Chron recycles "olds" from the DMN
We know Chronicle columnist Rick Casey has had a little problem in the past with giving proper attribution when he lifts article ideas (and even exact phrases) from other newspapers.
At least Lucas Wall is a little more clever when he "borrows" from other newspapers.
Here's the opening of a Dallas Morning News article by Tony Hartzel that ran on October 16:
Next time you're on the highway, look up.
Notice anything different?
For the first time in 50 years, those green-and-white overhead highway signs are getting a makeover.
The article goes on to describe the font changes coming to overhead roadsigns in Texas.
Here's the opening of a Lucas Wall column carrying a November 28 date:
Notice anything different as you try to find your way along the highways?
Those ubiquitous green-and-white signs that inform motorists what exits lie ahead have been getting a makeover.
Aside from some local quotes, the information in the article closely resembles Hartzel's.
This isn't necessarily plagiarism, but it certainly is "olds." Apparently, Wall and his editors must assume that Houstonians don't read other newspapers, and that we're too stupid to realize that stories aged a month and a half are "olds," not news.
(Thanks to David Benzion for passing along this bit of "olds")
(12-08-2004 Update) Matt Bramanti notes Wall's reaction to an email query about his "olds." Apparently, it's more fun to borrow story ideas from other newspapers than to treat readers who wonder about such matters with some courtesy. Insulting readers who interact with reporters -- that's some business model Jack Sweeney and Jeff Cohen have going!
Posted by Kevin Whited @ 12/06/04 10:13 PM | Houston Chronicle | Print | Comments (0)
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