly expanding company was always looking for more land to purchase in order to build bigger and better laboratories. The company was worth $11.4 million. The cost of research rising made the decision for McNeil Laboratories to sell to Johnson & Johnson.
Business is booming. Both companies have credible names along with research to prove efficiency of their products. In September 29, 1982, Tylenol would put JNJ to the test.
A Detailed Case Description and Media Coverage
In Chicago, 12-year-old child tells her parents she has a cold. They gave her an Extra-Strength Tylenol for comfort and she died hours later. Another person named, Adam Janus, a postal worker in the Chicago area, takes an Extra-Strength Tylenol for a headache and dies the next morning. Eventually five other individuals die using the same product.
Through police investigations the only logical explanation for these deaths was tainted medicine. It was all within the same city of Chicago that this had happened resulting in seven deaths. Someone is believed to have removed bottles from the shelf at the store and laced the pills with cyanide 10,000 times the normal limit to kill a person.
Immediately after the incident JNJ’s market share went from 37 percent to 7 percent. Although no evidence was found of internal poisoning on behalf of JNJ manufactures and employees, the brand name needs to gain its consumers trust once again.
A press conference release was given by the medical examiner confirming that Tylenol was the cause of death in all seven individuals. The media, within minutes, started to report that Tylenol was the cause of deaths in Chicago. In one week 90 percent of the American population knew about the incident. The newspaper gave negative headlines toward the JNJ Company and television would put faces with the stories playing on the emotions of many. This gave JNJ an untrustworthy brand name many used to believe in. Media focused heavily on the death toll rather than the product itself.
JNJ public relations department found out about the medical examiner comments through a Chicago reporter calling for confirmation of the incident. JNJ unaware this happened received most of its information from the reporter. Without delay a special group was formed consisting of seven member strategy team headed by Chairman James Burke. He started gaining back positive media coverage by going on television to explain the situation.
Strategies made by the group started to make consumers view JNJ as the victims. JNJ pulled millions of dollars’ worth of Tylenol bottles was pulled from the shelf, and manufacturing stopped. Advertising was also stopped. A 1-800 crisis line was set up for concern consumers to call with questions. Many press releases were given at JNJ headquarters constantly informing public of information received and what is going to be done to prevent this in the future. JNJ also used sympathetic and forgiveness techniques by providing financial assistance and counseling for their consumers.
A few weeks later JNJ repackaged the capsules with a triple safety seal and began an advertising campaign focusing mainly on the new packaging. The capsules gradually reappeared on the shelves in late December of 1982. Even before the return of the Tylenol capsules, the market share of Tylenol tablets appeared to rebound, despite heavy competition from brands never before advertised. Tylenol rebounded to a 30 percent market share within six months. By August 1983, Tylenol was firmly established once again as the nation's leading pain reliever (Mitchell).
Johnson & Johnson took the following steps to re-introduce the product:
1. Tylenol products were re-introduced containing a triple-seal tamper resistant packaging. It became the first company to comply with the Food and Drug Administration mandate of tamper-resistant packaging. Furthermore, they promoted caplets, which are more resistant to tampering.
2. In order to motivate consumers to buy the product, they offered coupons on the purchase of their product. They were available in the newspapers as well as by calling a toll-free number.
3. To recover loss stock from the crisis, Johnson & Johnson made a new pricing program that gave consumers up to 25% off the purchase of the product.
4. Over 2250 sales people made presentations for the medical community to restore confidence on the product (Zoulas).
A Critique of the Case and Media Coverage
The Tylenol Crisis of 1982 proved to be a successful public relations campaign used many years later. Johnson & Johnson’s credo that states customers are before products became beneficial to their company’s image. Accurate and honest information was given to the publics and restored their trust.
The media report as they hear it. Small amounts of information is reported until more information is received and a broader analyzes can be made. This is not good when a company wants to keep a credible image. The media have a negative effect of crisis. They tend to place blame quickly while not knowing all the details involved. This is why companies have to jump into action as quickly as possible to deter this type of thinking to its publics. Otherwise a business will have a negative image and not be in business anymore.
Johnson & Johnson's handling of the crisis a success included the following:
• They acted quickly, with complete openness about what had happened, and immediately sought to remove any source of danger based on the worst case scenario - not waiting for evidence to see whether the contamination might be more widespread
• Having acted quickly, they then sought to ensure that measures were taken which would prevent as far as possible a recurrence of the problem
• They showed themselves to be prepared to bear the short-term cost in the name of consumer safety. That more than anything else established a basis for trust with their customers (Zoulas).
This is a classic public relations case because it shows how all businesses should react in a crisis.
JNJ became aware of the issue. Once aware of the deaths caused by their product, JNJ began a crisis management plan. They immediately formed a strategic group of well-informed employees to access the crisis and at what degree the crisis was held.
The media turned the blame to JNJ and JNJ turned themselves into a victim of terrorism. This kept publics from having a negative image of their company and products. They implemented a plan an followed through with it. They were direct and did not lie about the facts. They said it and gave explanation for it.
They used the local media (TV and newspapers) to provide comments to their publics. They never tried to cover up anything and were open to criticism to use it to give facts. The more information the media received the less they were placing the blame on their company and started looking at other possible suspects.
The 1-800 crisis hotlines were another detour from a negative company image. This allowed the public to express their concerns and have the company answer them. This gives positive feedback.
Although it was proven they didn’t have anything to do with the deaths of these seven individuals they still sympathized with the families of the deceased and gave them financial backing.
Today technology has progressed so much since 1982. The World Wide Web can give information within seconds. In 1982, it took only hours for millions of people to know via the television or newspapers, but now with WWW information can be transmitted with the blink of an eye. It is evident that any crisis in this day and time should be handled via the internet first along with other forms of media. The idea is to get the facts out before someone else corrupts the public’s thinking, and this can happen so quickly now, I believe extra employees should be hired just for internet surveillance.
Advancements in technology and other areas have made individuals much smarter than it was in 1982. The publics are well informed in many fields of study with information at their fingertips. The best way to deal with educated people is to be direct and honest. People will know if they are being lied to or the whole story is not told. Keep up-to-date information to keep people mindful of what is going on and not sway to their own opinions but stick with the facts.
References
Department of Defense (n.d) Crisis Communication Strategies. University of Oklahoma Department of Communications. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.ou.edu/deptcomm/dodjcc/groups/02C2/Johnson%20&%20Johnson.htm
Mitchell, Mark L. (Oct. 1989). The impact of external parities on brand-name capital: the 1982 Tylenol poisonings and subsequent cases. Academic One File. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://go.galegroup.com.lib-proxy.jsu.edu/ps/retrieve.do?sgHitCountType=None&sort=DA-SORT&inPS=true&prodId=AONE&userGroupName=jack26672&tabID=T002&searchId=R1&resultListType=RESULT_LIST&contentSegment=&searchType=AdvancedSearchForm¤tPosition=4&contentSet=GALE%7CA8026221&&docId=GALE|A8026221&docType=GALE&role=
Oshins, Alice H. (Nov. 1989). Crisis management plan crucial in product tamperings. Academic One File. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://go.galegroup.com.lib-proxy.jsu.edu/ps/retrieve.do?sgHitCountType=None&sort=DA-SORT&inPS=true&prodId=AONE&userGroupName=jack26672&tabID=T002&searchId=R14&resultListType=RESULT_LIST&contentSegment=&searchType=AdvancedSearchForm¤tPosition=25&contentSet=GALE%7CA8230555&&docId=GALE|A8230555&docType=GALE&role=
Fletcher, Dan. (Feb. 2009). A Brief History of the Tylenol Poisonings. Time U.S. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1878063,00.html
West, Nancy. (n.d). History of Tylenol. Worldwide Consumer Pharmaceutical Intranet Site
Content. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.nancywest.net/pdfs/McNeilConsumerHealthcareCompany.pdf
Singer, Natasha. (Jan. 2010). In Recall, a Role Model Stumbles. The New York Times. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/18/business/18drug.html
Zoulas, Soterios. (n.d). The 1982 Tylenol Crisis. Zoulas Communications. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://aboutpublicrelations.net/uczoulas1.htm
Reyna, Susi. (2002). Effective Crisis Management. University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Fall02/Susi/sources.htm
By Pamela Horton
Johnson & Johnson Inc. was founded in 1886 by three brothers, James, Edward, and Robert Johnson. Its main headquarters reside in New Brunswick, New Jersey. They wanted to find ways to make antiseptic surgery easier through scientific research. In 1888 they did just that! A book was published giving directions on how to keep a sterile environment and is the standard we use today.
The main goal and credo of Johnson & Johnson Inc. (even used today) is the customer comes before the product. A safer, cleaner environment for their consumers takes precedence over a defective product. This was long before anyone ever heard the term “corporate social responsibility.” Our Credo is more than just a moral compass. We believe it’s a recipe for business success (Johnson & Johnson 2012).
Starting in the late 1800s into the early 1900s consumer products were introduced such as women’s sanitary napkins, dental floss, maternity kits for easier childbirth, and the first first-aid kits made available. JNJ would sell hard to physicians, nurses, hospitals, employees, the community, and consumers. The company expands to overseas and begins to thrive with 37 percent of market shares. They now own many name brand healthcare products: Band-Aid, children’s no more tears bathing products, Acuvue contact lenses, Listerine, and many more.
In 1951, the safety and efficacy of acetaminophen was described at a scientific symposium in New York City sponsored by the Institute for the Study of Analgesic and Sedative Drugs. According to the research reported at this symposium, acetaminophen was found to be as effective as aspirin for pain relief and fever reduction, but without the side effects of aspirin such as stomach irritation, gastrointestinal bleeding, and impairment of the blood to clot normally ((http://www.nancywest.net/pdfs/McNeilConsumerHealthcareCompany.pdf).
Convinced of the safety and efficacy of the drug, McNeil began its own extensive research on acetaminophen which confirmed the findings reported at the symposium. McNeil's first use of APAP was as a component of the combination product, ALGOSON, an elixir which contained sodium butabarbital and acetaminophen. It was marketed in 1953 as a prescription analgesic (http://www.nancywest.net/pdfs/McNeilConsumerHealthcareCompany.pdf). In 1955 Children’s Tylenol was introduced with a prescription only.
In 1959 Johnson & Johnson receive McNeil Laboratories. McNeil Laboratories was one of the largest drug stores in Philadelphia serving all consumers along with all the physicians in that area. Family owned and operated, Henry and Bob McNeil would finally become the president and chairman of the company after their father’s death, Robert Lincoln McNeil. The constantly expanding company was always looking for more land to purchase in order to build bigger and better laboratories. The company was worth $11.4 million. The cost of research rising made the decision for McNeil Laboratories to sell to Johnson & Johnson.
Business is booming. Both companies have credible names along with research to prove efficiency of their products. In September 29, 1982, Tylenol would put JNJ to the test.
A Detailed Case Description and Media Coverage
In Chicago, 12-year-old child tells her parents she has a cold. They gave her an Extra-Strength Tylenol for comfort and she died hours later. Another person named, Adam Janus, a postal worker in the Chicago area, takes an Extra-Strength Tylenol for a headache and dies the next morning. Eventually five other individuals die using the same product.
Through police investigations the only logical explanation for these deaths was tainted medicine. It was all within the same city of Chicago that this had happened resulting in seven deaths. Someone is believed to have removed bottles from the shelf at the store and laced the pills with cyanide 10,000 times the normal limit to kill a person.
Immediately after the incident JNJ’s market share went from 37 percent to 7 percent. Although no evidence was found of internal poisoning on behalf of JNJ manufactures and employees, the brand name needs to gain its consumers trust once again.
A press conference release was given by the medical examiner confirming that Tylenol was the cause of death in all seven individuals. The media, within minutes, started to report that Tylenol was the cause of deaths in Chicago. In one week 90 percent of the American population knew about the incident. The newspaper gave negative headlines toward the JNJ Company and television would put faces with the stories playing on the emotions of many. This gave JNJ an untrustworthy brand name many used to believe in. Media focused heavily on the death toll rather than the product itself.
JNJ public relations department found out about the medical examiner comments through a Chicago reporter calling for confirmation of the incident. JNJ unaware this happened received most of its information from the reporter. Without delay a special group was formed consisting of seven member strategy team headed by Chairman James Burke. He started gaining back positive media coverage by going on television to explain the situation.
Strategies made by the group started to make consumers view JNJ as the victims. JNJ pulled millions of dollars’ worth of Tylenol bottles was pulled from the shelf, and manufacturing stopped. Advertising was also stopped. A 1-800 crisis line was set up for concern consumers to call with questions. Many press releases were given at JNJ headquarters constantly informing public of information received and what is going to be done to prevent this in the future. JNJ also used sympathetic and forgiveness techniques by providing financial assistance and counseling for their consumers.
A few weeks later JNJ repackaged the capsules with a triple safety seal and began an advertising campaign focusing mainly on the new packaging. The capsules gradually reappeared on the shelves in late December of 1982. Even before the return of the Tylenol capsules, the market share of Tylenol tablets appeared to rebound, despite heavy competition from brands never before advertised. Tylenol rebounded to a 30 percent market share within six months. By August 1983, Tylenol was firmly established once again as the nation's leading pain reliever (Mitchell).
Johnson & Johnson took the following steps to re-introduce the product:
1. Tylenol products were re-introduced containing a triple-seal tamper resistant packaging. It became the first company to comply with the Food and Drug Administration mandate of tamper-resistant packaging. Furthermore, they promoted caplets, which are more resistant to tampering.
2. In order to motivate consumers to buy the product, they offered coupons on the purchase of their product. They were available in the newspapers as well as by calling a toll-free number.
3. To recover loss stock from the crisis, Johnson & Johnson made a new pricing program that gave consumers up to 25% off the purchase of the product.
4. Over 2250 sales people made presentations for the medical community to restore confidence on the product (Zoulas).
A Critique of the Case and Media Coverage
The Tylenol Crisis of 1982 proved to be a successful public relations campaign used many years later. Johnson & Johnson’s credo that states customers are before products became beneficial to their company’s image. Accurate and honest information was given to the publics and restored their trust.
The media report as they hear it. Small amounts of information is reported until more information is received and a broader analyzes can be made. This is not good when a company wants to keep a credible image. The media have a negative effect of crisis. They tend to place blame quickly while not knowing all the details involved. This is why companies have to jump into action as quickly as possible to deter this type of thinking to its publics. Otherwise a business will have a negative image and not be in business anymore.
Johnson & Johnson's handling of the crisis a success included the following:
• They acted quickly, with complete openness about what had happened, and immediately sought to remove any source of danger based on the worst case scenario - not waiting for evidence to see whether the contamination might be more widespread
• Having acted quickly, they then sought to ensure that measures were taken which would prevent as far as possible a recurrence of the problem
• They showed themselves to be prepared to bear the short-term cost in the name of consumer safety. That more than anything else established a basis for trust with their customers (Zoulas).
This is a classic public relations case because it shows how all businesses should react in a crisis.
JNJ became aware of the issue. Once aware of the deaths caused by their product, JNJ began a crisis management plan. They immediately formed a strategic group of well-informed employees to access the crisis and at what degree the crisis was held.
The media turned the blame to JNJ and JNJ turned themselves into a victim of terrorism. This kept publics from having a negative image of their company and products. They implemented a plan an followed through with it. They were direct and did not lie about the facts. They said it and gave explanation for it.
They used the local media (TV and newspapers) to provide comments to their publics. They never tried to cover up anything and were open to criticism to use it to give facts. The more information the media received the less they were placing the blame on their company and started looking at other possible suspects.
The 1-800 crisis hotlines were another detour from a negative company image. This allowed the public to express their concerns and have the company answer them. This gives positive feedback.
Although it was proven they didn’t have anything to do with the deaths of these seven individuals they still sympathized with the families of the deceased and gave them financial backing.
Today technology has progressed so much since 1982. The World Wide Web can give information within seconds. In 1982, it took only hours for millions of people to know via the television or newspapers, but now with WWW information can be transmitted with the blink of an eye. It is evident that any crisis in this day and time should be handled via the internet first along with other forms of media. The idea is to get the facts out before someone else corrupts the public’s thinking, and this can happen so quickly now, I believe extra employees should be hired just for internet surveillance.
Advancements in technology and other areas have made individuals much smarter than it was in 1982. The publics are well informed in many fields of study with information at their fingertips. The best way to deal with educated people is to be direct and honest. People will know if they are being lied to or the whole story is not told. Keep up-to-date information to keep people mindful of what is going on and not sway to their own opinions but stick with the facts.
References
Department of Defense (n.d) Crisis Communication Strategies. University of Oklahoma Department of Communications. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.ou.edu/deptcomm/dodjcc/groups/02C2/Johnson%20&%20Johnson.htm
Mitchell, Mark L. (Oct. 1989). The impact of external parities on brand-name capital: the 1982 Tylenol poisonings and subsequent cases. Academic One File. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://go.galegroup.com.lib-proxy.jsu.edu/ps/retrieve.do?sgHitCountType=None&sort=DA-SORT&inPS=true&prodId=AONE&userGroupName=jack26672&tabID=T002&searchId=R1&resultListType=RESULT_LIST&contentSegment=&searchType=AdvancedSearchForm¤tPosition=4&contentSet=GALE%7CA8026221&&docId=GALE|A8026221&docType=GALE&role=
Oshins, Alice H. (Nov. 1989). Crisis management plan crucial in product tamperings. Academic One File. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://go.galegroup.com.lib-proxy.jsu.edu/ps/retrieve.do?sgHitCountType=None&sort=DA-SORT&inPS=true&prodId=AONE&userGroupName=jack26672&tabID=T002&searchId=R14&resultListType=RESULT_LIST&contentSegment=&searchType=AdvancedSearchForm¤tPosition=25&contentSet=GALE%7CA8230555&&docId=GALE|A8230555&docType=GALE&role=
Fletcher, Dan. (Feb. 2009). A Brief History of the Tylenol Poisonings. Time U.S. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1878063,00.html
West, Nancy. (n.d). History of Tylenol. Worldwide Consumer Pharmaceutical Intranet Site
Content. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.nancywest.net/pdfs/McNeilConsumerHealthcareCompany.pdf
Singer, Natasha. (Jan. 2010). In Recall, a Role Model Stumbles. The New York Times. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/18/business/18drug.html
Zoulas, Soterios. (n.d). The 1982 Tylenol Crisis. Zoulas Communications. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://aboutpublicrelations.net/uczoulas1.htm
Reyna, Susi. (2002). Effective Crisis Management. University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications. Retrieved January 31, 2012, from http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Fall02/Susi/sources.htm
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Alabama Poet Laureate Sue Brannan Walker visits JSU By: Kevin Brant
On March 15, more than 30 people gathered at the Houston Cole Library to hear Alabama Poet Laureate Sue Brannan Walker. This event was sponsored by Friends of Houston Cole Library.
Some people know who Sue Brannan Walker is but some do not. This was true for Amanda Mann from Jacksonville, Ala. “Until I read about Walker in the newspaper, I did not know who she was,” Mann said. “I did not know there was someone who does the kind of work she does.” Mann went on to say: “Knowing what she does fascinates me.”
Robert Pearson from Sylacauga Ala. came for a different reason. “I came to this event to receive extra credit in my EH 202 literature class,” Pearson said.
Walker started the event by reading the poem “Daybreak in Alabama” by Langston Hughes.
Walker then mentioned about a type of poem she teaches her students at the University of South Alabama. “Since yesterday was PI day, I told my students about what is called a piem,” Walker said. “A piem uses the number of PI and a poem put together.”
Another type of poem that walker shared about was called an ABC poem. She shared one that had prose in it. Prose is a form of poetry that is usually descriptive in the nature of what it is talking about. The poem starts with the letter “A” and ends with the letter “Z”
Walker then spoke about her feelings about language. “I love the language of the south,” Walker said
Some writers love to write they can even if it is in the middle of the night. The same is true for Walker. “I love to write at 1 a.m. when no one bothers me,” Walker said.
Walker enjoys writing about things or people she loves. Walker then read the very first love poem she ever wrote. It is titled “Glider man.” This poem was about her grandfather and how he would sit and wait for her to visit sitting in his glider chair on the porch. It was also about the things they would do once Walker got there at her grandfather’s house.
Walker then changed topics and spoke about her mom and dad. Both of them died pretty close together and rather quickly. According to Walker she did not know exactly how to handle that at first but then a solution came to her. It was through words that helped her get through it. “Words help us deal with things we go through,” Walker said.
Walker read other poems that she wrote. One poem she wrote about was how Betsy Ross was the first person to hand stitch the United States flag for George Washington. She also sang a ballad that was dedicated to her husband but the names were changed to make it work better.
When walker finished, there was a time for questions and answers. Walker was then available to sign copies of her newest book while a reception was going on.
Heather Pollard from Centre, Ala. Really enjoyed hearing Walker. “I loved it and it made me want to read more of her poetry,” Pollard said.
Some people know who Sue Brannan Walker is but some do not. This was true for Amanda Mann from Jacksonville, Ala. “Until I read about Walker in the newspaper, I did not know who she was,” Mann said. “I did not know there was someone who does the kind of work she does.” Mann went on to say: “Knowing what she does fascinates me.”
Robert Pearson from Sylacauga Ala. came for a different reason. “I came to this event to receive extra credit in my EH 202 literature class,” Pearson said.
Walker started the event by reading the poem “Daybreak in Alabama” by Langston Hughes.
Walker then mentioned about a type of poem she teaches her students at the University of South Alabama. “Since yesterday was PI day, I told my students about what is called a piem,” Walker said. “A piem uses the number of PI and a poem put together.”
Another type of poem that walker shared about was called an ABC poem. She shared one that had prose in it. Prose is a form of poetry that is usually descriptive in the nature of what it is talking about. The poem starts with the letter “A” and ends with the letter “Z”
Walker then spoke about her feelings about language. “I love the language of the south,” Walker said
Some writers love to write they can even if it is in the middle of the night. The same is true for Walker. “I love to write at 1 a.m. when no one bothers me,” Walker said.
Walker enjoys writing about things or people she loves. Walker then read the very first love poem she ever wrote. It is titled “Glider man.” This poem was about her grandfather and how he would sit and wait for her to visit sitting in his glider chair on the porch. It was also about the things they would do once Walker got there at her grandfather’s house.
Walker then changed topics and spoke about her mom and dad. Both of them died pretty close together and rather quickly. According to Walker she did not know exactly how to handle that at first but then a solution came to her. It was through words that helped her get through it. “Words help us deal with things we go through,” Walker said.
Walker read other poems that she wrote. One poem she wrote about was how Betsy Ross was the first person to hand stitch the United States flag for George Washington. She also sang a ballad that was dedicated to her husband but the names were changed to make it work better.
When walker finished, there was a time for questions and answers. Walker was then available to sign copies of her newest book while a reception was going on.
Heather Pollard from Centre, Ala. Really enjoyed hearing Walker. “I loved it and it made me want to read more of her poetry,” Pollard said.
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