College Times

Issue date: 9/4/08 Section: Blogs

Media Credit: MARY SCHROEDER

This semester, I'm taking a class with famed television news anchor Aaron Brown. I won't go into what I think about his personality, because knowing him, he'll probably read this and use it against me.

One of the things I appreciate about the class is that the discussion is completely open about almost everything. We are welcome to say relevant things about the topic the class is focusing on for the day and are also welcome to share our opinions.

Through this class, one of the things I've realized is that television news anchors need to get real about a couple of things. This is partially because of what Mr. Brown brings to class and what he says about being a TV news anchor, but also because I'm a civilian like the rest of you, and I watch the news too.

For one, shaky shots not only let the viewer know that the camera person is less than qualified, but it also makes the viewer dizzy and oft times nauseous.

Also, we probably have the news on mute for most of the time. I'd like to tell them not to take it personal, but to just realize that when things are told for the eighth time, it gets old.

And, viewers really do understand a little more than anchors give them credit. Spell things out for us, but don't make us feel stupid. Admit it, sometimes Bill O'Reilly makes you feel dumb. And sometimes, he makes you feel incredibly smart, too.

Next, if there's something of news value going on in the background, for heaven's sake, show us. We could care less about Diane Sawyer's rosy cheeks if there's business happening behind her.

Also, sometimes they just need to listen to people. Even if that means shutting up for 30 seconds and letting a person talk.

But, then again, sometimes they need to cut a person off to get on with it. How long can we sit there and watch a campaign advisor redirect every question about how the other guy sucks and how his guy is the most qualified. Enough already.

Also, we are probably sitting in front of the television half clothed. Whether that means with pants or without, anchors need to get out of their heads that we're sitting there attentive and at the ready.

And, lastly, fake laughs are highly detectable, especially when the joke or said "funny thing" isn't funny at all, not even to a giggly baby.

With that said, I have hopes that television news anchors far and wide will take a little time to consider my points, for the sake of all of us.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools