Looking at the WWL-TV (Channel 4 in New Orleans) web site last night, the headlines were simply unimaginable. They included: “Mayor: Thousands Likely Dead”, “Grand Isle All But Vanishes”, “Thousands Of Refugees Will Be Transported To Houston Astrodome”. There more like lines from some Hollywood movie. But, this is the real deal. A human tragedy beyond belief right here only a couple of hundred miles away.
I also noticed a letter to WWL employees that read
“We are attempting to reach all WWL employees so that we can know where everyone is and do our best to communicate as much helpful information as possible. If you know of a way to reach others, please give us their contact information and forward this information to them. Our main concern is determining how to keep in contact with you. You are not expected to report to work at this time. However, if possible, please contact your manager by e-mail or phone to let them know where you are. Your manager will advise you as to current and short-term work assignments. Also, use the contact information below to let the Belo HR team keep track of you for further communications. It is impossible for your fellow employees across Belo to fully express our concern for you and your families at this time. This message is the beginning of an effort to do what we can to provide resources to help you in this time of need.”
WWL-TV and WWL radio (and other local stations) are on the air from crude, temporary facilities in the New Orleans area. But, they are providing emergency information during a crisis and are a real lifeline for local people. A reminder local broadcasters have, and always will, serve a crucial function in the U.S., and they a shining example for all of us.
Those that have predicted that local broadcasting will simply go away in coming years, in my opinion, are very wrong.
See live streaming coverage and other information from WWL-TV on their web site:
http://www.wwltv.com
I also noticed a letter to WWL employees that read
“We are attempting to reach all WWL employees so that we can know where everyone is and do our best to communicate as much helpful information as possible. If you know of a way to reach others, please give us their contact information and forward this information to them. Our main concern is determining how to keep in contact with you. You are not expected to report to work at this time. However, if possible, please contact your manager by e-mail or phone to let them know where you are. Your manager will advise you as to current and short-term work assignments. Also, use the contact information below to let the Belo HR team keep track of you for further communications. It is impossible for your fellow employees across Belo to fully express our concern for you and your families at this time. This message is the beginning of an effort to do what we can to provide resources to help you in this time of need.”
WWL-TV and WWL radio (and other local stations) are on the air from crude, temporary facilities in the New Orleans area. But, they are providing emergency information during a crisis and are a real lifeline for local people. A reminder local broadcasters have, and always will, serve a crucial function in the U.S., and they a shining example for all of us.
Those that have predicted that local broadcasting will simply go away in coming years, in my opinion, are very wrong.
See live streaming coverage and other information from WWL-TV on their web site:
http://www.wwltv.com