New York’s Governor, Eliot Spitzer, was accused Monday of having paid for a call girl back in February, making it the most important news story of the week. In a news conference, Spitzer apologized to both his family and the people of New York for failing “to live up to the standard” he expected of himself, but it was ambiguous as to what he was apologizing for specifically. Spitzer, the father of three teenage girls, did not discuss whether or not he would resign, however he did mention that he must “now dedicate some time to regain the trust” of his family. If Spitzer, who has not been charged thus far, does resign, he will be replaced by Democratic Lt. Gov. David Paterson.
Timeliness is a key element in this story. This scandal is currently under going investigation and making news headlines everywhere. The outcome will determine whether or not New York will have a change in governor. Many people enjoy seeing the downfall of a public official, therefore human interest is another news element in this story. Since this story was published in an Arizona newspaper, it seems evident that this story has proximity because not only is it of interest to New York residents, but nationwide. (The Arizona Republic, 3/11/08)
I found the most interesting story of the week to be the one about Phoenix placing a ban on sidewalk sales. Selling everything from beaded necklaces to oil paintings, many people have found the vendors on the sidewalk to be a great attraction. These vendors however, have been cluttering up sidewalks and generating unwanted traffic. With that, according to city officials, it also goes against ordinances that make sidewalk sales illegal. Many artists and gallery owners have been complaining, saying that the vendors take away from their businesses sales, and promotes an unsafe environment. The city will issue warnings for now, but come the month of May, inspectors will begin to give out citations with fines ranging from $100 to $2,500. (The Arizona Republic, 3/6/08)
Numerous security cameras have captured footage of a bicyclist accused of bombing a landmark military-recruitment station in Times Square, in New York, Thursday. (The Arizona Republic, 3/7/08)... After much speculation, Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee Chairman Mike Kennedy confirmed rumors and announced that they are planning to place a bid to host the 2012 Super Bowl. (The Arizona Republic, 3/7/08)... Two photos have been released of the man who allegedly killed the University of North Carolina student body president, making it the biggest break in the case so far.( The Arizona Republic, 3/9/08)… The National Weather Service hopes that by changing their system and announcing official dates of the span of the monsoon season, they can better prepare people for the risks of summer thunderstorms, which often results in damaging winds, dust clouds, and flash floods. The dates are June 15 to September 30. (The Arizona Republic, 3/10/08)… U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed through a recent study that at least one in four American teenage girls have a sexually transmitted disease. (The Arizona Republic, 3/12/08)