Random and Regulars

of AP Style

Sarah Jane O’Keefe – Features Editor

and Assistant Photo Editor

A few random ones,just in case.Lycra – Unless referring to the trademark fiber or fabric, use a generic term such as spandex or elastic or stretch fabric.

Mafia – Secret criminal organization operating mainly in the U.S. and Italy and engaged in illegal activities such and gambling and drug dealing. Lowercase as a synonym for organized crime.

Pledge of Allegiance – let’s hope you know what this one is

Finland – A Nordic state, not part of Scandinavia

Pears – In general, capitalize most varieties, including Anjou, Asian (also called apple pear), Bosc, and Bartlett.

Likely to run into, but unlikely to remember Photoshop – Trademark for a brand of photo-editing software.

Firefighter, fireman – The preferred term to describe a person who fights fires is firefighter. One meaning of fireman is a person who tends fires in a furnace. Fireman is also an acceptable synonym for firefighter.

California – Abbreviate Calif. in datelines or stories. Postal code: CA

Slang – In general, avoid slang, the highly informal language that is outside of conventional or standard usage.

Shut down (when used as a noun) shutdown (when used as a verb)