By Frank MacekTime for another edition of "Notes from the Newsroom" as your blogger shares some of thoughts on television.
Although Walter Cronkite worked for a network competitor, CBS, everyone seems to have an opinion of what an impact "Uncle Walter" had on the industry - the "Most Trusted Man in America."
I found it fascinating to watch the network newscasts over the weekend and all the stories people had to share. Everyone who has been anyone in the news industry had nothing but praise on the one man many idolized.
Even WKYC's Romona Robinson shared a story with viewers Friday Night at 11 PM after the news broke of his passing about what an impact Mr. Cronkite had on her. At one point, she received a letter from him after he saw her work and was highly complimentary. Uncle Walter touched many lives and will leave a huge void in our industry.
Finally, some encouraging news from the financial world after Gannett reported higher profits during the 2nd quarter. Gannett is the parent company of WKYC.
In fairness, revenue was way down, but the steps the company has taken seems to be putting us on somewhat more stable ground for now. Investors responded well to the results as stock prices climbed almost 30% in one day and have been heading up since July 15th when the results were released. To listen to a replay of the earnings conference call, which is fascinating look behind the scenes of a market broadcasting company: CLICK HERE
Other media companies have not been so lucky with additional layoffs happening at some other Cleveland stations as you may have read. Like we mentioned here on the blog several times before, this was bound to happen as technology creates efficiencies. Operations can be combined and fewer people are needed. However in some cases, this is purely based on the recession and job losses may recover during the rebound.
More than half of the Youngstown TV stations are in bankruptcy including WKBN, WYFX, WYTV and their sister MYTV channel. Of course, all these stations are owned by a single company: New Vision Television. Apparently, their new vision didn't match reality and must now restructure.
This Wednesday, I will be participating in judging of Regional Emmy Awards for the Chicago market in the "Weathercaster" category. This will give me and the others I've asked to help judge a chance to review our peers' work. It's a good chance to see how others present weather in other markets. We are so used to Cleveland meteorologists it is refreshing to see alternative presentations.
Social media-wise, WKYC continues to branch out on Facebook, Twitter and on our many staff blogs. Check out the blogs of many of our co-workers including Romona Robinson, Eric Mansfield, Monica Robins, Kim Wheeler and our weekend morning show crew. A complete list is available: CLICK HERE
Also, don't forget you can find WKYC on twitter at www.twitter.com/wkyc and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/WKYC.Channel3. We provide other behind the scenes looks at the station that you don't find on our website, wkyc.com
One big project the station is undertaking is being done across Gannett, called "Hero Central." There are many wonderful organizations here in Northeast Ohio that stand ready to help you. And many volunteer opportunities for you and your family to help those in need. Do you need a hero? Can you be a hero? To find out more, go to the following link: CLICK HERE
That's about it for this addition of "Notes from the Newsroom." Wish we had more to share with you at this point, but the summer months are traditionally pretty bland.
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