The art of crafting a compelling news story lies in the ability to select a newsworthy topic and present it in a way that captivates readers. According to The Elements of News Writing by James W. Kershner, the first step in this process is to “select a newsworthy story.” This foundational principle ensures that the content resonates with the audience and holds their attention. For aspiring journalists, understanding what makes a story newsworthy is crucial. Factors such as timeliness, relevance, and impact play a significant role in determining the value of a piece.
To delve deeper into the mechanics of news writing, resources like the Southern Connecticut State University guide provide invaluable insights. This guide emphasizes the importance of structure, clarity, and accuracy in journalism. It also highlights the need for thorough research and ethical reporting, which are cornerstones of the profession.
For those seeking real-world examples of high-quality journalism, publications like the Wall Street Journal offer a wealth of material. Known for its in-depth reporting on politics, economics, and markets, the WSJ sets a benchmark for excellence in the field. Similarly, POLITICO provides a platform for the latest news and analysis on journalism, making it a go-to resource for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Explore their coverage here.To summarize the key elements of effective news writing, consider the following table:
| key Element | Description |
|————————–|———————————————————————————|
| Newsworthiness | Select stories that are timely, relevant, and impactful. |
| Research | Conduct thorough research to ensure accuracy and depth. |
| Structure | Organise content with a clear beginning, middle, and end. |
| Ethical Reporting | Adhere to journalistic ethics, including fairness and objectivity. |
| Engagement | Use a conversational tone and varied sentence lengths to maintain reader interest. |
By mastering these elements, journalists can create stories that not only inform but also inspire and engage their audience. Whether you’re a seasoned reporter or a budding writer, these principles will guide you in producing impactful and memorable content.
Annick De Ridder: From Antwerp to Flanders, Embracing Broader Reforms
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Flemish Minister of Mobility, Public Works, Ports, and Sport Annick de Ridder (N-VA) has made it clear that her heart remains in Antwerp, but her ambitions lie in shaping Flanders on a larger scale.In a candid interview with The Time, De Ridder revealed her decision to step away from Antwerp politics, emphasizing her desire to drive meaningful reforms rather than “keep a chair warm.”
A Heart Rooted in Antwerp
de Ridder’s connection to Antwerp runs deep. This year, she even tattooed “SPQA” on her body, a nod to the Latin phrase “senate and Peopel of Antwerp.” “I had ‘SPQA’ tattooed as my heart, my soul, and my being are in Antwerp,” she shared. “The city moves me. Would you like to see the cathedral and the chemical lights along the Scheldt? That can really get to me. That’s where my family and friends live and where I go to football—I’m a fervent red and white dog who runs wild every fortnight in the four-stand stand.Antwaarp. Antwerp is my identity.”
Despite her deep ties to the city, De Ridder assures that she is a minister for all of Flanders, not just Antwerp. Her commitment to broader reforms reflects her vision for the region.
The Choice to Move to Flanders
when asked if she would have preferred to stay in Antwerp, De Ridder was unequivocal. “No. Bart de Wever made the choice for me. And I chose to repeat the reforms that I was allowed to make as an alderman in antwerp—the mergers of the ports,the building code,the spatial plan—in flanders. I am honored to be able to reform on a broader scale.”
Her decision to transition to the Flemish parliament was driven by the chance to replicate and expand the impactful changes she initiated in Antwerp. This move, however, came with a significant trade-off.
The Mayor’s Sash and the Role of Substitute
Had De Ridder remained in Antwerp, she would likely have been next in line for the mayor’s sash if Bart De Wever, the current mayor, becomes Prime Minister of Belgium. Instead, the role would fall to Antwerp alderman Els Van Doesburg.“Yes, that is true,” De ridder acknowledged. “But to now be a substitute for De Wever,our numero uno? No. He’s not gone, is he? In all major decisions, it will be him. Keeping a chair warm is not really in my character. But look, to each his own.”
Her statement underscores her preference for active leadership and reform over a ceremonial or secondary role.
key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Connection to Antwerp | Tattooed “SPQA” to symbolize her deep ties to the city. |
| Decision to Move | Chose to replicate Antwerp reforms in Flanders on a broader scale.|
| Mayor’s Sash | Would have been next in line if she stayed in antwerp. |
| Leadership Ideology | Prefers active reform over “keeping a chair warm.” |
A Minister for All of Flanders
De Ridder’s journey from Antwerp alderman to Flemish minister highlights her dedication to impactful governance. While her heart remains in antwerp, her vision extends across Flanders, where she continues to champion reforms that shape the region’s future.
For more insights into the political dynamics of Antwerp, read about Els Van Doesburg,the alderman who could step into the mayor’s role.
De Ridder’s story is a testament to the balance between personal identity and professional ambition, proving that true leadership lies in the ability to adapt and grow.
Rowing that away? No way.”
However, de Ridder recognized the limitations of her role in Antwerp. “I could have stayed, but I wanted to do it. Currently at the N-VA, more than ever, you can see that we are active at all levels of government.That’s necessary to make reforms happen.”
Expanding Reforms across Flanders
De Ridder’s move to Flanders was driven by her vision to replicate the reforms she championed in Antwerp on a broader scale.“I wanted to do in Flanders what we did in Antwerp on a smaller scale. We got a lot done: strict regulation of the VBZ, lots of sports infrastructure, a lot of renovated roads and squares,” she explained.
Her resignation as a city alderman, she noted, was ”already
