Morning Show Blog

BEHIND THE SCENES: Meltdown on a Snowy Morning

 Nov 19, 2008 - 06:11 am

The job of the broadcast news journalist is to convey information in a professional and easy-to-understand manner, even when the everything is falling apart.

Things kind of fell apart on Tuesday morning, at least in terms of computers. 

The snow fell, the temperatures dropped, and the dozens of school system administrators in our region started callling to delay or cancel classes.

And that’s when the computer broke.

Actually, it was the program that operates our automated school closings system.  For some reason, none of us could even log on.  If you’re thinking “no big deal,” please think again.  School schedule charges are a top priority for us on the Morning Edition.  We take pride in conveying the information quickly and accurately so families can plan their day.

In a matter of moments, we were forced to revert to winter weather protocol circa 1999.  Gone were the computers.  Back were the pens, papers, phones, and sun dials.  Okay, the sun dial part was a joke.

Thanks to the amazing group of news professionals here at WJHL, we got the information on the air.  But it wasn’t in the means to which our viewers have grown accustomed.  Your patience is deeply appreciated.

Today, everything seems to be working just fine.  Wait.  Rob is having trouble with his on-line poker program. 



Posted by Josh Smith
Behind the Scenes
Comments (0)

BEHIND THE SCENES: A good cup of tea to get you through the morning

 Nov 14, 2008 - 07:11 am

This morning, Rob brewed two cups of “Red Bush” tea.  It’s technically called “Rooibos” Herbal Tea.

His neighbors gave it to him, and told him it’s full of good stuff that’s good for all that ails you.

I’ve been struggling through a head cold.  I can’t claim an instant cure, but it sure was instantly comfortable.  Wait, I’m sweating unexplainably.  So is Rob.  That’s some cup of tea!

Have you ever noticed that when you have a cold, coffee just isn’t as appealing?  Wonder why?

Good neighbors are a blessing.  Rob has several good ones including our own Jim Bailey who anchors the 6pm and 11pm news.  I have some wonderful neighbors, too.  One of them whom we affectionately call Miss Judy is the reigning champ for holiday decorations.  People come from miles to see her Halloween decorations and get her far better than average candy and treats.  My boys LOVE Miss Judy.

Bad neighbors stink.  Fortunately, I’ve never had any.  A friend just bought a house that sits near a house where - he swears - the owner is hoarding dozens of cats.  YIKES.

Hope you have a great weekends, and take the time to enjoy a good cup tea today.



Posted by Josh Smith
Behind the Scenes
Comments (1)

Sarah Palin 2012?  What do you think?

 Nov 11, 2008 - 06:11 am

Sarah Palin isn’t going away anytime soon.

This morning, I read that the Alaska Governor is praying about her future, looking for “open doors,” and remaining willing to run again for national office if there’s an opportunity.  She’s also talking about that big money wardrobe allowance and other issues that popped up during the campaign.

For some, this is cause for rejoicing.  The little-known hockey mom from Wasila exploded onto the national political scene and energized the disgruntled Conservatives in this country who weren’t at all happy with John McCain as the GOP standard-bearer.  Palin made people care, and with her family, her values and her style (going to vote in jeans), she reminded a lot of Americans of themselves.

For others, Palin was and is a total joke, a “light-weight” who isn’t ready to lead the state of Alaska let alone be a heartbeat away from the Presidency.  For Liberals in this country who were thrilled to vote for a candidate like Barack Obama, Palin represented the shallowness and lack of progress of the Republican party, and her accent and folksy “you betcha’s” drove some absolutely batty.

What do you think?  Is Palin the much-needed savior of the GOP in 2012, or should she stay in Alaska and out of politics?



Posted by Josh Smith

Comments (5)

Getting You Ready for the DTV Switch

 Nov 10, 2008 - 06:11 am

WAAAaaaay up on Holston Mountain, WJHL’s analog transmitter has been blinking its beacon lights and transmitting a signal for years and years and years and years.  While you were awake.  While you were asleep.  While you were on vacation.  While you were wishing you were on vacation.  It’s always just, well, been there.

But today (Monday, November 10, 2008), that analog transmitter will be turned off for one minute smack-dab in the middle of News Channel 11 at Noon.  I pity the engineer whose, no doubt, shakey and sweat-beaded hand will have to flip the switch… or push the button… or turn the knob.  I’m not sure which, really.  They don’t let me near the important TV equipment here at WJHL-TV.

If your TV is digital switch ready, you won’t notice a thing.  You’ll still see and year Rob and me blabbing about the news and the weather.

If your WJHL signal suddenly switches to “snow”, you’ll know right away that either your TV or your cable or satellite provider aren’t ready for the government-mandated switch to Digital TV set for next February.

Don’t tell anyone, but I’m going to ask my wife to watch today at noon.  The reason: I’m pretty sure we’re NOT ready for the DTV switch at my house.  Old TV.  No cable.  Rabbit ears recently used for a make-shift homemade robot outfit for a 4-year-old.  Come to think of it, I’m certain we’re not ready for the switch.  At my house, we have the formula for a DTV Switch Disaster.

Just now, my hand is a bit shakey and sweat-beaded.

Are you ready for “The Switch?”



Posted by Josh Smith
Behind the Scenes
Comments (0)

Obama Wins: Discuss Amongst Yourselves

 Nov 05, 2008 - 07:11 am

Half of Americans are celebrating Obama’s victory.  The other half aren’t.

What’s on your mind after Barack Obama’s Presidential win?



Posted by Josh Smith

Comments (1)
Page 1 of 58 pages  1 2 3 >  Last »

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement