Tensions are high for the China Olympic torch relay, amid controversy and strife. Referred to as a “crisis” by IOC president Jacques Rogge, “…the politically charged buildup to the Summer Games posed a "crisis" for the Olympic movement.” Protestors are outraged at China’s lack of respect for its “moral engagement” to improve human rights, and allow for the free speech of athletes during the games.
This story is important because the Olympics are an international icon, and a symbol of an athlete’s dedication. Millions of child athletes dream of one day competing in the Olympics, and this situation paints a grim and discouraging future for the Olympics. That notion goes with with the human interest element, because the reputation of the Olympics is potentially on the line. It also shows the elements of timeliness and conflict due to the closeness of the actual games this summer, and the struggle between Olympic officials and the Chinese government. (The Toronto Star, 4/10/08, World).
My favorite story this week was the frog found in Indonesia that lacks lungs and breathes through its skin. This aquatic frog aquatic frog Barbourula kalimantanensis was discovered on an expedition in August 2007 and could provide a breakthrough in scientists’ understanding of what drives species evolution. This story has an aspect of oddity because this is something rare for amphibians, and rarely heard about. This perhaps is also a human interest piece for someone interested in amphibians. (The Toronto Star, 4/10/08, Sciencetech/Science).
A 19 year old jailed pregnant immigrant sparks a heated debate… (The Toronto Star, 4/10/08, News/GTA). A lost violin found with a homeless lady nets $1,000; but not for the homeless woman… (The Toronto Star, 4/10/08, News/GTA). Liquor stores in Ontario will stop distributing plastic bags… (The Toronto Star, 4/10/08, News/Ontario). A suicide bomber kills 8 civilians in Afghanistan while targeting a U.S.-led coalition convoy… (The Toronto Star, 4/10/08, News/World). A man was charged in a double shooting, that his seven year old son may have witnessed… (The Toronto Star, 4/10/08, News/GTA).
