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What is Newsworthy?


‘We expected cancer’: Are industrial spills in Canada’s ‘Chemical Valley’ making people sick?

Timing - 4/4
The story is up to date containing much more information and accounts than the story similarly covered by Vice in 2013. I've given it a 4/4 because it is much more than an update on the original story, and is increasingly becoming more and more relevant as new facts are uncovered. 

Significance - 4/4
This is one of the biggest (and longest) stories I've read in a long time. Canada's "Chemical Valley" is plaguing the Sarnia community, vastly polluting the air with large amounts of carcinogens. This affects the approximately 70 000 people living in the vicinity of the 15-square-mile area containing roughly 40% of Canada's petrochemical industry. 

Proximity - 3/4 
This story hits close to home for some, affecting Canadians as well as some Americans who live near the Canadian-American border. It largely affects those living in the southern Ontario community of Sarnia, which may not interest those on either coast of the country. 

Prominence - 4/4 
The fact that the investigation is the result of the largest ever collaboration of journalists in Canada more than vouche for its importance. 
it involved journalists from Global News, the Toronto Star, the National Observer and four journalism schools at Concordia, Ryerson, Regina, and UBC.

 Human Interest - 3/4
The story appeals to emotion and urges for action against these carcinogenic companies. Anyone who has/knows someone who has had cancer will relate to this, and feel strongly about it.

Final Newsworthy Mark - 18/20
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Timing - 4/4
This story has rather impeccable timing. With all the recent news regarding Russia, along with the upcoming bill regarding Canada and Russia, many people may find this interesting, or at least read it. 

Significance - 2/4
This story regards a bill that the Canadian government is trying to pass. While not being everyone's cup of tea, the story has grabbed the attention of some readers in Canada. 

Proximity - 3/4
This is a story regarding a Canadian bill that could affect any ties with Russia. Naturally, it affects Canadians and is close to home. 

Prominence - 2/4
Many people may not care about this story because they tend to shy away from articles regarding policies and government, either because they wholeheartedly trust the government or believe it may not affect their lives in specific. 

Human Interest - 4/4
Quoting a statement from Moscow's embassy in Ottawa, the bill is "guised as a pro-human right and anti-corruption measure is a deplorably confrontational act blatantly interfering in Russia’s domestic affairs". involving issues with human rights, this story appeals to emotion. 

Final Newsworthy mark - 15/20


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