|
|
||
Newseum is a fascinating tribute to journalism. By Paul Sullivan Date published: 4/11/2009
THE THING that really struck The six floors of the relocated Newseum's building on Pennsylvania Avenue near the Capitol in Washington are packed with 14 galleries covering journalism in all its seemingly endless iterations through recent centuries. In the course of the day a friend and I took in details of news events giving a close-up look at the history of the country through the efforts of those who bring the day's big stories to the people. The Newseum building, situated just north of the National Gallery of Art, is a striking example of contemporary design, centered around a bright, six-story atrium. This organizing space is so large that an actual communications satellite and a Bell Jet Ranger news helicopter appear rather small within it. There is nothing subtle about this building. some highlights There is scarcely space here to describe the exhibits, features, 15 theaters, two stores, introductory films, documents and artifacts; but highlighting several of them ought to give some idea how worthwhile it is to visit. In the course of our day we: Delved into American journalism's origins in the rough-and-tumble Colonial period. Did a stand-up television newscast about the Cherry Blossom Festival from the Tidal Basin (simulated, but real enough to make an actual journalist nervous). Took in one of the most spectacular views of downtown Washington, including the real Cherry Blossom Parade! Got a sobering look at a crumpled antenna from atop the World Trade Center. Examined dozens of historic newspaper front pages spotlighting key headline events. Got shaken, rattled and rolled Got great seats in the live audience for an interview with comedian Mark Russell in the "Inside Media" television show. Fascinating to watch how those shows come together. Looked at a huge section of First Amendment freedoms are repeatedly emphasized in Newseum exhibits, pounding it into visitors that they must never be taken for granted.
Date published: 4/11/2009
1. Be respectful. No personal attacks.
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
