Apples and oranges but for decades I worked in radio news. Cut WAY back several years ago because all the stations wanted was “Happy News.” Basically puppy parades at the elementary school, entertainment, product reviews or similar from the PR wire...that sort of thing. So I stopped doing it unless absolutely necessary.
Now I kid you not, this is what was in the A block on at least 2 of Pittsburgh’s TV stations.
“Murrysville woman’s reunion with dog a huge hit on YouTube”
“Special honor given to Kennywood coaster”
“Summerfest 2014: Parade Time at Kennywood”
“Summerfest 2014: Parade Fans at Kennywood”
“Summerfest 2014: Behind the Scenes of the Parade at Kennywood”
On another station it was a story about a concert...pop, country I didn’t pay attention.
Then the viral video dog story
the coaster story
a passable story about a tornado...NOT in our area.
and a review of a hose attachment that promises to work like a pressure washer.
The latter station has been known to use phrases like “drowned to death,” “Today is Memorial Day and flags in our area are at half mast,” and “A car collided under the bridge.”
They walk among us.