PHILLYmediaWATCH

Local Blurbs

2012-01-12T20:09:00.003-05:00

News from KYW's CBS-3 is the departure of Investigative reporter, Jim Osman. He and the station were unable to come to terms on a new contract and he made the decision to pursue other opportunities.
At WCAU's NBC-10, morning anchor Terry Ruggles hits the streets beginning Monday. Management made the decision to relegate Ruggles back to "reporter" status and to promote weekend anchor, Stacey Stauffer.
Across the street at PVI's "Action News", reporter Sarah Bloomquist returned to the air this week following her maternity leave and we said goodbye to long-time reporter Cathy Gandolfo who retired.

FOX 29's John Bolaris Given the Heave-Ho

2012-01-10T17:00:00.002-05:00

Dan Gross reports today on philly.com that FOX 29 meteorologist John Bolaris has been given his walking papers. Bolaris was suspended last month over an interview he did with Playboy magazine. The formal word is "both parties have agreed to part ways". This very well may be Bolaris' swan song for Philadelphia TV news. He began in this market at WCAU's NBC 10 until he departed for New York's WCBS where he was eventually let go. The position is now open until management makes their next move.

Changes on the Horizon for FOX-29 Weather

2011-12-28T21:16:00.003-05:00

TV Spy's Merrill Knox reports on a new arrival for FOX 29's "Weather Authority". Caitlin Roth, a Philadelphia native, worked at Accuweather prior to her stint at NBC affiliate WOWT-TV. Plans for Roth are for covering the weekend shifts taking the place of the departing Sally Ann Mosey.
Mosey, a former WPVI alum, recently endured contract negotiations and agreed to take a pay cut. However, according to reports, Mosey decided to hit the pavement when a request for additional "paid time off" was denied.
Things seem to still be up in the air for the outcome of John Bolaris' situation with the station. Bolaris, who is the Chief Meteorologist, has been suspended "indefinitely" because of a recent interview Bolaris did with Playboy magazine. The situation is now in the hands of attorneys.

Departures at 6 ABC & CBS-3

2011-12-20T18:37:00.002-05:00

WPVI-TV recently announced the retirement of long-timer Cathy Gandolfo. She joined the station in 1975 and moved up from writer to reporter two years later. By 1978, she was named New Jersey correspondent. Gandolfo leaves the airwaves at the end of this year.
Meanwhile, across the city at KYW's CBS-3, Dave Huddleston tweeted this past Sunday that he's leaving Philadelphia for a new job in Alanta at station WSB-TV. Huddleston arrived in Philadelphia back in 2002 when he worked at FOX 29's "FOX 29 News". He was let go and moved on to CBS 3 in November 2008 as the new weekend co-anchor of "Eyewitness News". Three months later, he launched the new 10:00 p.m. newscast on sister station, CW 57. Huddleston will anchor on WSB's "Action News" beginning in January.

WPHL-17 "Eye Opener"

2011-10-04T19:30:00.004-04:00

WPHL-TV announced a newcomer to the morning TV newscape is on the horizon. Coming the end of October is "Eye Opener", a two hour morning news/features show that will compete with news on the other four stations which include KYW, WPVI, WCAU & FOX29. Eye Opener will air weekdays from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and include news, weather, consumer and entertainment/feature type segments. Also, traffic will be provided by Tango Traffic. Reports will be provided by five one-man-band types which means each person will be soley responsible for their report from interview, taping and editing their piece. With such a small staff I cannot believe this show will be much competition for the existing "big four" as far as covering breaking news. Reports indicate this show will focus more on features than news.

Steve Schwaid Making His Mark at FOX29

2011-09-24T22:56:00.005-04:00

UPDATE TO JULY '11 POST: According to Philly.com's Marnie Hall, News Director Steve Schwaid has begun the revamp process at FOX29 by cancelling the popular Friday night segment, "Mob Talk", with Dave Schratweiser. Word is the plan is to return the newscasts to hard news and abandon the unpopular "interview, conjecture, opinionated" style ordered by former News Director Kingsley Smith which sent the newscasts and staff morale into a downward spiral. Smith left the station after 3-1/2 years for KTTV in Los Angeles. Check out Hall's video column HERE.
JULY 12, 2011 POST:
Former NBC10 News Director, Steve Schwaid, returns to Philadelphia to take the same post at WTXF FOX29. The position also includes the title of "Vice President" in addition to News Director, a post Schwaid will begin in August. Schwaid was News Director across town at WCAU and responsible for the station nipping the heels of WPVI's 11 p.m. news rating as well as introducing the EARTHWATCH brand and bringing weather into the lead of most newscasts. Schwaid joins fellow alums Dave Schratweiser and John Bolaris. Schwaid comes to Philadelphia from his post as News Director at Atlanta's CBS station, WGNX. Read the story of Schwaid's return HERE.
There's also some interesting reading on Steve's blog, though, it hasn't been updated since March 28th. Check it out HERE.

Hurricane Coverage

2011-08-29T21:39:00.003-04:00

Unless you live under a rock OR don't own a television--you would know that Philadelphia news teams covered Hurricane Irene nonstop throughout the storm. Personally, I switched back and forth between Channel 6 and Fox. I checked out 10 several times but not being a fan of Tim Lake or Bill Henley made me watch less than I would have otherwise. I did not watch channel 3 at all. Not a fan of Bob Kelly, Justin Drabick or Kathy Orr.
That being said, I found the coverage informative and repetitive. Of course, how can it not be repetitive when it's continuous for 30+ hours? Being in the business myself--it is very difficult to talk about the same thing over and over and to talk continuously to the point of mental exhaustion. I found Brian Taff and Shirleen Allicot to be effective and informative. Alicia Vitarelli got alot of face time as well and the jury is still out for me whether I've warmed to her or not. There is a likeability to her, yet, I find a bit of phoniness to her as well. A bit of self-involved maybe? Self-impressed, perhaps? David Murphy and Adam Joseph were very good under pressure. Joseph seems very genuine, no ego...and I like that. Again, especially for the weather and traffic people, keep in mind that all that they do is AD-LIB! Imagine doing that for 12 hours nonstop? Not easy. I also found John Bolaris, over at FOX29, to be good. SallyAnn Mosey was effective, but I personally find her to be weak. Maybe just my own thing, who knows? Kerry Barrett is very good and I like her presentation. I couldn't help but feel bad for her when I read one tweet from a person who I believe only meant well, asking within her first 30 minutes on-air "are you feeling okay? You don't look well." Another tweet asked if she had John Bolaris' pubic hair caught in her throat. She handled that one well too in her response. Thomas Drayton provides his delivery in a calming, authoritative manner. Meanwhile, Lauren Cohn seems to be in downward slope. And a question came to mind when watching Jeff Cole in the middle of the storm wearing a ball cap, clutching with one hand. That hand didn't move--it kept a firm grip on that ball cap the entire report! WHY DO REPORTERS WEAR HATS WHILE REPORTING IN A FRIGGIN' HURRICANE, I ask? The new Social Media reporter, "Kelly", could have taken a few extra minutes to do something with her appearance. Her hair looked like she may have been related to IRENE!
In flipping by Channel 10, I certainly found Glen Schwartz to be very good as well. His delivery is to the point, spot-on, no hype, just the facts. I appreciate that! Monique Braxton reported from a fatal accident scene in N.E. Philadelphia in a heavy downpour with no umbrella. Looks pretty silly to me to do that. A new Social Media reporter debuted as well with some good information to pass on.
All-in-all, a good job by all. I do find it noticeable that all the stations tend to cover the same places over-and-over. The true and tried locations. What about the flooding that ALSO occurs in Chester, Delaware county? Or in areas of Chester county?
I had to wonder where Jim Gardner was, though? He finally appeared on Sunday. Who knows, maybe he wasn't able to appear or was on vacation as was Rick Williams who returned today.

Kathy Orr Cuts Back at 3

2011-08-01T20:41:00.002-04:00

KYW-TV has announced that Kathy Orr is cutting back her hours at CBS3 beginning this month to spend more time with her fast growing children. Orr will concentrate on the 10 p.m. "Eyewitness News at 10" on the CW as well as "Eyewitness News at 11" on CBS. Early-morning weekday weather caller, Kate Bilo, moves up to the 5 and 6 p.m. broadcasts while CBS-3 welcomes new addition, Katie Fehlinger to the fold. Fehlinger, a Lehigh Valley native, comes from WCBS-TV New York where she has been the weekend morning weather talent. Previously, she worked in State College, PA at Accu-Weather. Fehlinger hits the air here in September with Ukee Washington, Erika Von Tiehl and Bob Kelly on the early-morning "Eyewitness News 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on the CW57.

Former NBC10 News Director Returning to Our City

2011-07-12T18:16:00.004-04:00

Former NBC10 News Director, Steve Schwaid, returns to Philadelphia to take the same post at WTXF FOX29. The position also includes the title of "Vice President" in addition to News Director, a post Schwaid will begin in August. Schwaid was News Director across town at WCAU and responsible for the station nipping the heels of WPVI's 11 p.m. news rating as well as introducing the EARTHWATCH brand and bringing weather into the lead of most newscasts. Schwaid joins fellow alums Dave Schratweiser and John Bolaris. Schwaid comes to Philadelphia from his post as News Director at Atlanta's CBS station, WGNX. Read the story of Schwaid's return HERE.
There's also some interesting reading on Steve's blog, though, it hasn't been updated since March 28th. Check it out HERE.

Six Months of TV Traffic

2011-07-01T20:51:00.006-04:00

So, let's see how much has changed in six months. It was six months ago today that Navteq's "Tango Traffic" signed on WPHL-TV's digital OTA 17.4 and carried by Comcast and Verizon Fios.
I wrote an honest critique of Tango six months ago tomorrow--on January 2nd. There were all sorts of things to write about, mostly negative. And there hasn't been a post I've written before OR since that elicited more comments!
I must begin by saying this writing will be much kinder in that Tango seems to have worked out many of the problems that plagued their efforts early on. Things like shoddy production, bad audio, poor delivery, etc.
Jason Lee gets my vote as the star of the effort. His delivery is smooth, top notch and perfectly concise and clear. Lee has previous traffic and radio experience to back-up those compliments having worked for B101 and Metro Traffic. Lee provided the traffic updates for "Action News" back in the days post-John Valario.
Kristin Cellins has improved and I enjoy her delivery as well. The team of LEE & CELLINS is a good one.
Then, there's the midday team of Dale Shaw and Rhonda Fink-Whitman. I'm not familiar with Shaw's past experiences. Though, a broadcast background is in there I'm sure. Check out this clip of Shaw's adlibbing an accident not long ago involving a vehicle veering off Kelly Drive and plunging into the Schuylkill River. Great work. Adlibbing is not easy, speaking from first-hand experience. It becomes a talent that not all can do or at least are good at.
Fink-Whitman is another traffic reporter from days gone by whom you may have heard doing Shadow Traffic on any number of local radio stations. Her delivery is spot-on, concise and delivered in a easy-to-understand mode.
The "ride home, rush/drivetime" is the show I can only watch in small doses. Vittoria Woodill and Stephanie Humphrey's chemistry bothers me. It comes off as unnatural and forced. Woodill's delivery still needs more work and experience. The shenanigans they do only pull from any credibility either might have earned from the viewer thus far. Of course, strictly my opinion. Are they here to provide traffic information or to entertain with air guitar, signing, glow worm comments, etc.? I caught Tango Thursday 6/30th in the 4:30 p.m. timeframe when Woodill and Humphrey were in the midst of providing continuous comprehensive coverage of all the closures of highways in the area due to the arrival of President Obama. I must say, I was impressed with both. They did a good job throughout as you keep in mind that this type of delivery is all ad-lib. You must think quick on your feet and be able to do it calmly and effectively. So a pat on the back there! However, generally--these two seem to act like frick-n-frack most times.
Putting those points aside. We've seen big strides in the graphics and overall production of the programming. We now see a constant scroll of drive times versus specific incidents. Personally, I wonder how many people really use the drive time information?
And finally, the channel has gained more camera views through the use of NJ DOT cameras that appear to be pulled in from the internet. Whether they are or are from NJ DOT directly doesn't matter. They're yet another effective tool to get the information out and into the ears and eyes of the viewer. I applaud Tango for adding New Jersey camera coverage. The last to go is DELAWARE. That small "diamond state" to the south of Pennsylania. Tango doesn't need me to tell them that traffic delays do not begin and end on I-95 at Naaman's Road (near the Delaware state line).
The summer "shore thing" was a surprise. Tango provides Shore Traffic reports just as radio stations through the summer weekends. A separate team of Dale Shaw and Brian Ramona provide the information. Other hosts I've seen have been Robert Block and Vittoria Woodill.
Tango has even upgraded their website (tangotraffic.com). A live feed of programming is streamed via U-Stream LIVE for those times at work you might wish to see conditions before hitting the route home. However, their smartphone app once promoted has yet to materialize.
Here's to a toast of six more months of progress into your one year anniversary. I see more tweaks along the way and -- hopefully--management is always open to comments and suggestions.

Action News at 4 Debut

2011-05-26T19:42:00.005-04:00

Today was the debut of "Action News at 4" (watch it HERE) and quite an impressive one I must say! The new show is anchored by Shirleen Allicot and Brian Taff accompanied by Sarah Bloomquist reporting the top story from the field. Alicia Vitarelli rounds out the anchors from in the studio to report on the day's top national headlines as well as showbiz news and tweets from Twitter. Adam Joseph provides Accuweather from the newly revived City Avenue weather location, long known from the days of Dave Roberts. And last but not least, two traffic reports within the hour by Matt Pellman. The newscast looks a bit different than the other 5, 6 and 11 shows in that the anchors sit at the desk closer to the weather area of the set. Also, some new features such as the chat cam online at 6at4.com. Jim Gardner was the first candidate today where online viewers could chat directly with Jim in a separate "chat cam" window. Also, Hollywood buzz, a national news headliner, financial news from the New York stock market as well as lots of Big Board use!
The station debuted the new "Mobile 6" which was designed specifically for the 4 o'clock newscast. The vehicle has 2 onboard cameras, one for the reporter in the passenger seat while the other shows the road ahead...allowing for live updates enroute to the breaking story. The microwave transmitter uses GPS technology that automatically tracks their broadcast towers. In addition, there is a portable, battery powered transmitter that allows them to broadcast from anywhere a cellular signal can be had. Basically, this allows a live report from ANYWHERE one would make a cell call from.
So, check it out...6at4.com and "Action News at 4".

New Weather Guy...

2011-05-22T17:53:00.002-04:00

WPVI's "Action News" debuted new weatherguy, Chris Sowers, this past Saturday on the early-morning newscast. Sowers, a former Weather Producer, for Dave Roberts previously worked at Chicago's FOX affiliate. Sowers takes over the weekend morning shows moving Melissa Magee into the slot formerly occupied by Adam Joseph...the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. weekend shows. Joseph moves up to 4 p.m. weekdays beginning Thursday May 26th. That's when WPVI debuts the new "Action News at 4" which replaces the departing "Oprah". KYW's "Eyewitness News" moves their 4 p.m. newscast to 5 p.m. and replaces the 4 p.m. show with "Dr. Phil".

Larry Mendte's First Interview...

2011-02-23T13:57:00.002-05:00

There's an interesting read in the latest "Philadelphia Magazine" with the first interview with Larry Mendte who tells his story in the aftermath of the Larry/Alicia nightmare. We now get an idea of his personal struggle in "reinventing himself", as he shares, as well as the pain his children and wife, Dawn Stensland, have endured. It's an honest, straightforward inside look. Check it out --->HERE.

6ABC News

2011-02-16T17:05:00.003-05:00

Two tidbits out of the Action Newsroom. The debut of the new 4 o'clock "Action News" will be Wednesday June 1st. Oprah's last show is the day prior. The 4:00 show will be anchored by Brian Taff, Shirleen Allicot and Alicia Vitarelli. Adam Joseph provides weather.
Also, Orlando's Kenneth Moton joins 6ABC as a general assignment reporter, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Former NBC10'er Amy Freeze Is Out at Chicago's WFLD

2011-02-03T10:35:00.002-05:00

Former NBC-10 meteorologist, Amy Freeze, has been let go from Chicago's FOX affiliate, WFLD-TV. She left our city four years ago for a promotion in Chicago. Unfortunately, she was released from her contract effective February 20th, she wrote on her Facebook account. No reason was given but Freeze finds the news "very disappointing to she and her family". Freeze became quite popular here and moreso in Chicago. Someone as good as her won't last long and will surely be scooped up by another station. Read more HERE

You Heard it Here First...

2011-01-31T17:44:00.002-05:00

As I reported over the summer...WPVI recently made it official: The debut of a new 4 o'clock "Action News" once Oprah ends her run in that timeslot. Brian Taff, Shirleen Allicot and Alicia Vitarelli will anchor. Adam Joseph will handle weather duties for the new show.

First Impressions of Tango Traffic Channel

2011-01-02T15:56:00.007-05:00

Wow. I can certainly say that this new traffic channel is just what I expected. Very Mickey Mouse type presentation and certainly nothing much.
I watched today for about thirty minutes, which was all I could handle. The announcer, a young male, made reference to a camera shot of I-76 at Passyunk Avenue as being I-76 at the 26th Street ramp. Obviously, not very well trained and not able to read the camera shot location. On another note, he made reference to "all the bridges doing fine, in case you're coming up to South Philly for the Eagles game from Delaware". I don't know of any practical route between Delaware and South Philly that would require using any of the area bridges.
On another report, a 7.5 mile back-up on the southbound NJ Turnpike showed a map with lots of red cars. Then, POOF---within the next report, all the red cars were gone as was the delay! Obviously, the electronic map does not really correspond to the actual traffic volume but is manipulated somehow since a delay that lengthy doesn't just "go away" within three minutes. So, these guys' *sensors* aren't really based on the actual traffic volume but are nothing more than graphics manipulated by a computer.
The graphics are a bright green and the information across the bottom of the screen leaves one scratching their head. For example, "slow at Spring Garden", but--they don't tell you what highway they're referring to that is "slow at Spring Garden". Obviously, if you know the area highways, it would be I-76. But eastbound or westbound? "Slow at Rt 363/Trooper Rd"...hmm, must be Rt 422. East or West? Another example, "slow 4 miles into Mid-County tolls". This delay must have been the southbound side of the PA Turnpike's N.E. Extension yesterday. Why they don't clue you in as to WHAT highway they're referring to is beyond me.
Then, there's the music. Some very strange selections of music that will certainly annoy anyone over the age of 40. Why they wouldn't select a more soothing, laid back music bed is baffling. There were also volume issues...commercials playing way louder than the programming...and the music then playing even louder while the announcers' audio played lower. You certainly better have your remote handy watching this channel.
All-in-all....a frustrating waste of air time that looks like a public access or college-type production. Today's live anchor debut wasn't much better. A few cheap shots at humor come off weak and the illustration of the particular highway that ran down the left of the screen rarely matched the illustration the anchor was giving with camera or map shots. Additionally, other major highways get no mention, the Rt 309 Expressway, Delaware's I-495, New Jersey's A.C. Expressway, Rt 70 or Rt 73 to name a few.
Which leads me to one last point. Cameras. How can a station that claims to be "your 24/7 traffic source" serveing a tri-state region (NJ, DE and PA) NOT have camera views from Delaware's DelDOT or New Jersey's DOT? I've always found that to be odd that the local Philadelphia stations have never spent the money to bring in NJ and DE DOT cameras. I find it to be just what I figured with this "traffic channel", that they would go the cheap route and not cough up the bucks to also provide New Jersey & Delaware residents the camera shots of their traffic problems.
Basically, this channel isn't something I would waste my time on. I believe it would be more exciting watching paint dry. I'll continue to get my traffic information while watching the local morning newscast, then, in my car, on my way to work. You decide what's best for you...

PVI Updates Their Graphics...

2010-12-08T06:38:00.004-05:00

WPVI's "Action News" is looking better than ever I must say. The station debuted a new graphics package and new open several days ago. Most notable is a new logo--a "circle 6" that has been inserted into the new open as well as graphics and over the "Big Board" and the Accuweather set. The new over-the-shoulders are also 3D now. Check it out on youtube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMRNcmwaGmU

"Philadelphia NonStop"

2010-11-08T17:14:00.003-05:00

I wrote about the new digital channel being developed by NBC10 back in late July and the new station, PHILADELPHIA NONSTOP, debuted not long ago. I finally had the chance this past weekend to check it out and I must say, I like it!
Justin Pizzi hosts "The Scene" which is a look at the Philadelphia area's hottest things to do, places to go, etc. Another show I caught, hosted by Glenn Schwartz, was "Inside the Vault" where each show re-airs a show from the Channel 10 archives..maybe PIXANN or a newscast from yesteryear. I caught the 11 week show "LIVE on City Line" hosted by Matt Lauer and Sheila Allen Stephens. It was the show's last airing--boy--has Matt Lauer come a long way since those days so long ago.
The channel also airs a weeknight 7 p.m. newscast which I have not had the chance yet to watch, but, gives viewers a chance to catch the local news after the normal "dinner hour".
If you haven't checked it out--do so, at WCAU's digital 10.2 over the air or on Verizon or Comcast's systems.

UNBELIEVABLE Outcome of Wrong-Way Driver Story...

2010-11-04T19:32:00.004-04:00

(Image courtesy of Tim Fleming & WPVI-TV) Eighty-six year old Margaret Lazor of Wilmington DE has been identified as the person behind the wheel last week, driving east in the westbound lanes of Rt 322 in Delaware county, then north along I-95 in the SOUTHBOUND lanes. Her actions caused four accidents along the way that could have been much worse and even been deadly. The incident was captured on video by a New Jersey man driving alongside her in the proper direction. (See the video HERE)
Pennsylvania State Police have cited Lazor for driving the wrong way on two highways and have required she be retested by the Motor Vehicle Division in order to get her driver's license back. If she passes, Lazor can once again drive our area highways! Because there was no criminal intent police were unable to charge her with anything else. If she pleads guilty to the charges she simply pays the fine she'll get in her mailbox and that will be the end of it. WPVI-TV reported that her neighbors say she is a "nice lady" and keeps to herself. One neighbor told reporter, David Murphy, that she felt bad for Lazor and was happy the story turned out for her the way it did.
Police report that Lazor "became confused" while driving and they were unable to confirm where she entered Rt 322 and exited I-95.
Is it just me or is this an outrage? What about the damages and costs involved in the four accidents she caused? What if it were you, me or one of your loved ones who may have gone head-on into her and been killed? I cannot believe this woman could possibly be back on our roadways sometime soon! It boggles my mind...

24/7 TRAFFIC CHANNEL HEADING THIS WAY

2010-10-30T21:13:00.002-04:00

Malvern based "Tango Traffic" has announced a partnership with WPHL-TV to begin a 24/7 traffic channel on WPHL's digital channel 17.4 beginning January 1st. “Now, for the first time, they can watch live local traffic reports on TV 24/7. They will also have the ability to personalize their commuter experiences by designating their favorite routes and streaming those route reports to their computers or mobile devices", said Tim Chambers, CEO of Tango Traffic.
Tango Traffic is the fourth traffic service in Philadelphia behind Metro Networks, Traffic Pulse and Clear Channel's Total Traffic. Tango Traffic is holding interviews November 14th at the WPHL studios for on-air hosts and producers. Read more about this venture HERE.

Pet Peeve

2010-10-01T19:35:00.004-04:00

Watching the coverage of the torrential rain that hit our area earlier today rejuvenated a pet peeve of mine. Reporters who feel they must stand in deep water in order to convey "the whole story". If you stop and think about it, it's downright stupid...needless to say insulting to the viewer's intelligence. But time after time, flood after flood, reporters continue to report their story in knee-deep water. I'll never forget a few years back when ex CBS-3 anchor, Larry Mendte, was doing a live shot from floodwaters while walking and talking and slipped and fell into the water. CLASSIC!
It reminds me of every hurricane report we see of reporters foolishly standing in whipping 80 mph winds to tell "the whole story". Don't they realize all it takes is a nice sized tree branch, a piece of lumber -- or -- better yet...a washing machine (LOL)...to come whizzing into their live shot and directly into their head? I guarantee, it will happen one day and then News Directors will rethink their ways.

FINALLY--Kerri Lee Halkett Is Departing...

2010-09-23T15:22:00.003-04:00

Dan Gross of the "Philadelphia Daily News" has confirmed that Kerri Lee Halkett of FOX 29 News is FINALLY leaving! Station management has confirmed she will return to the air the second week of October for a "big on-air sendoff". She began at FOX in 2002 and at one time, station execs had all their eggs in KL's basket! No one is talking as to "why" the departure, except that her husband resides in Connecticut. Lauren Cohn, formerly from WCAU, was brought in from Chicago and will replace KL on the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. shows next to Thomas Drayton.

New Digital Channel Coming to WPHL-17

2010-08-31T18:51:00.002-04:00

Tribune Broadcasting, the owner of WPHL channel 17 (a My Network TV affiliate), will debut a new digital network, Antenna TV, on January 3rd of 2011. The network's programming will include classic movies as well as classic shows "All in the Family", "Benny Hill", "Maude", "Dennis the Menace", "The Donna Reed Show", "The Partridge Family", "Married With Children", "Too Close for Comfort", "Good Times", "Three's Company", "Sanford and Son", "The Nanny" and "The Three Stooges". The network will also be made available to non-Tribune stations.

Orr, a NO-SHOW at Kammerer Going-Away Party

2010-08-16T16:49:00.003-04:00

CBS-3 bids farewell tomorrow to Doug Kammerer, the morning weatherguy for the 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. "Eyewitness News" and 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. "Eyewitness News on the CW" broadscasts. Kammerer is headed for D.C.'s NBC affiliate to become Chief Meteorologist beginning next Monday, the 23rd. Station co-workers threw Kammerer a going away party at a Spring Garden hangout last week and most notably absent was Kammerer's sidekick, Kathy Orr.
Philly.com's Marnie Hall reports what I've also been hearing the last year -- that Orr and Kammerer did not see eye to eye more often than not. The problems began during last winter's once-in-a-lifetime heavy snows when station management decided to put Orr and Kammerer in "top billing status". Orr, the station's "Chief Meteorologist" had big issues with sharing her top billing with Kammerer which led to who got more facetime, who got to lead the coverage, etc. Once LaRosa accepted a position with The Weather Channel and departed the morning broadcast was when management found a solution to their problem by placing Kammerer in the morning weather slot, thus, separating the two. Orr and Kammerer never had much to talk about from that point on and there's been no love lost on either part. Orr's attitude is basically "don't let the door hit ya in the you-know-what", according to a few in-the-know.
It's quite a shame in that I preferred Kammerer over Orr any day and felt he was probably the best in this market since Rob Guarino was let go from FOX-29. I had high hopes KYW would bring on Guarino in Kammerer's slot but that wasn't meant to be with the newly hired Justin Drabick, who, lacks in the personality department.
Best of luck to Doug in his new job...keep up the great personality and the naturalness you display. You'll definitely do well in D.C.

FACT or FICTION?

2010-08-04T15:30:00.004-04:00

I thought this was an interesting tidbit I've heard a few times now and comes from the newsroom at Channel 6. The tidbit is the possiblity of a 4 o'clock "Action News" once Oprah ends her run in that timeslot. It certainly seems plausible...since local programming would be much cheaper to air than the cost of syndicated fare. Scuttlebut is that Brian Taff and Shirleen Allicot are being considered for the anchor positions. Both have certainly been groomed in the anchor chair recently, Taff moreso with Allicot filling in while Monica Malpass was on maternity leave.
Who knows if this is just rumor or actually fact. It's anyone's guess -- but -- is fun to entertain the thought. If this pans out, "Action News" will compete with Channel 10's "NBC10 News First at 4" as well as Channel 3's "Eyewitness News".

New Channel at NBC10

2010-07-28T13:07:00.004-04:00

Dan Gross reports today in the "Philadelphia Daily News" the folks at Channel 10 are in the process of putting the final touches on a new 24/7 digital channel that will appear on the Comcast and Verizon Fios channel lineup. A new studio has even been built to accomodate the new channel which will be a local lifestyle-type channel to the likes of "LXTV" aired on WNBC-TV in New York.
Shows that air on LXTV are "1st Look" (a look into local restaurants and sites); "Open House" (a home decorating type show) and "I Do" (wedding planning tips) to name a few. Also, Gross reports some type of local news effort on the channel in the weekday 7 p.m. hour.
Currently, Channel 10's other digital streams are sports programming from NBC Universal as well as the now-defunct Weather Plus! which continues to run minus any national programming.

WHO is Shirleen Allicot?

2010-07-28T12:38:00.002-04:00

In my local news surfing...I've seen Shirleen Allicot reporting a few times on "Action News" as well as filling in on the anchor desk recently. Yesterday, once again, she sat alongside Rick Williams filling in for Monica Malpass. So, I wondered, who IS this Shirleen Allicot anyway?
According to 6abc.com, Allicot joined WPVI in May from "News 12 Network" in Connecticut where she began her career shooting, writing and editing her own stories and anchored the weekday morning newscasts. Allicot is a native of Queens, New York with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.
Hopefully, we'll see more of her on the anchor desk! She sure is much more of a compliment to the 5 o'clock newscast than Monica Malpass.

Maria LaRosa Spotting

2010-07-15T06:34:00.003-04:00

Maria LaRosa, former CBS-3 morning meteorologist, has completed her maternity leave and is on-air at The Weather Channel. I spotted her on the evening shift one night this week working with Jim Cantore in the 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. timeslot. She's looking good and her hair is a bit longer these days.

...And The New Morning Anchor on CBS-3 Is...

2010-06-30T20:29:00.003-04:00

Erika von Tiehl has been named the new co-anchor of CBS-3's "Eyewitness News" opposite Ukee Washington. Von Tiehl comes to Philadelphia from Miami's CBS4 where she anchors the 5:30 PM and 10 PM newscasts, a position she's held since October 2007. Prior to Miami, Von Tiehl anchored at Buffalo's WKBW-TV where she covered the October 2006 winter storm that brought the city to a halt and left more than 400,000 without power. Expect an August debut.

THE EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM!

2010-06-18T14:26:00.004-04:00

Chris May has tweeted that CBS-3 will hatch their plan in the next month or so to join FOX-29 on the 4:30 a.m. hour with "Eyewitness News". KYW will be the second in this market to bring news to their viewers at the earlier hour...a trend across the country to capture the ever-important advertiser dollar and important rating.
In addition, CBS-3 will revive their Saturday morning newscast they abandoned a year-and-a-half ago due to cost-cutting.
No word yet on Liz Keptner's replacement, let alone WRC-TV bound Doug Kammerer's.

Former CBS-3 Reporter Promoted...

2010-06-08T17:39:00.002-04:00

Calvin Hughes, former reporter and weekend anchor for CBS-3's "Eyewitness News" until 2006 has been named co-anchor of the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. news at ABC affiliate WPLG-TV in Miami where he departed for.
Hughes has been co-anchoring the 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., 9 a.m.-10 a.m. and noon newscasts since moving to WPLG in October 2006. He was one of the first reporters to arrive in Port-au-Prince Haiti in January to report on the devestating earthquake there.
Hughes resides in Miramar with his wife and two children.

So Long Doug Kammerer...

2010-06-07T20:47:00.003-04:00

I was disappointed to read Michael Klein's news today that CBS-3 morning weatherguy, Doug Kammerer, is leaving the station this summer. Kammerer has landed the Chief Meteorologist position at Washington D.C.'s WRC-TV. Kammerer started in this market at NBC's WCAU-TV and has spent the past three years at KYW's CBS-3. Kammerer was probably my top two favorites for weather...next to WPVI's Adam Joseph. Good luck Doug!

WIBBAGE is back...

2010-05-28T17:33:00.002-04:00

Not sure how long it's been back, but WIBBAGE-FM is back on the radio dial in Ocean City, NJ at 94.3 FM and online HERE--playing hits from the 60's and 70's. CHECK IT OUT!
Bob Charger, one of the original WIBBAGE guys, hosts mornings 6 to 9 a.m. Also, John records Landeker, another WIBBAGE original, hosts "Into The Seventies" Saturday nights 7 to midnight!

David Aldrich Lands Back On His Feet

2010-05-27T06:38:00.002-04:00

Former FOX-29 weatherguy, David Aldrich, has landed the Chief Meteorologist slot at CBS affiliate WVLT-TV in Knoxville, TN. Aldrich, one of the nicest, down-to-earth types you could ever meet, says it's a dream come true for him. Check out his blog HERE.
Congratulations David! Philly's loss is Knoxville's gain.

Vince DeMentri Involved in ANOTHER Incident...

2010-05-21T06:33:00.004-04:00

Former WCAU anchor/reporter, Vince DeMentri, is now involved in an incident in New York. DeMentri, who was hired several months ago by WPIX-TV, is now facing an assault charge. The full story is HERE, courtesy of the New York Post.
You may remember, DeMentri was suspended in 2006 while at WCAU after a verbal altercation with weatherguy Glen Schwartz. In 2008, he was let go by the station for an incident between he and a fellow anchor involving accusations that he took some personal items. A settlement was reached between he, the station and the anchor involved.

TV News Observations

2010-05-20T11:30:00.002-04:00

Does anyone actually rise at 4:30 a.m. in time to watch FOX 29's "Good Day at 4:30"? Only my bed and I know that I will never see the darkness of day at THAT hour...but did record the 4:30 show to check it out. Definitely not much traffic at that hour...and the typical weather segments with Sue along with news of the day. I have never been able to get used to or take a liking to Mike Jerrick. Probably a nice guy...just has never grown on me.
Speaking of FOX 29, I see they continue with their new format during the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. shows of doing more chat, opinion and conjecture than actually giving us "news". In a nutshell, this format is really what most TV newscasts have become. A wasteland of air time! I will never like this format, period! Just give me the news of the day. Is that so hard?
Over at Channel 6, I saw Lisa Thomas Laury anchoring with Rick Williams on the 5 o'clock news yesterday. It reminded me of the days "back when". It was good to see LTL on the desk for a change! I would much rather watch her any day than listening to Brian Taff's grating accent! Wow, it really is annoying.
I see Channel 6 has a new/second promo airing for the Action News "Big Board". Sure does make illustrating a story or the weather much more interesting and animated! My understanding is that one of those can cost big bucks! I've heard in the range of $300,000 including all the software. I'd be curious if that's accurate.
I hear Denise James remains sidelined as she continues her recovery from shoulder surgery.
Over at Channel 3, Liz Keptner sees her remaining days on the anchor desk continue to dwindle. Her last day is just a little more than a week away (May 28th). Still no "official word" from management on whom her replacement will be. Personally, I'd enjoy seeing Pat Ciarrocchi again in the mornings. Who knows if she'd even be interested in those grueling hours? I have a feeling Natasha Brown might be in the running for the job. We shall see!
Meanwhile, I can't comment on anything on Channel 10's airwaves as I do not watch NBC 10 News and haven't in several years. In my opinion, their news product has gone down the tubes; I don't care for most of their reporters and have never cared for Tim Lake or Terry Ruggles.

So Long Liz...

2010-05-05T06:49:00.005-04:00

CBS-3 morning anchor, Liz Keptner, says goodbye to the dawn patrol on May 28th, according to this morning's "Philadelphia Daily News" article by Dan Gross. Keptner says she wants to spend more time with her family.
Keptner joined channel 3 in 2005 as the Lehigh Valley reporter then began to substitute anchor for Susan Barnett who was the previous anchor for the early-morning broadcast. Barnett was actually demoted to make way for Keptner...Barnett relegated to reporter. That only lasted several months when the Larry Mendte/Alycia Lane saga blew up and both were removed from the air. Barnett was relegated back to anchor status in the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. anchor chair where she has remained.

So Long Jamison...

2010-04-28T13:59:00.003-04:00

NBC 10's Jamison Uhler has gotten a promotion...in another city. Philadelphia's loss will be Tampa's gain when Uhler returns to the Sunshine State after four years here -- to anchor the 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts for WFTS' "ABC Action News" beginning in June. Uhler came to our city from Orlando where he was a reporter for station WFTV. Check out the story from the Tampa Tribune.

EMAIL TO PHILLYmediaWATCH

2010-04-15T20:50:00.005-04:00

Dear Phillymediawatch,

I was wondering if you or any of your readers saw Ch. 6's "exclusive" interview with the Route 422 road rage suspect earlier this week.

While I normally admire Action News for the quality of their newscasts and jouranlistic integrity, I found this interview downright shameful. I understand that the suspect was following his attorney's advice in not discussing the incident itself, but what made the story so disgusting was that the suspect used the newscast on the most-watched station as a vehicle to broadcast his self-centered attitude. He showed no remorse and bitterly complained about how HE was the victim and how the media destroyed his image. What a lack of class!

Even if he hadn't gotten involved in this particular incident, he still carried a loaded gun in his car. Why did he feel he needed it? If he chose not to point or fire the gun at the victim, he still could have been charged with carrying a loaded firearm if he was not licensed to do so. The fact that he shot the woman proves that he wanted to hurt or kill his intended target. His actions of that day wipe out his overall character.

Action News said they tried to contact the victim for an interview, but she did not respond. Why would she want to? She already suffered enough from the incident, and it was only made worse by the reporter getting an exclusive interview with the suspect BEFORE interviewing the victim or family members. I can't blame her for not wanting to comment. I'm sure she's outraged!

Why would Action News choose to interview him, knowing the suspect's attorney advised him not to speak about the incident? Even once the interview was completed, the reporter should have realized that it was just a shameless promotion, and it is questionable why it even made air. One would think the executive producers or news director would have made a better judgment call when it came to the ethics and quality of the piece. This story has really shaken my faith in Action News. What's worse is that we're not even in sweeps yet, and even if we were, Channel 6 doesn't need to lower itself to this level; It's already far enough ahead of the competition.

Dan

RESPONSE: Dan, thanks for writing. You bring up some very valid points...points that, in my opinion, speak for themself. I actually did see the report you describe. I believe, if memory serves me correctly, the reporter was Walter Perez. I agree, the man who fired the gun (John Yannarell) is not the victim. I too thought to myself, "it's all about him".

I then read an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer that reported the 50 year old man had eight prior driving citations in Montgomery, Chester and Delaware counties involving the disregard for stop lights and stop signs. Obviously, this man has some "issues"...but, unfortunately, the media has to present both sides of the story. Channel 6 gave Elizabeth Cox the option to be interviewed and she declined. I agree, however, that he may have used the interview to slant the facts in his favor. But again, if the victim, Ms. Cox, refused the interview--what other option did Channel 6 have than to present "the other side" of the story.

Thanks for your email. Your thoughts and viewpoint are appreciated!

Action News New Big Board Promo

2010-04-01T06:36:00.002-04:00

Has anyone seen the new Action News promo for "Big Board"? The station's newest news technological tool in presenting weather, traffic and other stories, Big Board is a large touch screen TV monitor where several graphics and live video can be manipulated by the touch of a finger. In addition, the talent can draw and illustrate with their finger literally over the picture or graphic being presented. WPVI is the only station in this market to own this piece of equipment. CNN also comes to mind as they too have a big board.
The promo is a thirty second fun and amusing look at "big board" and the various Action News staff who use it, including Adam Joseph, Karen Rogers, Melissa Magee, David Murphy, Nydia Han and Allie Gorman as they are shown drawing, manipulating and illustrating with an instrumental piece of music playing in the background. CHECK OUT THE PROMO HERE.
Adam Joseph seems to be the one who's best mastered big board's capability as evidenced during the recent earthquakes in Haiti and Chile.

Condolences to the Poindexter Family...

2010-03-30T21:51:00.002-04:00

Former KYW-TV reporter, Malcom Poindexter, died today at the age of 84. Poindexter was one of the first reporters hired for KYW newsradio's launch in 1965. He went on to the TV side two years later in 1967. Read more HERE...

Adam Joseph Misses a YouTube Moment

2010-03-27T23:23:00.003-04:00

Saturday night's "Action News at 11" came close to being a youtube moment for weatherguy Adam Joseph.
Rob Jennings introduced Adam for his weather segment, saying he's never gotten the hiccups during a television news broadcast but that Adam was fighting them moments earlier. Joseph, who laughed and had a plastic cup of water sitting on the news desk, confessed that his hiccups are "very loud", "very frequent" and "you don't want to hear them", breaking Jennings into laughter -- saying "we'll be listening very closely Adam".
Joseph then replied "hopefully the next three minutes are smooth sailing or this may be a youtube moment if they come back".
Fortunately for Joseph, they did NOT come back and the forecast went on without missing a beat.

MORE "Good Day"...

2010-03-27T22:51:00.002-04:00

If five hours of FOX 29's "Good Day" isn't enough for you, Sue Serio announced on tonight's FOX 29's News at Ten that beginning Monday March 29th, "Good Day" debuts a new start time of 4:30 a.m.
"Good Day" debuted April 1, 1996 as "Good Day Philadelphia", a two hour morning news/infotainment show with hosts Tracey Matisak and Don Tollefson with the "FOX Early Morning News" preceding it at 6 a.m. which was later combined into a three hours block of the "Good Day" brand. The show then expanded to a 5 a.m. start and in September 2009, expanded to five hours from 5 to 10 a.m.
Serio is the only original remaining since the show began.

Condolences To the Dennenberg Family...

2010-03-20T10:20:00.003-04:00

Long-time consumer reporter/advocate, Herb Dennenberg, passed away March 18th at his home in Wayne/Delaware county, of an apparent heart attack. Dennenberg was 80 years old.
Dennenberg was WCAU TV's consumer reporter for more than 20 years and continued his consumer advocacy after leaving Channel 10 in 1998 by writing columns for various newspapers, including the most recent version of THE BULLETIN.
His obituary can be found HERE.

So Long to Another FOX 29'er...

2010-03-15T17:23:00.002-04:00

Six year reporter, Robin Taylor, has been shown the door at FOX 29, unfortunately. Taylor, who was freelancing at the station since September, was recently told to pack her things and hit the door when management discovered she had irons in the fire in Pittsburgh.
For those who don't know the biz lingo, "freelancing" means you're working without a contract on an as-needed basis. Taylor had been at the station more than six years when her contract expired in September and was not renewed. They did, however, keep her services in a freelancing capacity. In need of a permanent position, Taylor pursued other opportunities and landed a Consumer Reporter position at Pittsburgh's WPXI beginning next month. Her intention was to continue freelancing until then to make a smooth transition from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. That was not meant to be, apparently.
FOX29 has done it again - - terminating another talented, competent employee. Sure does make one wonder where the head is of the powers-that-be at FOX.

Larry Mendte Article...an Interesting Read...

2010-03-12T13:03:00.002-05:00

A friend tipped me off to an article in this month's "Philadelphia Magazine" written by former CBS 3 anchor, Larry Mendte. For any of you who have tired of local news OR just plain don't watch anymore, Larry brings to light some interesting reasons why. He also provides some changes that could be made by station managers in bringing the local newscast BACK to being -- LOCAL.
How many times have we seen a newscast lead with a story not related to Philadelphia. I'm not speaking of a big national story like earthquakes or disasters but, for example, the Kate/John Gosselin saga. FOX 29 led a newscast one night with the Gosselin saga. Why? Because it was an easy celebrity driven story that the stations think brings viewers. As Mendte points out, local newscasts have forgotten that they can position themselves as being the authority on what happens HERE, in OUR town. The national news outlets have done a good job in providing national stories and the business news outlets handle covering the business scene well on a national level. Why can't local newscasts come out of the 80's (the pre internet, IPOD era) and realize that in order to bring back the viewer you have to give a reason to tune in? It's too easy, as Mendte pointed out, to air the L.A. car chase video clip doing a voiceover that we've seen on every national newscast already. It takes talent, drive and money to concentrate on focused reporting like what is happening at City Hall, or, a construction project in Montgomery county as Mendte explains.
The entire article is HERE and is definitely a must-read if you're like me in that you no longer watch local news on a consistent basis OR are tiring of the flashy graphics, the weather leads, the cheap and irrelevant "special report" stories...Definitely some very good and valid points made by Mendte. Unfortunately, I see nothing changing because local newscasts are all about "how to do it the cheapest for the biggest rating".

FOX 29's Chit Chat

2010-03-05T22:40:00.003-05:00

FOX 29 is tweaking its 10 p.m. show by adding lots of chit chat, including a segment called, "Hot Topics", ala "The View" on ABC daytime.
Tonights "Hot Topics" segment kicked in at 10:16 p.m. with guest, Dom Giordano, of WPHT's "Big Talker" at 1210 on the AM radio dial. Giordano gave his thoughts and opinions on the military trials process of the 9/11 terrorist suspects, the webcam lawsuit of Lower Merion School District, a story that broke the week before last, as well as the national unemployment rate of 9.7%.
By 10:24 p.m., just four minutes later, a similiar "Hot Topics" segment, this one called "a reality check" as FOX 29 called it. Yet, ANOTHER on-set talking head with opinions and conjecture by Buzz Bissinger, "a long-time Philadelphia journalist/author" as FOX introduced him. Kerri Lee Halkett and Thomas Drayton exchanged some irrelevant/uninteresting personal viewpoint then went to a break.
By 10:31 p.m., yet some more discussion with my least favorite weekly segment, "Mob Talk", by reporter Dave Shratwieser...a five minute and thirty second segment! And, by 10:39 p.m., we shouldn't forget the lame "Top 5 Bad Days"...a stupid segment the newscast has done for quite some time that provides video clips of stupidity across the nation. The segment ended with more personal thoughts/banter by Halkett and Drayton.
Throw in two stories and yep, MORE BANTER, this time between John Bolaris, Halkett and Drayton about the new airport body scanners "coming to an airport near you".
This is what FOX 29 calls a newscast. I vote for throwing this newscast to the test signal of days gone by. Considering FOX's competition is "NBC 10 News at Ten on PHL-17" and "Eyewitness News at 10 on the CW" one can see why they win their timeslot. Certainly, not much competition in my opinion.
FOX-29's leadership has managed to slowly dig a deep grave for its newscasts compared to the news from ten years ago led by Rich Noonan and Jill Chernekoff. We've seen many faces come and go since those days, like Carl Cherkin, Frank Cariello, Donya Archer, Traci Matisak, Don Tollefson, David Aldrich, Rob Guarino, Bill Vargus, Nefertiti Jaquez, Dawn Stensland, George Mallet, Tom Burlington and the list goes on.

Weather Sells!

2010-02-26T23:18:00.002-05:00

Not only has Channel 6 done their "weather specials" within the 11 o'clock Friday night broadcast two weeks in a row, but now, Channel 3 has jumped on their own band wagon tonight with a "CBS-3 Eyewitness Weather Special Report".
The regular "Eyewitness News" broadcast led with three weather-related stories followed by Kathy Orr's regular weathercast, then four more stories, sports and a good-bye.
At 11:15, the weather special kicked off anchored by Kathy Orr and Doug Kammerer with another weathercast for the week ahead as well as a "super extended ten day". Then, you got it---eight commercials...eating up four minutes then back to Kathy & Doug with Doug giving us a "look back" at the winter history of the December storm that dumped 23.2 inches on Philadelphia the week before Christmas. Then, just a mere 3 inches of snow in January and two huge storms in early February...a 28.5 inch storm followed by the first blizzard warning since 1996 giving us 15.8 inches in the city. Finally, the 5.6 inch storm last night into today giving us a whopping 78.7 inches thus far for the '09/'10 winter season. In comparison, Buffalo NY has gotten 69 inches compared to Chicago's 49.3 inches there. Finally, Minneapolis/St. Paul's 40.7 inches and Denver's 46 inches is no comparison to here in the City of Brotherly Love, says Kammerer. We then were treated to seven more commercials, another three and a half minutes. Kathy went into the next segment with a taped interview with meterorologist Jim Eberwine from the National Weather Service, asking where all the snow is coming from? The answer, El Nino, which is the warm water current in the eastern Pacific ocean. This moisture has played a big part in the east's winter storms. By picking up Pacific moisture, throw in some Gulf moisture along with some Atlantic moisture, and, BOOM--a huge winter storm! Eberwine's prediction for March? "It could be rough if storms continue to form from the Gulf of Mexico". According to Orr, March temperatures will be below average while precipitation will be more than average. Another six more commercials, a CBS 3 promo and a quick goodbye from Orr & Kammerer.
The point? Sales, sales, sales...the station was able to sell 10.5 minutes of advertising for 9-1/2 minutes of information. But, I will say Channel 3's "special" was much more informative than Channel 6's.

INNOVATION AT 6ABC

2010-02-25T18:42:00.006-05:00

I experienced something pretty neat tonight on the 6abc.com website during the 5 p.m. "Action News". The station decided to create an online webchat complete with webcams not only on the weather set but also on-set with Rick & Monica as well as a third webcam in the control room. Additionally, there was live audio on-set as well as on the weather set so you could see and hear the talent while each reporter's package was airing during the live broadcast. According to webchat host, "Corey", this was the second time they've done this...the first during the last storm which I actually caught one morning during the "Action News Morning" broadcast not long ago. Corey indicated this was a special webchat event and not currently "the norm".
As we watched Rick & Monica during the live show, we got to see Rick teaze Monica about her "baby belly" and say that her outfit was designed by Barnum & Bailey's. We also learned that Monica's twins are boys and she is due in June. Also, that Rick is suffering from a nasty head cold and taking something over-the-counter..."though, if I need something more my wife can always write a script". She must be a physician. Also, that Rick's home is only two minutes walk for his child to walk to school while Monica has to fight traffic for her son to get to school on-time. By 5:45, we heard Monica say "mmm, I'm ready for some dinner", to which Rick replied, "ugh, I'm ready for my bed". Before we knew it, they were saying goodbye and to stay tuned for Jim Gardner and "Action News at Six".
Rick packed up his laptop (they must be able to bring their own laptop on-set) and both he and Monica disconnected their mikes from the main anchor line, got up and turned over the chair to Jim Gardner, wearing a dark blue pair of jeans, shirt, tie and suit jacket.
Within two minutes the news open began and Jim was off and running. Sports guy, Keith Russell, arrived on-set within the first few minutes of the broadcast, sitting next to Gardner. During the first commercial break, Gardner looked to Keith to remind him to keep the language and demeanor professional, then turned to the webcam to welcome the viewers behind the scenes. At another point, Gardner turned to Adam Joseph to ask for a quick explanation of why we didn't see accumulations from today's snow. Joseph's answer was that the snow was light with a combination of tempearatures, especially GROUND TEMPERATURES, being too warm. Cecily Tynan's accuweather teaze eminated from the anchor desk and she commented on one of the snowtograph pictures that were displayed of a cute local boy she took a liking to. During the break, she talked with producers in the control room to confirm she would be getting a PennDot camera shot of I-95 near Philadlephia airport to illustrate road conditions and snow falling.
Gardner then threw it to Cecily at the end of the newscast for a quick throw to Adam Joseph in the weather office...to advise viewers that new computer storm models would come out at 10 p.m. and that they would both be combing over the storm details for the 11 p.m. forecast. Gardner then quickly teazed a segment for the 11 o'clock of a look at Dave Roberts' retirement through this cold and snowy winter. THAT should be some fun viewing!! --->VIDEO HERE<---
At the end of the newscast, Corey asked Keith & Jim if they would mind sticking around for a few questions from web viewers. The first question was for Keith, from "Mike", asking who does his hair. Obviously, being bald--it was a bit of comic question to which Russell replied, "a razor, soap and water...".
The next questions were directed to Jim, asking what he does for dinner to which he replied that he goes home for dinner each night, allowing him about 45 minutes to spend some quality time with his family. I thought he said he has little ones who are very important to him, but, that must be incorrect as I thought his children are grown. Another viewer asked when 6ABC went on the air, however Corey nor Jim knew the answer. According to wikipedia--WPVI signed on in April 1971. However, WFIL-TV signed on as a Dumont network in September, 1947...changing to ABC (the first ABC affiliate in the country) in April 1948 but continuing to carry the Dumont network until its demise in 1956. Someone also asked who his most memorable interview was which took some thinking on his part...at that point--I signed off as my dinner was eagerly awaiting me!
Good job to Corey and the powers-that-be at PVI for an innovative way to bring the viewers behind the scenes of "Action News".

Larry Mendte

2010-02-22T19:55:00.003-05:00

This will be a short post because a Chicago columnist covered the return of Larry Mendte to Tribune TV's airwaves...be sure to read the posts by readers of the article as well.

ACCUWEATHER SPECIAL REPORT

2010-02-12T23:35:00.002-05:00

Tonight was a first for Channel 6 when they did a shortened newscast and bailed out at 11:18 after the sport segment.
Jim Gardner said goodnight and said "Accuweather Special Report is next on channel 6". Six commercials then followed going into the first segment of the "special report". Cecily Tynan then began stating that everyone is talking about the weather with two blockbuster storms this week alone topping our all-time total snowfall record. She then went on to give the typical forecast, went to break for five more commercials...came back for a few more words and statistics, followed by six more commercials! The third and final segment was simply to give credit to "Paul", an Accuweather producer, and then said goodnight. Guess what? Six MORE commercials before going into the ABC feed of "Nightline". That's 23 commercials total at 30 seconds each...for 11.5 minutes of commercials alone...leaving 4.5 minutes of information for this "special report".
I have no idea what Channel 6's motive was for this stunt because it was about as innovative and exciting as watching paint dry. Was it just an opportunity to catch up on some lost revenue from days before when they went live with the 14 hours of continuous snow coverage perhaps? Who knows...

THOUGHTS ON SNOW COVERAGE...

2010-02-07T17:13:00.005-05:00

I have some thoughts on the coverage of the record snowstorm provided by Channel 3 and FOX 29. These all-day "snow coverage specials" are 90% fluff and completely assinine in my opinion. If stations are going to do this, why not make them more informative? For example, who wants to see Bob Kelly or Thomas Drayton make a snow angel, or Sally's new puppy jumping into the snow, or Fred at a bar in S. Philly, minus one front tooth, talkin' about the "beer is just a-flowin'". What about those who absolutely HAD TO DRIVE at some point in the storm? Those who could in no way cancel or postpone their driving? Do station managers really think outside of the box? During Channel 3's coverage you got no more than two traffic reports an hour. The reports Bob Kelly provided were very informative--showing highway conditions, explaining what problems there were -- and covering the mass transit issues. It just wasn't enough coverage. When snow has affected all area highways--why does there need to be time constraints? FOX 29 didn't even HAVE a traffic traffic reporter doing anything. What's up with that? How can a major market TV station be so cheap as to not have a traffic reporter on staff? I noticed Channel 6 brought in Matt Pellman to provide adequate coverage, but again, not enough reports in my opinion.
Yes, some of the new technology unveiled by KYW & FOX 29 was incredible. The new "U Video" technology by Iphone users, as well as the skype video and streaming video. However, once again, the U video contributions were more of the "look at my daughter's swing set in my backyard" or a guy sitting in a lawn chair, beer in hand, with his fishing pole and cooler---amongst mounds of snow...more fluff!
Valerie Lavesque provided a live report from the news van via Skype, as she headed east on the A.C. Expressway. This was a perfect opportunity to provide a live report of a road condition on a specific portion of highway. Yet, she missed that opportunity--never once pointing the camera directly in front of her at the highway. Her report was to illustrate the beauty of the snow in the trees lined next to the highway. Informative? I think not...nothing more than self-promotion of new technology.
One could only hope the station "powers-that-be" could somehow lessen the fluff factor during these specials and add more information the viewer can use. Unfortunately, I can almost guarantee that won't happen any year soon since these snow specials yield boo-coo ratings.

An Embarrasing Gaffe for Bolaris' "Weather Authority"

2010-02-05T18:21:00.002-05:00

Imagine where in the heck the producer's head was who was in charge of the FOX29 News at 5 broadcast today?
John Bolaris was literally in the middle of his weather segment, illustrating with "FOX FUTURECAST" the intensity and direction of the storm to hit our area during the overnight hours. All of a sudden, literally in mid-sentence, you see Bolaris give a downward brow and say "I'm getting a wrap so I guess I gotta go?"...You then hear him huff and say..."back to the desk...okay...I didn't even get a chance to get to the snow amounts there, uh...I needed to show snow amounts, I think we need to get to the snow amounts, if I could have the time to get to the snow amounts". At that point, he was sitting at the anchor desk with Halkett and Drayton who both responded, "go ahead John...yes John, that's critical". Bolaris then said, "let's go to the snow amounts--we REALLY NEED TO GET TO THAT, PLEASE...let's go to the maps and show the snow amounts..."
Finally, at that point, the snow amount graphic was displayed, Bolaris continued to illustrate expected snowfall totals and then wrapped up the segment throwing back to Halkett and Drayton.
WHAT A TRAIN WRECK *THAT* WAS TO WATCH! Completely embarrassing...and what a joke for a station trying to brand themselves as "The Weather Authority". And, what might have been the rush, you ask, that Bolaris end his weather segment? A toss to a reporter standing in Stanton Delaware to show a few flurries flying through the air...

SNOW, SNOW, SNOW

2010-01-30T21:39:00.003-05:00

I cannot help but scratch my head over today's snow event, an event that wasn't really called for by the local forecasts. Well, not until last night when they all began to reconsider their forecast. For example, Channel 6's "AccuWeather" said no more than flurries at most for the city south into Delaware county. By the 11 p.m. Friday forecast, Cecily Tynan said we could see "a coating to 2 inches" and on Saturday morning's forecast by Melissa Magee the call was for "a coating to one inch" at most. Channel 10's Hurricane Schwartz said on Thursday "nadda, none, nothing". By 1 o'clock today the snow was falling in parts of Chester county and by 2 p.m., in Montgomery county. I was on the Schuylkill expressway driving from King of Prussia to Center City at about 2:30 p.m. and it was coming down fast and furious and the roads were icing fast.
What puzzles me is how, in this day and age with all the super mega color pinpoint fast-track weather dopplers, can a forecast seem so outta whack! The only one who came the closest was former FOX29's Rob Guarino's weather site MYWEATHERLIVE.COM All week long, Guarino and his team of meteorologists followed this storm across the country backing off on the liklihood it would hit our area with a foot of snow as originally thought. However, all the way up until today, they kept with the strong liklihood that the storm's water vapor would allow it to move more north than the local weatherfolk were predicting. Sure enough, it happened! By 7 p.m. Atlantic City got 6 inches and Philadelphia International 2". Too bad Guarino isn't onboard on our local airwaves! Channels 3, 6, 10 and 29 should take their dopplar radars and toss 'em in the garbage!

Sad News To Report...

2010-01-25T20:28:00.003-05:00

I've learned from Facebook that former WCAU-TV anchor, Ken Matz, died Saturday January 23rd after a battle with cancer. His son, Justin, posted the announcement Saturday night: "My father, Ken Matz, passed away on January 23 after a long fight against cancer. He fought a long, hard fight and died with his wife, Deb. I miss him very much."
Bloggers who knew or worked with Ken were fast to respond...Richard posted his thoughts, "Ken gave me my first job in broadcasting at WIBG in 1971, and remained a strong influence in my life for decades. I could not have asked for a better or kinder mentor. I miss you, Ken". Matz began his career in radio at WRAW in Reading, PA in 1964. After several years, he went on to Harrisburg from 1966 to 1969 as "Gary Smith". He returned to his native Philadelphia in 1969 where he worked at Top 40 station WIBG Radio 99 until 1976. WXTU personality, Leigh Richards posted her heartfelt thoughts: "We're so sorry to hear this sad news. Your father was a great guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all his loved ones".
Matz later worked at KYW newsradio in 1976 after leaving WIBG, then on to a few other stations before landing on his feet in television at channel 6 in Miami, FL where he worked from 1990 to 1992. When Larry Kane jumped ship from WCAU to KYW-TV in 1992 it made room for Matz...who came back to Philadelphia and eventually co-anchored with Jane Robelot. Robelot later went on to the CBS Morning News and Matz was paired with Renee Chenault where he remained until his departure in 1998 back to Florida to enjoy retirement with his wife, Deb.
My condolences go out to the Matz family.

Channel 6 Buzz...

2010-01-22T06:56:00.004-05:00

Word from Marni Hall is that Channel 6 management is trying to rid a certain older, more established reporter from the payroll by moving her to different shifts in an attempt she quits. Newsroom sources tell me who it is but I'll leave it to you to guess who YOU think it is. It's not too hard to figure out.
Also, I hear John Rawlins will be off the air by May because management has decided not to renew his contract.

Malpass--Don Lancer Hits It On The Head!!

2010-01-21T10:34:00.003-05:00

I was just perusing the web and decided to check in on Don Lancer's blog and boy am I glad I did! I'd like to share...a post where he remarks about Channel 6's Monica Malpass. He hit it on the head and said what I've been thinking for years! Maybe Malpass might think about taking his advice!! Check it out HERE...
I've never been a favorite of Malpass and find her more annoying the longer she's on-air. She's as phony as they come having met her personally and worked with her for a period of time a few years back. She condascending and stuck a few notches above the rest of us common folk, to be honest. I would've thought after being a mother the past nine years she may have come down a few pegs but, no cigar.

FOX 29 "Weather Authority"?

2010-01-21T10:03:00.002-05:00

Has anyone else noticed that FOX-29 now brands themselves as "The Weather Authority"? I noticed just the other night when I decided to tune in for a spell to see what might be new. I don't watch regularly because I cannot stand Kerri Lee Halkett's delivery and voice.
It seems like FOX-29 continues finding themselves in an identity crisis. First, they were "The Winter Weather Station" a few years back followed by "Big Picture Weather", then "THE Weather Station"...and now "The Weather Authority". Nothing new in the actual weather presentation. No new graphics, no new radars, just simply "The Weather Authority".
I cannot help but wonder what exactly makes Bolaris and FOX-29 "The Weather Authority" anyway? I don't find them to be nearly as accurate or reliable as when Rob Guarino presided during their time as "The Winter Weather Station" and "Big Picture Weather".
Guarino, as you may know, was let go from FOX to make room for Bolaris -- and headed to Albuquerque to call weather. He has returned to the area to be closer to an ill father and to be with his children again. Guarino has found success as co-owner of MYWEATHERLIVE.com so check it out.

...More FOX-29 Notes

2010-01-08T11:57:00.002-05:00

According to newsroom scuttlebutt which can be just that...or sometimes--dependable information, this is the beginning of the end for FOX-29's Sue Serio. Newcomer Sally Ann Mosey has been slated a seat on "Good Day Philadelphia" during the 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. portion. This relegates Sue Serio to contributing from the field during that timeframe and in the studio for only the first two hours of the show.
While watching the show this morning, I could not believe my ears during a live shot by Shaunette Wilson who was reporting from Claymont Delaware. When Mike Jerrick introduced her, she responded with "where am I Mike?"--he reminded her she was in Claymont. Her response was something to the effect of being tired. Continued "excellent reporting" by FOX 29! Wow, she must have been very tired not to know that she was standing in a Home Depot parking lot off Naaman's Road in Claymont Delaware!

STEVE KEELEY, A ONE-MAN BAND...

2009-12-26T22:33:00.003-05:00

Watching tonight's "FOX 29 News" broadcast at 10:00 was obviously a one-man band for FOX 29 and anchor, Steve "how's my hairpiece look" Keeley, filling in for Joyce Evans. By the way, has anyone else noticed that FOX weekend newscasts are 99% fluff? The broadcast began with two "stories of the day" followed by prepackaged network segments then the remainder of the broadcast is repeat "fluff" segments seen earlier in the week. This has become commonplace on the weekends for FOX 29.
Another thing I noticed, never seen before in this market but something I've read about in the trades that seems to be the newest trend in TV news...the anchor operating their own teleprompter. Keeley could be seen operating the prompter with his right hand from a hand-operated box placed on the anchor desk. Very strange looking if you ask me.
Finally, when the broadcast shifted to "THE weather station" coverage, no meteorologist on-duty! Only, "one man band Keeley" giving the five day forecast. If newly hired Sally Ann Mosey couldn't work where was freelancer John Krasting? Heck, how about departed David Aldrich? OR, unemployed Rob Guarino?
All in all, a wasted sixty minutes of a newscast...

Prayers Go Out To Don Lancer

2009-12-17T06:27:00.002-05:00

According to his blog, long-time KYW anchor, Don Lancer, has announced he is battling lung cancer. "Forty plus years of smoking, it's my own fault", says Lancer. His wife won the battle of lung cancer five years ago. We send our prayers to Lancer and ask that you do as well.

Remembrances of Dave Roberts...

2009-12-07T19:04:00.005-05:00

"Action News" began a week-long segment tonight on the six o'clock evening newscast. Anchor Jim Gardner reminded viewers of Dave's retirment this Friday...as he introduced the series remembering Dave's beginings in broadcasting. Set a reminder to check it out the rest of the week in the second segment of the newscast at approximately 6:13 p.m. In case you missed it, here's the link on WPVI's website.
Tuesday's broadcast included this remembrance by Rick Williams, while THIS rememembrance by Lisa Thomas-Laury is of the parades Dave has covered.

KYW Traffic Man Out...

2009-12-01T19:28:00.004-05:00

Long-time KYW traffic anchor, Tom Collins, has departed company with Metro Networks. Collins, anchor of the weeknight shift of six o'clock to midnight, worked on-air for KYW the past twelve or thirteen years and was last heard on-air November 20th.
Word has it that conditions at Metro Traffic are as bad as ever. Recent pay cuts were followed by additional company imposed "time give backs" where employees have been forced to give up the equivalent of three days compensation to be paid back by the company early next year. Apparently, the company is in serious financial distress making the latest employee contributions a necessity. Ongoing conditions remain of "more work and not enough people to do it effectively", I'm told. The producer and anchor pool is as scarce as ever -- making it difficult to cover vacations and call-outs. So far, I've heard weekender's RJ McKay and Eric Herr covering the open shift with no word on when it will be filled.
Metro has seen several traffic veterans come and go over the last few years including Lorraine Renalli, Dorothy Krysiuk, John Valario, Rod Carson, Tom MacDonald, Deborah Byrne, Matt Tacha, Mary Cantell and Brian Ramona. Renalli continues to promote her book, "Gravy Wars"; Krysiuk remains unemployed; Valario can be heard most nights anchoring at KYW newsradio; Carson works part-time at the PennDot Traffic Control Center; and no word on the latest doings of MacDonald, Byrne, Tacha, Cantell or Ramona.
I'm told Collins took an opportunity to utilize his talents with the folks at PennDot's Traffic Control Center.

So long Erica Grow...

2009-11-26T23:27:00.004-05:00

Another on-air talent has departed our local airwaves. This time, we say good-bye to Erica Grow from WPVI's "Action News". Nothing officially announced by PVI other than that Erica's one year contract was not renewed. It's unfortunate because I grew to like Grow! She really grew on me! (Okay, I'll stop...)
Hopefully, she will take her talent to another station real soon.

Former KYW Anchor Retiring...

2009-10-29T15:52:00.002-04:00

For those with good memories from the late 80's who remember former KYW anchor, Jackie Hays? She departed KYW in 1988 for NBC affiliate WAVE-TV in Louisville KY and will retire at the end of the year to spend more time with her family, after serving nearly 22 years with the station.
Hays began at WAVE-TV in 1988 and is currently co-anchor of the station’s 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts.

So Long to Dawn...

2009-10-22T12:51:00.003-04:00

Well, it seems I write these "so long..." items more and more these days...as Dan Gross reports that FOX 29's Dawn Stensland has exited the premesis, unfortunately.
Gone now are the teams of Noonan, Chernekoff, Cariello/Guarino and Cherkin/Tolefson as well as Huddleston, Stensland, Guarino and Tollefson. Quite a shame too because all the changes the powers-that-be have made at FOX do not seem to have made a darn dent in their ratings. Bolaris' return gave NO RETURN on the ratings scale and my personal opinion of Kerri Lee Halkett is not a good one. I'll suffice to say that her sing-songy voice surely grates on my nerves and I see her as nothing more than a stand-up Barbie doll. When have you seen her in the field showcasing her journalistic skills?
It's no surprise, of course, that Dawn was shown the door. For over a year now, she's been absent from most news promotions and at some points in watching the broadcast, it almost felt as though maybe Dawn should slide her chair right off the set to make room for Halkett.
Hopefully, Stensland's agent has some irons in the fire for her...and good luck is wished for her--for sure.

CBS-3 Cancels Eyewitness News at Noon

2009-10-13T18:11:00.003-04:00

CBS-3 is cancelling their noon newscast to make room for a new "daily, lifestyle program" -- Talk Philly, set to debut Monday October 18th.

The new thirty minute show will be hosted by Pat Ciarrochi and Ukee Washington who have co-anchored Eyewitness News at Noon since 1996. According to Jon Hitchcock, President and General Manager, “Talk Philly is our chance to offer viewers more health, consumer and lifestyle solutions with the advantage of in-studio guests, longer interviews and demonstrations.” The program gives CBS-3 the opportunity to showcase the arts and entertainment goings-on in the city.

Talk Philly will broadcast from a newly-constructed set that was created to resemble a cozy Philadelphia loft, allowing for casual interactive conversation between hosts, guests and the home audience. Liz Keptner will provide news updates within the program with Maria LaRosa providing weather.

So Long David Aldrich

2009-09-28T19:23:00.002-04:00

As you may have already read online or in the Philadelphia Inquirer--FOX 29 is bidding a farewell to meteorologist David Aldrich. Unfortunately, management declined to renew his contract which makes one wonder, WHY? Was it viewer surveys, which can be one reason for a non-renewal. Was he a "difficult employee"? Maybe a cost-cutting move? Or, just to plain--make room for former channel 6 weather gal, formerly from WNBC in New York, Sally Ann Mosey?
I can't say I understand FOX 29's logic, first--letting Rob Guarino go for the lackluster/has-been John Bolaris. Did Bolaris rise the meter rating of FOX 29 News? "Nadda!" In today's television news world, it's rare for the move of talent from one station to another to make a rating blip in the radar...and same goes for Bolaris, formerly of NBC10 who came to FOX from New York's WCBS. In my opinion, FOX 29 made a huge mistake in letting go Guarino. He was a true weather freak--and it showed in his forecasts. He was the one responsible for ramping up FOX 29's weather coverage, then came Aldrich who also jumped in to make FOX 29 the local station to turn to for an accurate forecast, especially in the hard-to-forecast winter season!
Now the news comes that Aldrich follows Guarino out the door as well. SHAME ON FOX 29 MANAGEMENT...nothing against Sally Ann Mosey (because I actually like her and look forward to seeing her on our local air again)--but--you've lost this viewer's confidence for sure!
I can't help but wonder that Sue Serio will be the next victim of the ax!

Screen Capture

2009-09-13T17:13:00.003-04:00

Screen Capture

2009-09-13T17:11:00.001-04:00

Screen Capture

2009-09-13T17:09:00.009-04:00

WPVI debuts their new digs

2009-09-12T23:42:00.004-04:00

"Impressed" would be my word to describe WPVI's new facilities. You too can see the new facilities here in a 16 minute tour given by Matt O'Donnell and David Murphy. The tour shows the lobby, newsroom, accuweather office, microwave control room, studio/set and the "Action News Patio" overlooking Monument Road. The new set is quite impressive as well! The crystal city skyline is to the left rear of the anchor desk...the accuweather set to the right, as before. "...Alot sleeker looking all-in-all..." as evidenced by the debut on-air tonight, during the 11 o'clock newscast...shown at about 11:44 p.m. after Nascar on ABC. Adam Joseph broadcast the first outside weather teaze from a new outdoor locale as well. No more weather off City Avenue with the "honkers" driving by in the background. Also new, the "7 day Accuweather forecast"...where the 5 day graphic is displayed as before. Then, instead of the former "look ahead" graphic, the 5 day graphic now expands to "day 6 and day 7", taking up the full screen, to allow the talent to walk back to the anchor desk from the green screen.
Rob Jennings got the honor of christening the anchor chair--putting Action News on their newest journey in broadcast journalism.

Action News

2009-08-24T12:37:00.002-04:00

We're only a matter of weeks away from the crew at PVI to be hanging their hat in their new building that was completed a few months back. Everyone has moved in and the news staff are now in the process of making their move. As I wrote below (from April)--I'm told there won't be any real drastic changes in the new set. Has anyone noticed the "crystal city skyline" is gone from the current set? I'm told big money was paid for that and it will be incorporated into the new set. Plans call for the crew to soon begin doing duplicate newscasts from the new studio as a rehearsal for going live from there in the next few weeks.

Posted 4/09: Look for the crew at WPVI to move into their new digs, next door, and be broadcasting from there by early September. I'm told that staff is pretty psyched about the new state-of-the-art facility along Monument Road just east of City Avenue and their current home which was considered "state-of-the-art" back in the day. Don't look for any drastic change in the on-air look of the Action News broadcasts, however. I'm told there will be a few tweaks here and there that are in the plan but overall--the home of Action News will pretty much look as it does now.

Sean Murphy Drives Into The Sunset

2009-08-11T18:19:00.003-04:00

Former CW57 "Wake Up News" traffic reporter Sean Murphy--who transferred to CBS3 in June when "Wake Up News" awoke at 5 a.m. for the last time--has been canned from CBS3. Marnie Hall's Philly Gossip recently reported that initial rumors were that the features/traffic back-up reporter recently signed a 3 year contract to remain at KYW. However, management took an early-out clause and bid farewell to Murphy instead. Murphy is married to the daughter of former CBS3 General Manager Michael Colleran who retired from CBS3 about five months ago and seemed to be Murphy's biggest fan. Time will tell who Bob Kelly's official back-up will be but smart money would bet on Jamie Shupak?

Shupak Clearing The Way..

2009-08-05T13:20:00.002-04:00

Philadelphia Inquirer's Inqlings reporter, Michael Klein, reported yesterday the "clearing of the way" for Jamie Shupak, the FOX 29 Traffic reporter for weekday FOX 29 news broadcasts. Shupak has been an interim fill-in for the departed Dorthy Krysiuk since October 2008. FOX 29's reason for the decision is "economics" and will have the anchors voiceover the traffic problems over the video feeds from Penndot. Shupak will most likely use her nine months on-air experience to add to her resume for another traffic gig, most likely, outside of Philadelphia. Traffic Pulse provides traffic information to Channels 3, 6, 10 and 29 while Metro/Shadow Traffic provides their information to Channel 3 as well as local radio stations and XM/Sirius.
Who knows if it's really "economics" or just a change of direction by management. In reviewing the FOX blogs, it seems she has about a 60/40 group out there. About 40% seem to like her and about 60% who seem to dislike her. Comments were posted about her wearing yellow nail polish (something one would do in college, one person posted); her annoying voice, her lack of professional dress (too tight blouses, belly blouses exposing her stomach on-air as several posted) and even a comment from another about her having "great camel toe"! Based on some of the postings, I would think management might have decided to find someone else "down the road" a little more polished and professional.

Mike Jerrick's First Day...

2009-07-29T20:25:00.004-04:00

Mike Jerrick's return to FOX 29 was today and his first day on "Good Day Philadelphia" was uneventful. He kissed co-host Sheinelle Jones and weathergal, Sue Serio, who commented "do you believe I'm still here!". Later, as he introduced traffic reporter, Jamie Shupak, he walked over to her to give a kiss on the cheek...all very hokey and silly stuff. GDP's John Anderson was reporting live from the Lehigh Valley on the Eagles summer camp with Hugh Douglas. Does FOX 29 really think Douglas has the chops for television? Wow---the guy is a disgrace to television professionals!

Jerrick returned to Philadelphia from his cancelled national FOX show "The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet" that lasted two years. He hosted GDP for three years from 1999 until 2002 when he bolted for a national gig with FOX News Channel.

Philadelphia Daily News' Dan Gross reports that plans are in the works for GDP to expand from four hours to five beginning September. John Anderson will co-host from 5 a.m. till 7 a.m. with Jones and then give up the anchor chair to Jerrick from 7 a.m. till 10 a.m.

Jerrick began his TV career at Topeka Kansas station WIBW-TV and later moved on to New York's WNYW-TV as a producer for a time before moving on to San Francisco station KPIX-TV. Jerrick also worked for HBO, Sci-Fi, the "America's Talking" cable network as well as CNBC.

WPVI's NEW DIGS

2009-07-28T20:08:00.003-04:00

I hear everything is on track for the Action News family to be moving into their new digs in the next 4-6 weeks. Construction, which began in the summer of 2007, was completed some time ago. Now, it's the completion of all the wiring involved of an HD state-of-the-art type facility it is.

I'm told the station should go on-air from the new building by early September. As I wrote in late April, don't expect any drastic changes in the look of "Action News", only some tweaks here and there. The studio will definitely be larger which should allow some elbow room in future programming.

WPVI went on the air September 13th, 1947 as WFIL-TV. WFIL-TV was the home of Dick Clark's "American Bandstand" which hit our airwaves in 1952 and went national on the ABC network in 1957. WFIL-TV was also ABC's first affiliate.

A little known fact I found interesting? According to Wikipedia, channel 6 never carried ABC's new morning news show, "AM America", back in 1975 when ABC decided to create a morning news show to compete with NBC's "Today". ABC cancelled the ratings struggled "AM America" six months later and debuted "Good Morning America" in October of that year. WPVI only aired the first hour, opting instead, to air locally produced "Captain Noah and his Magical Ark" in the 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. hour. It took three years until ABC pursuaded WPVI to air the show in its entirety. Similiar situations happened with ABC's "Home" show (anchored by Robb Weller and Sandy Hill) and daytime soap, "The Edge of Night". "Home" was preempted entirely and finally hit WPVI's air only to have the first half hour preempted. "The Edge of Night" never aired on WPVI but instead, on independent stations in Philadelphia that were contracted by ABC to carry the show.

Gary Papa Passes On...

2009-06-19T18:39:00.003-04:00

I join the fans, viewers and the 6ABC family in mourning the passing of Gary Papa. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and two sons. Channel 6 devoted their entire 90 minutes (5 p.m.-6:32 p.m.) to Gary's life and time at Channel 6. You can read about his life here

At the close of the 6 p.m. "Action News" they showed a 2 minute video montage of Gary played to the song "The Time of My Life" which was quite touching.

You can watch the announcing of Gary's death, by Jim Gardner,here.

Rest in peace Gary!

Phone Rings Live On-Air

2009-06-15T18:31:00.003-04:00

Near the close of PVI's 6 p.m. Action News tonight (Mon 6/15th)--Adam Joseph (filling in for Dave Roberts) was throwing it back to Jim Gardner as he sat back down at the anchor desk detailing thunderstorms coming into Center City from neighboring Montgomery county. As Adam said "a small storm, but a POTENT storm--with the possibility that..." at which point the phone behind Gardner began to ring. Adam acknowledged it by laughing and saying "someone's calling us over here, who is it Jim?"
Gardner turned right around, saying "the phone is ringing!"...picked up the phone and said "HELLO?". Adam cracked up again saying "THEY HUNG UP!". Gardner then responded by saying, "running out of time here--I'm sorry!". Gardner went on to say, "first time THAT'S EVER HAPPENED!" as he squinted, smiled and shook his head in amusement. Gardner promoted the upcoming World News Tonight and as they went to commercial, Gardner picked up the phone again with Jaime Apody and Adam Joseph laughing at Gardner.
Nothing like LIVE TV, at its best!

What is up with???

2009-06-15T17:48:00.002-04:00

...the women on-air wearing the false eye lashes? I first wrote about this in regards to channel 6's Monica Malpass. She looked ridiculous and still does, in my opinion. Yeah-yeah, I know...it's because of HD. Now, I stumble across channel 10 and Traci Davidson and weather gal Michelle Grossman are doing it now too! It looks just as bad on them and I hate to say it -- but -- Grossman looked like she might be working the corner of Broad and Spruce. Davidson is one of the more attractive young ladies on our air and simply does not need false eyelashes to "make her eyes pop". Just my opinion.

Bye-Bye John Blunt

2009-06-15T17:28:00.002-04:00

After about 25 years John Blunt waves goodbye from channel 10 where he's been employed since 1984. At one time, Blunt was anchor of the "Live at 5" newscast and has spent the last handful of years anchoring weekend mornings at 10 and reporting three days during the week.

Bye-Bye "Wake UP News"

2009-06-03T11:27:00.004-04:00

Laura Nachman reports this morning on the demise of CW57's "Wake UP News" anchored by Natasha Brown along with Christa Quinn and Shaun Murphy. It's unfortunate the market is losing another *local* broadcast and another alternative to news broadcasts currently being offered.
The plan is to continue CBS-3's "Eyewitness News" from 7-9 a.m. after they say goodbye on channel 3.

What's Got Me Bugged?

2009-05-16T04:39:00.002-04:00

I'll steal the phrase from FOX-29's segment "What's Bugging You" because THIS POST is about FOX-29's "News at Ten".
On Thursday night's broadcast, May 14th--the news crew at FOX decided they should lead their newscast with the John & Kate rocky relationship story of TLC network's "John & Kate Plus 8". I find it unbelievable this would lead a local newscast when Chrysler announced the same day that close to 800 dealerships in this country would close in the next few weeks. Approximately 15 in our local area are affected.
Is this the direction FOX-29 is going? *NewsFLUFF*? It sure makes one wonder.

UPDATED: Use of Digital Feeds

2009-05-04T18:49:00.003-04:00

Here's an UPDATE to my 4/20/09 post "Use of Digital Feeds". A new HD digital network, "Live Well HD Network" launched April 27th on the top ten ABC owned-and-operated stations in the top markets, including here in Philadelphia on WPVI-2. The new network is scheduled to debut in other markets by September of this year.
The program schedule includes six 30 thirty minute series including an interior design show, Home with Lisa Q; a healthy cooking show, Let's Dish; beauty and fashion show, Mirror/Mirror; a health and medicine show called Say Ahh ; an outdoor lifestyles program, Motion; and Advice for Life, an advice driven type program.

PVI's New Home

2009-04-29T21:39:00.002-04:00

Look for the crew at WPVI to move into their new digs, next door, and be broadcasting from there by early September. I'm told that staff is pretty psyched about the new state-of-the-art facility along Monument Road just east of City Avenue and their current home which was considered "state-of-the-art" back in the day. Don't look for any drastic change in the on-air look of the Action News broadcasts, however. I'm told there will be a few tweaks here and there that are in the plan but overall--the home of Action News will pretty much look as it does now.

Use of Digital Feeds

2009-04-20T12:41:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned in the previous post--WPVI channel 6 chose not to air live "traditional" coverage of the Harry Kalas memorial service this past Saturday which was held at Citizens Bank Park in South Philadelphia. I commented that, even though they aired streaming video online at 6abc.com--it makes me wonder why they didn't also air coverage on WPVI-2, one of their digital feeds?
Currently, WPVI has two additional channels in this digital age. WPVI DT2 and WPVI DT3. DT2 airs *repeat shows* such as "FYI Philly", "New Visions", "Perspective: Delaware" and alot of paid programming. DT3, better known as "Action News Now" is a 24/7 broadcast of local and national weather (provided by AccuWeather) along with news headlines.
Over at WCAU's NBC-10, there are also two additional digital channels. WCAU DT2 is "NBC Plus" (the former WeatherPlus) much like WPVI's 24/7 local/national weather. WCAU DT3 is "NBC Sports" provided by NBC.
KYW-3 and FOX-29 do not currently air digital feed signals. WPSG-TV "CW Philly 57" airs THREE additional digital feeds. There is children's programming Qubo; lifestyle type programming on ION Life and the power of faith on Worship.
A look at how some other markets have become creative in the programming of their digital feeds? CW affilate WTVX-34 in the Miami area airs three digital feeds one of which is "Retro TV Network" with oldies shows such as "Ironside", "Marcus Welby M.D.", "Emergency", "Kojak", "Adam-12", "Dragnet" and "The Incredible Hulk" to name a few.
New York's NBC affiliate, WNBC-4, began programming "New York Nonstop"--a 24 hour local news network similiar to CNN but with lighter fare and more repeated news cycles while Houston CBS affiliate KBTX airs "The Martha Stewart Show", "Family Feud", "Trivial Pursuit" and other syndicated fare on its DT2 feed.
ABC affiliate, WNEP-16 out of the Scranton-Wilkes/Barre market is probably the boldest and most creative I've heard about. They recently began airing a continuation of their weekday early morning "NewsWatch 16 This Morning" in the 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. timeslot after saying goodbye on their main channel and signing off to ABC's "Good Morning America". Station management felt it was just a logical move in providing news, weather and information to those looking for "local" versus the national network fare.
Other networks such as Retro TV are out there attempting to grab this additional "tree fruit" that has blossomed in the digital TV age. I would love to see stations continue to reach out to the viewer and utilize their digital feeds in this type of *interesting programming* as well as breaking news events. Live coverage of a story could be provided and promoted on the digital feed while still airing network fare on the main channel. Imagine Channel 6 airing a show in the 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. slot to compete with FOX-29's "Good Day Philadelphia"? It wouldn' take much on Matt O'Donnell and Tamala Henry's part to give "Good Day" a run for their money with "Action News Later Morning"! How about KYW-3 airing "Eyewitness News at 5 p.m." once they begin digital streaming -- against their own "Dr. Phil"?
Obviously, economics is probably the biggest obstacle in all of this and time will tell what direction this type of programming goes.

Reflections on Harry Kalas Memorial

2009-04-20T09:31:00.004-04:00

The Harry Kalas memorial was held Saturday (4/18th) at the Phillies hometurf, Citizens Bank Park, and covered LIVE by not only CBS-3 but MyPHL-17 (using the news crew from NBC10), FOX-29, Comcast Sportsnet as well as inserts within the news on KYW 1060/Newsradio by Mike Dinardo who was good friends with Harry.
The viewing service, scheduled to begin at 8 a.m., started earlier than planned at about 7:35 a.m. when officials began allowing mourners to pay their last respects. Two large pictures were placed at the casket as mourners and fans passed by.
I watched the coverage provided by CBS-3 with Susan Barnett and Chris May handling the anchor desk. Beesley Reese and Don Bell anchored the service from the ballpark which drew Darren Daulton, John Kruk, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Schmidt, Mitch Williams, Larry Andersen, Merrill Reese, Howard Eskin among hundreds of others.
Interestingly, Channel 6 did not air coverage but chose to stream coverage online at 6abc.com This is when, in my opinion, stations aren't utilizing their HD digital feed capability to their fullest potential. Why couldn't they have aired live coverage on WPVI-2? THAT is an entirely separate subject (the underuse of programming on stations' digital feeds)
The service was well done, quite moving and the Phillies organization should be proud. Rest in peace Harry...

Rough Going at Metro/Shadow Traffic These Days

2009-03-24T17:02:00.006-04:00

I was sent an email today of details that don't bode well for the folks at Metro/Shadow traffic, Westwood One. Folks like Sam Clover, Pat Winters, John Brown, Tom Collins and Mike Lankford who report your traffic on KYW newsradio are among those affected. Other traffic announcers you may recognize from Metro/Shadow are folks like Paul Perello, Wendy McClure, Bill Zimpfer, John Butterworth, Randy Chepigan, Bryan Ramona and Cindy Graham to name a few on stations such as WMGK, WPST, WRTI, WOGL, WPHT, WXTU, WHYY, south Jersey's WSJO and even Sirius/XM Traffic.
Metro/Shadow producers and announcers voted in June 2008 to be represented by AFTRA (the American Federation of Television and Radio Announcers) because of "an increase in deteriorating working conditions that included a lack of training, a lack of sufficient staff to provide the top-notch product expected by their affiliates, a lack of merit increases, a lack of working equipment and a lack of overall good management" to name a few.
Since late summer 2008, AFTRA and Metro employees have been negotiating for a contract with top-level management but were only able to reach a tentative agreement on a few issues. The biggest issues remain unresolved, according to AFTRA, such as the lack of an agreement to minimum pay rates for staff, the lack of an agreement to layoff/severence protection (which is in place in other Metro/Shadow centers across the country), the lack of an agreement to put in writing that adequate training for new technology will be implemented OR the implementation of training for the introduction of new markets.
Metro/Shadow Philadelphia not only covers traffic for the Philadelphia market but also the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Pittsburgh and Mercer county markets. I'm told there is little to any resources, however, in the gathering process for these other markets. The first question one might ask would be "how do you cover traffic for a city 65 to 300 miles away without resources such as a driver or scanners for that area"? A very good question and one of many concerns at Metro/Shadow.
According to AFTRA, from 2003-2007 Westwood One/Metro Networks saw its stock fall from a high in the $30s to around $1.50 per share by the end of 2007. In January 2008, magazine executive Tom Beusse was hired to address the problems in the company and make improvements in both profit and quality of the product. Buesse hired a consulting firm Spring of 2008 to conduct a review of the company's efficiency and by September of '08, Buesse determined layoffs were in order. Three hundred producers/announcers across the country were let go (15% of the Metro/Shadow payroll) and a month later, that $1.50 per share dropped to just 18 cents per share. The Beusse regime lasted a mere nine months and, according to AFTRA, his severence package included the following:
*$1.9 million in cash over a two year period
*18 months of health insurance coverage
*Stock options for 333,333 shares of Company stock
*A $300,000 cash bonus
The Philadelphia center lost 30% of its staff; thirteen announcers/producers including long-time traffic innovator Rod Carson. However, at the same time were given more business by adding the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and Pittsburgh markets. The Harrisburg market comes on-board in the next few months, according to AFTRA with shore traffic that Metro/Shadow is known for just about eight weeks away. "More work, less people, little to no resources" is the word I'm told.
The next question is, "at what point does the product suffer if it hasn't already? A road in Pittsburgh could literally collapse any weeknight or weekend and it wouldn't be out of the question that it would never make it into the information broadcast on XM/Sirus or the internet. Management hasn't put any resources in place to actually gather the information properly", I'm told. The Pittsburgh market is staffed locally during the weekday business hours, according to AFTRA.
With the exception of a few long-termers most of the staff make $10-$15 an hour, according to AFTRA, including the only two African-American producers who are the two lowest paid employees and have been on-staff a number of years.
AFTRA recently presented their issues to about fifty AFL-CIO union members last week and report their delegates were "outraged" that Westwood One would pay someone $1.9 million to lay-off 300 employees AND give a $300,000 severence bonus when the stock price dropped 88% during his tenure. Additionally, AFTRA's Metro/Shadow representation is "sick and tired of CEO's around the country, including Westwood One, getting huge bonuses while working people get nothing".
Negotiations continue at Metro. However, as of the March 20th negotiations management continues to refuse to agree to a contract with set minimums, a severence package and even withdrew a previously agreed-upon 1.5% wage proposal and replaced it with "no proposal on wages at this time". This is considered in poor taste in the union negotiating process and certainly not well-received by AFTRA.
Metro's next negotiating session is scheduled for April 16th.

Cherie Bank Steps Down

2009-03-20T10:16:00.004-04:00

You may have heard the news yesterday that NBC 10's Cherie Bank has made the decision to step down from her post as the station's health/medical reporter for "HealthWatch" at the young age of 58.
Cherie has been fighting myopic degeneration the past 17 months or so and had to make the difficult admission that she can no longer do her job. She was last on-air in October 2007.
Bank created a name for herself at Channel 10 as an anchor and reporter, way before her medical reporting beat. She fell in line with the long line of female anchors at Channel 10 who came and went. Doreen Gentzler, Stephanie Stahl, Deborah Knapp, Kasey Kaufman and Jane Robelot. It was in 1983, however, that she built a niche for herself with "HealthWatch".
Bank joined Channel 10, a CBS affiliate--in 1979 from St. Louis where she co-anchored the evening news. Once here, Bank co-anchored "10 Around Town" with colleague Steve Levy. The show was a lifestyles/entertainment type show that earned a #1 spot in the ratings and something of a rarity these days, "LOCAL PROGRAMMING". She was an active participant of the now-defunct "NBC 10 Fit Fest" held each year at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, a symposium of health-related information booths sponsored by the station. She earned numerous Emmy awards for her medical reporting and even appeared on NBC's "Today" and "The Montel Williams Show". TV follower/columnist Laura Nachman wrote in December 2002 that Bank was favored 44% as the area's favorite medical reporter over WPVI's Anita Brikman or Dr. Dorian Schneider.
Bank continues to live in the burbs with her daughter, Emily.

So Long to Don Polec

2009-03-13T12:52:00.003-04:00

What a shock. Michael Klein from "The Insider" reports today that Don Polec will be going buh-bye from Channel 6. After being actively employed by "Action News" since 1982, Polec's contract was not renewed. What a shame. His reports at the end of most newscasts were a fun, unique way to end the show. He'll definitely be missed.

Quite the Hub-Bub on Guarino

2009-02-13T20:07:00.002-05:00

Former FOX29 weather-caller Rob Guarino is causing quite a stir on the web these days. Apparently, his wish is to return to Philadelphia and back on the airwaves here. So, he's using his website "myweatherlive.com" to ask readers to rally the TV honchos here and attempt to pursuade them to consider him on their station.
One would have to ask, how does this look to his managers at his current station in Albuquerque? Certainly doesn't look good in my opinion. Some web posters even go as far to say Guarino never had "a name" here in Philadelphia...that it doesn't matter how many schools you visit--it's RATINGS that really matters. Personally, he ought to be counting his blessings that even HAS a gig in todays economy and with news stations downsizing.
Of course, having a new girlfriend here probably doesn't make it any easier since his children are still here with his ex-wife.
Inside word is Guarino has zero chance of returning to Philadelphia airwaves. FOX29 has no interest, obviously. He would never have a chance at WPVI's channel 6. Channel 3 has no openings and he already was considered by Channel 10.
Obviously, time will tell--but for the time being -- it looks like lots of air commuting between the city of Brotherly Love and Albuquerque.

Eyewitness News on CW57 Debuts

2009-02-03T12:37:00.002-05:00

Last night was the debut of Dave Huddleston anchoring "Eyewitness News on the CW Philly" at 10 p.m. Best I could tell, it was a nice paced newscast with everything one might need or want at the bedtime hour. They even changed the set "a tad" to reflect the CW Philly logo over a Center City skyline.
Huddleston seemed to shine a bit more as a solo anchor than his days as co-anchor on FOX 29. Just my opinion.
Doug Kammerer will do weather for the broadcast with Beasley Reece handling sports. A great first show you might want to check out as an alternative to the 30 minute "My PHL 17 News at Ten".

Saturday Morning News Wiped From The Slate

2009-01-26T22:31:00.002-05:00

A reader emailed asking me why there was no newscast this past Saturday on CBS-3? I was not able to get an answer. However, according to an update posted on Laura Nachman's website--CBS-3 has confirmed they've eliminated the Saturday morning newscast "to concentrate on other resources such as the upcoming weekday newscasts on Philly 57". Sounds more like a cutback to me...since not only are the on-air talent on the payroll but also cameras, audio, etc. What a shame...

A 3rd 10 p.m. Newscast

2009-01-11T00:48:00.003-05:00

As you may have seen in the headlines this week--CBS-3 have plans up their sleeve to expand on their news by adding a 10 p.m. broadcast to compete with PHL 17's "My PHL News at Ten" and "Fox 29 News at Ten".
CBS-3 confirms the new 30 minute newscast, "Eyewitness News at Ten on CW Philly 57" debuts Monday February 2nd. It will be anchored by new-hire/former FOX 29 anchor, David Huddleston.
I've read from industry message boards things like "oh no, not him again..." to "good decision!" to "jeez--he looks like the gingerbread man, I'm not watching him".
Let's see how this flushes out and whose ratings get hit by this third entry into the 10 o'clock news war.

So Long Angela...and---Mosey

2008-12-29T21:13:00.003-05:00

Friday (December 26th) was Angela Russell's last day on the 4 o'clock broadcast at CBS-3. According to Marnie Hall of Philly.com--Russell's short-term plan is to spend time with her family. Natasha Brown (from Philly 57's "Wake UP News") filled in on the broadcast today.
Another, whose contract was not renewed -- former Action News weather-caller Sally Ann Mosey who went on to New York's WNBC. Mosey was among four on-air types who are being shown the door. No word on whether Mosey has any irons in the fire.

1/9/09 UPDATE: If you're a frequent viewer of Eyewitness News at 4 p.m. you've seen Natasha Brown in the co-anchor seat next to Chris May. I hear Brown is a strong contender for the "promotion". Time will tell whether she's a permanent replacement for the departed Russell.

Up-and-coming Uhler

2008-12-24T08:55:00.002-05:00

Channel 10 has a sprouting blossom on their hands in Jameson Uhler. Uhler has been seen anchoring on a fill-in basis for the weekend evening broadcasts as well as pairing with the polished Lori Wilson of the "10 Show" for the early morning "NBC 10 News Today". Uhler has demonstrated himself to be an accomplished reporter and with his anchoring under his belt definitely has anchoring in his future in my opinion. Hopefully, Channel 10 will pair him on the ten o'clock "MY PHL News at 10" to give him a start.

ICE PROVES A CHALLENGE TO NEWS TEAMS

2008-12-24T07:55:00.006-05:00

This morning's freezing rain proved not only a challenge to area drivers during the overnight--but to FOX 29, NBC10 and Philly 57.
The area roadways began to ice over by 11 p.m. when early reports indicated icy conditions. By midnight--traffic reports indicated a handful of problem areas...however, by 1 a.m. the damage was done and major highways were seeing shut-downs due to numerous accidents.
FOX 29's morning team was unaccounted for by air-time at 5 a.m. for "Good Day Philadelphia". Street reporter Steve Keeley and new traffic reporter Jamie Shupak ended up carrying the show for John Anderson, Sheinelle Jones and Sue Serio, not doing a bad job either! The ice was "personal" for Steve Keeley who fell on his way out the door--injuring his left arm and elbow and feeling the pain during the broadcast. Serio, being the trooper she is, did her weather reports over the phone from her home in Media/Delaware county and reyling on an in-house producer to create the needed weather graphics for the broadcast. With the shortage of not having Keeley on the street, there must have been a shortage of behind-the-scenes staff as well as the show seemed to be airing more "fluff pieces" this morning than usual.
Over at NBC10--Jameson Uhler and Lynn Berry anchored "NBC10 News Today" for the vacationing Terry Ruggles. However, god-awful fill-in traffic reporter Jane Laychak was M.I.A., I'm told due to the road conditions as well. Uhler and Barry covered the traffic nightmare over PennDot camera shots of the various accidents and road closures. Street reporter Justin Pizzi was also trapped--on the westbound Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) from a multi-vehicle accident at I-476 that closed that portion down about 2 a.m. leaving Pizzi parked along with Penndot salt trucks ahead of him, unable to do their jobs. Pizzi did live reports from his cell phone for the morning broadcast.
Philly 57 wasn't spared either. "Wake UP News" didn't make it to air due to "technical difficulties" I'm told..."a combination of being Christmas eve--but mainly due to the fact that crews assigned to work the show were unable to make it to the TrafficPulse headquarters in Chesterbrook", according to a source I spoke with at KYW. The station ended up simulcasting "Eyewitness News" on channel 57. Liz Keptner and Lesley Van Arsdall (filling in for the vacationing Ukee Washington) held down the fort with Stephanie Humphrey filling in for the vacationing Bob Kelly.
Meanwhile, at Channel 6 during the 7:55 a.m. "Good Morning America" local cut-in, David Murphy was outside doing his usual weather break when directly behind him along City Avenue, an accident happened live on the air. One vehicle slid into another waiting at the traffic light at Monument Road. Murphy acknowledged the accident as a "live visual of conditions out-and-about". Otherwise, Channel 6 was pretty much unaffected by the road issues.
On the radio side--it's noted that on KYW 1060 "newsradio", traffic announcer Tom Collins, who goes on at 6 p.m. and normally ends his shift at 1 a.m. for overnight guy, Mike Lankford--was still on the air doing the 2:52 a.m. traffic report. Lankford must also have had difficulty getting in for his shift as well since it's noted he was heard on-air doing the 3:32 a.m. traffic segment.

NBC 10 Review

2008-12-11T08:09:00.003-05:00

NBC 10 debuted their new set and HD newscasts this past Wednesday (12/10). I've watched every newscast since and have a few thoughts.
*The set itself is great. Big improvement over the previous set they've used since 1999. Not sure what the big deal is about the "open anchor desk" and all the fuss made about that...but overall, "good stuff".
*I was disappointed the weather set wasn't overhauled. Looks good, think they could've done better by sprucing it up...
*Hoping the large "NBC10" boxed graphic to the side of the anchor desk mounted on the wall is temporary...much like when channel 6 debuted their set with a "Action News" graphic plastered to the front of the desk. What I'm getting at is I'm hoping we'll soon see a large plasma monitor in place of the graphic picture there now. Otherwise, this is a big mistake in my opinion. If there was a large monitor there--it could be used to toss to stories and live reports.
*Like how the background skyline duratrans goes from light orange in the mornings to blue for the rest of the day. Guess it would be asking too much for a dark shot with the skyline somehow hightlighted with light...
*Obviously, they don't yet have their field cameras lined up for HD yet. Guess that's on the way...
*Love the new weather graphics...hoping they can continue to be more creative in using them...
*The traffic set looks much outdated compared to the new set...
*SPEAKING OF TRAFFIC--they gotta dump this fill-in JANE LAYCHAK! This woman is god-awful...and not even worthy of being on-air in DES MOINES let alone PHILADELPHIA...she has no idea what she's talking about and is like a deer caught in head lights. AWFUL, AWFUL, AWFUL!
*Love the new transitions and theme music too

Blast from the past...

2008-12-10T11:10:00.003-05:00

There's a new voice anchoring the news on KYW 1060 these days. It's none other than former traffic guy John Valerio heard recently on the all-news outlet. Valerio called the traffic from SmartTraveler for Channel 6 up until early '07 when he was replaced by Karen Rogers. Until his KYW gig--Valerio had his hands in the real estate business.