Blogging Limited This Week

I am on the road much of the week and this is one of my busiest weeks of the year. As a result, look for rather infrequent blog updates this week. Sorry.

KSHB Reporter Gone

Bottom Line Communications is reporting that KSHB reporter Jennifer Kolbusz violated a station's policy regarding computer usage and was let go. Something tells me that there is more to this story than that...

Melissa Yeager Leaving KY3

Michelle Sherwood reports on her blog that KY3 reporter Melissa Yeager will be leaving the station for a job in Fort Myers, Florida. Yeager was the station's primary education reporter. More recently she had been out on the streets covering the weekly rounds of ice storms in the Springfield metro area. Her last day at KY3 will be Wednesday.

FNC Personality In A Bikini

Apparently, it is true and Outside Cable News has the details (along with some rather testy comments/reader responses). Her name is Courtney Friel and I have to turn the channel when she appears on Fox News because while she is pretty, she is not an anchor. Oh, by the way, she posed for Maxim.

Update on Serbia/Kosovo Clash

Following up on a story I blogged about yesterday, it appears the body found in the US embassy likely belongs to one of the protestors who stormed into the building yesterday. The damage they did was significant, but it appears it is all fixable.

What may not be fixable is the spiraling out of control of the violence near the border between Kosovo and Serbia and the unwillingness of the Serbian government to try and squelch the anger and protests among its own people. Cnn.com has an excellent write-up on the latest in the area.

Breaking News: Charred Body Found in US Serbian Embassy

The cable news networks have been reporting on the embassy riots in Belgrade, Serbia. This is in response to the United States' recognition of Kosovo an independent state. Now, the AP is reporting that a charred body has been found inside the embassy, which was empty beyond security and marines. The cable news networks are reporting this information now, although no network has independently confirmed this information.

Anderson Cooper Coming To NW Arkansas

CNN's Anderson Cooper will be speaking at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville on March 7. The Arkansas-Democrat Gazette has more details on the speech. You can find that information by clicking here.

Wouldn't Want To Make This Call...

Several school districts in Missouri have called off classes for today already, as of 5:00 a.m. The problem is that there is a huge batch of heavy freezing rain moving in from Oklahoma, which will likely arrive around 7:00 a.m. I wouldn't want to be a superintendent or transportation director who has to make this call on whether or not to have school this morning...

It's Baaaack!

For the 30,827th time in the last 3 years, residents of Southern Missouri are under a Winter Storm Watch for the potential of significant ice accumulations. This is definitely starting to get old. Springfield stations did a nice job last night previewing the possibilities with this storm. We shall see what morning coverage brings.

New Blog Links

I have added two new links to my blogroll over the last couple of days. The first is Show-Me Opinions. This is a blog that is likely to spark some interesting discussions. I personally know the blogger and she will be providing some interesting insight in the days to come.

The second blog is Outside Cable News. Last week, I announced that the blog Inside Cable News had ceased operation. Fans of the blog have been lost without it. One of its readers decided to take things into his own hands and has created Outside Cable News. It has a different feel to it, but it is still a blog I highly suggest you check out if you are interested in cable news info.

MSNBC's Osama/Obama Mix-Up

On Monday's edition of Hardball with Chris Matthews, a preview of a story about Barack Obama had a troubling graphic with it: the picture was of Osama Bin Laden. Later in the broadcast, the host was forced to apologize and the person who displayed the image has been dealt with accordingly, according to MSNBC. Media Matters has an article which displays the context in which this error transpired.

This error, coupled with additional ones by other news networks, only muddies the waters with the untrue rumors circulating the internet concerning Barack Obama's religious affiliation.

Tuesday Primaries In The Books

Obama has won Wisconsin and Hawaii in the race for the Democratic nomination for President. John McCain won Wisconsin and Washington state. All three cable networks will quickly able to call the Republican contests, while they had to wait just a bit before calling the Wisconsin Democractic results. March 4th is the next big night. Look for expanded coverage from the news networks then. Texas and Ohio are the big prizes then.

Breaking News: Matt Blunt Endorses McCain (And He Wins Wisconsin, Too)

Breaking news? Of course! The press release received from the McCain campaign is great news for the presumed nominee of the Republican party. Listen to part of the glowing oratory from Governor Blunt himself:

"I had the opportunity today to talk to Senator McCain and I told him he is the best person to lead our country as President of the United States."

That is exactly the reason why Blunt has always supported him all along... no wait, scratch that. That is why he immediately endorsed him once Romney dropped out... no, not right. Hold on! That is why he endorsed him once he effectively wrapped up the nomination on the Republican side. Okay! It all makes sense to me now!

By the way, I would never accuse a public official of being an opportunist who is trying to spin something in the media.

Is it April 1st yet? ;-)

PS: I should clarify it is John McCain who won Wisconsin, not Matt Blunt.

PPS: I should also mention Matt Blunt endorsed just a few days after his father US Representative Roy Blunt endorsed Senator McCain. He, unlike his son, had remained neutral until recently.

Jon Stewart To Visit CNN

Jon Stewart, host of The Daily Show on Comedy Central, will sit down with Larry King for the hour this Wednesday on CNN. This comes just a few days before he hosts the Oscars. I am sure the show, politics, and the writer's strike will be topics that come up. Larry King Live airs at 8:00 central time Monday through Friday.

Next: Wisconsin and Hawaii

On this President's day, those who are wanting to join the ranks of Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson are out campaigning in full force.

According to most polls, Obama holds a slight lead over Clinton in Wisconsin heading into that state's primary tomorrow. No polling has been done from Hawaii that I can find. Expect the cable news networks to be in overdrive tomorrow covering the elections on the Democratic side.

On the Republican side, since McCain has essentially wrapped up the nomination, expect coverage only to continue if Huckabee were to pull another close battle. The most interesting numbers on the Republican side actually are in Texas, where two new recent polls find Huckabee within McCain's margin of error.

Oh the fun of politics never end...

Off Topic: "Mis(ter) Independent" Wants To Share Details On "A Moment Like This"

I try not to stray too far from the news business sidewalk, but I have to for a moment. Last night I had the opportunity to see Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson live in concert at the Sprint Center in Kansas City. It was simply the most amazing vocal duo combination I have ever had the pleasure of hearing live.

It was an experience of a lifetime. Floor seats on the 12th row, I was close enough to look the diva duo in the eye. The 2 hour concert even satisfied one of my friends who went with me who hates country music. She walked away impressed (to say the least). I shamefully did not follow American Idol during the first season, but walked away with a new found respect for the talent they awarded. Kelly Clarkson has a voice to die for when she is singing a song with a melody.

All in all, I had a wonderful time! It was definitely worth the trip and the price of admission. Now I am going to wrap up this fancy post and get back to the newsy postings I am supposed to make. If I seem spacy the next few days, it might be because I am humming "Is There Life Out There" while I am typing blog posts.

~Ciao!

My $.02: Ozarks FOX in the Morning

This week gave me some time off to watch some local news (imagine that!). One of my first choices was to see what the first attempt from KSFX in the morning had to offer. I have to honestly say that I was somewhat underwhelmed.

First of all, I have to say that there were some things I was anticipating that weren't there. In order to keep a loyal viewership, it must be somewhat entertaining and pleasant to watch. Now, I know what some of you are saying... local news isn't supposed to be entertaining. To some extent, I agree. I am a proponent of hard news. I feel that in-depth investigations and breaking news make or break a newscast, along with reliable weather. In the morning, however, to compete with the Today Show, Good Morning America, and *cough* The Early Show, there has to be some personality.

Rob Evans has that ability, but being a single anchor with limited time with Meteorologist Tom Trtan doesn't provide a viewer a reason to watch Ozarks Fox versus a national program. The news was recycled from KOLR 10 This Morning for the most part and the most compelling reason to watch (the ice storm) was relegated to about :08 into the program. If you are live off the top of the program out in the storm (or at least covering the story while showing Springfield city cameras) then people will stay with you.

If a local news at 7 a.m. is going to work, it MUST heavily emphasize live local information immediately. Otherwise, viewers will just wait for the local news update at 7:25 on the other network shows.

The highlight of the newscast was the live local interview that occurred about :18 or so into the show, but by then I am afraid those who were expecting more of this kind of activity had already turned the channel. The interview that morning was with Barry Hinson and was fascinating to watch. Rob's sports background helped the interview proceed smoothly, but he, as an anchor, is much more comfortable talking with people than reading the news.

I am very excited that the station has decided to have a 7 a.m. newscast. Spending some time in the Kansas City viewing area, I always enjoyed WDAF's 5-9 a.m. news block. They were able to cover traffic in real-time and gave their viewers immediate information that they couldn't get while watching Meredith, Matt, Ann, and Al. Hopefully these changes will come over the coming weeks as the station tweeks the program and finds what works and what doesn't.

Otherwise, Ozarks FOX in the Morning will become an hour of KOLR 10 This Morning repeated on FOX 27.

Blog Net News Ranking

For the first time in the blog's existence, it has made the top 20 blogs in Missouri, according to BlogNet News. The blog came in at #15! Thanks to everyone who reads the blog and provides me with some tips. I really enjoy doing this!

Campus Security A Big Story

After the shooting at NIU a couple of days ago, news stations have gone into overdrive preparing pieces about what local colleges and universities are doing to keep safe. What about the largest university in the state of Missouri?

KOMU has the story of how MU is reevaluating its own security in light of the latest situation. By clicking here, you can read the story as well as sign up for MU Campus Alerts.

Who's Coming To DC on Sunday?

Here is what the Sunday morning shows will be buzzing with tomorrow:

Late Edition (CNN): Panelists will include John King, Gloria Borger, and Jeffrey Toobin.

FOX News Sunday (FOX): Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle and Ohio Governor Ted Strickland will join Chris Wallace along with the "Fox All-Stars".

This Week: (ABC): John McCain will be on the show along with a panel that includes ABC's Claire Shipman and George Will.

Face The Nation (CBS): The Politico's Roger Simon will be a guest on the show plus advisers from both the Clinton and Obama campaigns will make an appearance.

Meet The Press (NBC): Sen. Charles Schumer and Dick Durbin will discuss the latest from Capitol Hill, along with Al Hunt, Margaret Carlson, Kate O'Beirne, and Mark Shields.

*A little less of the big names this week, but likely a lot more substance!!*

We All Have Opinions (Some Are Just More Valid Than Others)

Well, I am sure it has been done before but WDAF's Tess Koppelman did a report on blogs recently that I found interesting. You can check out the video report by clicking here. It also provides you a chance to check out the rest of the blogs FOX 4 has to offer.

Well you know what they say... opinions are like internal organs... everyone has some. (You didn't really expect me to type the real saying on my family friendly blog, did you?)

Campbell Brown To Anchor CNN Debate

CNN has announced that Campbell Brown will anchor next Thursday evening's debate in Texas. John King and Univision's Jorge Ramos will serve as panelists for the debate. This should be an interesting test for Brown, who is set to launch a show on CNN Primetime soon. Read the complete press release here.

Update: He's Back (Before The Debate)

Broadcasting and Cable is reporting that David Shuster will be back from his suspension on February 22. Shuster was suspended "indefinitely" for referring to Chelsea Clinton being "pimped out" for her mother, trying to round up superdelegates.

This is significant because he is arriving back before the Ohio Democratic Debate set to air on MSNBC on the 26th. Clinton had earlier questioned participating in the debate. She now has relented and will take part.

Goodbye Inside Cable News

THE blog that I have come to read on a daily basis is closing up shop. Inside Cable News is over, effective today. I have to say that this came as a shock to me and I will miss the blog's analysis on all things cable news. I wish him well. The link will soon be leaving the blogroll.

To Talk Or Not To Talk: Shuster and "Pimpin' Out"

I have been debating all day whether or not to cover this story. Ultimately, it is a big news item and it definitely falls under my blog's jurisdiction. So, without further ado, here is the scoop.

MSNBC's David Shuster has been "suspended indefinitely" for comments made while filling in for Tucker Carlson on his show last week. So what is the comment?

Referring to Chelsea Clinton being used to call superdelegates on behalf of her mother Hillary, Shuster said "Doesn't it seem like Chelsea is sort of being pimped out in some weird sort of way?"

That phrase has created an uproar that is likely to intensify in the coming days, including the Clinton campaign's threat to cancel out of an upcoming MSNBC debate. Let the controversy continue...

Former MO Anchor Health Update

Former KODE anchor and KSPR meteorologist Tracy Turner spoke with The Turner Report about her health. You can find that conversation here. She is now working as a meteorologist in Virginia.

News and Notes: New Debate, FOX in the Morning, and Chili Times at KSPR

A few quick items to pass along this morning:

1) Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton have agreed to a debate that will air next Thursday from Austin on both CNN and Univision. The candidates have also agreed to an Ohio debate that will air on MSNBC later this month.

2) FOX in the Morning with Rob Evans debuted last Monday on KSFX (Ozarks FOX). What are your thoughts on the show? I had a chance to catch part of it yesterday morning (due to the weather) and I will fill you in on my $.02 later.

3) Finally, it has been chili around KSPR lately... literally. The winner of the station's recent cook-off is none other than weekend anchor Michelle Sherwood. She blogs about her recent taste of victory (complete with a trophy picture) here.

DSL Is Back; Catching Up To Do

I have some catching up to do now that the DSL has arrived again. Entries will be updated throughout the day.

Back Home But DSL Is Out

I am a relative's house using dial-up to let you know that due to the icy conditions I won't be able to bring blog coverage to you (or if I do, it will be sporadic).

KY3 and KSPR both have had satellite feed problems this morning and have been airing extended local coverage from time to time. They are the only stations I have seen this on. Sporadic power outages are now being reported so stay safe everyone!

Blogging Will Resume Tomorrow Evening

I will return from a job on the road then.

Big Tuesday for Cable News!!!

The results are in and CNN is the clear frontrunner for political coverage. Super Tuesday handily went to CNN. According to TV Newser, CNN averaged 3.6 million viewers in primetime. FOX News followed behind with 3.4 million, MSNBC pulled a strong 2.1 million, while CNN Headline News limped along with 575,000 viewers in primetime.

Former KOAM Anchor Speaks at Chamber Dinner

Former KOAM anchor Rhonda Justice spoke recently at a Kansas Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. While this isn't necessarily breaking newsworthy, it does provide some insight for those interested into the local news business.

Countdown To Super Tuesday

What station will you be watching and why? Feel free to comment!

Unfortunately for me, my job will be taking me away from the computer and the television tomorrow evening. Upset doesn't even begin to describe my feelings.

Clinton Vs. Obama: KY3 Style

The Giants have just won the Super Bowl. One has to wonder if there are more upsets in the offing this week. Could Huckabee win Missouri? Maybe...maybe not. We shall soon see.

If you are a Democrat, polls indicate there are still several who are torn between Clinton and Obama. Maybe David Catanese, political reporter for KY3, can help. He recently had an interview with both candidates.

You can see the Obama interview here.

You can see the Clinton interview here.

The Super Bowl is over... let the political madness begin!

Sunday Morning Newsmakers

Just hours before Super Tuesday the morning talk shows are pulling out all the stops.

Meet The Press (NBC) - Guests include strategists Mary Matalin, Bob Shrum, James Carville, and Mike Murphy.

This Week (ABC) - Mitt Romney and Hillary Clinton will make appearances.

Face The Nation (CBS) - Barack Obama and John McCain will be interviewed.

Fox News Sunday (FOX) - Hillary Clinton and John McCain will be interviewed.

Late Edition (CNN) - Wolf will interview Mitt Romney and Ralph Nader on his program.

2 New Links Added

I have added two new links to the blogroll. The first is Inside Cable News. It is a nice blog updating the latest going on in the world of cable news. You can find daily cable news ratings here.

The second is TV People Are People, Too. This is a personal blog by KSPR's Emily Rittman.

You may check them out by clicking their link in the blogroll in the column on the right.

People Like Civility; Dem Debate Highest Rated Cable Primary Debate Ever

Well, maybe people tuned in expecting another Democratic primary WWE debate, but they were sorely disappointed. Either way, TV Newser reports that it was the most watched primary debate in the history of cable television. The debate, which aired on CNN, had approximately 8.2 million viewers.

Clinton and Mike and Ads... oh my!

This weekend is going to be a busy one for tv stations out catching the campaigns making the push for Super Tuesday. SW Missouri will have its share of candidates (or at least their surrogates) making the rounds. Mike Huckabee will be in Springfield tonight @ 7 at the Springfield-Branson National Airport. Bill Clinton will be campaigning for Hillary tomorrow night at Central High School in Springfield. According to ky3.blogspot.com, the doors will open for that event at 8:00 p.m. We will have to see if David "Baby Face" Catanese makes it back into the LA Times.

If that isn't enough campaigning for you, anticipate the beginning of the campaign phone calls and final ad buys for the Clinton and Obama campaigns in the Springfield market this weekend. Super Tuesday is almost here.

Kansas City Live Controversy Rages On

It shocked many people in Kansas City when the NBC affiliate KSHB pulled its mid-morning program "Kansas City Live" off of the air for the 4th hour of the Today Show. Some didn't notice while others were outraged.

This issue continues to boil. In fact, a January 27 editorial in the Kansas City Star blasts the station for pulling the program. Then, in today's Kansas City Star, average readers weigh in on the story. I guess the main question left to ask is what the ratings were like for the show? That might be a bigger reason for the cancellation.

CNN GOP Debate Is A Ratings Winner; Will Last Night's Debate Do The Same?

TV Newser is reporting that the CNN GOP Debate drew 4 million viewers. The contentious debate spatters between Romney and McCain were apparently very popular. The next question becomes... will the "friendly" debate between Clinton and Obama be as popular? We should know later today.