ProfNets of the Week

by admin ~ December 18, 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!

BUSINESS/TODAY: Businesses That Would Hire Jon Gosselin — Los Angeles Times
It appears Jon Gosselin is having trouble finding a job. I’m seeking any business that would be willing to hire him. Serious responses only. Please reply ASAP. I’m a freelancer. Contact: XXXXXXX

POP CULTURE: Festivus — The Arizona Republic
Festivus, the holiday George celebrates in the TV show, “Seinfeld,” has become a cultural phenomenon and trend. Festivus is celebrated all over. Does this make it a real holiday? Contact: XXXXXXX

BEHAVIOR: Predicting Baby Names for 2010/Science Behind Popular Baby Names — Parents.com
What names will be big in 2010 and why? I’ve gotten some experts from Parents.com to send me their predictions for what names will be hot in 2010. Now I’m looking for an expert/social scientist to tell me the evolution behind names and why certain names become popular over others. I’m a freelancer. Contact: XXXXXXX

INSECTS/TODAY: Beekeeper — Freelancer
I need a beekeeper to offer insights *today* — via e-mail — on: Does every honey bee in the hive have a job? If so, does this include very young bees? At what age are bees given a job? Why are young bees involved in the hive’s processes? This is for a national parenting magazine (I will reveal to sources when asked). I also need the expert’s full name, location, titles and credentials. Contact: XXXXXXX

SCIENCE: Penguin-Eating Shark — Author
I’ve been assigned to write a children’s book on sharks vs. penguins (predator vs. prey). It’s rare that this happens, but that’s what the publisher wants. I need to know what type of shark eats what type of penguins, where and how. (Maybe in New Zealand or South Africa?) Also, if you know of any photos of the two together — shark in pursuit, etc. — that would be great. (The publisher would be interested in purchasing them.) This is a tight deadline, so I could use your help ASAP. Contact: XXXXXXX