ProfNets of the Week

by admin ~ November 13, 2009

It’s time again to take a look at some of the strange and interesting queries from ProfNet, a service that sends us journalist queries and calls for sources dozens of times throughout the day. Enjoy!

HEALTH: Head Lice 101 for Parents — AOL’s ParentDish
I’m getting itchy just typing this. I’m writing a head lice piece for AOL’s ParentDish site that will touch on all the basics, including: What causes it? How to treat it? Is it preventable, and, if so, how? If one kid at school/camp gets it, is it inevitable your kid will, too? I also want to touch upon the stigma of it. I’m a freelancer. Contact: XXXXXXX

COOKING: Pots and Pans — Associated Press
With the holidays on the horizon (lots of gifts/cooking), does it ever make sense to buy one of those huge sets of pots and pans? Is Calphalon overrated? Why? If not, what’s better? No calls; only e-mail. I would like to set up interviews for tomorrow. Contact: XXXXXXX

NON-EXPERT: Friday the 13th — Associated Press
I am working on a story about Friday the 13th. I would like to talk to people who do not do things they normally might do, such as schedule business meetings, sign contracts, go in for elective surgery and other things, because they are worried about bad luck. It doesn’t have to be extreme, such as staying in bed all day for fear of having something bad happening. But anyone who changes their plans would be great. Contact: XXXXXXX

BEHAVIOR: Women Accomplices to Male Killers — Freelancer
For a pitch to national women’s magazines, I’m writing an article about how the love of a man can drive a woman to murder. I’m including interviews with various women killers who have teamed with men. I’m open to different viewpoints on the topic. Contact: XXXXXXX