Making News 2, Savannah

[Me, Myself and I]

I'm hearing that WJCL/WTGS is in the running to be the featured station on the second season of Making News. Does anyone know anything more about it? I hope it's true. I can't wait to watch that train wreck.

[Produce man]

If true, it wouldn't surprise me. They're looking for small market southern towns.

[!]

Originally posted by Me, Myself and I:
I'm hearing that WJCL/WTGS is in the running to be the featured station on the second season of Making News. Does anyone know anything more about it? I hope it's true. I can't wait to watch that train wreck.If you do, that'll about double the show's rating.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

They called my station, and you could tell the producers are looking for Drama. It was the way they worded questions....like "are you having problems with..", "are you having problems with that", and "are you sure your NOT having problems with this or that?"
My boss says she said no. Hope she was telling the truth, because the on-air talent here said they'd walk away. I do think my station would be absolutely freakin' hillarious though...but I'd walk too.

[Pro]

I'm pretty sure that if my station was approached, we'd tell them to take a hike. But we're a much bigger market than Savannah (and the place in Texas, too).

The overwhelming consensus in my shop, when the original show was on...and we all watched, of course....was, I feel safe to say, "No *****ing way." :D

[Roy Hobbs]

Well...if anything goes wrong they can just show their boobs.

[Slave to the Grind]

I believe WJBF in Augusta was also contacted.

[newsandwx]

We were contacted too. Most of the newsroom staff was ok with it, but the GM gave it the big veto. We are also a 100's market in the south.

[news-mummy]

They contacted our station as well- not too many people keen on it... at all.

[Fake Post]

I would vote for WMAZ TV in Macon, GA.

It is a 100's station that has always worked toward a bigger market on air "look."

Stories always making air at the last minute and the GM is one of a kind.

[Medicinematt]

WVII in Bangor, ME would be a great spot for this show. Too bad it's not in a Southern market.

[yepyep]

Its going to be WJCL in Savannah. The crew is coming back to shoot for a second time this week to shoot and the marketing/promotions people are coming in next week. Sounds like a done deal to me. By the way, they are hardly a "train wreck" as you put it. They have gotten sooo much better. They have great talent, not the best equipment but they were just bought by a deep pocket company that is already dumping money into the station. They are moving them to a new location next year, adding shows and more people, going tapeless next year etc. I predict they will come out on top after this buy. Anyt one who wouldn't do this show is crazy. Imagine the national exposure you would get. Its shot documentary style, not reality. The drama comes naturally at any station. If you are true to yourself and honest you shouldnt be worried about showing yourself simply "doing your job". No ones perfect and I highly doubt a news director would be turned off if a mistake made air. There is nothing but good that will come out of both for the station and the talent who will have ND's knocking at their door afterwards.

[ November 04, 2007, 06:45 PM: Message edited by: yepyep ]

[Pro]

Originally posted by Fake Post:
I would vote for WMAZ TV in Macon, GA.No, that wouldn't work. They're the 900 pound gorilla. There's no real sense of competion in that market, at least among the stations.

[!]

What's the upside for the newsroom in participating in this show?

[Produce man]

Originally posted by yepyep:
Its going to be WJCL in Savannah. The crew is coming back to shoot for a second time this week to shoot and the marketing/promotions people are coming in next week. Sounds like a done deal to me. By the way, they are hardly a "train wreck" as you put it. They have gotten sooo much better. They have great talent, not the best equipment but they were just bought by a deep pocket company that is already dumping money into the station. They are moving them to a new location next year, adding shows and more people, going tapeless next year etc. I predict they will come out on top after this buy. Anyt one who wouldn't do this show is crazy. Imagine the national exposure you would get. Its shot documentary style, not reality. The drama comes naturally at any station. If you are true to yourself and honest you shouldnt be worried about showing yourself simply "doing your job". No ones perfect and I highly doubt a news director would be turned off if a mistake made air. There is nothing but good that will come out of both for the station and the talent who will have ND's knocking at their door afterwards.The people at KOSA would disagree with you. They got nothing but negative attention from participating in that show. Plus, nobody gets paid.

[!]

Originally posted by yepyep:
Anyt one who wouldn't do this show is crazy. Imagine the national exposure you would get. Its shot documentary style, not reality."National exposure"?

The ratings for this show are asterisks. That's "below measureable standards," as in, "no one's watching this or anything else on the TV Guide Channel."

And how, exactly, would this alleged "national exposure" help the station?

I saw part of one episode. If you think this is a documentary-style of presentation, you must be related to Mark Burnett.

I'm still waiting for someone to explain the upside of having your newsroom featured on this show.

[ November 06, 2007, 03:34 PM: Message edited by: ! ]

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

Originally posted by !:
[QUOTE]
I'm still waiting for someone to explain the upside of having your newsroom featured on this show.The only bonus I could think of would be two-fold.
1)A station in the dumps goes farther in the dumps after bringing such entertainment into the newsroom.
and 2)the laughs those who watch get by seeing such a "documentary" unfold!

[Gil]

They must have contacted many stations besides ours. The GM was flattered until he found out what they had already done... then tossed the invite in the trash can.

[BrgrKing15]

WMBB in Panama City was contacted heavily by this program. WMBB wisely turned it down. Here's the News Directors blog for why he said 'No'.

http://www.northwestfloridaonline.com/index.php/blog_lhardy/hollywood_here_i_dont_come/

[!]

Originally posted by BrgrKing15:
WMBB in Panama City was contacted heavily by this program. WMBB wisely turned it down. Here's the News Directors blog for why he said 'No'.

http://www.northwestfloridaonline.com/index.php/blog_lhardy/hollywood_here_i_dont_come/ (http://www.northwestfloridaonline.com/index.php/blog_lhardy/hollywood_here_i_dont_come/)Smart move.

[Mom]

Originally posted by yepyep:
Imagine the national exposure you would get.I'm quite certain this is also what motivates the people who go on The Jerry Springer Show.
And my, how proud they must be. I see no difference here.

[Clubbeat]

The exposure one would get?!

This is why that station will always remain in the dumps. If yepyep really believes that being on a so-called reality show is going to help that news department get out of the ratings toliet then that person is more the reason why viewers don't watch news organizations like that Savannah group.

On the other hand, that armpit of the 98th market couldn't do any worse than it's doing now so maybe some flash and trash would help.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

I wonder if employees could break contracts if forced to do such a stunt. I mean, I know the contracts are written for us to be at the mercy of the station....but if someone thought this could jeopardize their credibility...maybe a judge(if sued)would side with the employee and let em' run.

[!]

Originally posted by ISTHISTHINGON?:
I wonder if employees could break contracts if forced to do such a stunt. I mean, I know the contracts are written for us to be at the mercy of the station....but if someone thought this could jeopardize their credibility...maybe a judge(if sued)would side with the employee and let em' run.Wouldn't each person have to sign a waiver/agreement/legal document in order to be shown on camera?

There's a simple solution. Don't.

[NDP]

Hello, all.

We're very happy to be airing the second season of Making News starting this week on the TV Guide Network.

As with last year, I will be available for comments, questions, and criticism on this site --

I do think this will be a very strong season, and I look forward to your thoughts...

All best,

Nick Davis
Executive Producer, 'Making News: Savannah Style'

[Chartsengrafs]

What about WOLO or WGCL? Either'd be ideal candidates.

[LAWEATHER]

Despite all the negative post regarding "MAKING NEWS" - I think this is a must watch for anyone wanting to get into the business. DVD's should be sent to everyone "J" school in the country. It has been a while since my first job, but Making News Texas was so dead on in so many ways and anyone who says different never worked in a small market. Can not wait for the show... Just hope you post them online sooner with less streaming issues than last season. I hate to watch it on the Cable TV with all the crap around it.

[Barnburner]

Hello, all.

We're very happy to be airing the second season of Making News starting this week on the TV Guide Network.

As with last year, I will be available for comments, questions, and criticism on this site --

I do think this will be a very strong season, and I look forward to your thoughts...

All best,

Nick Davis
Executive Producer, 'Making News: Savannah Style'

Nick,
What are the major themes/storylines this season?

[!]

As with last year, I will be available for comments, questions, and criticism on this site --

Why don't you profile a major-market station instead of the kiddie leagues?

[adam & doctor drew]

Why don't you profile a major-market station instead of the kiddie leagues?

I'm guessing a "major-market" station wouldn't allow it?

[Roy Hobbs]

Nick,

Are you going to keep the same theme music and Dixi-fy it a bit?

[bw3508]

Nick,

I absolutely loved last season! I can't wait to watch, but I've since moved to a new city and my cable doesn't carry TVGuide. How soon will episodes be available online after they air on TV?

Thanks so much!
PS: Season 3 should come up north!

[Bureau Chief]

If this crap sells, then the two reality plots I have "under development" ought to win emmys!

[DW]

http://www.thecoastalsource.com/news/local/19493714.html

he he. Hoo-boy! This is gonna be some trainwreck for sure! May even cause ole Lyndy to have his 17th heart attack?

[DW]

"National exposure"?

The ratings for this show are asterisks. That's "below measureable standards," as in, "no one's watching this or anything else on the TV Guide Channel."

And how, exactly, would this alleged "national exposure" help the station?

I saw part of one episode. If you think this is a documentary-style of presentation, you must be related to Mark Burnett.

I'm still waiting for someone to explain the upside of having your newsroom featured on this show.

[ November 06, 2007, 03:34 PM: Message edited by: ! ]


Wait no longer! Here's what their ND says:

http://www.thecoastalsource.com/features/news/19358124.html

[sportzchick]

I heard that show on MTV called Laguna Beach was a documentary too. :rolleyes:

[!]

Wait no longer! Here's what their ND says:

http://www.thecoastalsource.com/features/news/19358124.html
Mr. Sullivan is an idiot.

"This was my entire fault," he says, which does not speak well for his writing ability. He doesn't seem to be able to convey why appearing in a reality TV show would be good for the station. All I can figure is that he's essentially saying, "I don't know what else to do to fix this place."

Here's an idea: Do a better newscast. That might actually draw viewers.

Certainly, it would be more effective than allowing your staff to become the manipulated cast on a reality show. Luckily, no one will watch it except other TV people.

[NDP]

Wow, much to respond to.

First of all, LaWeather - thanks. Glad you liked the first season. We do know of a couple of schools that taught it (and yes, to anticipate some of you, I have the feeling, it was as much to show students what NOT to do as to demonstrate how the business is run...)

I'm pretty sure YouTube and/or the TVGuide Network's own website will have episodes up pretty soon, if they don't already.

Barnburner, the major storylines this season have to do with the station's returning news director Michael Sullivan trying to bring the station back to its former glory. When we meet them all in episode one (tomorrow night), the station is truly in a bad place - the former GM is beginning a prison sentence for embezzling funds, the ratings, in Sullivan's colorful phrase, 'truly suck,' the equipment is awful, and the best young reporters and producers have one foot out the door. Over the thirteen episodes, Sullivan will try to change the culture of the station, convince his young talent to stay, and make the station respectable again. In the middle of our season, his station will be truly tested - a national breaking story hits Savannah, and we all find out how far WJCL's troops have come. It's going to be a great season. (Of course I would say that, but I mean it.)

And to you, !, (if I may punctuate so), I do like the idea of doing a slightly bigger market -- we are investigating a few for next year already if we are fortunate enough to get picked up. The worry - in addition to the possibility of a larger station's possibly not wanting to play ball - is that we will lose that thorough underdog feeling that seems to permeate so many of the smaller market stations -- even if they are # 1 in their market, there's always a sense of 'the little station that could' that brings a lot of appeal.

Roy Hobbs, yes, we've kept the same basic music, but we have 'Savannah'd' it up a bit. I hope you'll enjoy - I think our composer Joel Goodman did a fantastic job...

Thanks for your comments -

[Head Janitor]

NDP, the only thing I would change about your show is the teases going to break. They are waaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy too long. So I will watch the show like I did last season -- recorded on the DVR so I can zoom through the teases and commercials.

As for why anyone would risk their reputation by appearing on a reality show like this? The same reason why many people get in this business -- fame.

So to the men and women from WJCL -- good luck and I hope it all works out.

[Produce man]

NDP, the only thing I would change about your show is the teases going to break. They are waaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy too long. So I will watch the show like I did last season -- recorded on the DVR so I can zoom through the teases and commercials.
Janitor nailed it. The teases are bad enough, but those recaps coming out of each break drove me nuts, as well.

[Roy Hobbs]

Pray for Michael Sullivan.
http://www.movieposter.com/posters/archive/main/3/MPW-1733

[NDP]

Roy, that's hilarious.

(We've cut way back on the teases and recaps. I hope enough for your tastes...)

[The Fedora]

Roy, that's hilarious.

(We've cut way back on the teases and recaps. I hope enough for your tastes...)

THANK YOU! That drove me nuts too.

[!]

And to you, !, (if I may punctuate so), I do like the idea of doing a slightly bigger market -- we are investigating a few for next year already if we are fortunate enough to get picked up. The worry - in addition to the possibility of a larger station's possibly not wanting to play ball - is that we will lose that thorough underdog feeling that seems to permeate so many of the smaller market stations -- even if they are # 1 in their market, there's always a sense of 'the little station that could' that brings a lot of appeal.
Every market has the underdog station--and in larger cities, the underdog frequently has a real battle, trying to keep up with the big-money competition.

[Barnburner]

Thanks NDP. I have read some of the online buzz and it sounds like the newsroom may not be all that in love with Sullivan. That should make for good tv. But it also makes me wonder: don't you have to do a show that makes the ND and station ultimately happy?

Because if you leave the ND and station unhappy, how would you ever get in the door for a 3rd season?

[DW]

Every market has the underdog station--and in larger cities, the underdog frequently has a real battle, trying to keep up with the big-money competition.

This is true, but I think there's one component we're missing.

Savannah is HOT on people's radar screens as a vacation & retirement destination (Paula Deen, etc.). A show like this caters to those not in TV who are interested in that wonderfully quirky place called Savannah.

Remember, this show is not for those of us in the biz.

[!]

Remember, this show is not for those of us in the biz.
Oh, yes it is.

I watched one episode of it. The appeal of the show is extremely limited, which may explain why it is on the TV Guide channel instead of a real network.

[Produce man]

"!" nailed it. This is JUST FOR people in this business. For rather obvious reasons.

[Mighty Dyckerson]

This is JUST FOR people in this business.

Which leaves you out.

[DW]

Oh, yes it is.

I watched one episode of it. The appeal of the show is extremely limited, which may explain why it is on the TV Guide channel instead of a real network.

That may be the case. I guess I personally didn't get that feeling when I watched it (well, what little of it I watched).

[Gil]

Much to my surprise, I liked it. I did not see any of last season's episodes, but this one, I thought, was pretty good. My BS meter did not even register.

I will probably watch again.

[newz2me]

I know they're shooting on DVC but I noticed while they were talking with the crime reporter what looked like an old MII deck in the background. Evil! Evil!!

[The Fedora]

sharing a tower and signal with a rival station? hmmm.

Nick, so far much better than last year. I'd still lose the recaps, you do not need them.

[LAWEATHER]

Recorded Ep. 1 tonight... but plays back with no sound.. seems to be a constant problem with ch. 99 or ch.1.
Other than that good first show... talent was good for a market this size... News Director seems like a nice guy... For those of you working your first job there, just remember never wish for someone else - could be much worse than what you have...

[Roy Hobbs]

I'm tuning in just to see if Michael Sullivan makes it to Perdition.
http://media.canada.com/gallery/movie_assassins/0124_perdition.jpg

[Bureau Chief]

Well I saw only bits of the first season, the constant breaks and stuff drove me away. BUT ep 1 last night was great. I could have sworn they were shooting in my newsroom! In the one shot were there was a banging noise....I knew right away what that sound was...and the camera turned and sure enough, they are using the exact same POS lazer printers we are...and they make the same noise when they wear out. We have the same complaints about our equipment too. Cameras held together with engineer spit and duct tape, old old old computers and cramped facilities.

[Paper Trail]

Tuned In Journal: Another season of 'Making News'

By Rob Owen, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08156/885180-237.stm)


TV Guide Network brings back "Making News" (8 tonight), but this year the location shifts from a small-town station in Texas to a larger, but still small city in Georgia: Savannah (market 97). The setting is the newsroom of WJCL, the lowest-rated ABC affiliate in the country. (The station also produces news for a Fox station.)

(Yes, only small-town stations are desperate enough for attention to be willing to allow cameras in to observe the sausage making of TV news.)

This year's cast seems just as young but generally more mature than the Texans last season. The episodes also have more content and less repetition, though it still suffers from the repetition endemic to many docu-reality shows.

News director Michael Sullivan laments the desire of reporters to use WJCL as a stepping stone. But the reason they leave is not just because they're greedy for a bigger market, it's for all the reasons WJCL is an also-ran: Broken-down news vehicles, ancient computers, no capital investment for the future, changing owners, etc.

"Making News: Savannah Style" will probably best be enjoyed by news obsessives, the folks who write in to TV Q&A each week to ask when KDKA is getting new equipment (complete with model numbers). For them, this new season promises some interesting potential plots: An anchor departs, affording viewers the chance to see the process of searching for a new anchor.

[koyotekid]

i hear a buncha people at KOSA got jobs because of the Making News Texas show. a station in a bigger market in Texas saw one of the photogs on the show, was impressed as hell by him and hired him. same thing happened, i hear, for a couple of reporters

[!]

i hear a buncha people at KOSA got jobs because of the Making News Texas show. a station in a bigger market in Texas saw one of the photogs on the show, was impressed as hell by him and hired him. same thing happened, i hear, for a couple of reporters


I hear a buncha people at KOSA lost their jobs because of the Making News Texas show. a station in a bigger market in Texas saw one of the photogs on the show, was totally unimpressed by him and refused to hire him. same thing happened, i hear, for a couple of reporters

[JB28]

Actually, every single person who was on Making News: Texas Style is still working at KOSA. All you have to do is look at the website!!!! One photographer actually got a job from the show in San Antonio and reporter Catherine Collins, whom I've spoken with personally via email recieved an offer as well and said her experience afterwards was absolutely fine. Unfortunatly for MN:TS cast members, they had all recently signed long contracts and couldn't take advantage of offers from the show and are still at KOSA. I have kept in contact with many of the Texas crew and they all still have their jobs so your informant was misinformed.

[Produce man]

Ditto. I used to work at that station and still talk with some of the older newsies.

BTW, Nick congrats. This season is lightyears better than last year. The production value is better, and my anticipation for the next episode is much higher.

But I agree with the above poster. I'd lose the recaps altogether.

[NDP]

But I agree with the above poster. I'd lose the recaps altogether.

Thanks for all the comments - glad that most of you seem to like the show so far...

Don't you find the recaps helpful? When you're watching live (as I guess most people don't anymore, but I did, last night anyway), I do find it helpful to be reminded of what stories I've been following.

But if there's unanimity that it's not needed, I suppose we could try to go back to TVGuide again and try to take 'em out....

[Clever Login Name]

Which leaves you out.

You mean YOU still work in the business?

And to NDP, kudos for coming on-line to bear the slings and arrows of the Medialine community ... I respect that.

I watched several of last season's shows and enjoyed them (but yes, the teases were long and repetitive) ... I'm looking forward to seeing this year's as well.

[Mighty Dyckerson]

You mean YOU still work in the business?

I still do freelance gigs from time to time, just often enough to remind myself why I got out: people like you!

[Clever Login Name]

I still do freelance gigs from time to time, just often enough to remind myself why I got out: people like you!

Glad I could help!

[The Fedora]

Nick I have to second Clever. You are very brave to come on here and take the hits, and come back for more. Very impressive. I also want to say thanks for listening to us. My wife and I watched the show last night (Tivo) and both liked it. It was fun. (I am still not sure why they couldn't raise their mast and just flip the switch though, that whole sharing a tower thing is scary to me)

Please stick around Nick, it seems you are now one of us...

[Roy Hobbs]

Nick, don't take it personal but I HATE the new theme music...too boring and low energy.

All you had to do was substitute a fast Dixie fiddle for the Jew's harp and the 88 and you were golden.

Loved the Texas theme and its tempo.

[Roy Hobbs]

Come to think of it I think I sent a tape to Michael Sullivan at one point but alas...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/media/images/38259000/jpg/_38259711_road_perdition_newman300.jpg
...he didn't answer the question of "Who has a kiss for a lonely old man?"
http://www.hollywoodawards.com/images/2002/tomhanksperdition.jpg
Eh, you snooze, you lose!

[Produce man]

Glad I could help!"Freelance" is Dick-speak for "Do amateur gay porn".

[Mighty Dyckerson]

"Freelance" is Dick-speak for "Do amateur gay porn".


Don't be jealous. Someday you'll work your way up from scrubbing toilets to landscaping.

[luvtosleep]

I'd just like to say that I thought the show was very entertaining. I just saw it last night for the first time, I wish I would've seen the shows from last season. I'm a recent graduate and still looking for my first reporting job so maybe I'm biased. I think the show gives great insight to all of us who haven't yet worked in a newsroom. I look forward to more shows and more season's. :)

[Jax]

My buddy Nate is the photog featured the other night. He got in a hilarious line -- "The equipment is held together with hope."

[pastoralia]

I watched the show last year and was psyched to read in Entertainment Weekly that it was coming back. This is my addictive summer guilty pleasure.

But those recaps do have to go. They are completely unnecessary. I’d rather have more content than ten minutes of recap per episode.

The only quibble I have has nothing to do with the show itself but with the News Directors who turn the show down when they are asked to participate. Seriously, when you are in market 100+ don’t take your job so seriously. Speaking as a reporter/anchor who worked in an over 100 market- the vast majority of your daily broadcasts don’t contain any real news--you are really just filler to put on in-between commercials for car dealers and Pfizer’s pill-of-the-month.

So to deprive your overworked, underpaid staff the fun of being in a show that only people in the biz are going to watch because you think that you are the next local TV news Edward R. Murrow is, at best, delusional and, at worst, egotistical. Have some fun for crying out loud.

[Clever Login Name]

I watched the show last year and was psyched to read in Entertainment Weekly that it was coming back. This is my addictive summer guilty pleasure.

But those recaps do have to go. They are completely unnecessary. I’d rather have more content than ten minutes of recap per episode.

The only quibble I have has nothing to do with the show itself but with the News Directors who turn the show down when they are asked to participate. Seriously, when you are in market 100+ don’t take your job so seriously. Speaking as a reporter/anchor who worked in an over 100 market- the vast majority of your daily broadcasts don’t contain any real news--you are really just filler to put on in-between commercials for car dealers and Pfizer’s pill-of-the-month.

So to deprive your overworked, underpaid staff the fun of being in a show that only people in the biz are going to watch because you think that you are the next local TV news Edward R. Murrow is, at best, delusional and, at worst, egotistical. Have some fun for crying out loud.

The future of broadcast journalism, ladies and gentlemen!

[!]

The only quibble I have has nothing to do with the show itself but with the News Directors who turn the show down when they are asked to participate. Seriously, when you are in market 100+ don’t take your job so seriously. Speaking as a reporter/anchor who worked in an over 100 market- the vast majority of your daily broadcasts don’t contain any real news--you are really just filler to put on in-between commercials for car dealers and Pfizer’s pill-of-the-month.
How about fixing that situation instead of "having fun?"

The people in your market deserve to see an actual newscast, with information that affects their lives, don't they--or did they give up that right when they decided not to live in a larger market?

The "fun of being in a show?" You're one of those people who just wants to be on TV, aren't you?

[Produce man]

You guys are taking the bait...he's got one post.

[Clever Login Name]

Yeah, you're right ... no newbie in the t-v business thinks that way.

[Barnburner]

Wow. A little disappointed after I talked to a few of the JCL people via e-mail. They say some of the facts got messed with in the first episode - including that info about their last GM going to jail. It turns out that GM was three GMs ago. They have their current GM. Then another guy before him. Then a woman before that guy. Then the guy before her was the guy who ended up being indicted. But he wasn't indicted until quite some time after he left the station (as the GM succession might imply). So I guess it wasn't quite the turmoil.

I hope the rest of the series doesn't overdramatize stuff. I liked the first ep, but that fact(oid) made me wonder...

[!]

They say some of the facts got messed with in the first episode - including that info about their last GM going to jail.
What a surprise.

It's "reality TV," not a documentary or news story.

They should have expected from that start that some facts would be "messed with."

[SigSauer]

Actually, every single person who was on Making News: Texas Style is still working at KOSA. All you have to do is look at the website!!!!


The sports director got out of the business and, IIRC, one or two of the photographers also left the business (not the one who went to San Antonio).

TV Guide's website has (had?) some short 2-3 minute "update" clips on what's going on with the KOSA crew since the series ran.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

The News Director says they have the worst ratings of an ABC in the country. Is this true?

[tlc]

The News Director says they have the worst ratings of an ABC in the country. Is this true?

No it is not true. The station did at one point have the worst ratings in the country but that was years ago. ((Maybe during Sullivan's first reign at WJCL.)) I am confused how his FIRST 3 year stint at WJCL a few years ago was only touched on a little..... being that HE could be considered one of the causes for the bad ratings in the first place.

Sullivan is a sore on the butt of Savannah TV News and someone should get him removed as soon as possible.

[Roy Hobbs]

Michael Sullivan has the mob after him.
http://l.yimg.com/img.movies.yahoo.com/ymv/us/img/hv/photo/movie_pix/dreamworks_skg/road_to_perdition/_group_photos/tom_hanks13.jpg

[Produce man]

Up until last night, I had no idea Lady Chablis was a real person!

[nigelwick]

The show nauseates me. Some of those people should be lucky they have a job. If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem.

[Barnburner]

The show nauseates me. Some of those people should be lucky they have a job. If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem.

Who has angered you? I haven't seen anyone that has made me mad...

[Produce man]

Yes, nigelwick. Please elaborate.

[adam & doctor drew]

realize I'm late to the party.
never saw last season and just watched episode 1 on DVR.

some thoughts:
doesn't seem like there's much show here.
the constant teasing and recapping, I never got into the flow of watching anything develop.
felt like I was watching the same few things over and over again.
segments are way too short.
if you're really selling the s--- out of it (which I doubt on the TV Guide channel), then have longer, but fewer, breaks.

the 2 "reporters" were OK-looking but very unlikable.
all they talk about is getting out of there, going to network, and I never see them do any actual WORK to get better.
the guy covering the hostage standoff did nothing but stand around.
(I also believed he was totally acting like everyone's friend when the camera was on him.... he probably thinks he's using the show as an audition.... but if he is, he's not coming off too well.)

the girl covering the protest never got "the" interview with Paula Deen (or anything else decent.... MOS is useless).
and she griped about being "the last ones there."
well, whose fault is that?
(if there's an assignment desk, we didn't see it.)

yet they both went on and on about what great reporters they are and how they're ready to move up.
and the ND gave the guy an ovation in the postmortem?
for what?

everyone seems to have just given up and accepted the fact that the station sucks, the equipment sucks, the ratings suck, etc.
if I were the ND, I'd clean house and start over.
it can't get any worse.

also some things seem staged.
in a million newsrooms, I've NEVER seen anyone look at an aircheck after the show and laugh uproariously about a TD mis-punch, much less mock the person whose liveshot got butchered.

I'm a couple episodes behind but I do hope Trish survives.
she seems to at least care.

[thepowerproducer]

and you won't have to sit through all of the annoying repeat teases.

[tlc]

The news reporters were told to be completely "honest" about what it was like to work there. Should they lie about the equipment breaking all of the time?

[luvtosleep]

Does anyone know if the station gets paid to be a part of this show?

[Produce man]

Does anyone know if the station gets paid to be a part of this show?I know. I used to work at the station in the first season. Nobody gets paid squat. The station has to believe the exposure will be sufficient. That's the reason my friend at the station in Texas didn't take part. ..no money in it.

[adam & doctor drew]

The news reporters were told to be completely "honest" about what it was like to work there. Should they lie about the equipment breaking all of the time?

hmmm.
might this be one of the "reporters"?

[Clubbeat]

About this program, but if anyone wants to know the real deal about how all of this is going down, PM me.

I know a little more about the some of the history of We-Just-Care-Less having spent a short time working in the place.

Some of what's been written here is true..a lot is not regarding the place...

[NDP]

Hello all,

I love how responsive and passionate people on this board are!

Okay, now let me answer some of these questions and concerns --

Roy, what can I tell you about the music? One man's vanilla is another man's chocolate... I like the feel of it this year as much as last. We were going for Django Rheinhardt... but again, a matter of taste.

I hear you all about the recaps. You hate them, you want them gone. We're definitely mindful of it, but part of the problem is just how long the darn commercial breaks are. An hour of TV Guide program time is actually only 35:30. So that's a loooong time away from the show that we're expecting viewers to hang with us. And/or, many people who find the show do so by accident, and we want to make sure these people can pick up the thread of the stories as easily as possible.

What else? A few people commented on the news directors who did NOT want their stations to be on the show, and I have to say, I certainly understand their hesitations... in the abstract. But having shot two seasons now, I can state with confidence that there is no professional reason why having 'Making News' in one's newsroom is anything but a big plus. Both seasons, we've been told that the staffs of both newsrooms have become more focussed as a result of our cameras' presence. The presence of the cameras has in essence put reporters and producers on their best behavior and made them want to do their best work. Everyone assumes that all we're after is conflict -- and sure, natural conflict is great, and we need it for our series -- but a lot of excellent conflict can be found in things like broken equipment and lousy ratings, not just in the mean anchor-reporter who won't share her hair spray.

Someone else said that we had staged something, that a scene where a reporter reviewed her aircheck on videotape while the sports reporter joked with her about it was completely unbelievable. This one amused me. The sports reporter's office is right next to the edit bay, he frequently kibbutzes with the reporters while they edit their stories. There was nothing staged about that scene, or really any scene in Making News. Do we heighten for effect? Of course we do. But we don't cause things to happen that wouldn't have ordinarily occurred.

Finally, this idea that the station was known as We Just Care Less and that the people who work there don't care about their end product. That may have been true back in the day, but it is not true now. The reporters and producers and photogs of WJCL work as hard and as diligently as any group of people I have ever been around. They care passionately about what they do, and that's a big reason why the show is what it is. I'm eternally grateful to them for putting up with our cameras for six months, and I am hopeful that they will be happy with our work -- the purpose of the show is not to expose anyone, or embarrass or demean the people we see on camera. It's to celebrate a really weird, glorious world -- Local News -- a world you guys know a hell of a lot more about than I do.

So keep the comments coming.

Thanks. And keep watching!

Best,


Nick Davis
Executive Producer, 'Making News'

[!]

Do we heighten for effect? Of course we do.

What, exactly, do you mean by this?

[The Fedora]

What, exactly, do you mean by this?

maybe teasing or music score?

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

What, exactly, do you mean by this?
Unless it's dramatic music or tease....me thinks manipulating a real life scenerio is somewhat staging.

[NDP]

Repeat: no staging was done. By 'heighten for effect,' I meant only that in the editing, we make decisions based on both what is true to the reality of what happened and what will make the story more compelling or entertaining -- a la music stings.

[Produce man]

It's like when a reporter makes a mistake, or realizes something has gone wrong, you hear the "cartoon-esqe" stinger.

[NewsguyMark]

Considering the immaturity of so many people in newsrooms, if I were the GM I would NEVER let a camera anywhere near the place.

Of course, some GM's are idiots as well..... ;)

[onemansporto]

The News Director says they have the worst ratings of an ABC in the country. Is this true?


Can't be worse than WOAY. Now that would be a great making news. Transmitter held up by broomstick. Big ego overpriced News Director who shoots blue and out of focus video everyday.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

Can't be worse than WOAY. Now that would be a great making news. Transmitter held up by broomstick. Big ego overpriced News Director who shoots blue and out of focus video everyday.
Oh good lord. Now I'd call in sick to work to watch that episode!:cheers:

[DW]

So last night, we learn that the perky morning reporter, who wants to cover "harder stories", flubs her interview with Paula Deen, and is brought out as being meek & not very assertive. We also see that photogs seem to not know how to charge their batteries, or carry fully charged spares. Lastly, we see that a former beauty queen-turned producer is quite promiscuous & is expecting twins. In Savannah, that means the realtionship she has with her new baby daddy for the past four months will be ending in 3..2..1..

[nigelwick]

The flubbed interview was not the reporter's fault. It's another case of bad equipment. She's the only one in that whole shop who shows any intelligence. Don't you love the producer? Pregnant after 4 months with her man, openly scheming to have the news director fired. Priceless.

[Barnburner]

...openly scheming to have the news director fired. Priceless.
The ND didn't impress me too much in this episode. But there is plenty of time to go...

[nigelwick]

Agree on the news director, but for a producer to go on camera and say she's going to complain about her boss to upper management to get him fired is inappropriate at best and just plain stupid.

[Produce man]

Hey, Steph! Have you decided yet? PM me if you like.

[Mighty Dyckerson]

Hey, Steph! Have you decided yet? PM me if you like.

LMAO! You're not getting any of that, Douche.

:rolleyes:

[tlc]

Agree on the news director, but for a producer to go on camera and say she's going to complain about her boss to upper management to get him fired is inappropriate at best and just plain stupid.

Obviously you have never worked for the man. Plus she doesn't work at the station anymore. She's too busy with twins. Guess she figured that when she did the interview. Word on the street is she will not be the only one either. A lot of people don't like that guy. Funny since the show was his entire idea.

[FrontierMan]

I actually think everyone on this cast is very likable, except for the cocky crime reporter.

Is the producer chick still with the baby daddy?

[nigelwick]

If you don't like your boss, keep it to yourself or take it to human resources. Don't go on television and say you're trying to get him fired!

FWIW, I've never heard anything good about the guy.

[DW]

I actually think everyone on this cast is very likable, except for the cocky crime reporter.

Is the producer chick still with the baby daddy?

I doubt it. They're black. Go figure. Thanks Imus!

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

If you don't like your boss, keep it to yourself or take it to human resources. Don't go on television and say you're trying to get him fired!
.
When your television station sells out and puts itself on TV Guide channel....I'd assume trying to get your boss fired on the show makes for drama. I mean, the person with the most interesting comments surely will get more airtime on the show. So this person is setting the bar high, I guess:frustrated: . It's like daytime tv...."And these are the Days of our Livvvvessss";)

[Clubbeat]

..and I am not surprised by the show, the station or the ND. I worked there no to long ago and the place was in the ratings toilet then..as it is now.

I left because the ND was more concerned about using gimmicks to draw viewers then actually focusing on the product. He seems to think that people will watch their newscast if they see the news department staffers do what they do.

It is unfortunate, because before and after I left, the ND (who was forced out by the last owners) has made a name for himself by hiring good people, then chasing them away. It is a surprised that anybody last as long as they do there.

I wish those folks there luck with this. Maybe the ND and the owners will see their viewership increase (I doubt it).

[adam & doctor drew]

the audio guy in the weird costume clearly wants the producer.
how on earth she can expect to raise 2 kids on whatever they're paying her is a mystery.

the ND was out of line to criticize the morning reporter girl in front of everyone else.
do it in private.

the reporter guy is VERY full of himself.
I've worked with many people like that and grew to dislike them all.

as for the show, my initial opinion hasn't changed.
there's not much show here.
feels like they're stretching it into an hour with the constant teasing and recapping.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

I caught the show this weekend. I also caught the 'BREAKING NEWS' they were talking about(wreck shuts down bridge). The camera guy zooms in on the assignment editors computer...and low and behold...it's on WTOC's website. NICEEEEEEEEEEEE.

[The Fedora]

I caught the show this weekend. I also caught the 'BREAKING NEWS' they were talking about(wreck shuts down bridge). The camera guy zooms in on the assignment editors computer...and low and behold...it's on WTOC's website. NICEEEEEEEEEEEE.

saw that too and cracked up... I wonder if Nick put that in there on purpose...

Nick?

[Roy Hobbs]

Fraulein, let me show you what I am used to....NICK!!!!
http://indianajones.ugo.com/images/villains/arnold-toht/arnold-toht-3.jpg

[Produce man]

Bump for SS!

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

Does anyone know of any factual information regarding ratings AFTER the show airs? I know Texas is the only other option, but have either stations seen a change?

[Produce man]

Nick,

WTF, man? 4 episodes and then a re-run? Is there a new episode tonight? (7-9)

[tlc]

Does anyone know of any factual information regarding ratings AFTER the show airs? I know Texas is the only other option, but have either stations seen a change?

The ratings I bet are the same..... no one can expect a station to jump from #3/4 to #1. I hear Texas made a jump from #2 to #1.... but they also stole the #1's favorite anchor. Could have helped the switch.

This week's episode was very interesting. The ND Michael doesn't seem to be making much sense when he talks.... and did I hear right in the preview for next week... or did once of the reporters says the ND dropped the "N" word in a news meeting. Should be a good show next week!

[Barnburner]

...did one of the reporters says the ND dropped the "N" word in a news meeting?

Um...that can't happen in 2008 can it?

[Produce man]

Great episode. The production values are so much better than last season, and my first station was KOSA in Odessa! Very addicting, but I always zip through the teasers, recaps and breaks.

[NDP]

The ratings at KOSA jumped around the time we were there, but to be sure, I would imagine their getting the top anchor in the market had more to do with that than our presence. I do know that the ratings held even after we were gone, which made me happy on a personal level and also made me think that the national exposure helped in some way.

Beyond ratings, the station GM told me that the national exposure helped ad sales simply by boosting the station's visibility and specifically giving the ad guys a chance to see for themselves the talent at the station.

As for this:

I caught the show this weekend. I also caught the 'BREAKING NEWS' they were talking about(wreck shuts down bridge). The camera guy zooms in on the assignment editors computer...and low and behold...it's on WTOC's website. NICEEEEEEEEEEEE.

Good catch. Yes, we saw it -- actually we usually try to edit that kind of thing out unless that is the POINT of a sequence -- but this one was too good to ignore.

And Produce Man -- oh if only I had the power to control when they air re-runs.... I think they did last year too during the week of July 4th. I think the next re-run week is the last week of August.

Keep watching, keep asking, thanks!

Nick

[The Fedora]

Thanks for checking in with us Nick. The show is fun to watch. But I also zip through the teases and recaps.

[bw3508]

It’s starting to look like WNEP (Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PA) is the new safe haven for WJCL’s escapees. First, Trish Hartman gets the gig at the brand new Pocono Newsroom. And this past week, Trish has been filling in on the AM anchor spot, and I come home to see Wendy McNew doing a live shot from the Pocono Newsoom. Congrats!

[RollTide98]

Just my random observations:

Anyone else disturbed by the reporter at the wreck scene getting snappy with the cops, demanding they not make fun of him while he shot a standup?

Anyone else think the whole wreck thing was WAY overblown to begin with (by the station, not the documentary)?

How does a producer who puts together THREE shows each day have time to lounge around and gossip and talk bad about the ND?

I like the sports director.

Seems to me the best reporter in the station is the part-time morning girl. She's very green. But she's also got a good blend of determination, modesty when it's appropriate, ego when it's appropriate, and a drive to do better work.

I'd really like to hear more from Casey Jones... one of the talent tasked with helping the station rise. He's got some Top 40 market experience, etc., and I'm curious to hear his thoughts on moving to WJCL.

Can people at the station choose not to be featured (or at least not featured heavily)?

The jury is still out on the ND... although he's immediately better than some small-market NDs I've seen.

If Making News wants another small-market southern station, they ought to go to WTVY in Dothan, AL... a station that boasts a 50-share in news viewership. And the ND is a former large-market pro who's rounding off her career by training the newbies. An interesting environment as the early 20-somethings and the 40- and 50-somethings work together on a show.

People at WJCL shouldn't complain TOO much about the equipment. The live truck they used for the morning show is better than most of the live trucks at my station in a 40s market.

Why is there a helicopter with the WJCL logo in the documentary open? They don't have a chopper!

And that's all I have to say about that....

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

Main Anchors must have opted out...because you see them on the desk..but that's it!

[Produce man]

Main Anchors must have opted out...because you see them on the desk..but that's it!I worked at the station featured in season one. Yes, you won't see the veterans participating, as they have nothing to gain. Nobody is paid. The young'uns hope the exposure will impress future employers.

I also agree with the above poster who commented on the "part-time morning girl". I can say with great confidence that she will be well-known within this business. Seriously, very nice person, and SMART!!

Can't wait for tomorrow night's episode.

[The Chain]

I will have to "third" that on Stephanie Simoni! Hard to believe she's at the bottom of the totem pole there, seems to do a very nice job on the morning show.

Crime reporter has an attitude problem, seems to take things a little too far and is a little big for his britches.

I'm not sure what to think about the ND either, but he's certainly not the worst.

The sports director is good too. Seems like they've got a good bunch of reporters. The weekend anchor and Wendy McNew are both talented.

Overall I am really enjoying this show and I'd say it's definitely an improvement over last season. Hope there's a third!

[FrontierMan]

I like this one too. The female talent in Savannah are a lot less bratty and catty when compared to the KOSA crew.

But I agree...that crime reporter seems a bit phony and totally into himself.

[adam & doctor drew]

just saw the episode with the parade.... and I must say that it was incredibly lame that last week they teased heavily that the ND dropped the n-word.

as we saw tonite, he was telling a story where SOMEBODY ELSE said it and I saw absolutely no malice in it whatsoever..
typical local news-type tease.... completely dishonest and promised WAY more than it delivered.

[omb]

Funny they haven't put the episode on the website yet. All the rest were uploaded by or before 8pm Wednesdays.

[Charlie Brown]

I know it's been stated on here before, but the constant recaps and teasers are annoying, and I'd rather see more content in its place.

Anyone else find it funny that we spend 50, 60 hours a week working in a newsroom and when we leave that newsroom for the comfort of our homes where we are free to watch anything in the cable or satellite universe, we choose to watch a show about what it's like to work in a newsroom?

[RollTide98]

I'll second both of Charlie's comments...

The teases and re-caps are annoying and can be misleading. Why watch the first half of the show when I know I'll see it all again in recaps later?

Also... I'm home on paternity leave this week. And while I'm off, I'm watching this show! Something's wrong there! (And, I suppose, something's probably wrong with me posting on Medialine while the little one is happy and being all cute in his little swing.)

That said.... I'm still enjoying the show overall.

It's interesting the station has a reporter dedicated full-time to entertainment. I kept thinking about how fans of the boy band couldn't care less about local news. Then she interviewed the mom. And that's when it hit me that these segments could be very useful to show parents who their children are admiring.

[Charlie Brown]

well and that's the other thing that was particularly galling about this show to me - how can a station in market 97 afford to keep a reporter who only does entertainment stories on their payroll? And how many small market stations employ reporters in similar capacities?

All due respect to the reporter in question, and I'm sure she does a fine job in that capacity, it's Savannah, Georgia not Los Angeles or even Memphis...how is there a need for this sort of niche reporting in that market? Does the target audience for those stories even watch local news to get them?

Regarding Simoni, she's the real deal at least in my humble opinion. I remember watching the resume tape on here a year ago when she was still looking for employment and thinking she's going to go places. How she's still in Savannah is beyond me.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

I worked a market where we did two televised parades each year....and after watching this last episode I felt...
1)Wow, the exact crap happened during our live shots.
a)Huge gaps in the parade
b)Mic not working during half the tosses
c)Live shot failed several times during our broadcast
2)My ND was never in the Live Truck
3)Ouch, "Gdamnit Gdamnit" by the boss? Ouch. But my ND did the same.

[Produce man]

Regarding Simoni, she's the real deal at least in my humble opinion. I remember watching the resume tape on here a year ago when she was still looking for employment and thinking she's going to go places. How she's still in Savannah is beyond me.Well, I wasn't aware that her tape was on medialine, so I didn't want to say much.

With that being said, I had the opportunity to talk with her recently. She is VERY smart, and wants to get back to her hometown.

Steph, good luck!

And BTW, I am LOVING the new season!

[FrontierMan]

The new season certainly beats the last! The folks at WJCL seem much more likable when compared to the Texas bunch, except crime boy. Here are my observations:

- The pregnant girl and her reporter roommate are so cute together, especially when they were at the doctor's office. I'm glad they showed the boyfriend on the show.
- The crime reporter irks me. He just seems too cocky, too into himself and playing nice for the cameras. His comment about the producer's twins was funny though.
- The ND needs some help. First of all, his beat system seems a bit skewed. And I'm also wondering why such a small market has a "walk and talk" morning reporter, military reporter and entertainment reporter. And for some reason, the way he managed the parade bothered me. However, I like that he actually field produced out there, and stuck up for his crew when the parade people got catty. Something about him just seems weird...I can't put my finger on it. And yes, the N word was inappropriate. I know he was just saying a heartfelt story, but he could have said it with a bit more tact.
- The entertainment reporter seems a bit old to be in that market. I'd like to see her cover some real news. She seems like a fun gal, and I felt bad about her divorce.
- Stephanie is my favorite! She's awesome. Why doesn't the ND let her cover other stories? Either way, I imagine she'll move on to a bigger market in no time. After all, she is working without a contract.

[JB28]

I DO cover hard news and my position is not dedicated to just entertainment. I am the weekend weather anchor so I only report 3 days a week. It is easy to find features when you only report 3 days a week. Sometimes I do features and entertainment, sometimes hard news. They just pulled out that beat specifically for the show. As far as being too old, uhh I am 27. That's too old for market 97? lol Why would I leave right now? I love my job. I get to cover stories that are interesting and fun. I have people calling and emailing me everyday with story ideas. There are a lot of neat things that go on in this town and it's close to my hometown of Charlotte. When a similar opportunity arrives in a desirable city, maybe I will move on. For now, I go to work and love what I do and many people cannot say that.

[JB28]

later on in the season when the whole city is blacked out from a tornado on the biggest night of the year.. St. Patricks Day. I go into the downtown chaos and talk to business about losing tens of thousands of dollars on a night when their revenue should be out the roof.

[southwesternguy]

I do do hard news and my position is not dedicated to just entertainment. I am the weekend weather anchor so I only report 3 days a week. It is easy to find features when you only report 3 days a week. Sometimes I do features and entertainment, sometimes hard news. They just pulled out that beat specifically for the show. As far as being too old, uhh I am 27. That's too old for market 97? lol Why would I leave right now? I love my job. I get to cover stories that are interesting and fun. I have people calling and emailing me everyday with story ideas. There is a lot of neat things that go on in this town and it's close to my hometown of Charlotte. When a similar opportunity arrives in a desirable city, maybe I will move on. For now, I go to work and love what I do and many people cannot say that.

I'm kinda glad you came on here to defend yourself, but it's also sort of a waste of time. As you already know, there are a lotta people with the maturity levels of high school sophomores in this line of work, and many of them post stuff on these message boards.

It was obvious to me during the first episode that the reporters with beats can't possibly only cover those specific beats. Come on, people. A dedicated military and entertainment reporter in market 97? Seriously! Obviously they do some GA reporting as well.

Also, JB, please do what makes you happy. Not many people working in TV News today are happy. Don't let anyone tell you you should be in a certain market by a certain age. 27 is NOT old. I started in this business at 28, and made it to a top 5 market by the time I was 34, and it's not all that great working in "the big leagues". People tried to tell me that along the way, and I didn't believe them. Now I do.

You seem to go to work with a smile and a positive attitude everyday, and I wish I could do the same.

[John M.]

For now, I go to work and love what I do.

If the station is also pleased with what you do, this is all that matters.

Have a passion for the craft, a will to succeed and the wisdom not to let others define what success means and the rest will often take care of itself.

Good luck to you.

[FrontierMan]

As far as being too old, uhh I am 27. That's too old for market 97? lol Why would I leave right now?

My bad. From watching the show, you look like you're in your mid 30s.

I don't want to turn you off from this board. Thanks for the reply. I know how surprising it could be to hear comments based off erroneous assumptions. For that, I'm sorry and I think you do a great job!

[Consider This]

My bad. From watching the show, you look like you're in your mid 30s.


Ouch!

I bet the girls find you the most charming thing on two feet.

[JB28]

I completly understand the big market mentality. Many people watching the show do not realize that I came from Market 26, Charlotte. I began working at 19 years old at NBC NewsChannel as a writer on the National Desk. I then went on to produce, be an assignment editor and a reporter for news and entertainment at FOX Charlotte.
This is definitly not my first job. I have been in TV for 8 years now. What brought me to Savannah two and a half years ago was a morning anchor job on two brand new morning shows here. I wanted consistent on-air experience and anchoring, of course, so I made the jump down markets. I later moved to anchoring evenings and in the midst of all the management changes, was given the opportunity to move into what I really love.. features. I was also given the chance to learn another interest of mine.. weather. So now I get to do what I love ....but again I have worn many hats as anchor, producer, reporter, assignment editor and it's that versatility which has really helped me.
On a side note, Savannah is a beautiful town that has beaches and is growing and that is the reason many reporters stay in Savannah. Other than a few of the reporters at our station, many of them in Savannah are actually older than me. Again thanks for the messages and support. =-)

[JB28]

Maturity does tend to make a person appear older... LMAO
especially next to 23 year olds who are portrayed as green and on their first job...lol

[Charlie Brown]

I didn't realize that small market television came with age limits these days. Are you forced out of certain markets once you reach your mid-20s because you're "too old" to be there?

Bottom line, if you're happy doing what you do for a living then by all means, keep doing it and let the others who come around these parts envy you for having that much going for you.

[RollTide98]

Savannah is a beautiful town that has beaches and is growing and that is the reason many reporters stay in Savannah.

Heck, if I could find the right job there, I'd be headed toward Savannah right now.

For me, it's an issue of supporting a family and owning a home on a TV news salary. I'm able to pull it off now. And I love my current market. But if I could find the right position in Savannah, the quality of life in that town would definitely make me consider the move.

[The Fedora]

JB,

Kudos for doing what you love and defending it well. I love watching the show and you've kept me laughing with your stories. Keep it up.

:D

[Roy Hobbs]

I didn't realize that small market television came with age limits these days. Are you forced out of certain markets once you reach your mid-20s because you're "too old" to be there?

Um...yes. But I'm beginning to realize it has more to do with the fact that you no longer make an entry-level salary.

Now on to more important matters...Charlie, when are we doing waffles again, Iowa or Illinois?

[babybluesnews]

When I was working in Macon, GA Making News came to our station to test us as a location for the show. My ND was overly excited about the idea but in the end our GM pulled the plug thanks to an overwhelming amount of complaints from employees, myself included. No way was I going to sign the waiver! I am still not convinced this is good for on-air talent.

But with that said ... NDP, just curious - where was Macon in the list of potentials? I've always wondered if the GM didn't turn you down if my former co-workers would be spending their days with you!

[JB28]

by production crew members who worked with us for 6 months was that the Macon station (your station) was going to be the station until they learned of our story in Savannah and that Nick Davis and TV Guide changed THEIR mind and location to Savannah, not that Macon pulled out on their own will. And that came from a number of people working for NDP. But I am sure Nick can answer that 100 percent correctly...that is just what I was told.

[babybluesnews]

Thanks JB28! The FOX station in Macon was also tested so it may have been them they decided against. There was an email that all employees at my station were copied on explaining the station's decision to remove ourselves from the running ... but who knows, Making News could have already made their decision before my former ND sent that email. But thanks for the response ... it is probably best they went to Savannah, our staff was not as positive as you all seem to be about the challenges we all face in small market news. I have to say, it would not be easy for me to be in your spot!

[Charlie Brown]

thank you thank you THANK YOU for showing the chaos going on in the newsroom when the station had to cut in to Lost in order to cover the big story tonight. That happens in every newsroom whenever you have a story of that magnitude that forces you to interrupt regularly scheduled program...some are understanding of the need to cut in...others, not so much.

and more wendy mcnew, please. :)

[rdale]

...but it appears they only cut in to repeat information that other stations were saying, and showing with video... Who wants to watch that? If so, they'd just tune in to the others and hear (and see) it first.

[Clever Login Name]

That was embarassing ... watching the competition and then passing along what they report to your anchors on the desk?!? And what does it say about the ND that nearly two hours into this event, the sports guy had to take the initiative to drive the live truck over there and try to get a shot out? That place is even worse than they make it look on t-v ... the ND and every single producer should be canned, based solely on their 'performance' the night of that breaking news. Simply horrendous ...

[Charlie Brown]

well and that's the other thing that galled me about that episode - would your shop EVER send out two people who had never been live truck trained to try and set up a live shot at anything, let alone the biggest story of the year?

call in a photog, an engineer, anyone - don't send a reporter and the sports director out there with instructions to "figure it out". that's flat out embarrassing.

[nigelwick]

I'm sure the station's insurance carrier loved seeing two inexperienced people running a live truck.

I didn't think it was possible, but that news director looks like a bigger tool every week.

Where was Mr. Crime Reporter during the chaos?

[DW]

Where was Mr. Crime Reporter during the chaos?


In da club?

http://www.photobombers.com/gallery/albums/userpics/photobombers-com_collegehumor-whitey-in-da-house.jpg

[Produce man]

This is what is so sad. They totally screw the pooch, and make it look like the sports guy "saved the day". (Hey, dumbasses, you got f&cking owned! You're glued to the competition to get your info!)

That being said, I love small market TV. I can't believe the AE left the bar on her last day to come back and help out. That's class, people.

Also, I did like the line about live truck #2. "It's like a turd in a tux".

Priceless...

Keep it coming!

[NDP]

Beginning with Episode ten, the recaps at the start of each segment have been DROPPED....

[The Fedora]

Nick,

I gotta say you are awesome for listening and taking our suggestions seriously. Too bad this show is only on the TV Guide channel and not someplace that is a little less distracting to the eyes.

Any other projects in the hopper? Drop me a PM...

[Produce man]

Beginning with Episode ten, the recaps at the start of each segment have been DROPPED....:worship: :worship:

I too wish the program was more easily accessed. I'm on DirecTV, but most of my co-workers are on cable, and they don't get TV Guide. I'm about to hook up my *gasp* VCR to make a dub for those who can't see it. They are fascinated when I just describe what was on each episode!

Edit: BTW, are the episodes online somewhere for download?

[The Chain]

I never watch it on TV Guide actually. You can access all episodes on Youtube. Just type in "Making News Savannah," and I always just look for the most recent video added. It's much better watching it online. No commercials or one-third of the screen taken up.

[Clever Login Name]

Beginning with Episode ten, the recaps at the start of each segment have been DROPPED....

Thanks again for creating an interesting series and your willingness to discuss it in what can be a hostile environment on this board. I wish you much continued success.

[Girt B. Frobe]

Anyone else shocked by the girl calling the ND an a$$hole? I mean we've all done it, but blatantly out loud and in front of people....I'm sorry but she's gone in my building. No matter how pissed you get you have to respect the chain of command. In my place you can cuss the ND & GM all you want in a private setting, but in front of others....no way. You thoughts?

[sportzchick]

Dang... 2 hours after the initial blast they got a live shot on the air. Owned big time. Nice to see them all come together... but shouldn't they have been more prepared for something like this. It isn't like breaking news gives you any warning.

Question for news staffers... shouldn't you always have someone in the building that can get you on the air at the drop of a hat?

Don't the people who can set up a live truck go out and get dinner in the live truck just in case something breaks? Same with photographers?

[DW]

Anyone else shocked by the girl calling the ND an a$$hole? I mean we've all done it, but blatantly out loud and in front of people....I'm sorry but she's gone in my building. No matter how pissed you get you have to respect the chain of command. In my place you can cuss the ND & GM all you want in a private setting, but in front of others....no way. You thoughts?


Since she's preggers, you could say it was the hormones talking?

[The Fedora]

Dang... 2 hours after the initial blast they got a live shot on the air. Owned big time. Nice to see them all come together... but shouldn't they have been more prepared for something like this. It isn't like breaking news gives you any warning.

Question for news staffers... shouldn't you always have someone in the building that can get you on the air at the drop of a hat?

Don't the people who can set up a live truck go out and get dinner in the live truck just in case something breaks? Same with photographers?

I had the same thoughts...

[FrontierMan]

Anyone else shocked by the girl calling the ND an a$$hole?

I've seen people call NDs a$$holes out lout and to the ND's face. When I've witnessed it...the ND always does like Michael...pretend it wasn't said. At least the producer girl mumbled it, I've seen people scream it out to the ND in front of a packed newsroom, and the ND just walks away like nothing.

By the way, I loved this episode! Each week proves how much this season is way more entertaining than the KOSA bunch. The KOSA station had their $hit together to some extent, but WJCL is a hot mess!

And to the folks in small markets...don't think your problems will go away when you reach a Top 50. It's the same $hit and same problems everywhere!

[nigelwick]

This is a station that has clearly earned its "disaster" status.

Did anyone raise a red flag over the staged footage in the nudie bar? What kind of a news director thinks that's okay?

[adam & doctor drew]

I agree.
they didn't have file video to use?

[JB28]

Not to ruin the fun or give spoilers afterwards but the enitire time the crew was trying to get live from the hospital with the crappy truck... we were running constant live shots with our anchor Jenifer Andrews from the refinery. WE WERE LIVE..So the show made it look like we had no live presence until Kelly's shot was up but that is not true. Remember people this is a show and with restricted crews they cannot have cameras everywhere. Also, once again it is a show and must have drama and entertainment value. Of course the "struggle" is featured and not the constant live shots that were occurring the whole time from the actual explosion site. REALITY TV. =-)

[adam & doctor drew]

if true, that's a pretty blatant mis-representation of the truth by the show producers.
I watched it and thought they were doing phoners for 2 hours until the shot went up.

Nick, your response?

[JB28]

It's a show...that's what happens.. it's entertainment too. Out of 6 months of shooting you are getting the days of struggle and trust me they shot many many boring days back to back when nothing went wrong at all... and we put on shows just as easily as any other station. But that would not be fun to watch...even for me..=-)

[FrontierMan]

we were running constant live shots with our anchor Jenifer Andrews from the refinery. WE WERE LIVE..So the show made it look like we had no live presence until Kelly's shot was up but that is not true.

During the entire show, I wondered "where is the good live truck?!" Taking a chance with "live truck 2" didn't make sense to me if the station had a more reliable truck available.

You answered my question. And I did notice a shot or two with the anchor reporting live from the scene, but didn't put 2 and 2 together.

[nigelwick]

it seems like the producer is going out of his way to make you look bad. Why do you want to be part of that?

[JB28]

We had no way of knowing and still do not know how episodes will turn out. There is a triumphant, positive ending to the whole show, so I and the others are really not that stressed out about it.

[nigelwick]

Then, I truly feel sorry for you. You trusted this guy, and you got screwed. Maybe people at the next station won't be so naive.

[JB28]

Life is too short. It's not changed or affected any of our lives in a negative way. Only positive. I recieved calls from news directors at two stations in the 30's last week, who are interested. Jason Davis, the crime reporter everyone gives a hard time ( who by the way is a really nice, fun, and talented guy) , just got a job in Jacksonville. So I can promise you no one here is suffering or crying about anything Nick Davis has produced.

[nigelwick]

Good night, and good luck!

[NDP]

To answer a couple more questions --

We did investigate a station in Macon last year, and while we really liked them (and thought they were up for it), we hadn't committed to them or even shown TV Guide any footage yet when they informed us they didn't want to participate. They were definitely one of the finalists, but as always the final determination was to be made not by us but by the network. So even if they hadn't pulled out, there's no telling whether or not TV Guide would have chosen them over WJCL.

Now, on to Sugargate....

As JB28 correctly points out, WJCL's anchor Jenifer Andrews was in fact on the air with live reports earlier in the evening. But it was not a live shot that anyone at WJCL was all that happy about -- the shot was not close to either the refinery or the hospital, but was basically Jenifer standing amidst some trees. Since the station itself was not proud of the shot, and because WJCL did in fact not go live till after the other two stations had, and because there was so much more drama surrounding Kelly Foster's attempt to get her live shot up -- which was an exciting, on-the-scene report from the hospital -- we made the decision to compress the two live shots into one for the sake of dramatic expediency.

Was it the right decision? I'm not sure. If we had more time to go into all the ins and outs of how stories get on the air, and what makes a good live shot, maybe we would have explained the whole thing more accurately and shaded our own story-telling with a little more nuance. But in the end I don't think we altered any of the basic facts of the night's performance by WJCL -- they were initially outperformed by the competition, they had all kinds of trouble with their live shots, the anchors were live for hours, and in the end all kinds of improvisational genius was employed to get the live shots up, and the station came together to deliver a knockout show, one that the ND was very pleased with.

So I'm glad to hear that JB 28 doesn't feel abused by the trust the station placed in us....

[NDP]

Hello, Media Line -- NEWSFLASH

TV Guide has approved a small research phase for us to try to find a station for season three. This does not guarantee a season three, but it does mean that we will now once again be plunging into the waters of small market TV news.

If you know of stations that might be willing to participate, or that might be good candidates, please either post the ideas here, or send emails with suggestions to info@nickdavisproductions.com.

Thank you again for all your interest and passion (both for and against the show) -- we're doing our best to shed some light on what I think is a fascinating and important business, and your comments have helped a lot.

Best,

Nick

[adam & doctor drew]

But in the end I don't think we altered any of the basic facts of the night's performance by WJCL

respectfully, that's pure unadulterated 100% B.S.

you absolutely gave the impression that the station wasn't live at all and was reduced to doing phoners while the other stations had live shots.
you even had a COUNTDOWN CLOCK ON THE SCREEN listing how long it had been since the explosion and how long they'd been without a live shot.

you focused entirely on live shot location 2, which was having problems, and buried/ignored live shot location 1, which was (we found out later on this thread) apparently up and running (whether the station was "happy" with it is irrelevant).

an employee of the station even posted above:
"we were running constant live shots with our anchor Jenifer Andrews from the refinery. WE WERE LIVE..So the show made it look like we had no live presence until Kelly's shot was up but that is not true."

my $.02.

[NDP]

I shouldn't have said facts. We did alter the facts; we didn't alter the spirit of the story, and that, to me, was more important.

But I agree with you: The use of the countdown clock was ill-conceived. We made a mistake there, and who knows, maybe we should have had more faith in our audience being able to understand the somewhat complicated truth of what happened rather than simplifying it as we did....

[nigelwick]

In other words, you lied.

[sportzchick]

I shouldn't have said facts. We did alter the facts; we didn't alter the spirit of the story, and that, to me, was more important.

But I agree with you: The use of the countdown clock was ill-conceived. We made a mistake there, and who knows, maybe we should have had more faith in our audience being able to understand the somewhat complicated truth of what happened rather than simplifying it as we did....

So if you had to go back and re-do that episode what would you have changed? I think you could have shown the "spirit" of the show without altering facts. Would it have been as dramatic? Probably not...but at least it would have been real.
I don't get how the people who work there are okay with having the facts altered? Sure, the staff came together in the end... but couldn't that have been shown without altering the facts?

[Clever Login Name]

I shouldn't have said facts. We did alter the facts; we didn't alter the spirit of the story, and that, to me, was more important.

But I agree with you: The use of the countdown clock was ill-conceived. We made a mistake there, and who knows, maybe we should have had more faith in our audience being able to understand the somewhat complicated truth of what happened rather than simplifying it as we did....

This is disappointing to read. One person's "alter the facts" is another's "lied". In light of these new 'facts', I think the countdown clock was a big mistake, and the impression that you left that they didn't get on live for two hours was also very poor judgement. I'm trying to view the program as an average person with no background in t-v, and I think you could have made it just as 'dramatic' by just showing exactly what happened: a live shot in a bad location that wasn't nearly as good as the competitors' and the rush to get a second live shot on the air in a more appropriate setting (the hospital). There had to have been some conversation in the newsroom with people complaining about the quality of that first live shot compared to the other stations ... and the need to get a better one on the air.

I don't usually say this, but don't underestimate the average viewer's ability to understand and appreciate the struggles this station goes through ... you can get the point across without resorting to 'fact-altering'.

[Barnburner]

Its a reality show gang, not a documentary. Calm the heck down.

Besides, one of the reporters confided to me that they were asked (and did) re-enact receiving a breaking news call because the TVG camera's initially missed it. You guys are worrying about the trivial stuff and not the big picture. The story is being told and its entertaining. That may not be the job of a news program, but it is the job of a reality show.

[adam & doctor drew]

Its a reality show gang, not a documentary. Calm the heck down.


guess we were wrong to expect truth in a "reality" show.:confused:

[nigelwick]

I think NDP took advantage of the Savannahians (or is it Savannahites?), and I hate to see something like that happen. You have a last place outfit with bad ownership and even worse management. They were desperate for a litle publicity, and they walked right into the NDP trap. Okay, take a few minor liberties. That's okay, but what NDP did was really unfair.

[NDP]

Okay, I get it. We blew it. The graphic was wrong. And worse, I think we did it because we underestimated the intelligence of the viewing public.

We aren't a perfect show, God knows, and as some of you have pointed out, being an 'entertainment' show doesn't excuse us for misrepresenting the truth. We'll do our best to make sure it doesn't happen again.

I will say on our behalf that we do not, have not, and will not ever alter the spirit of actual events to conform to a pre-existing story line. We tell the story as best as we can, and as we told WJCL (and KOSA before them), we do have to compress events and alter chronology to heighten dramatic effect. Unlike what one of you wrote, I don't think we've taken advantage of the Savannah natives. So far, knock wood, we have not had any complaints at all from the actual participants in the show, either season.

Our aim is not to make anyone look bad or in any way exploit our subjects, ever; it is to celebrate and explore the business of local news. On that score, I make no apologies at all.

Respectfully,

Nick

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

It seems after knowing facts can be, and have been, altered...you may have a hard time finding a station willing to let you 'entertainize' their product(yes, I made that one up...ain't it cool!).
That said....I've seen the Dominant #1 in our town Lie, Cheat, and Steal to get their stories accomplished....so I guess Making(UP)News, Savannah style isn't too far off from some of the news out right now.
Wait...that's kinda catchy...."Making Up News, XXX Style".:bs:

[Produce man]

I have to say, this is very disappointing. As much as I love the show, I feel much less enthusiastic about watching it now.

I mean, I don't know what's worse, the blatent lie about the countdown, or the person re-taking the breaking news call because the photog missed the real one.

VERY disappointing.

[Roy Hobbs]

This might be hard for Michael Sullivan to stomach.
http://l.yimg.com/img.movies.yahoo.com/ymv/us/img/hv/photo/movie_pix/dreamworks_skg/road_to_perdition/_group_photos/tom_hanks13.jpg

[Charlie Brown]

all due respect to everyone on here, but I think the revelation that reality shows aren't entirely "real" ranks somewhere between finding out that your mom was the tooth fairy and your dad was actually santa claus.

not sure about you guys, but having seen the episode I'm glad they focused more on the reporter and the sports guy trying to get the live shot up despite never having been trained on a live truck. focusing on the anchor who did have a live shot up but was nowhere any of the action would have taken away from the drama of the episode and would have also deprived the viewers who don't work in the biz of one of the central themes of local news, that being that we are all in this together, from the production assistants to the news director, and when stuff starts hitting the fan you get in there and do what you can to help get the story on the air.

nick, I for one am glad you focused on the live shot that wasn't rather than the live shot that was...while it didn't paint the whole picture of the evening, it was the best story that you had to work with and it was very entertaining.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

You're right Charlie on the "reality" of reality...I guess the only problem I have is that NEWS is SUPPOSED to be very real. The Bachlorette or Survivor is not based on fact, so to reshoot for 'show' isn't against the rules...THERE ARE NO RULES THERE...but our product is supposed to be factual. MAKING NEWS creates their best way to show it, not the real way. So if they are allowed to paint an unfactual picture for entertainment purposes(which the countdown clock did)it's not how NEWS operates. Granted, the main audience for this show is probably news peep's...so we know the power of a sensationalizing for numbers. But in "Reality", producers of this show should put a disclaimer out in the beginning saying "We have edited this for entertainment value...this isn't the complete truth".
I'll still watch....just because it is cool to see the inside of other stations....but I've lost ALL interest in believing it's anything more than a parasite. Wait, I forgot, the title is "Making News"....I guess the producers of the show succeeded. Forget everything I just said.:bs:

[adam & doctor drew]

nick, I for one am glad you focused on the live shot that wasn't rather than the live shot that was...while it didn't paint the whole picture of the evening, it was the best story that you had to work with and it was very entertaining.

why couldn't they have done both?
"here's the anchor at live shot location #1.
but over at location #2, things are hectic."

to me that would've been much more fair and honest than pretending there was no live shot #1, which is essentially what they did.

[Barnburner]

What a bunch of whiners.
This is why most people who make television shows don't solicit input on message boards.

I agree with the guy who said it's like you guys just found out there isn't a Santa Claus. It's NOT a documentary.

As for the rest of your whining, here's an idea - do your own show. Otherwise, can it.

[adam & doctor drew]

sorry, we'll check with you next time before giving an opinion.

[sportzchick]

Isn't he/she whining about whiners?

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

What a bunch of whiners.
This is why most people who make television shows don't solicit input on message boards.

I agree with the guy who said it's like you guys just found out there isn't a Santa Claus. It's NOT a documentary.

As for the rest of your whining, here's an idea - do your own show. Otherwise, can it.
You're an idiot for questioning legitimate debate. Whine about that one. :moon:
And Nick has made it clear he digs the good and bad comments about his show. I think it's rather smart to solicit input as he is doing...that way one gets a better take on how their product sits in the public eye. You don't have to do what an outsider says, but anyone who thinks 'outside' opinion is a bad thing lives 'inside' a small world.
And please don't tell me there's no Santa Claus....just keep watching "Making News"....surely he'll show up in the near future!;)

[Barnburner]

The last time anyone tailored their production to the rantings of the online community, the results was "Snakes on a Plane".

My point is you guys are getting confused. Just because the reality show is about a news department doesn't mean it has to hold to news rules on how it is portrayed.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

The last time anyone tailored their production to the rantings of the online community, the results was "Snakes on a Plane".

My point is you guys are getting confused. Just because the reality show is about a news department doesn't mean it has to hold to news rules on how it is portrayed.
I can't even dumb myself down enough to respond to this comment. You win.

[sportzchick]

The last time anyone tailored their production to the rantings of the online community, the results was "Snakes on a Plane".

My point is you guys are getting confused. Just because the reality show is about a news department doesn't mean it has to hold to news rules on how it is portrayed.

*crickets chirping*

[Produce man]

Who is this guy burning down his own barn?

[nigelwick]

It's possible to produce an entertaining show and be fair to the people involved at the same time.

Unfortunately, some things on "Making News..." were just not fair.

[The Fedora]

Frank cracked me up during the parade...

And Steph is a lil cutie.

[PalJoey]

Why didn't the station use their helicopter to get live aerials of the sugar plant explosion?

Was that left on the cutting room floor, too?

[Barnburner]

Why didn't the station use their helicopter to get live aerials of the sugar plant explosion?

Was that left on the cutting room floor, too?

Please tell me you are fishing on this one PalJoey.
Please tell me you aren't dumb enough to think they have a copter.

[PalJoey]

Please tell me you are fishing on this one PalJoey.
Please tell me you aren't dumb enough to think they have a copter.


There's a helicopter in the show open with the station call letters on it.

Surely they wouldn't mislead the viewers about that, would they? ;)

[Barnburner]

::Exhales::
Phew. Thought you got sucked in on that one.

No one in that market has a helicopter.
How many more weeks does that show have? I have heard Trish, Jason, Kristen, Wendy and Danielle have already left. So much for reducing turnover :)

[PalJoey]

Please tell me you are fishing on this one PalJoey.
Please tell me you aren't dumb enough to think they have a copter.

::Exhales::
Phew. Thought you got sucked in on that one.

No one in that market has a helicopter.
How many more weeks does that show have? I have heard Trish, Jason, Kristen, Wendy and Danielle have already left. So much for reducing turnover :)


LOL

I didn't watch the two sugar explosion episodes until last night (TiVo), but had read spoilers here about the liveshot/countdown clock controversy.

My wife and daughter didn't know, however, and they were dumbfounded that the station apparently got its ass so royally kicked.

After Part 1, I told them what really happened and they were relieved that the station had a better showing than what was portrayed. That said, they were a little angry that the station was made to look so inept.

BTW, where the heck was the news director the morning after the explosion? I find it amazing that they apparently only had a handful of people working the day shift after such a big news event. I've worked similar news stories over the years in markets big and small and, in every case, the day shift all reported to work at the usual time the next morning (exept the management, who came in even earlier). Unbelievable.


I definitely agree that this season is better than last year. My wife refers to WJCL as the "Island of Misfit Toys".

[nigelwick]

"The fish rots from the head."
--Michael Dukakis

[FrontierMan]

BTW, where the heck was the news director the morning after the explosion? I find it amazing that they apparently only had a handful of people working the day shift after such a big news event.

I remember reading somewhere that the ND called in sick. Yes, really.

[Produce man]

I remember reading somewhere that the ND called in sick. Yes, really.Oh, good Lord...

BTW, I talked with one of the players in the program, and she told me to look for the "masturbating bear" in Sullivan's office.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

This is the same guy who says "We've got the lowest ratings in the country", or something of the sort during the opening montage. Calling in sick during one of the best/worst stories in the Savannah market in some time....ouch!

[TokenWhiteGirl]

::Exhales::
Phew. Thought you got sucked in on that one.

No one in that market has a helicopter.
How many more weeks does that show have? I have heard Trish, Jason, Kristen, Wendy and Danielle have already left. So much for reducing turnover :)

Jason "I wanna put every crappy story I do on a resume tape" Davis is still at the station. At least since when I checked the station's Web site a couple weeks ago.

[TokenWhiteGirl]

Okay, maybe I'm wrong. I just read an older post stating aforementioned crappy reporter got a job in Jacksonville.

See signature quote.

[adam & doctor drew]

just checked the site (http://www.thecoastalsource.com/wjcl/staff) and most of the people appear to still to be there, except the military reporter.

although, judging by the show, it's entirely possible this station has no one updating the website.

[bw3508]

Wendy and Trish are now both at WNEP in WilkesBarre/Scranton, PA.

[sportzchick]

Wendy and Trish are now both at WNEP in WilkesBarre/Scranton, PA.

Yay for Scranton!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/images/blogs/tvdecoder/posts/0408/the-office.jpg

[adam & doctor drew]

I like how the ND, in the show open, complains about people wanting to leave "beautiful Savannah."
I suspect it's the horrible station they're leaving, not the market.
it's not like they're all going to top 5 markets.... 2 went to Scranton, the desk woman went to Illinois.

would love to hear from some of the show regulars.... if you were at a so-called "good" station in Savannah, would you still be dying to leave?

[FrontierMan]

I suspect it's the horrible station they're leaving, not the market.
it's not like they're all going to top 5 markets..


I was thinking the same thing. I think there's more to the story as to why everyone wants to leave, and I think fingers may point to management.

[Barnburner]

I don't understand why no one is buying them new equipment. That can be done in weeks. Why did the "new management" buy them if they weren't going to get them new stuff? And why would they want to do the reality show if they weren't going to play the heroes and get them new stuff during the show?

My favorite part is when the ND keeps saying the news has the worst ratings in the nation. That must make it easy on the sales team :)

[carpetsnake]

It's TV 101: if you have bad ratings, you can't charge as much for ads.

But I agree, there's something more to this show than the producers are letting on.

Whats the name of the owners group? New World or something like that? Has anyone ever heard of them before?

It sounds like a bunch of tightwads.

Those poor people at WJCL.

[FrontierMan]

Anyone know which station in Jacksonville hired cocky crime guy?

[bw3508]

I absolutely love the show. My only question is - what's the deal with loading recent episodes online. In the begenning of the season, I watched episodes off of TVGuide.com. Later, it was offered on hulu.com, and I then moved to YouTube after hulu stopped uploading for a while.

Most recently, it seems like it's a couple hours, if not a day or two, since the most recent episode is posted. Why such inconsistencies?

[Charlie Brown]

I think I'm in love with Wendy McNew

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

I was waiting for the Captain to sneak in the tent for a 'one-on-one' interview. COME ON NICK! Where's the drama?:shifty:

[Charlie Brown]

for all you job seekers out there, they just posted an opening for a OMB asking for someone with two years experience.

[Roy Hobbs]

Mmmmm....delicious beer with Wendy McNew...
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d113/cool_182/drooling-homer.gif

[FrontierMan]

they must be out of their minds. one man band is band is bad enough, but to have 2 years experience and go to a shop where they admit to having shotty equipment? And you know you'll also be side by side with reporters with less experience? Yeah right!

Dream on, WJCL!

[adam & doctor drew]

I know there are a lot of desperate people out there but one downside to the show is that it probably doesn't help them recruit new people.

if you'd seen the show even once, would you EVER work there?

[Purplehaze]

I know there are a lot of desperate people out there but one downside to the show is that it probably doesn't help them recruit new people.

if you'd seen the show even once, would you EVER work there?

If you have any real experience, you probably won't send a DVD there. But if you're a newbie, you know that you pretty much have to take ANY first job and act like Kevin Bacon in Animal House. ("Thank you, sir! May I please have another?")

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

Yeah....I gotta agree. It's sooooo not an appealing offer....but it's an opening. Problem is...it's one for Newbies....and they don't have 2 years experience.

[Produce man]

they must be out of their minds. one man band is band is bad enough, but to have 2 years experience and go to a shop where they admit to having shotty equipment? And you know you'll also be side by side with reporters with less experience? Yeah right!

Dream on, WJCL!Actually, it's "shoddy". You are qualified to work there.:whistle:

[FrontierMan]

Actually, it's "shoddy". You are qualified to work there.:whistle:

Hahaha. I never said I could spell. News directors don't ask for scripts. They just look at tapes, so they have no idea how I spell.

[Produce man]

Hahaha. I never said I could spell. News directors don't ask for scripts. They just look at tapes, so they have no idea how I spell.Cool, just pokin' a little fun...:cheers:

[The Fedora]

well, that was an interesting episode.

especially the file footage of me driving the storm chase car from my previous station... yeah. i caught that nick. it was from the tornado in the texas panhandle in march of 2007. :)

[Produce man]

Oh please, more details. They're using file from over a year ago, in a different state?

[FrontierMan]

Are you serious? That sucks.

I do agree this was a good episode. I graduated from Jason's high school too. By guessing his age, we probably went there around the same time. Too bad he comes off so cocky on the show. The dude just seems annoying.

The pregnant chick cracks me up.

[ISTHISTHINGON?]

well, that was an interesting episode.

especially the file footage of me driving the storm chase car from my previous station... yeah. i caught that nick. it was from the tornado in the texas panhandle in march of 2007. :)
Though it wouldn't surprise me, if true...wow. Next season..."Making News-Up"

[The Fedora]

Oh please, more details. They're using file from over a year ago, in a different state?

remember the storm chase they went out on with KOSA during Texas Style? I was on the same chase. I even remember exactly when I passed their crew on the side of the road.

I am not really dissing Nick or NDP, this is pretty inside baseball stuff. A normal viewer would not have caught it. I just thought it was funny.

[omb]

So they can't understand why the cops have the road closed??? Maybe to keep people like you out of there!! But surely your stories ( and your resume tapes) are more important than the victims' wellfare.

Talk about being self-absorbed in the midst of someone else's tragedy!!! Maybe all the camera trouble proves God has a sense of justice and a sense of humor.

[pastoralia]

You can have Wendy if I can have Kelly Foster.

[Produce man]

remember the storm chase they went out on with KOSA during Texas Style? I was on the same chase. I even remember exactly when I passed their crew on the side of the road.

I am not really dissing Nick or NDP, this is pretty inside baseball stuff. A normal viewer would not have caught it. I just thought it was funny.Regardless, it's still unscrupulous.